We’ve all dreamed of packing up and making a fresh start overseas. When you hear stories of someone that’s done it, it is easy to assume that they are simply lucky and that the logistics are far too complicated for everyone. We are here to tell you that this isn’t true. Keep reading if you are an accountant and feel like taking the next steps towards a global career. Think Global Recruitment has over twenty years of experience sourcing accountancy and finance jobs for people who wish to work abroad. We want to share our expertise so you can finally make your move and build a successful career as an expat accountant. We will discuss the planning, logistics, and struggles you might encounter when seeking accounting jobs abroad.
Opportunities abroad as an accountant
It is one thing to move abroad, but it is another to have the perfect career to do so. Accountants are consistently in high demand all over the world. Now that the pandemic has come to a close in most countries, migrant workers are needed more than ever. The accountancy and finance world is growing faster than its workforce, and so many places are in short supply. This makes looking for your perfect job in your dream country more accessible than ever before. Not only is the opportunity there, but you can pick and choose where you work and whom you work for. Jobs are currently available across all continents, so living out those long-pondered desires are within closer reach than you think.
Go with someone you can trust
When looking for work overseas, some of the offers you encounter online might be too good to be true. Sometimes, it is because they are. Be sure to do a little background check on the recruitment agencies you look into. Look for someone with testimonies, years of experience, accreditation, and awards who isn’t shy about answering your questions. Don’t get us wrong, there are plenty of good recruitment agencies for overseas work, but you do need to be careful with whom you choose. After all, it is your career in their hands.
What you need to consider when seeking employment overseas
Of course, it is easier said than done, but that doesn’t mean it is too difficult. Here is a list of what you will need to look into before making your life-changing decision. Some countries are certainly more straightforward to move to than others, so you will need to do some research and see how realistic your goals are.
- Applying for visas: The visa you need may differ depending on your age and how long you plan on staying in the country. Some countries will require you to have secured employment, flights, or health insurance before you are accepted. Others will need you to obtain a visa before you can apply for a job. This is the one thing that takes a little time, but with the use of government websites or a good recruitment firm, it can be broken down into simple steps. Many employers will sponsor you for a visa and guide you through the visa process.
- Health insurance: Do some research on what the health care system is before you leave. Depending on where you’re from and where you are going, you may need to obtain insurance to make sure you are covered.
- Setting up a bank account: You can now do this online in many countries but be sure to check what documentation is required to do this. For example, you may need proof of address or documents from your home country.
- Tax requirements: Most places will have their own version of social security, national insurance, or tax file numbers. Sometimes you might need to apply in advance to make sure you are getting taxed the correct amount when you start work.
Cost of living and expected income
Surprisingly, amongst the excitement of planning to move overseas, it can be easy to overlook these two very crucial things. Be sure to thoroughly check the cost of living where you plan to move to. Sometimes, places can be more expensive than you initially thought, adding stress to what should be an incredible experience. Check the price of rent, bills, groceries, restaurants, and anything you think you will want when you are out there. Also, check what salary you will be expected to take home after tax. Some countries may tax a large percentage of wages for foreign workers.
Remote work opportunities
One blessing that came out of the pandemic is the increased opportunity for remote work and flexi-hours. If you have the option to work from home and limit your time in the office, this could dramatically improve your work-life balance. In addition, if the company you are looking at is in the capital city, this could allow you to live in an area of your choosing, and as we all know, save substantially on accommodation costs.
Get in touch
If you are in the accounting and finance industry and craving a change in location. Get in touch with Think Global Recruitment today. We are a triple accredited award-winning recruitment agency that has assisted over 46 nationalities in moving to over 62 countries in over 168 organisations. Our ethos is making lives better, and there aren’t many who do that as well as us. Our expert team can give you honest and trusted advice on making your dreams a reality.
