Where to work abroad: 4 things to consider

29.01.2019

Looking to make money abroad, but not sure where to go? This short checklist will help you make an informed decision. 

Working abroad is a great way to gain experience and can be very beneficial financially, allowing you to save up or help your family at home. But with so many available options, how do you decide which country is the best to take your chances? Here’s a few things to consider.

1. How much will you earn vs. the cost of living

One of the main reasons people choose to work abroad is because they can earn more money. In Belgium, for example, the average pay for a c+e driver is between EUR 1400 and 2000 EUR net per month.  In Netherlands average wage is similar. 

Important to consider is that many western countries also have a much higher cost of living, with rent in cities like London and Amsterdam reaching astronomical proportions. For example, a unfurnished flat in a normal Amsterdam neighbourhood will cost you EUR 600-725 per month on average. In London, furnished only is available for the average monthly fee EUR 1,700. Cities like Brussels, however, are much cheaper at EUR 500- 700 per month, despite it being the capital of the EU.   Your best bet? Find an organization with a local office that can arrange housing for you. They know how to get the best possible deals. 

2. Work-life balance

Making money is great, but it shouldn’t come at all costs. That’s why it’s worthwhile to investigate the local attitudes to work and vacation. 

  • How many hours per week will you have to work? 
  • What are the regulations concerning overtime? 
  • How many paid vacation days will you get? 

In Belgium, a full-time workweek is 38 hours on average, and the minimum amount of vacation days is 20. This allows workers to take a well-deserved rest and reload fully. Want to work more to earn more? The Belgian law allows up to 180 hours of overtime per year. 

3. Standard of living

Of course, there’s more to working abroad than working. You’ll need to live, eat and take care of yourself out there as well. Before deciding where you’d like to go, make sure you do some research into the local standard of living. Is clean water available everywhere? How’s the food? What about cultural events and entertainment? While some of that may seem unimportant now, it will be if you’re planning to stay for a longer time. 

Many western European countries also have strong expat communities. There, you can meet people who share the same cultural heritage to guide you through the ins and outs of your new home. The Polish expat community in Brussels, for example, can help you get settled and feel at home. 

4. Healthcare

Of course, there’s more to working abroad than working. You’ll need to live, eat and take care of yourself out there as well. Before deciding where you’d like to go, make sure you do some research into the local standard of living. Is clean water available everywhere? How’s the food? What about cultural events and entertainment? While some of that may seem unimportant now, it will be if you’re planning to stay for a longer time. 

We hope it won’t be the case, but what if you fall ill when working abroad? Because it’s better to be safe than sorry, make sure you check out the healthcare system at your new location. Many western European countries provide excellent healthcare services at low prices. In Belgium, which has an excellent healthcare reputation, up to 75% of costs are reimbursed. In this way, you don’t need to worry about any medical setbacks, and you can fully focus on your new job instead.

Needless to say, we think Belgium makes an excellent place to work, and to live! Want to know more? Find out how Link2Europe can help, or go ahead and take a look at our exciting job offers.