Short‑term contracts abroad travel work: why you should consider it, types of short-term work and how to search for vacancies?
Short-term work abroad is a chance to combine travel and earnings. Find out what programs, visas and destinations are available in 2025, how to find a job and avoid common mistakes. Practical tips, guides and consultations from migration lawyers will help make your experience safe and successful
Do you dream of traveling the world, but are worried about finances? The good news is that traveling doesn’t always have to mean a huge expense. In fact, you can earn money while abroad and thus finance your trip. Of course, you will have to take into account the initial costs, such as airfare or travel insurance, but it is an investment that will quickly pay off. Short-term work abroad is an opportunity to gain new experiences, immerse yourself in another culture and support your own budget.
Why you should consider short-term work abroad and the best job destinations in this article.
Why you should consider short-term work abroad during your vacation?
This type of employment has many advantages, among which are:
- Flexibility. Such employment allows you to try yourself in a new field or country without long-term commitments.
- “Test drive” life abroad. You can check if another country is right for you before thinking about moving there permanently.
- Cultural immersion. Working in a certain place allows you to see the country in a deeper way than tourist excursions.
- New skills. Bartending, teaching English or working as an instructor - all this strengthens your resume and opens up career prospects.
- Financial benefits. Salary, bonuses in the form of accommodation or meals help you travel longer and at lower costs.
What types of short-term work that can be combined with a vacation are available for foreigners?
- Work & Travel programs
Visa: Working Holiday.
Countries: USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand.
Such programs are designed specifically for working travelers. They allow you to combine travel and work, and also provide support on site.
List of countries that offer work and vacation visas in this article.
We have told you everything you need to know about the Working Holiday Visa in Australia in this article.
- Internships
Visa: internship, student or temporary worker.
Countries: Great Britain, USA, France, Japan, Spain.
Some internships are paid. For example, Cultural Vistas or API Study Abroad offer paid options. Competition is high, but experience is valuable.
Read about physiotherapy internships abroad here.
- Teaching abroad
Visa: TEFL or working.
Countries: China, Vietnam, South Korea, Spain, Thailand.
This can be both work in summer camps and contracts for a semester in schools. A great option for native English speakers.
- Research programs
Visa: research or working.
Countries: Germany, USA.
For example, the DAAD offers funding for short academic studies by students. Participants receive a stipend to cover living expenses.
- Seasonal work
Visa: working holiday.
Countries: France, Australia, USA.
Vacancies include work as a ski or surf instructor, lifeguard or camp counselor. Ideal for students who want to spend their summer productively.
Seasonal work visas are offered by many countries around the world, including:
- Tourism and hospitality
Visa: working or working holiday.
Countries: Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Indonesia.
The demand for bartenders, waiters, hotel administrators and tour guides is very high. Due to the high turnover of staff, vacancies appear constantly.
- Au Pair
Visa: au pair, working or working holiday.
Countries: Germany, Switzerland, Italy, UK, USA.
Responsibilities: childcare. Although the salary is low, free accommodation, meals and even language courses are usually provided.
- WWOOF (volunteering on farms)
Visa: tourist or working holiday.
Countries: France, Italy, New Zealand, USA, Costa Rica.
This is not a paid job, but in exchange for helping with farm tasks, you receive accommodation and meals, which significantly reduces costs.
Want to know more?
On our portal you will find detailed guides on employment abroad - from preparing a resume and passing interviews to visa requirements and adaptation in a new country. Download our materials and get practical advice that will help make your work experience abroad successful and safe.
How to find a job abroad?
- Assess your strengths
If you love children, try an au pair. Athletes can become instructors, and sociable people can work in the hospitality industry.
- Check visa requirements
Many countries have special “working holiday” programs, but others require separate permits.
- Prepare documents
Certificates (such as TEFL for teaching), recommendations or a criminal record check will often be required.
- Start your search
Websites like Anywork Anywhere, Seasonal Jobs Abroad, Go Overseas will help you find vacancies. You should also contact recruitment agencies or look for local contacts.
- Be open-minded
The wider the range of destinations and countries you consider, the faster you will find a job.
Paid short-term work abroad is a way to travel longer, spend less, gain international experience and make new friends. The main thing is to prepare in advance, have flexibility and the courage to try new things. Such experience can be not only a temporary part-time job, but also an important step towards a career or even life in another country.
If you are planning to work or study abroad, contact professional migration lawyers. They will help you understand visa procedures, prepare documents and avoid unforeseen difficulties. This will save you time and give you confidence in the legality of your stay abroad.
Recall! Croatia is one of the European countries that happily accepts digital nomads and has even introduced a separate permit for this category of expats. We have already told you about the procedure for applying for a digital nomad visa, what documents you need to have and the advantages of the permit.
Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:
Travel guide for 200 countries;
Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;
Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);
Medical insurance all over the world.
We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information, so if you notice any errors or inconsistencies, please contact our hotline.
Frequantly
asked questions
Is it possible to find short-term work abroad without knowing the language?
How long does it take to get a work visa?
Can I combine short-term work with studying abroad?
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