Business
5 Amazing Countries to Work Abroad in 2023
5 Amazing Countries to Work Abroad in 2023
Living and working abroad is a fantastic way to learn about the world, yourself, and what it means to be a global citizen. As the world becomes more and more interconnected, a growing number of people are seeking work outside of their home country, but deciding where to go abroad can be difficult.
To help you find your dream job abroad, we’ve compiled a list of the best countries to work abroad. In creating this list, we considered various factors, including work-life balance and happiness indices, the cost of living, the ease of getting a work visa, and the job opportunities in the country. With that, our goal is to provide a variety of options not limited to the most traditional expat destinations.
So, where will you go? Let’s check out the 10 best countries to work abroad to decide!
1. Great for seasonal work: New Zealand
Cost of living: $927 (1,563 NZD) a month + rent
💰 Average Salary: $3,323 (5,603 NZD) a month
⏰ Work visa duration: 12 – 23 months based on residency
😊 Happiness index ranking: 10
If you’re a young adult looking to expand your perspective through a grand adventure and plan to fund it with intermediate work along the way, New Zealand may be the perfect destination for you! From adventure sports companies to tour operators to farmers, there are seemingly endless short-term and seasonal employment opportunities throughout the country.
New Zealand regularly ranks among the happiest countries globally, including a 10th place ranking on The Global Economy 2022 Happiness index. The laid-back culture and emphasis on a healthy work-life balance create a truly unique atmosphere. Kiwis are also extremely friendly, and most travelers find it quite easy to adapt to life in New Zealand as a result.
As a remote island nation, the cost of living in New Zealand is high so it’s important to budget appropriately if you want to build savings while working there. You’ll find that most job opportunities outside of agriculture will be in or around Auckland, Wellington, or smaller, tourist towns like Queenstown. Work exchange programs are popular to mitigate this for those looking for short-term work opportunities to supplement travel.
✅ Pros:
- Relaxed work-life balance
- Progressive and welcoming government and citizens
❌ Cons:
- Limited career mobility within certain fields due to small population
- Life can feel fairly quiet and isolated
How to get a work visa in New Zealand
New Zealand offers a working holiday scheme to residents from specific countries throughout the world. The working holiday visa permits work and travel throughout New Zealand for up to 12 months, or 23 months if you are a citizen of the UK or Canada.
To learn more about acquiring a visa to work in New Zealand, visit the New Zealand Immigration web portal.
How to find work in New Zealand
Start your job search well before the season you plan to be employed during. If you want to work during the ski season, check out NZSki. Agriculture work is often listed on Seasonal Jobs New Zealand. Additionally, check out the Go Overseas Job Board and filter by job type to find recent job postings.
2. Great for jobs in research and academia: The Netherlands
Cost of living: $975 (€972) a month + rent
💰 Average Salary: $3,025 (€3,017) a month
⏰ Work visa duration: Indefinent with a company sponsor
😊 Happiness index ranking: 5
A favorite destination among expats due to its quality of life and work-life balance, the Netherlands is another excellent option for working abroad. The Netherlands actively seeks out international entrepreneurs and has many great programs to help them invest in local companies or start their own businesses, big and small.
The Netherlands is a safe country with great social programs and a strong economy. Additionally, the Netherlands is on the cutting edge of research and academia, and expats will find abundant opportunities to work in these fields. With a strong focus on sustainable energy and a clean environment, the Netherlands is also a great place to find work in tech or energy.
Working in the Netherlands requires a company sponsor for non-European citizens, and the cost of living is relatively high, so this is a destination for career-minded international workers and is not as suitable for short-term or temporary work. If you dream of finding a career in the Netherlands but aren’t sure where to start, consider getting an internship there first.
✅ Pros:
- The vast majority of Dutch people speak English
- Low crime rates
❌ Cons:
- It can be hard to make friends with local people due to close-knit social circles
- Salaries are high but expenses are also high
How to get a work visa in the Netherlands
It can be a challenge to obtain a working visa in the Netherlands, but the rewards outweigh the effort if you’re up for it. A traditional work visa requires you to have an employer willing to sponsor you and will expire when you leave the company.
