Why a local job abroad is so hard to get, and what to do instead
Most countries protect local jobs. Here is how the rules work against newcomers over 45, and the path that works better.
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The dream and the rules
Picture it. You land in a sunny town, find a job at a café or a school, and start over. For most Americans, the rules make this close to impossible.
Governments want jobs to go to their own citizens first. Before hiring you, an employer often has to prove no local person could do the work. Then the employer sponsors your permit, pays fees and waits. Few small businesses take on that effort for a newcomer.
Age works against you in points systems
Some countries score applicants on age, education and skills. Australia is a clear example. Its main independent skilled visa, the subclass 189, requires you to be under 45 when you receive an invitation to apply.
Other points systems give fewer points each year after your thirties. At 50, you start behind, even with 25 years of experience.
The job you bring with you is worth more than the job you hope to find.
Nomad visas don't open the local job market
A digital nomad visa lets you live in a country while you work for employers or clients elsewhere. It is not a local work permit.
Spain shows how tight this gets. On its international teleworker visa, employees may only work for companies outside Spain. Self-employed holders may take Spanish clients, but no more than 20% of their total professional activity.
Most other nomad visas follow the same idea. Your income comes from abroad. Local jobs stay with locals.
Starting a business has limits too
Some readers plan to open a shop or a small business instead. Many countries reserve certain trades for citizens. Panama's constitution, for example, reserves most retail trade for Panamanian nationals. Thailand's Foreign Business Act lists businesses foreigners may not run, or may run only with a special license.
A business also has to fit the community. Opening a bakery next to a family-run bakery hurts your neighbors and your reputation. Part 3 of this series covers how to check.
The path that works: bring your income with you
The most realistic route is remote income you earn before you move. A US employer who lets you work abroad. Freelance clients back home. A small online business serving customers in the States.
Remote income does three jobs at once. It pays your rent. It qualifies you for a nomad visa. It keeps you out of competition with local workers.
Part 2 shows how to find remote work at 50 and beyond, and how to spot the scams aimed at people searching for it.
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