How to Start Working Abroad

When I first considered teaching English abroad, many questions ran through my mind. I had no idea where to begin! At first, I thought the process would be far too overwhelming. In the end, however, it turned out to be much easier than I had expected, and I was left with a strong sense of accomplishment for having navigated the process and successfully worked abroad in Asia.

Here are my top three tips for getting started with working abroad.

Beyond the glamorous side of living abroad, there are many important factors to consider before you start applying to schools or companies. Some key questions to ask yourself include:

• “Where do I want to teach?”

• “What kind of income am I aiming for?”

• “Do I want to teach children or adults?”

• “Do I need a TEFL certificate?”

English as a Second Language (ESL) jobs are available all over the world — in Europe, Asia, South America, and the Middle East, to name a few. It's essential to research these regions thoroughly to find out which one appeals to you most. For instance, if you've always wanted to backpack through Asia while working and saving money, then teaching in a country like China could be the perfect fit.

The key to successfully living and working abroad is to be as well-prepared as possible. There’s a wealth of resources available online — from articles and blogs to YouTube videos — that can give you insight into what life is like in various parts of the world, helping you decide which destination suits you best.

While teaching and working abroad is a fantastic way to earn and save money, many teachers overlook the initial start-up costs involved in relocating to a new country. Expenses such as securing accommodation, paying a deposit, and purchasing basic household essentials can quickly add up—particularly if you don’t receive your first paycheque until the end of your first month.

I recommend saving for the big move for at least three to six months in advance—and yes, I know six months might sound like a long time, but you’ll be so glad you did! This doesn’t mean you’ll need to spend it all at once; having a financial safety net is incredibly reassuring. It can cover unexpected costs, a flight home if needed, a short trip to a nearby country, or simply provide peace of mind knowing you have some savings to fall back on.

This is the most important step in the entire process. The ESL industry has expanded significantly over the past ten years, which has unfortunately attracted some unscrupulous companies looking to take advantage. Moving abroad can be one of the most incredible experiences of your life, but nothing can ruin it faster than being misled by a company you thought you could trust. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Here are a few red flags to watch out for:

• An unusually fast visa process

• Being asked to lie on a visa application

• Promises of a specific location or salary that aren’t honoured

• Spelling mistakes or typos on the company’s website or promotional materials

Most importantly, read reviews! First-hand experiences are invaluable when you're considering a big move abroad. Reach out to others who have made the leap, or email an international recruiter directly. The recruiters at English 1, for example, are known for being responsive and well-informed. They can provide detailed insight into their company, the application process, and the country you're considering moving to.