Chances are you’ve followed the traditional route to success so far. You’ve studied at a prestigious university, got a degree, and bagged your dream job. But at this stage if you’re looking for a personal and professional challenge you might want set your sights abroad.
Working Abroad
Every year, millions of well-educated and experienced professionals leave their native place for better opportunities and higher pay abroad. Experience, education, age, and financial stability are all deciding factors when trying to immigrate. But what if you only have a few years of experience? Here’s what you need to know:
Have you taken the GRE before?
Age:
Almost every country prefers younger immigrants. Earning power hits its peak between 20 to 35 years of age, which means if you’re young you’re more likely to contribute to government revenue through income taxes. Many developed countries also need younger workers to support their older, pension-dependant population. So, if you’re young your chances are better.
Field of Study:
Another key factor is your field of study. There’s a global war for STEM graduates, which means it’s easier to find a job in a developed country with only a few years of STEM-related experience. Graduates in business, finance, medical, and marketing communications are also in demand. If your degree is related to a field facing a shortage, you may find it easier to find a job.
Countries You Can Apply To:
The United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, are winning the global war for talent, according to the World Bank. These countries are attracting more talented young professionals than ever before. These countries also have a vibrant startup scene, so young professionals looking to gain experience in young companies are highly valued. Countries like Canada and Australia offer permanent residency if you have more than a year’s full-time work experience in a field facing labour-shortages. Other countries like New Zealand prefer graduates with local experience, so you can apply for permanent residency after 2 to 3 years of experience working there.
Post-study Visas:
Most countries appreciate the need for talented professionals. Over the years a number of post-study work visas have allowed graduates to stay back and gain local experience. These programs make it easier for international graduates to gain a few years of experience and find permanent employment abroad. Germany, New Zealand, and Canada have all made it easierfor international students to find work if they’re recently graduated and have no work experience.
There’s a global push for talent, so you can hope to get a job abroad even if you have only a few years of experience in the right industry.