Working as an administrative assistant abroad: what is it, why would you do it, and where is the best place to go?

What is working as an administrative assistant abroad like?

• Nearly every organization worldwide needs people to maintain an overview, record agreements, and ensure that figures, documents, and schedules are accurate.
• Whether it's an international NGO, a resort, a school, an expat office, or a local company with international clients, administrative work often forms the backbone of the organization.
• Abroad, this work often looks familiar in terms of content, but the context makes it more challenging: Different languages, different systems, different expectations, and sometimes a more creative approach to rules mean that no two workdays are the same.
• Procedures are not always strictly regulated, and digital systems vary by country. Language skills are often an advantage, not necessarily a requirement.
• Administrative work is an accessible entry-level position in many countries.

• Responsibilities:

• Processing and maintaining administrative data.
• Archiving and managing files and documents.
• Supporting HR, finance, or project departments.
• Preparing overviews, reports, and schedules.
• Answering emails and phone calls.
• Scheduling appointments and preparing for meetings.
• Maintaining contact with internal and external parties.

Working conditions:

• This is usually paid work. Often full-time, sometimes part-time, or temporary.
• Salary depends on country, sector, and experience.
• Working hours are usually office hours.
• International organizations sometimes offer perks such as travel allowance or housing.

What are the reasons for working as an administrative assistant abroad?

• To become organizationally aware: You gain insight into how organizations in other countries function and how processes are structured there.
• To strengthen communication skills: Daily interaction with colleagues from different cultures requires clear and careful communication.
• To develop stress resistance: Learning to handle deadlines, unexpected requests, and changing priorities under pressure.
• To work results-oriented: Administration revolves around completing, checking, and ensuring everything is correct.
• To feel involved: You directly support colleagues and quickly see the impact of your work within the organization.

What skills and motivations do you need to work as an administrative assistant abroad?

• Organizational awareness: Understanding how tasks, responsibilities, and processes are interrelated.
• Planning: Structuring work and managing deadlines.
• Communicating: Communicating information clearly, even when language and culture differ.
• Collaborating: Coordinating smoothly with colleagues and different departments.
• Stress tolerance: Remaining calm when workload increases or things don't go as expected.

What are the best countries and locations to work as an administrative assistant abroad?

• Countries with many international organizations and headquarters: the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, the United States, and Canada.
• Countries with many NGOs, projects, and international institutions: France, Kenya, South Africa, Thailand, and Indonesia.
• Countries with high tourism and international companies: Spain, Portugal, Italy, Australia, and New Zealand.

What are the risks of working as an administrative assistant abroad, and are you insured against those risks? 

• What are the risks of working as an administrative assistant abroad?
  • Workload is often underestimated: Especially in small teams, the workload can quickly increase.
  • Rules and procedures are often unclear: Uncertainty about responsibilities can cause stress.
  • Healthcare is often expensive: Medical costs can be high in many countries without adequate insurance.
  • Organizations or projects often undergo sudden changes: Political, economic, or organizational developments can impact work, health, and housing.
• Are you insured while working as an administrative assistant abroad?
  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when working abroad.
  • Local employers generally offer limited or no supplementary insurance.
  • There's a risk of accidents, for example, because you're doing work with which you have little experience.
  • During work, internships, or volunteering abroad where you receive compensation or a salary, your own health insurance coverage in your home country may be cancelled.
  • See the pages on: insuring international Insurances for working abroad, for internships abroad, for volunteering abroad, or for expats and emigrants.