As 2025 comes to a close, many finance professionals are taking a moment to reflect on their next career move. Whether that means advancing within their current role, exploring a new opportunity or focusing on personal growth, one thing is clear from our recent LinkedIn poll.
Accountants are thinking internationally.
When asked about career goals for 2026, respondents shared the following:
71 percent plan to take their career international
20 percent want to make a career move locally
6 percent prefer to stay in their current role
3 percent are focusing on personal goals
These results reveal an important shift in priorities, especially among early to mid career accountants who are increasingly open to global mobility. So why are so many professionals preparing to work abroad?
- International Experience Is Becoming a Career Advantage
Global firms continue to value international exposure more than ever. Accountants who work overseas gain:
Experience with cross border regulations
Exposure to large complex multinational clients
Faster technical development and broader industry insight
Adaptability and resilience, two top traits firms now look for
For many respondents, going global is not just an adventure, it is a strategic step toward accelerating their career.
- Work Life Balance Matters More
In recent years, accountants have become vocal about burnout, long hours and limited flexibility. Many of the destinations hiring international talent offer a significantly better lifestyle, stronger work life balance and a more supportive work culture.
From the Channel Islands to Western Europe to Australasia, professionals are discovering environments where quality of life and career progression can coexist.
- Lifestyle and Personal Growth Are a Priority
Even though only 3 percent said personal goals were their top priority, lifestyle continues to strongly influence career decisions. Moving abroad provides:
A chance to explore new cultures
Access to outdoor lifestyle and travel
Opportunities to meet new people and build international friendships
Space to reset, grow and redefine long term goals
Professionals are increasingly choosing environments that bring out their best personally and professionally.
- Local Career Moves Are Still Important but Not as Motivating
With only 20 percent of respondents planning a local career move, it is clear that traditional career trajectories are shifting. Many accountants feel they have plateaued locally or want to experience something beyond their current market.
A move abroad offers a chance to stretch their skills and expand their horizons in ways that a local move may not.
- Staying in the Same Role Is Becoming Less Common
Only 6 percent chose to remain in their current position in 2026. This highlights a broader trend. Accountants are actively seeking growth and development. The industry is evolving quickly, and professionals want environments where they can evolve with it.
What This Means for Accountants Considering a Move in 2026
If you are thinking about an international move, you are not alone and you are not early. You are right on time.
Many roles abroad require three to twelve months of planning, from interview preparation to understanding visa requirements, housing options, relocation costs and lifestyle expectations.
For accountants considering a move, now is the perfect moment to start researching destinations, assessing priorities and preparing your CV and interview strategy.
How Think Global Recruitment Can Help
At Think Global Recruitment, we have supported thousands of accountants across the world in securing roles that offer career development and an improved quality of life.
We provide tailored guidance on:
Finding the right destination
Preparing for interviews with international firms
Understanding relocation logistics
Navigating the transition once you move
If you are among the 71 percent looking to take your career global next year, we would be delighted to support your journey.
📩 Contact us: mail@thinkgr.com
🌍 Explore opportunities: www.thinkgr.com
