What you need in order to make some cash working abroad
If you are studying abroad and would like to make a little money in the meantime, you may consider getting a job in your host country. However, applying to work abroad is a bit more complicated than simply filling out an online application for your local department store. To help eliminate some of the complexity, here are some of the documents you may need in order to work abroad.
In most cases, you are going to need a work permit (also known as a work visa). Even some volunteer jobs require such authorization. If you are involved in a work abroad program, you can obtain the permit this way. However, if you need to get the visa on your own, your abroad employer can provide assistance. When applying for a permit, you almost always are required to present a letter from your work abroad program, employer or host organization. Some countries may require employers to sponsor you before a work permit can be issued.
While different regulations exist for each country, you can easily be deported if you do not possess this document. Some organizations that can also help you obtain a work visa include IAESTE and BUNAC. If it seems like you are waiting for an eternity to get your permit, do not panic. This visa often takes longer to process than others.
In addition to a passport and International Health Certificate (proof of travel vaccinations), you may also need a Curriculum Vitae (CV) if you’re planning to work abroad in Europe, the Middle East, Africa or Asia. A CV is simply a longer version of a résumé that includes more details on educational background, teaching and research experience, publications, presentations, awards, honors, affiliations, etc. It is a good idea to have this document translated into the language of your host country.
Lastly, if you plan to exit and re-enter your host country at any point during your session abroad, you may consider applying for a multiple-entry visa. And for those applying for volunteer abroad positions, you might need a tourism visa for certain places, such as Africa, Australia, Brazil, China and Japan.