The Netherlands has other programs to help international workers enter the country. The start-up visa allows investors to reside in the Netherlands for one year to develop a new innovative business idea. The government also provides you with the assistance of a local mentor to help your business grow. The Netherlands also encourages small businesses through its freelance and self-employment visa.
How to find work in The Netherlands
LinkedIn is a great place to network and search for jobs in The Netherlands. As a tech-forward country, most openings will be advertised online and accessible through top international job search sites.
3. Great for teaching English (TEFL): South Korea
Cost of living: $962 (1,340,114 KRW) a month + rent
💰 Average Salary: $2,210 (3,078,640 KRW) a month
⏰ Work visa duration: 12 months
😊 Happiness index ranking: 55
While all types of jobs are available to international workers, especially those fluent in English, South Korea stands out as one of the best destinations to teach English as a foreign language (TEFL). Whether employed by the Korean Ministry of Education (EPIK) program or a private institution, English teachers will be paid a highly competitive wage and find students eager to learn. Additionally, work benefits and the low cost of living in Korea provide teachers with a high standard of living and the opportunity to build savings.
In Korea, be prepared to work longer hours than you are used to — as Korea has the longest working hours of any developed nation! This is a contributor to its relatively low ranking on the happiness index and means you won’t get the work-life balance in Korea that you do in many of the other locations on this list.
Despite the long work week, Korea has a lot to offer. From the bustling metropolis of Seoul to the stunning natural beauty of Korea’s interior, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Seoul, Busan, and Daegu have sizable expat communities, rich nightlives, and, most importantly — delicious food. Living and working in Korea is sure to be an experience of a lifetime for any international worker.
✅ Pros:
- Work environments are collaborative and friendly
- Jobs often come with great benefits like accommodation
❌ Cons:
- If homesick, finding grocery products from home can be challenging
- Employees often work longer hours than they are contracted for due to pressure to perform
How to get a work visa in South Korea
Obtaining a working visa in Korea is relatively easy. The fastest and easiest way to get a working visa in Korea is to become an English teacher under Korea’s “E-2” visa.
If teaching is not your cup of tea, South Korea has agreements with some Western countries that allow workers to enter on a “working holiday” visa for up to a year. A “looking for work” visa allows travelers to live in Korea for up to six months while seeking a job.
How to find work in South Korea
The Korean Ministry of Education and National Institute for International Education operate English Program in Korea (EPIK), with the goal of developing the English skills of Korean students. Apply directly through the EPIK web portal. Private teaching jobs are also available. Check out the Go Overseas Job Board for the latest listings.
4. Great for work exchanges; Australia
Cost of living: $996 (1,537 AUD) a month + rent
💰 Average salary: $3,684 (5,685 AUD) a month
⏰ Work visa duration: 12 months
😊 Happiness index ranking: 12
Australia consistently ranks highly as a country with excellent quality of life, standards of living, and overall happiness. Additionally, it holds a top-10 Human Development Index (HDI) ranking, globally. People here enjoy a great work-life balance – and it is not hard to enjoy your time outside the office in such a beautiful country. Even though the cost of living is quite high in Australia, expats can still live comfortably thanks to the relatively high minimum wage.
Australia is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a work exchange experience. With an easy visa scheme, Australia is one of the most convenient countries to find a work exchange program. Organizations like World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) align volunteers with farms in exchange for food and board. WWOOF has been operating in Australia for over 40 years, providing safe, rewarding work exchange programs to thousands of volunteers.
From its wide-open outback, pristine beaches, and cosmopolitan cities, Australia has it all. Sydney and Melbourne are known for their multicultural population, making it extremely easy for an expat to adjust to life in Australia. Additionally, the need for labor in the agriculture industry across Australia and the lack of a language barrier for English speakers make Australia a formidable destination to beat.
