WORK ABROAD: What Should You Know?

5 years ago

Many of us have probably thought at some point – should I drop everything and move abroad for work? Working abroad often brings mixed feelings. Some see the decision to leave as a kind of betrayal of the homeland, while others view it as normal and natural. Either way, we are all human, and working abroad can offer not only higher pay but also new perspectives and expanded knowledge.

The media and the internet are full of stories on this topic. For some, working abroad has brought wealth and a better life. For others, it turned out the opposite – the experience was unpleasant and had negative consequences. So how do you find a balance and secure a job that won’t harm your life? Let’s take a look at key points that can help you prepare for working abroad.

General Tips for Working Abroad

1. Research the company you’ll be working for as thoroughly as possible.
2. Learn about the country’s culture and laws.
3. If you’re going to an EU country, get a European Health Insurance Card. Consider additional health or life insurance.
4. If traveling individually, secure reliable accommodation, check transport options, and nearby stores.
5. Bring non-perishable food and enough money to cover living costs and a return ticket to Lithuania.
6. Make passport copies – leave one with family, keep another with you.
7. Find out where the Lithuanian embassy or consulate is located in the country you’re going to. Keep the contact details with you.
8. Study the work contract carefully and only sign once everything is clear and acceptable.
9. Share as much information as possible with your relatives – including employer or agency contacts.
10. If staying abroad for more than 6 months, notify “Sodra” (Lithuanian social insurance). Otherwise, you may accumulate mandatory health insurance debt.
11. Ensure your passport or ID is valid for at least one year.

Working Abroad Through Agencies

This is popular among first-time workers or those who don’t speak the local language. Agencies often provide accommodation, transport, and contracts in Lithuanian. However, they usually take a fee or a cut of your salary.

If using an agency:

1. Check if the agency is legitimate – review their website and business registry data.
2. Look for reviews (but evaluate them critically).
3. Study the job description carefully. Try to find people who already work there via forums or Facebook groups.
4. Don’t rush to sign the contract – ask about fees, taxes, termination conditions. Keep a copy for yourself.
5. Inform family about the agency and give them all contact details.
6. Check internet and phone connectivity in your area.
7. Always keep written details of your employer, agency, and address with you.
8. Bring enough money to cover a return ticket.
9. If work conditions differ from the contract, inform the agency immediately.
10. If you terminate the contract early, notify the agency.

Working Abroad Individually

Going abroad on your own can be more challenging, especially without language skills or accommodation. It can save money but also carries risks.

If traveling individually:

1. Research the country’s economy and job market.
2. Secure safe temporary accommodation.
3. Plan how to get from the airport to your residence.
4. Prepare necessary documents in advance (residence proof, criminal record certificate, etc.).
5. Keep emergency funds and store cash in separate places.
6. Compare housing rental prices – sometimes guesthouses are cheaper than renting.
7. Contact the Lithuanian embassy for work/residency requirements.
8. Translate and review your work contract carefully, ideally with legal help.
9. Gather as much information about the company as possible.
10. Organize transport to your workplace.
11. Keep pay slips and employer contacts – they may be needed later for tax refunds.

Temporary Employment or Contract Work Abroad

Temporary employment or project-based work is also common. Agencies usually arrange accommodation and transport.

Key points:

1. Review the contract carefully (hours, conditions, obligations).
2. Research the temporary employer.
3. Confirm accommodation and commuting details.
4. Leave all contact details with family.
5. Keep extra cash for emergencies.
6. Stay in touch with the Lithuanian employer/agency.
7. Report any discrepancies between contract and reality.
8. Confirm whether you are fully insured.
9. If you quit early, notify the employer and agency.
10. Keep all documents and receipts.

For project-based jobs, the process is often simpler, but still:

• Check contract duration.
• Confirm the currency of your salary.
• Learn about the country and working conditions.
• Verify accommodation and transport arrangements.

Final Thoughts

Working abroad can bring both positive and negative experiences. The key is not to rush and to prepare thoroughly while still in Lithuania. A little effort beforehand can save you major problems later. Done wisely, working abroad can be both rewarding and life-changing.