Dreaming of working or volunteering in another country?
Even if you want to earn money, give back, gain global experience, or simply explore a new culture, the world is full of opportunities—you just need to know where to look and how to get started.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to find jobs and volunteer roles abroad, plus tips to make your international journey a reality.
Let’s open the door to your next big adventure.
Know Your Purpose First
Before searching, ask yourself:
• Do you want to earn income, or are you open to volunteering?
• Is your goal to travel, build your resume, or make a difference?
• Are you looking for a long-term move, a gap year, or a short-term project?
Your goals will shape where you look and what programs are best for you.
Explore Paid Job Opportunities Abroad
There are plenty of ways to work overseas and get paid for it. Some of the most common options include:
Teaching English
One of the most popular and accessible jobs abroad—especially in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Many programs offer housing, airfare, and bonuses.
Top programs/websites:
• Teach Away
• EF Education First
• Dave’s ESL Café
• VIPKid (online)
Working Holiday Visas
Countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland offer working holiday visas for young people (usually under 30–35). You can travel and work legally for up to a year.
Check:
• IEC (Canada)
• Australia’s Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 or 462)
• New Zealand Working Holiday Scheme
Hospitality & Tourism Jobs
Hotels, resorts, cruise ships, and travel companies often hire seasonal or international workers.
Search on:
• Worldpackers (for work-trade roles)
• Seasonworkers.com
• CoolWorks
Remote Work / Digital Nomad Jobs
Freelancers and remote employees can work from anywhere.
Countries like Portugal, Costa Rica, and Bali welcome digital nomads with special visas.
Try sites like:
• We Work Remotely
• Remote.co
• Jobspresso
• Nomad List (for lifestyle planning)
Discover Volunteer Opportunities Abroad
If your focus is on making a difference, learning, or experiencing another culture deeply, volunteering can be just as rewarding.
Popular Volunteer Sectors:
• Education
• Wildlife conservation
• Healthcare
• Community development
• Environmental work
Top Volunteer Platforms:
• Workaway – Work in exchange for food and housing (like helping on a farm or in a hostel)
• Worldpackers – Similar to Workaway, with reviews and verified hosts
• GoAbroad.com – Directory of paid and unpaid volunteer programs
• Projects Abroad – Offers structured placements, often with a fee
• Peace Corps – U.S.-based long-term volunteer program
Use Specialized Job Boards and Agencies
If you’re targeting a specific industry (engineering, medicine, nonprofits), go straight to niche job boards or placement agencies.
Examples:
• Devex – International development and NGO jobs
• ReliefWeb – Humanitarian and disaster relief jobs
• BUNAC – Working abroad programs for students and grads
• AIESEC – Global internships and volunteer experiences for young people
Tap Into International Internship Programs
Looking to gain experience and explore new places at the same time? Internships abroad are a great option.
Search for:
• IAESTE (for engineering and technical students)
• CRCC Asia (internships in China, Japan, and more)
• Intern Abroad HQ
• University partnerships (many schools offer exchange or co-op programs)
Build a Global-Ready Resume and Cover Letter
To land international roles, tailor your documents:
• Translate key skills into globally relevant language
• Mention language abilities, cultural experience, and adaptability
• Format your resume to match the country’s standard (e.g., photo or no photo?)
Bonus tip: Create a LinkedIn profile that highlights your international goals.
Prepare for the Visa Process
Working or volunteering abroad usually requires a visa. This varies by:
• Country
• Type of job
• Duration of stay
What to do:
• Research visa rules for each country
• Check if the program or employer offers visa support
• Apply early and gather documents (passport, proof of funds, travel insurance, etc.)
Use Facebook Groups and Online Forums
Sometimes the best leads come from real people sharing real tips.
Search groups like:
• Digital Nomad Around the World
• TEFL Teachers Abroad
• Expats in [Country]
• Backpackers or Volunteers in [Region]
Ask questions, connect with others, and stay updated on new opportunities.
Consider Cultural Fit and Lifestyle
Every country is different. Before applying, ask:
• Will you be comfortable with the local customs and language?
• What’s the cost of living?
• How’s the safety, healthcare, and infrastructure?
Use tools like:
• Numbeo (cost of living)
• Safety guides from travel blogs
• Government travel advisories
Stay Open, Flexible, and Positive
Sometimes, your first opportunity might not be your dream role—but it can open doors to new experiences, skills, and friendships.
Be ready to adapt, learn, and grow—and your international journey will be more rewarding than you imagined.
Conclusion
Finding jobs and volunteer opportunities abroad is easier than ever—but it takes intention, research, and the courage to take the leap.
Whether you’re looking to earn, give back, or explore the world, there’s a place out there for you.
Start with your purpose, use the right platforms, and take one step at a time.