How to make a living from your passion in a foreign country

What exactly is a "passion career"?

Although we often associate passion careers with artistic, craft, or unique professions, the term is much broader. A passion career can be any profession that resonates deeply with one's values, meets personal expectations, and complements one's lifestyle. It provides personal and professional fulfillment, bringing satisfaction and peace of mind.

Recently, there's been a surge in interest in unconventional jobs like culinary stylist, graphic designer, video game tester, music therapist, travel blogger, and pet sitter. These captivating careers prompt an important question: is it feasible to support oneself with these professions while living abroad?

Relocating to pursue your dream career

Living off your passion while abroad is entirely achievable. The considerations mirror those of pursuing their dream career in their home country but with additional factors that impact their life in a foreign country. It's crucial to address both practical (such as visas and starting a business) and professional aspects (whether there's a market for your job overseas and if it can sustain you financially). For example, you should calculate your potential earnings from your passion abroad against the expenses you'll face, including visas, residence permits, housing, transportation, and taxes.

Questions to ask yourself before pursuing your dream career abroad:

• Does your profession already exist there, or will you need to establish it (start your own business) abroad?
• Do you possess specific professional experience or qualifications in your field?
• Are companies actively hiring in your field of expertise?
• Is there demand for your activity in your targeted country?
• Have you previously started a business in your home country or abroad?
• Is there a market for your passion career in the target area?
• Do you know anyone (expats or locals) successfully pursuing their passion career in the host country?

Further considerations for pursuing your dream career abroad

• Is practicing your profession contingent upon having a recognized qualification in the host country?
• Is your dream career regulated in the host country, and if so, do you meet all the eligibility criteria?
• What type of visa, work, and residence permit will you need?
• Are you planning to start a business abroad?
• Do you speak the language of your host country?
• Are you planning a permanent or temporary move?

Living off your passion abroad: Potential pitfalls

Consider the example of becoming a pet sitter, a popular choice for expats who adore animals. This career can offer delightful interactions and a way to travel with minimal expenses when combined with house-sitting. Yet, it's essential to stay vigilant about potential scams.

Navigating legal ambiguities

One significant challenge in some passion careers, like pet sitting, is the lack of legal clarity. Often, these roles don't require official qualifications, and not all platforms connecting owners with expats are trustworthy. Resolving disputes can be difficult in situations where agreements are made verbally, especially when trying to assert your rights in a foreign legal system.

Ensure legal eligibility for your dream career abroad

Verifying that your chosen profession is permissible for foreigners in your destination country is crucial. Some countries restrict certain professions to their nationals. Before making any moves, confirm that you can legally engage in your dream career abroad.

Reality check your dream career

While your career plan might appear feasible on paper, the actual job market abroad could tell a different story. Before fully committing, it's wise to test the waters. While you may be able to make a living from your passion, doing so abroad—or in the specific country you have in mind—might present unforeseen challenges.

Avoid unrealistic job offers

Beware of job listings that seem too perfect: dream location, enviable salary, and no requirements for qualifications or experience. Such offers can be enticing, but many are traps set by unscrupulous companies that promise the world but deliver substandard or even risky working conditions.

Proceed with caution  

The concept of abandoning everything to chase a passion abroad might seem romantic and suited for a film, but in reality, it's a significant risk. You're facing two major transitions: moving and working internationally. Avoid making hasty decisions, especially if it involves a career change. Before resigning, consider gaining relevant training, testing your new career path, and visiting your target country. A meticulously planned move is key to success.

Beware of burnout

Burnout is a significant risk, especially for those pursuing passion careers abroad, often characterized by insufficient sleep, constant on-the-go meals, and a blurred line between work and home life. This is particularly common among the self-employed. If you're experiencing burnout due to challenges like inadequate income or poor organization, it might be time to reassess your moving abroad plans.

If financial constraints are causing burnout, consider adjusting your expectations or compromising on aspects of your passion career. If the stress is more about the intensity of a temporary workload, make sure to schedule breaks and give yourself time to recharge. Successfully living off your passion abroad requires not just hard work but also the ability to disconnect and maintain your well-being to ensure the job remains fulfilling and sustainable.