Want to live abroad?
Many students who return from their study abroad experience desperately want to get back to their host country, but it is easier said than done. Returning for a short time as a tourist is much more realistic than uprooting yourself to move and live abroad for years on end. Those who are willing and determined to get abroad, then there are a few ways. Here are the most common ways of going abroad for an extended time.
- Extended Tourist Visa
Typically, the extended tourist visa is for periods of 3 to 6 months but can be extended if you can make a convincing case on your visa application. It is typical that you will be asked, "why do you want to stay here for longer than 3 months?", and if you cannot give an adequate answer, then there is a greater chances your visa will be denied. You will also need to prove that you are capable of supporting yourself for the length of the visa, so make sure you have funds saved up. Not all countries will allow for extended travel visas so you will need to do a little research on their consulate's website.
- Teach, Intern, Volunteer
If you are flexible on what you want to do, then you can look into teaching, interning and volunteering abroad. There are a many companies that offer placement opportunities for a fee. Please see the section on Teach, Intern, Volunteer & Work Abroad? for more details.
- Work Abroad
Working abroad may be your #1 preference, but it can also be the most challenging. Other countries also have issues with unemployment and immigration so landing that sweat job abroad is tricky. If you are lucky enough to speak a foreign language fluently then you are one step closer, but you will have many other hurdles to jump over before you can pack your bags. One trick is to find employment in a U.S. company that has overseas locations and then after sometime, put in for a transfer. Not everyone is willing to uproot and move abroad, but if you are young, single, and mobile, then be on the lookout for opportunities to travel through your employer.
- Ancestral Connection
Some countries like Germany and Italy allow for U.S. citizens to reclaim their German to Italian citizenship. For example, if you are able to trace your family heritage through your mother or father's ancestral line, then you might qualify. There is a lot of paperwork, but it is possible. In this case, once you have German or Italian citizenship, then you are able to work in the European Union. Other countries might have similar opportunities which you will need to research.
- Marriage
Not the best option, but if you happen to marry someone from another country then you could file for residency if you both live in your spouse's home country. Some countries also offer expedited citizenship, but typically you will need to reside abroad for at least two years. Every country is different so you will need to do some research.
- Language Schools
An easy way to get abroad again is to enroll in a language program. It is perhaps one of the best ways to get abroad and to learn the language. Language schools can be expensive so be prepared. Students have found success with Language International where they can study for example, French in France for up to 52 weeks.
- Master's/ Doctoral Program
Some students have found that they really want to continue their studies abroad. This is a great option for students who want to live, study and possibly work abroad on the side. Some countries like England and Germany offer students hefty grants for U.S. citizens who wish to work on an advanced degree. The DAAD scholarship program is a great option for students who want to study in Germany.