Considerations If You Would Like To Work Abroad

Work Visa - There may be limitations when applying, and will be different depending on the country in which you would like to work. Things to consider are if you are a Canadian citizen, if you are between the ages of 18 and 30, and the length of time you would like to work.

Cost - Although you plan to make money while you are abroad, international work experiences can be expensive. There are costs to applying for visas, travelling, and re-location, so do your homework!

Networking - Have your friends or family travelled abroad before? Have they worked in another country? Learn from their experiences.

Where to go - If you're trying to narrow your choices think about whether you speak other languages, or what climate and culture you would  like to work.

Employer - Many large and small companies have locations both in Canada and abroad.

Risks - During international work, it is important for you to know that you may be exposed to certain risks. The Centre for International Programs has advised the Experiential Learning Hub to be clear about the possible risks for our students who participate in international work. These risks may include, but are not limited to, death, injury, and/or loss of personal property due to: civil disorder, assault, sexual assault, kidnappings, violent crime, theft, fraud, petty crime, communicable diseases, environmental conditions, terrorist activities, natural disasters, acts of God, and/or traffic accidents. It is your responsibility to abide by the laws of the host country and to ensure you have adequate medical, personal health, dental and accident insurance coverage, as well as protection of your personal possessions. You should not participate in any activity, including political activity, which might endanger you, your local hosts and/or University of Guelph partners.