As traveling internationally has come to a halt due to COVID-19, people around the world are waiting for their chance to fly safely again. Furthermore, the pandemic has dramatically changed the way we work globally. Instead of having a long commute to work and being stuck in an office, companies have transitioned into a “Work from Home” environment.
For soon-to-be college seniors graduating in the spring, it’s important to keep your options open during this chaotic time. The current and previous year have been incredibly difficult with a mix of the pandemic, human rights and politics in our nation. Companies are increasingly laying off employees and cutting costs to stay afloat. Because of the uncertainty in the future, I’ll be discussing the different opportunities soon-to-be graduates and young individuals should take advantage of overseas for new experiences, job opportunities and their overall future.
Disclaimer: While the majority of the world has shut their borders towards Americans, I’m hopeful we will be able to enter other countries again.
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The Working Holiday Visa is one of the most popular ways students are able to work and travel in a select few countries for 6-12 months (varies by country chosen). Countries that U.S. citizens can visit include Ireland, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand and South Korea. Furthermore, some of these countries give you the opportunity to apply for a second and third visa to continue living abroad if you’re enjoying your time there. This type of visa is a popular option for graduates and young adults looking for adventure and the ability to live and work in a different country. While the borders for these countries are currently closed with the promising vaccines being administered we may see countries opening up this summer.
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An opportunity that is certainly not advertised enough in the public eye, is Germany’s “Freiberufler” Freelance visa! For recent graduates looking to kickstart their passions in creative and entrepreneurial fields such as photography, design, technology etc. should take advantage of this opportunity in the German nation. With this program, you can live in Germany for up to three months and create new experiences abroad. This visa allows artistic and entrepreneurial souls to start a business and become self-employed! In the 21st century, the dream of becoming an entrepreneur, having no boss to report to, and transitioning into becoming self-employed has increased dramatically. Generation Z has found it important more than ever to follow their passions while avoiding the prospect of working for someone else. This is a fabulous opportunity for extroverts and highly motivated individuals who want to share their unique skills with others as a means for income. Working under this particular visa means you are independent and have fewer restrictions as you won’t be employed by another person.
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Other countries in the same region of Europe offer at least a full year to expatriates. Some of these countries include the Czech Republic and the Netherlands! Both countries offer at least a year of exposure to their nations with the possibility of staying longer depending on their rules and regulations. For example, In Czech Republic, the cost of living is significantly less compared to major cities like New York City. Additionally, because of its low cost of living and high quality of life, Czech Republic makes itself very appealing to recent graduates. The Netherlands offers the DAFT visa, also known as the Dutch American Friendship Treaty. This treaty allows U.S. entrepreneurs to receive residency permits given they plan to start a business in the Dutch nation. People of the Netherlands are very friendly towards Americans making it a welcoming nation.
These nations are so popular for young individuals looking to expose themselves to a country outside of the U.S. because of the higher quality of living. The U.S prides itself in entrepreneurship, innovation and strong chaotic work culture. However, this work culture is infamously seen as Americans becoming workaholics, having endless work with little balance to their personal lives and the fast-paced lifestyle. This type of work culture is what the young generations want to stay away from as it’s unhealthy and doesn’t promote happiness. I believe in putting my happiness first before working for a company that doesn’t value a healthy work-life balance culture. Furthermore, if you didn’t get a chance to study abroad due to the pandemic, working abroad is another option for you.