IT Jobs Abroad

Due to the global presence of computing and the Internet, the surge of IT companies and the transferable nature of IT skills, working abroad has become a career possibility for many people.

The process of searching for opportunities abroad has been made easier due to the Internet, but the reality of finding a suitable position requires steely determination. Finding an IT job abroad can be confusing and frustrating and upon success relocation can be highly complicated and time consuming.

Key points for working abroad in IT

Although initially challenging, working abroad can be an amazing experience. There are lots of advantages to working in another country and there are also some issues that you may wish to consider.

Due to the nature of the IT sector there are normally many IT job vacancies available for both permanent and contractor roles. Nearly all IT skills are transferable and used overseas. For example SAP, Oracle and Java etc are global technologies.

The top countries for IT candidates from the UK to work are (in no particular order):

• UAE (Dubai)

• Belgium

• France

• Germany

• Holland

• Denmark

• Sweden

• Australia

Advantages of working abroad

Working abroad can have many advantages:

• It is a valuable addition to your CV. Employers will be impressed with your determination and initiative in gaining a position abroad

• Whilst working in another country you will develop self-reliance

• You will learn to effectively work and communicate with people from different cultural backgrounds

• You will have the opportunity to network and establish new contacts which may open doors in the future

• You will gain an appreciation for different social, political and economic systems and provide you with a different perspective.

• Learn different skills

IT Jobs Abroad : Things to consider

• Laws. All countries (including the UK) have strict rules on the length of time a ‘non-national’ can stay and concerning who can and who cannot work there. However tempting a position abroad might seem, it is always advised to find out the countries laws on foreign employment before committing. Websites of a particular country’s embassy in your own nation can be a good place to start. In the UK the Home Office Website would be an ideal starting point

• Time scales. Finding a job abroad is a very time consuming exercise. It requires resilience, perseverance, planning and thought. Alot people only intend to spend a year working abroad but it is not uncommon for those who make the transition to spend at least two or three years there

• Languages. If you are planning on working in a country where you will have difficulty speaking and writing the native language then this may cause a barrier to success. The levels of language skills required are often dependent on the country, the occupation and the employer. For IT jobs it is a common requirement to have basic conversation skills and also be conversant in the technical language you’ll be expected to understand and communicate. Language barriers can also restrict you ability to socialise with the locals

What do you have to offer?

Companies require a solution to their problem and therefore it is important to match your skills to a job. You need to tell a company what you can do for them and what skills you have and can bring to the organisation. A sought after technical skill can help to secure an IT job abroad.

What do employers expect?

Technology is a global enterprise, so although you may be working in a different country the basic rules are the same. For example, you will still need to assess your experience and qualifications in relation to the company’s requirements. It is likely that you will be competing against people from that country and so it is important to point out what sets you apart and makes you a desirable employee.

The cost

Many people who make the transition to work abroad often under-estimate the cost of living and the cost of relocating. Before making the move, it is advised to research the differences in pay, moving costs, flights, immigration and work permit fees, commuting costs etc.

The culture

It is a common mistake for people who are looking to work abroad to think stereotypically. By researching in depth the country, working hours, working practices and the cultural differences, it will help you demonstrate to a potential employer your dedication and commitment to moving.

In conclusion for Working in IT abroad

Working in IT abroad can be an enriching experience both personally and professionally. However, it requires thorough preparation, including understanding local laws, language skills, employer expectations, and relocation costs. While IT skills are generally transferable, adapting to cultural differences and the specific challenges of each country is essential for a successful international career transition.