What Are the Best Tips for Getting Travel Jobs Overseas?

Tourism companies and hotel operators employ large numbers of people in travel jobs overseas. Someone wishing to land one of these roles should contact domestic based travel operators that arrange vacations in foreign locations. Many firms prefer to hire those with prior overseas work experience, in which case an individual may benefit from gaining some experience while working as a volunteer. Charitable organizations often run summer camps or aid centers in other nations and students and other volunteers can often gain experience working as counselors or facilitators at these locations.

Many travel companies send representatives to work at overseas hotels and resorts; these individuals are tasked with welcoming travelers, organizing activities and handling customer service issues. People wishing to land these kinds of travel jobs overseas must first gain some experience working in domestic hospitality or customer service oriented roles. Additionally, tour operators normally prefer to hire individuals who have traveled extensively, so those seeking employment in this field should attempt to arrange some overseas trips to familiarize themselves with specific locations and the types of hurdles and obstacles that travelers typically face. Listings of these job postings can often be found on travel firm's websites or at local employment offices.

Aside from seeking employment through domestic firms with foreign-based operations, some people attempt to work for firms that are owned and operated by foreign individuals. Finding work at such firms can prove difficult and many people conduct internet searches or contact local tourism agencies to gather information about hotels, resorts and travel companies that operate in particular regions. Alternatively, some people register with staffing agencies that specialize in recruiting people to fill foreign job postings.

Employment laws vary between nations but in many instances, foreign workers have to obtain work permits and visas. Anyone applying for travel jobs overseas should contact the embassy of the nation in question and apply for the necessary permits and documents. In some instances, it can take several months for a visa application to be approved; consequently, job applicants should start the process long before they plan to begin work.

While many travel jobs overseas are entry-level or non-skilled positions, some people find work as hotel managers or resort administrators. To work in one of these roles an individual may have to complete an undergraduate degree in business or hospitality management and have his or her transcripts translated so that foreign employers can validate the documents. Many companies require applicants for foreign-based roles to have completed second language courses and while those working as lifeguards or swimming instructors may need to complete first aid or safety training courses.