Job Abroad: Practical Steps to Find Tech and Remote Jobs Overseas

Want to work abroad but not sure where to start? Hiring processes abroad are different, but the basics are the same: research, targeted applications, and the right paperwork. This page gives clear, useful steps you can apply right away—whether you're after IT roles in Canada, HR jobs in Dubai, or remote freelance gigs.

Where to search and how to choose openings

Start with reliable job boards and niche sites. Use LinkedIn, Indeed and Glassdoor for broad searches. For startups try AngelList, CutShort or local startup boards. For remote work try Upwork or Remote-specific sites. Also check company career pages for roles that aren't listed elsewhere. When you pick jobs, match your skills to the job description—don’t spray-and-pray. Apply to roles where at least 70% of the skills match and tailor your application for each one.

How to prepare applications that work

Make your resume readable by humans and applicant tracking systems. Lead with a short profile, list measurable results (sales increased by 30%, reduced onboarding time by 40%), and include tech stacks or tools you use. For interviews, prepare short STAR stories (Situation-Task-Action-Result) that show impact. Build a simple portfolio or GitHub for tech roles and a case sheet for marketing or HR roles.

Network before you apply. Send concise LinkedIn messages to recruiters and hiring managers: introduce yourself, mention a recent company update, and ask for a short chat. Attend online webinars and local expat groups for the country you target. A quick informational call can move your resume from the pile to a referral.

Get the right credentials. For Canada, know about Express Entry and the Post-Graduation Work Permit if you're a recent grad. For Dubai, HR roles often value certifications like CIPD or SHRM and industry experience. For the Netherlands, some tech roles use the Highly Skilled Migrant route. You don’t always need foreign degrees—relevant certificates and clear results often matter more.

Beware of scams. Common red flags: up-front fees for job placement, requests for banking details early, offers with no formal interview, or recruiters using free email accounts. Typing and data-entry job ads can be legit, but many are scams. Verify company domains, ask for an official contract, and insist on a video interview.

Practical weekly plan: update your resume, apply to 5 targeted jobs, reach out to 3 people on LinkedIn, and learn one local workplace custom or law. Keep a spreadsheet to track applications, contacts, and follow-ups. Small, consistent actions beat random bursts of activity.

Ready to begin? Pick one country, tailor your resume, and send your first five applications this week. You’ll learn faster by doing and adjusting as you go.