Working abroad: a checklist before you travel
Updated November 14, 2026 · 6 min read
Working in another country means good money and new experience. But far from home it is harder to protect yourself if something goes wrong. Go through this list before you buy a ticket — it takes one evening.
Check the employer
- Look the venue up yourself: website, social pages, reviews, photos, a pin on the map. The name and address should match everywhere.
- Ask for a video call with a manager from inside the venue — you will see that it exists and operates.
- Look for reviews from people who worked there. Employers on Lakity have profiles and a verification badge.
- If an agency hires you, find out exactly which venue you will work at.
Get the terms in writing
A contract, or at least a detailed message, in a language you understand. It should cover:
- duties — what exactly you will do and what you are not required to do;
- schedule, days off and contract length;
- pay: how much, how often, cash or card, and any fines;
- who pays for tickets and housing and whether it is deducted from your pay;
- how to end the contract and leave early.
If they refuse to put the terms in writing, that answers whether you should go.
Sort out the visa
Check on the official embassy or consulate website which visa this kind of work requires. A tourist visa usually does not allow you to work: if there is an inspection, you take the risk, not the employer. “Come in as a tourist and we’ll sort it out” is a reason to be careful.
Prepare documents and money
- Make copies of your passport, visa and contract — on paper and in the cloud.
- Bring money for a return ticket and the first weeks — your own, not the employer’s.
- Find out how payments work in that country and whether your card will work.
Agree on things with your family
- Leave the address of your housing and work, the employer’s contacts and a copy of the contract.
- Agree on regular check-ins and a code phrase that means “I need help”.
- Share your live location with someone you trust.
Save the important numbers
- The local emergency number (112 in Europe and many countries, 911 in the US and Canada).
- Your country’s embassy or consulate.
- Helplines — they are listed on the Safety page.
Once you are there
Keep your passport with you. Nobody has the right to take it. A debt for tickets or housing gives no employer the right to hold you. If the terms are very different from what was promised, or you feel afraid, contact your family, your embassy or a helpline. You have the right to leave.