✅ Pros:
- High salaries
- Fun and inclusive work culture
❌ Cons:
- Long wait times for public transport in major cities
- Expensive cost of living for certain things like groceries and produce
How to get a work visa in Australia
The process for obtaining a visa to work in Australia is roughly identical to that of New Zealand. Australia also has a “working holiday” visa scheme that allows foreigners of certain nationalities to enter the country for 12 months. Likewise, there are working visas available for international workers that pass a skills assessment similar to that of New Zealand.
To learn more about acquiring a visa to work in Australia, visit the Department of Home Affairs visa finder.
How to find work in Australia
There are established organizations like WWOOF that will connect you directly with a work exchange host who provides meals and lodging in exchange for up to 36 hours of work a week. Workaway is another popular resource for matching travelers with homestays, work exchanges, and volunteer opportunities.
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5. Great for engineering jobs; Germany
Cost of living: $886 (€883) a month + rent
💰 Average salary: $2,908 (€2,900) a month
⏰ Work visa duration: 12 months
😊 Happiness index ranking: 15
As one of the leading economies globally (per GDP) and among the largest exporters of goods, Germany is filled with incredible opportunities for career-minded people looking to work abroad, especially engineers. Many global corporations have offices in Germany, meaning there are opportunities for English-speaking positions, although the job hunt will be more challenging. Fortunately, most Germans have strong English proficiency, so the language barrier is manageable.
The enriching culture and unbeatable work-life balance make Germany a great place to build a career overseas. People work less (about 27 hours per week) and live better as a result! Excellent healthcare, generous paid leave, and unforgettable experiences await you in Germany. You may also want to consider an internship in Germany if you’re a young adult looking to take your career to the next level.
The cost of living can be higher than what you are used to, but living in Germany can be less expensive than in many other European cities, depending on where you find a job. Every city has something different to offer, making it perfect for any expat. The larger cities remain the most popular among international workers, with Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt having the largest expat communities. Regardless of where you end up, you’ll get a taste of the eclectic charm that is characteristic of this innovative European country.
✅ Pros:
- Excellent social welfare system
- Quick and efficient public transportation
❌ Cons:
- Germans can be private and reserved at first, making it challenging to make friends
- High tax rate
How to get a work visa in Germany
Applying for a working visa can be challenging, but there are ways to obtain a permit to work and live in Germany. Nationals of most Western countries can apply for a job seeker (aka looking for work) visa that allows you to line up a job while in the country and then apply for a working visa after securing a work contract.
To learn more about acquiring a visa to work in Germany, visit the Employment in Germany web portal.
How to find work in Germany
Finding work within your career field in Germany will be more difficult if you don’t speak German. Linkedin allows you to filter available jobs by industry, type of work, and the language in which the job can be performed. Additionally, join expat Facebook groups and attend international job fairs in your local area
Fidelity Bank Provides Critical Funding Support to Abuja Special Needs Orphanage
Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, through the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme (FHHP), has funded critical support for the JKS Special Needs Academy in Abuja to ensure continued shelter and care for vulnerable children.
The intervention was facilitated by a group of the bank’s newly recruited employees known as Team Valorem, as part of their induction activities. Through the FHHP, employees are empowered to actively contribute to social development by dedicating their time, resources and skills to impactful projects. Projects executed under the initiative are employee-driven, with teams encouraged to identify causes, contribute fifty percent of the project funding, while the bank matches the contribution.
Speaking during the outreach, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications Division, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, highlighted that the initiative aligns with the Bank’s CSR pillars focused on health & social welfare, and youth empowerment.
“This intervention reflects our belief that building a better society is a shared responsibility. Through the Fidelity Helping Hands Programme, we empower our employees to actively contribute to meaningful social causes. The funding provided will secure the orphanage’s accommodation for an additional year, ensuring a stable and safe environment for the children. This support guarantees that these children continue to have a place they can call home,” Nwagboh remarked.
He also commended caregivers at the facility for their dedication and called for increased focus on empowerment and skill development for children with special needs.
“Beyond providing basic needs, we must provide these children with opportunities to develop skills and become self-reliant. Everyone, regardless of their physical or socio-economic status, has a role to play in the society,” he said.
