Working Abroad
Working abroad offers a unique opportunity to expand your professional skills, gain cross-cultural experience, and enhance your global perspective.
Start planning your international career adventure today by visiting our Career Center for resources and guidance!
Teaching english as a foreign language (tefl)
Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is a certification that prepares individuals to teach English to non-native speakers around the world. With a TEFL certificate, you can work abroad in countries like Japan, Spain, or Thailand, or teach online from anywhere. Training typically covers teaching strategies, lesson planning, and classroom management.
Many programs offer flexible online or in-person options, making it accessible for both new and experienced educators. It's an excellent way to gain international experience, immerse yourself in new cultures, and make a meaningful impact through education.
Find out more information about specific countries using this guide.
working holiday visa
A Working Holiday Visa (WHV) allows young Americans (typically aged 18–30 or 18–35, depending on the country) to travel abroad and work temporarily to support their stay. The program is designed to promote cultural exchange and is available in select countries, including Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Ireland.
Find out more information about specific countries using this guide.
The peace corps
The Peace Corps is a U.S. government program that sends volunteers abroad to promote cultural exchange and sustainable development. Volunteers work in sectors like education, health, agriculture, and community development, typically committing to 27 months (3 months of training and 2 years of service).
Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens aged 18+, with no upper age limit.
Benefits:
Living stipend, healthcare, student loan deferral, and a readjustment allowance upon completion.
Non-Competitive Eligibility (NCE): A benefit granted to returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) after successfully completing their service. It provides them with a hiring advantage when applying for certain federal government jobs.
Many universities offer financial assistance, scholarships, or reduced tuition to Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) through programs like Coverdell Fellows.
Resources:
Virtual Service Pilot: Engage virtually with partner organizations in countries around the world, offering your skills to support projects that will transform lives for generations.
The Eckerd College Peace Corps Prep (EPC Prep) Program: A formal partnership between Eckerd College and the Peace Corps, which prepares undergraduates to be competitive for Peace Corps service, careers in international development, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program, and other international opportunities.
Au pair
Au pairing is a cultural exchange program where young adults (usually 18–30) live with a host family abroad, providing childcare and light housework in exchange for room, board, and a small stipend. It’s an affordable way to experience a new culture, learn a language, and travel.
Responsibilities: Childcare, light chores, and sometimes babysitting (20–30 hours per week).
Benefits: Free housing, meals, cultural immersion, and a modest stipend.
Eligibility: Typically 18–30 years old, with childcare experience and a high school diploma. Language skills may be required, depending on the country.
Destinations: Popular options include Europe (France, Germany, Spain), Australia/New Zealand, and Asia (China, Japan).
Process: Match with a family through an agency, apply for a visa, and set clear expectations for duties and free time.
Resources: https://www.aupair.com
world wide opportunities on organic farms (wwoof)
World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a global network that connects volunteers with organic farmers and growers. The program allows participants to live and work on organic farms in exchange for food, accommodation, and the chance to learn about sustainable farming practices and local cultures.
How It Works:
Sign Up: Join the WWOOF organization in the country where you'd like to volunteer (membership fees vary by country).
Browse Hosts: Access a directory of farms offering placements. Hosts include small family farms, community gardens, and eco-villages.
Contact Hosts: Reach out to arrange your stay, including the work schedule and expectations.
Work in Exchange for Stay: Volunteers typically work 4-6 hours per day in exchange for meals and a place to stay.
Benefits:
Learn about organic and sustainable farming.
Experience the local culture firsthand.
Meet like-minded travelers and locals.
Minimal cost: Only the membership fee and your travel expenses.
u.s. government positions
For recent graduates and entry-level professionals, the U.S. government offers a variety of international job opportunities that provide meaningful work abroad while fostering global impact and professional growth. From teaching and diplomacy to development and intelligence, these roles span diverse fields and locations.
Programs like the Peace Corps, Foreign Service, and Fulbright offer direct pathways to overseas assignments, while agencies like USAID, the Department of Defense, and intelligence organizations provide positions supporting U.S. interests globally.
With competitive benefits and the chance to experience new cultures, these opportunities are ideal for those eager to launch an international career.
For more detailed information, check out this guide.
Multinational Companies & corporations
Working for a multinational company overseas as an American often involves securing a work visa, which is typically sponsored by the employer.
Many global companies have extensive experience with visa sponsorship and assist employees with the application process, ensuring compliance with local immigration laws. Visa sponsorship can cover a variety of expenses and requirements, such as filing fees, legal documentation, and sometimes even relocation costs. Securing sponsorship often depends on having in-demand skills, such as expertise in technology, engineering, or management, that align with the company’s global needs.
While the process varies by country, MNCs with established international operations are well-equipped to support employees in transitioning to a new market.
1. Technology
Why Overseas? Global tech companies often need engineers, IT specialists, and data professionals in regions like Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Roles: Software engineering, data science, IT support, cybersecurity, and project management.
Companies:
Google: Offices in countries like Ireland, Singapore, and Germany.
Microsoft: Opportunities in global hubs like the Netherlands, India, and Japan.
Amazon (AWS): Positions in logistics, cloud computing, and operations across Europe and Asia.
SAP: Focus on enterprise software roles worldwide.
Dell Technologies: Global roles in IT and infrastructure solutions.
2. Consulting and Professional Services
Why Overseas? Global consulting firms need professionals for business, technology, and policy projects in different countries.
Roles: Technology consulting, management consulting, business analyst, and project manager.
Companies:
Deloitte: Offices in over 150 countries, focusing on global technology and strategy consulting.
PwC: Global positions in audit, risk management, and tech consulting.
McKinsey & Company: International management consulting projects.
Accenture: Technology and digital transformation roles worldwide.
3. Finance and Banking
Why Overseas? Global financial hubs like London, Hong Kong, and Singapore require talent in banking, investment, and fintech.
Roles: Financial analyst, investment banker, IT specialist for finance, and compliance officer.
Companies:
Goldman Sachs: Offices in key financial centers.
J.P. Morgan Chase: Global investment and private banking roles.
HSBC: A strong international presence, focusing on finance and IT professionals.
Citibank: Opportunities in global markets and risk management.
4. Hospitality and Tourism
Why Overseas? Americans are often sought for their language skills and familiarity with Western cultures in luxury tourism markets.
Roles: Hotel management, travel consultant, operations manager, and customer service.
Companies:
Marriott International: Global hotel chain with roles in operations and customer service.
Hilton Worldwide: Overseas roles in management and guest services.
Expedia Group: Positions in travel tech and logistics.
5. Renewable Energy and Infrastructure
Why Overseas? Companies involved in infrastructure projects often need engineers and IT specialists abroad.
Roles: Project engineer, IT analyst, and renewable energy consultant.
Companies:
Siemens Energy: Renewable energy roles worldwide.
Schneider Electric: IoT and energy management projects.
Bechtel: Engineering and construction roles in large-scale global infrastructure projects.