How to Make Money While Living Abroad
Moving to a new country is an adventure, but let’s be real—you need a steady income to truly enjoy it. Whether you are looking for a local job or want to work from a beach cafe, there are more ways than ever to fund your life abroad. Here is how you can make it happen.
Before you start your job hunt, make sure your legal paperwork is ready. Many work visas require you to show your travel intentions. Instead of buying a pricey ticket before you even have your first paycheck, use SnapOnward Tickets to get a flight itinerary for your application. It’s a great way to stay flexible while you figure out your start date.
1. Remote Work and the Digital Nomad Life
The easiest way to earn in a new country is to take your job with you. Many countries now offer “Digital Nomad Visas” specifically for people working for companies back home.
- Freelancing: Use platforms like Upwork or Fiverr for skills like coding, design, or writing.
- Remote Corporate Jobs: Many tech and marketing firms allow you to work from anywhere as long as you have good Wi-Fi.
2. Teaching English (or other languages)
This is a classic for a reason. In countries like Vietnam, South Korea, or Spain, there is a huge demand for English speakers. You don’t always need a degree; sometimes a TEFL certificate is enough to get started in a local school or through private tutoring.
3. The Specialized Skills Route
Countries like Germany and Australia are constantly looking for “skilled migrants.” If you are a nurse, engineer, or construction specialist, you might find that local companies will not only hire you but also help with your relocation costs.
Smart Move: When you’re heading to a job interview in a foreign country, you’ll need to show the border officers you have a plan. Grab a temporary travel plan from SnapOnward Tickets so you can enter the country smoothly without burning your budget on a return flight you might not use.
4. Seasonal and Hospitality Work
If you love being active, look into seasonal roles. From working at ski resorts in the Alps to harvesting fruit in New Zealand or bartending in a coastal town, these jobs often come with housing included, making it much easier to save your earnings.
Practical Tips for Success
- Check Your Visa Rights: Make sure your visa actually allows you to work locally. Working “under the table” can lead to deportation.
- Networking: Join expat groups on Facebook or LinkedIn. Often, the best jobs aren’t posted online—they are found through word of mouth.
- Bank Accounts: Open a local bank account or use a digital bank like Revolut or Wise to avoid heavy transfer fees.
Making money abroad isn’t just about the paycheck—it’s about the freedom to explore. Start small, stay flexible, and enjoy the journey!