Why do so many young people choose to work abroad?

Thanks to the growth and development of technology and improved travel systems, young people today have the 
ability to move easily around the world, exploring other countries and experiencing different cultures. Travel is a 
great educator, and many young people have marvelous adventures abroad that they find exciting and stimulating. 
Curiosity draws them to new places, to meet new people and see first-hand other ways of life.

For some young people, the positive impact made on them by a particular country draws them there again to live 
and work, even if they know that they’ll have to get used to being in a cooler climate. If there are fewer employment 
opportunities at home, it’s an added attraction when there are vacancies abroad, and it may mean that they will be 
well rewarded.

There are a number of places that are particularly attractive, whether, for instance, you want an extended stay to 
improve your resume, a family-friendly environment for your kids, or a permanent new home:

* In Perth, for example, the workplace style is typical of Australian culture, so it’s very informal and relaxed. This 

makes it easy for people from other countries to feel that they are being treated as equals and to fit in.

* Hong Kong is one of the safest and most fascinating world cities, and is very popular with families due to the great 

educational systems, particularly the Stamford American International School. Find out more at sais.edu.hk.

* Some people fall in love with a country and decide to make it their home. Toronto in Canada is one of the most 

multicultural cities in the world and attracts young people as well as families, with many deciding to make it their 

permanent place of residence.

If you’re aged between 20 and 40 years old and interested in working or living abroad, there are a number of useful 
things to check before you make any major decisions. Whether or not you are planning a permanent move, you 
need to face up to leaving behind friends and family members. If you are going solo, this might be a particular 
issue, perhaps less so if you are moving as a couple or a family.

Career options

Check out the potential for a career in your field in your chosen location and make sure that you research 
thoroughly any particular qualifications required. Depending on where you wish to go, it may be necessary to have 
certain documents, including your resume and references, translated in advance.

Legal status

Make sure that you are clear about the legal implications of a move. There may be issues around health insurance, 
pensions and your employment status that need clarification. Make sure that you are aware of any possible 
repercussions in the future, particularly if your stay is likely to be temporary.

Culture

The country that you are moving to may have very different cultural norms from your current home. It’s worth taking 
the time to fully understand these so that you feel that you are in tune with the country’s ways of working and don’t 
accidentally cause offense.