Many young people are drawn to the idea of living abroad, and it's a great opportunity they should consider. However, securing the right visa can be challenging. A tourist visa won't cover a long stay or allow you to work. The working holiday visa is an excellent option for funding your stay if there's a bilateral agreement between your home country and the host country. If such an agreement doesn't exist, you'll need to explore other visa options.
A brief overview of the Working Holiday Permit (WHP)
The WHP is available in approximately sixty countries which have bilateral agreements in place. These include Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, South Korea, Ecuador, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Taiwan, and Uruguay, subject to certain conditions.
Eligibility criteria for this permit generally include being between the ages of 18 and 30, though some countries extend this to 35. Applicants must have a return ticket, sufficient financial resources (as determined by each country), and valid health insurance.
The primary benefit of the WHP is the opportunity it offers to spend a year abroad, blending tourism with work opportunities according to personal preference. This flexibility makes the WHP a popular choice for many young people each year.
But what should you do if your destination is not on the WHP list? We have selected three other options for you.
Student or intern visa
Student visa
If you need to earn money while studying abroad, a student visa typically permits paid employment with some restrictions. For instance, in Geneva, Switzerland, students may work up to 15 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during university holidays.
Before applying, check the specific requirements on the university or school's website where you plan to enroll. Generally, to qualify for a student visa, you must be enrolled in a recognized educational institution, provide proof of financial stability, and have health insurance. Select a course of study that interests you and offers flexibility to explore and work in the country.
Intern visa
An alternative to the student visa is the intern visa offered by several countries. This requires a tripartite agreement involving your educational institution, the host company or organization, and you. Internships abroad can provide a source of income and opportunities to experience the country.
Digital nomad visa
Do you own a business, or are you self-employed in your home country, with the ability to conduct your work online? If so, you may qualify for a "digital nomad visa," which allows for relatively short stays abroad while working remotely. Around forty countries offer this type of visa, including Dubai, Spain, Mauritius, Thailand, and Brazil.
Key eligibility requirements include being over 18 years old, having a stable source of income (with minimum amounts set by each country), and conducting your business activities remotely (your income must originate from outside the host country). These visas are typically valid for one year, similar to working holiday permits, and may be renewable in some cases.
This visa provides an excellent opportunity to embark on an entrepreneurial journey while exploring new countries, as the conditions for setting up a self-run business are generally straightforward and lenient.
Work visa for specific sectors
Some countries offer work permits for specific industries such as hospitality, agriculture, or childcare. These permits are restricted to applicants with skills or experience in these particular fields. If you have an interest or background in one of these areas, this could be a viable option for you.
Seasonal work permit
The availability of seasonal work permits depends on the country's particular needs. For instance, Canada allows the hiring of seasonal agricultural workers for up to eight months. Eligibility criteria include being at least 18 years old, possessing relevant experience in the specified sector, and being from a country that participates in Canada's seasonal worker program. This program is designed to meet the seasonal demand in certain fields by temporarily allowing foreign workers to fill these roles.
"Au pair" visas
If you have a passion for childcare, becoming an au pair could be an ideal opportunity. This role involves living with a host family abroad and providing childcare in exchange for financial compensation. It's important to closely examine the specific needs of prospective host families; some may require more assistance during the school term, giving you the flexibility to plan your vacation time.
For instance, to become an au pair in China, you must meet these criteria: be between 18 and 29 years old, hold at least a high school diploma, be proficient in English, and have a clean criminal record. Once you meet these requirements, you can apply for one of two visas that, while not specifically designated as "au pair" visas, can be used for such roles:
- F-Visa: Issued for non-commercial and non-professional purposes such as cultural, educational, scientific, or exchange activities. This visa is valid for 6 months.
- X-Visa: Intended for longer stays over 6 months, suitable for students engaged in courses, studies, or internships. This visa can also accommodate au pair activities.
Numerous associations and online platforms are facilitating international childcare exchanges, such as The International Au Pair Association, where you can register and explore global opportunities.
