Working at technical organizations or in IT abroad: what is it, why would you do it, and where is the best place to go?

What is working at technical organizations or in IT abroad like?

• Working at technical organizations or in IT abroad involves building, maintaining, improving, and securing systems that must keep running, even when the Wi-Fi is disruptive and the air conditioning breaks down.
• The work ranges from hands-on technical work to abstract IT architecture, and from fieldwork to working from a laptop in a coworking space.
• Responsibilities may include:
  • Software development, web development, or app development.
  • IT support, system administration, or network management.
  • Data analysis, cloud management, or cybersecurity.
  • Technical project management or consultancy.
  • Engineering work (electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, mechatronics).
  • Implementation and maintenance of technical systems. 
• Working conditions:
  • Many positions are full-time and long-term, but project work is common.
  • Salaries vary widely by country and specialization.
  • In IT, remote or hybrid working is often possible.
  • Technical roles may involve on-site work, shift work, or time pressure.
  • Perks such as relocation allowances, visa support, or housing are common.
• A unique aspect of technical and IT work abroad is that knowledge is universal, but the context is not. Legislation, work culture, infrastructure, and security can vary significantly from country to country.

What are the reasons for working at technical organizations or in IT abroad?

• To strengthen problem-solving skills: working with unfamiliar systems, limited resources, or different standards sharpens analytical thinking.
• To develop independence: many technical roles require personal responsibility and initiative.
• To train a results-oriented approach: technology must work, regardless of circumstances or cultural differences.
• To increase organizational awareness: gain insight into how international companies and projects are structured.
• To build self-confidence: applying technical expertise in an international environment increases professional confidence.

What skills and motivations do you need to work at technical organizations or in IT abroad?

• Analytical skills: understanding systems, identifying errors, and designing solutions.
• Autonomy: working independently without direct supervision
• Flexibility: dealing with different tools, standards, and work cultures
• Perseverance: keeping looking until something actually works.
• Organizational awareness: understanding processes, security, and responsibilities.
• Collaboration skills: working in international, multidisciplinary teams.

What are the best countries and locations to work at technical organizations or in IT abroad?

• Countries with strong tech and IT sectors: United States, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Israel.
• Countries with many international IT vacancies and expats: Netherlands, Ireland, Singapore, Canada, United Kingdom.
• Countries popular for remote work and digital nomads: Portugal, Spain, Estonia, Thailand, Indonesia (Bali).
• Countries with a high level of technical project work and engineering: Australia, Canada, Norway, United Arab Emirates.

What are the risks of working at technical organizations or in IT abroad, and are you insured against those risks? 

• What are the risks of working at technical organizations or in IT abroad?
  • High workloads are common: deadlines, disruptions, and time zones create mental strain.
  • Ergonomic complaints are common: prolonged computer work leads to neck, back, and wrist problems.
  • Medical care is often expensive, especially in countries with high healthcare costs or limited coverage through employers.
  • Work often takes place in remote or industrial environments, with increased safety risks.
  • Repatriation or additional medical care is often necessary, for example, in cases of burnout, accidents, or acute illness.
• Are you insured while working at technical organizations or in IT 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.