In her response, Director of JKS Special Needs Academy, Mrs. Nifemi Ajileye, expressed deep appreciation to Fidelity Bank and its staff for the timely intervention.
“We are truly grateful to Fidelity Bank for this support. It will significantly improve the welfare of the children under our care and help us sustain our operations,” she said.
Ajileye highlighted the high cost of caring for children with disabilities, stating that, “Many of the children require continuous medical attention and therapy, which are quite expensive. Support like this helps us bridge critical gaps and continue delivering quality care. This support from Fidelity Bank is timely and it means the world to us and to these children. It will help us continue our work and secure a better future for them,” she added, while calling for sustained support from other organisations.
As an institution with a heart for people, Fidelity Bank continues to demonstrate its commitment to social responsibility by driving inclusive growth and social impact through initiatives that empower communities and improve lives across Nigeria.
Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 10 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK.
The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.
Business
Official waste of government resources and national wealth, group slams NNPCL GMD over MOU with Chinese firm to revive dead refineries*
*Official waste of government resources and national wealth, group slams NNPCL GMD over MOU with Chinese firm to revive dead refineries*
*…demands accountability into past investment of $1 billion into the refineries*
A coalition of oil sector reform advocates has criticised the latest agreement by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited with Chinese firms to revive Nigeria’s refineries, describing the move as a wasteful recycling of failed strategies and a troubling signal of weak accountability in the management of public resources.
The group, the Centre for Energy Sector Transparency (CEST), made its position known in a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its executive director, Dr Oghenetega Edafe, following the announcement of a new memorandum of understanding between NNPC Ltd and two Chinese companies for a proposed technical equity partnership.
The agreement is aimed at completing rehabilitation work and restarting operations at the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries, assets that have remained largely dormant despite multiple rounds of government-funded turnaround maintenance.
Edafe said the development raises serious questions about fiscal discipline, policy coherence, and the absence of accountability for previous investments running into billions of dollars.
“What Nigerians are witnessing is a troubling pattern of policy repetition without reflection. The same refineries that have gulped enormous public funds over the years are once again at the centre of a fresh round of agreements, yet there has been no transparent accounting of what has already been spent or why those investments failed to deliver results,” he said.
The group specifically referenced earlier government approvals of over $1 billion for refinery rehabilitation projects, warning that proceeding with new partnerships without a public audit of past expenditures undermines trust in the system.
“It is unacceptable that after committing over one billion dollars to refinery rehabilitation, the nation is being asked to embrace yet another agreement without a clear and verifiable audit of previous interventions. This is not just about policy failure; it is about the potential erosion of public trust in how national wealth is managed,” Edafe said.
He argued that while the introduction of a technical equity model may appear innovative, it does not absolve the government and NNPC Ltd of responsibility for past inefficiencies and possible mismanagement.
“The idea of bringing in technical partners with equity stakes is not inherently flawed. However, it becomes deeply problematic when it is introduced as a substitute for accountability. Before we speak of new partnerships, Nigerians deserve a full disclosure of how past funds were utilised, who was responsible for project delivery, and why the expected outcomes were not achieved,” he said.
The group also warned that without institutional reforms, the proposed collaboration risks becoming another cycle of investment without sustainable results.
“What is being presented as a strategic shift may, in reality, become another expensive experiment if the underlying governance issues are not addressed. Technical expertise alone cannot fix a system that lacks transparency, oversight, and consequences for failure,” Edafe said.
The Centre called on the National Assembly and relevant anti-corruption agencies to initiate a comprehensive probe of refinery rehabilitation projects over the past decade, including contract awards, disbursements, and project execution timelines.
“This moment demands more than optimism; it demands scrutiny. We call on oversight institutions like the National Assembly, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and others to undertake a forensic examination of all funds committed to refinery rehabilitation, including the recent billion-dollar interventions. Nigerians must know what has been done with their resources and why the country is still dependent on fuel imports despite repeated promises of self-sufficiency,” he said.
The Centre added that restoring confidence in Nigeria’s oil sector would require not just new agreements, but a demonstrable commitment to transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity.
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