Working Overseas

Deciding whether to work overseas can be a daunting task. Following are questions to ask when considering whether this will be right for you, and links to several sites that can help you make sound decisions and find employment in foreign countries.

Questions to ask when considering a potential job overseas:

  • Does the hiring organization get you a legal work permit?
  • Are you required to sign a contract? If so, what kind is it? Is there a release clause?
  • Does the company provide moving expenses? If not, is there some other type of compensatory agreement that can be made?
  • Will the company provide or help you find housing. If so, what type of housing will it be?
  • Will the company cover any of your housing expenses? If so, how much?
  • What is the cost of living in the city where you'll be living?
  • Do you have to pay taxes in the country where you'll be living? If so, how much can you expect this to cost?
  • What types of transportation, other than an automobile, are available to use for getting to and from work?
  • What kind of training and company sponsored support can you expect to receive?
  • Does the hiring organization provide health insurance?
  • Who pays for the health insurance? If you are responsible to pay, how much will it cost?
  • What holidays, personal, sick, or vacation days can you expect to receive?
  • What is their policy if you get sick or seriously injured and can't work?
  • Will the company provide names other Americans working at the company to you so that you can ask questions of them personally?

General Information About Working Overseas

The following links will help you find information about work permits, visas and passports, and working overseas:

Jobs Banks for Employment Overseas

Job Banks for Internships Overseas & Study Abroad Programs

In addition to the resources provided here, the International Programs Office has people available to help you explore international study opportunities.