Finding a job abroad is a tricky task and not as easy as people first believe. People are often under the impression that when you apply for a job abroad, you’ll need to supply stacks of documentation and paperwork that says you can work there – that isn’t the case! The paperwork that you will in fact need to submit your job application is much like what you’ll have supply within your home country. Maybe there will be some minor adjustments depending on certain countries but for the majority you’ll find that it is highly similar. So what will you need…
1. An Updated CV
Whether you’re after a manager’s job or low level job in a shop just to tide you over, an updated CV is a must. The first document you’ll need, when prepping your CV, you will need to take into consideration the chosen country and their CV requirements. Something that may be surprising; each country has their own way of writing a CV so making sure you comply with the format of your destination will only put you in good stead for ensuring that your application is seriously considered. There a many sites online that offer career advice in different country, which will cover CV structures so it’s in your best interest to check this out prior to your travel.
2. A Valid Passport
A valid passport is needing when travelling anywhere and even more so if you’re wanting to work there. Once you’ve chosen your destination and you’ve decided you’re looking for an international job, you will need to make sure your passport is up to date and more importantly valid. You will need to be careful dependant on your country of choice as some places require a passport has at least six months of validity before then can accept it as valid. Therefore, if you’re planning on going within the next year, you might want to get your renewal sorted asap!
3. Job Credentials
Like any job in any country, you’ll need to show your school qualifications as well as any training or certificate credentials before you start looking. As you’ll know, sending this along with your job application not only proves you’re qualified for the position but it also shows you’re a serious candidate to company’s and recruiters. Additionally, when applying internationally, it’s important to provide as much information about your education as possible, since the recruiter probably will not be very familiar with the education system in your home country. You may need a minimum level to even qualify for a position so if you don’t have this on display, you’ll be dismissed immediately even if you’re great for the job. Some companies don’t have the funds to train people, and having completed the required training will put you ahead of the game.
4. Employment Visa’s or Permits
Typically, countries will require applicants to have received an official job offer before they issue work or employment visas. If this is the situation in your destination of choice, you won’t be required to submit any documents until the job offer is on the table. With that being said, if the role you’re applying for wants proof that you’re eligible before they make a decision you will have to contact employment lawyers to ensure that this process is a possibility, and that is ultimately can be sorted before you send off your application – you don’t want to hamper your chances by not ensuring that you’re not legal compliant first.
As you can see, the documents mentioned above are very similar to the documents you may have to submit when applying for jobs back in your hometown. But as I mentioned before, certain countries may require different documents. Before you apply to any jobs, it is important that you do some research with the specific companies and/or countries to find out what documents they require. However, once all of that is done, you’re free to find your ideal job abroad… fingers crossed you get what you’re looking for! Good Luck!