Working in ICT abroad: what is it, why would you do it, and where is the best place to go?

What is working in ICT abroad like?

• ICT is one of the most internationally transferable fields.
• Working in ICT abroad can take many forms: from software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity to system administration, cloud solutions, web development, and IT support.
• This can be done at multinationals, startups, government agencies, NGOs, universities, or as a freelancer (remote or local).

Responsibilities

• Developing, testing, and maintaining software and applications.
• Managing networks, systems, and cloud environments.
• IT support and troubleshooting for users.
• Working on data, AI, automation, or cybersecurity.
• Project-based work in international teams.

Working conditions

• There’s a wide variety of working conditions: from well-paid permanent positions to project-based work, freelance work, or remote contracts.
• Work often takes place in an English-speaking work environment.
• Sometimes working hours are flexible, sometimes hybrid and sometimes fully online.
• Visa and tax regulations vary greatly from country to country.
• Some countries offer high salaries, while others have a low cost of living.
• Certificates are sometimes less important than demonstrable skills and experience. Cultural differences in communication, hierarchy, and work pace are often significant.
• Time zones can be a challenge in international teamwork.

What are the reasons for working in ICT abroad?

• To learn problem-solving: working in different systems and contexts requires sharp analysis and creative solutions.
• To learn to collaborate internationally: IT projects often cross borders and are team-oriented.
• To improve your communication: explaining complex technical matters clearly to colleagues or clients from other cultures.
• To be stress-resistant: deadlines, bugs, and product launches don't stop at national borders.
• To be results-oriented: in many international IT environments, what matters is your output, not how long you spend behind your laptop.
• To be entrepreneurial: especially in start-ups and freelance work abroad.

What skills and motivations do you need to work in ICT abroad?

• Analyse: You must be able to understand technical and organizational problems.
• Collaborate: You must be able to function effectively in multidisciplinary environments, and therefore be a good communicator.
• Plan: You often work with sprints, deadlines, and releases.
• Stress resistance: Coping with pressure and disruptions is the order of the day.
• Results-oriented: The focus is often on delivery and quality.

What are the best countries and locations to work in ICT abroad?

• Countries with strong tech industries and high salaries: United States, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Israel.
• Countries with thriving startup and scale-up ecosystems: Estonia, Portugal, Spain, Poland, Singapore.
• Countries popular for remote work and digital nomads: Portugal, Thailand, Indonesia, Mexico, Colombia, Georgia.
• Countries with high demand for IT specialists: Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Ireland, United Arab Emirates.
• Emerging IT markets: India, Vietnam, Brazil, South Africa, Ghana.

What are the risks of working in ICT abroad, and are you insured against those risks? 

• What are the risks of working in ICT abroad?
  • Prolonged screen time often leads to physical complaints, such as back, neck, and wrist problems, especially in poor work environments or working from cafes and co-working spaces.
  • Stress and burnout are common, due to high workloads, time zones, deadlines, and always-online expectations.
  • Healthcare is often expensive or limited, especially in countries without a strong public healthcare system or when working freelance without an employer.
  • Visa and tax regulations are often misjudged, which can lead to fines, forced departure, or loss of income.
  • Political or digital risks, such as internet censorship, data restrictions, or cybercrime, are common.
  • It's common to find yourself in countries with unstable political and health situations, which can pose risks related to healthcare and evacuation.
• Are you insured while working in ICT 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.