Since graduating from business school in 2003, I’ve never held a job in France. Instead, I’ve worked legally in Guatemala, Spain, and the UK in roles somewhat related to my administration degree. Eventually, I transitioned to freelancing, which allowed me to work from anywhere with just my laptop.
Freelancing provides a decent income while offering location independence, a much better option compared to low-wage jobs like bartending in third-world countries. For instance, in Guatemala, bartenders in tourist areas earn about $1.25 per hour plus tips and maybe a meal. Some might even provide a free room, but others may charge around $100, which is still relatively affordable.
Rather than taking such low-paying jobs, I sent out resumes and landed managerial positions. For instance, I worked as a manager in a boutique hotel with a decent salary, free room, and board, and later as a business consultant for a major law firm. At 23, I was earning around $2,500 a month, which was a substantial amount in Guatemala. To put it in perspective, my rent for a three-bedroom duplex in the best part of town was only $500, and I could hire a maid for just $5 a day.
Finding work abroad in your field of study isn’t as difficult as it seems. In Guatemala, the firm that hired me took care of my work visa, allowing me to start working legally from day one, although it took about six months to get the visa stamped in my passport. I had a high success rate with my resumes, often leading to numerous interviews. Companies valued my fluency in English and French and my international business knowledge, which I could apply locally.
Many travelers avoid working abroad legally because they don’t want a full-time or long-term commitment. Hostels often require at least a month’s commitment while being flexible with workdays, allowing for short trips. However, the pay is usually just enough to get by locally, making it hard to save for things like a flight home. Additionally, frequent visa runs every three months add cost and risk.
I’ve always preferred jobs offering a reasonable wage. One option is to ask your current company about relocating to their office in a place like Dubai or Rio. While the chances are slim, it’s worth a try. Even if they agree, you might not get the full expat package but can still negotiate some benefits.
With the rise of bilingual professionals in developing countries, your main advantage is your internal company knowledge. Showcase how sending you abroad benefits them more than hiring a local.
If relocation isn’t an option, consider countries with easy visa processes. As an EU citizen, working in any EU country is straightforward. Work-holiday visa agreements are also available for people under 30 in several countries. These visas allow you to take up “real” jobs while exploring the country.
Another strategy is to save enough money to support yourself for the duration of a tourist visa (3-6 months), move to your desired country, and send out as many resumes as possible. International companies in places like Guatemala, such as Nestle or Cap Gemini, tend to pay foreigners slightly more than local firms, valuing your multicultural background. Positions in international schools, or management roles in higher-end hotels, are also viable options. If you plan to work more than six months, getting a job related to your degree can significantly increase your savings, allowing you more flexibility in the future.
Working under the table, although convenient, carries risks. If you get injured on the job, you will be personally responsible for all medical expenses since you can’t prove employment.
Have you ever worked abroad, legally? What would be your preference?