For many Australians who are part of the daily grind in one of our crowded cities, the thought of moving overseas and starting afresh can be tempting. A big move to a new, exciting country you are unfamiliar with can be scary, yes. It can also turn out to be one of the most rewarding things you have ever done, and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Whether you are one of the lucky ones that have a job with an Australian company that you can do from anywhere in the world, or are looking to start over completely and work for a foreign company in your location of choice, your chosen destination plays a huge part in planning and decision-making.
Here are three exotic countries that are hugely popular with Aussie expats looking to make the big shift.
Cosmopolitan Dubai
Fancy spending your free time browsing souks (local marketplaces) full of colourful clothing and fragrant spices?
Dubai has exploded with expats from all over the world in the last decade. This stunning city within the United Arab Emirates is a vibrant metropolis surrounded by vast desert. Home to the world’s first seven-star hotel and towering new apartment blocks, it’s easy to see why foreigners are drawn to Dubai. The best part for your pocket? It’s a tax-free country, so you can forget about taxes if you are working for a local company. If you’re still working for an Australian company however (albeit remotely), you’ll still have to lodge your regular Australian tax return each year. The laws around acceptable public behaviour and dressing are also vastly different from our relaxed way of life here, so read up before jetting off!
Vibrant Vietnam
Vietnam is now a staple on the “backpacker trail” many Australians have well-worn on their travels through South East Asia. You may have fallen in love with its electric atmosphere and friendly locals on your trip there, so why not consider a permanent move?
With the relevant qualifications, Australians have very little trouble finding work as English language teachers in schools and colleges in the main cities of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, and the cost of living is low. Your days off can be spent bartering at local markets, indulging in local street food or heading to the stunning Vietnamese shoreline for a seaside getaway. Acquiring and renewing working visas is also relatively simple and hassle-free. Sounds tempting, doesn’t it?
Exotic South Korea
South Korea, and predominantly its capital city of Seoul, has been a magnet for foreign expats arriving on its shores in recent years. For those looking to find local work, South Korea has some of the highest paid wages for qualified TESOL teachers in Asia, and it’s relatively easy to land a job in this field. If you are lucky enough to work for an Australian company that allows you to work from anywhere in the world, you will be thrilled with the delicious local food, the eclectic nightlife and the ability to easily travel to neighbours Japan, China or Hong Kong for holidays.
No matter where in the world you choose to relocate and start over, make sure to do your local research before making your decision. If you are still working for an Australian-based company, but from a more exotic, exciting location, it’s important to always stay on top of your taxes and lodge your Australian tax return at the end of each financial year.
Bon voyage!
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