First trip to work abroad: List of things to take with you
Data show a steady increase in the number of people migrating in search of work. The European Union encourages legal migration to address labor shortages, fill skills gaps in the labor market and boost economic growth.
Going abroad to work is a big undertaking that can be both exciting and stressful. It is an opportunity for professional development, learning about new cultures and gaining valuable experience, as well as significantly improving your financial situation. However, for this step to be successful, it is worth preparing well. Knowing what awaits you and adequate preparation for the challenges of moving to a new country can significantly impact your well-being and comfort of life. Having an action plan and support can minimize the stress associated with such a big change. Below we present the most important tips that will help you when preparing for your first trip to work abroad.
Documents
Passport and/or ID card: Make sure your ID is valid at the time of departure and will remain valid for the duration of your planned stay abroad. Before leaving, it is worth checking with the employer or employment agency that directs us to work abroad whether the validity period of our document is sufficient.
Visa/pass: If it is required in the country you are planning to travel to, make sure to obtain it well in advance.
Employment contract: Take a copy of the contract and any documents confirming the terms of employment with you.
Health insurance: Check if your health insurance covers working abroad. If not, it is worth considering purchasing additional insurance. In many countries, it is mandatory for employees to pay for health insurance (e.g. in the Netherlands) – ask your employer or the employment agency you cooperate with about this.
If you are a citizen of the European Union, it is worth remembering about the possibility of obtaining a European Social Security Card. This card confirms that you are entitled to basic medical care during tourist or business trips to most European countries. These are European Union countries, as well as other European countries such as, among others, Iceland, Norway or Switzerland.
Driver’s documents: If you are an active driver, do not forget to take a document confirming your driving license. Before leaving, make sure that the document is valid and, if necessary, properly translated or exchanged for an international one. Ask your employer/employment agency about the formal requirements related to driving a car in the country you are traveling to. If you are planning a trip in your own car, remember to take documents such as the registration certificate and confirmation of vehicle insurance.
Finance-related documents: Before leaving, it is worth finding out whether you want to open a bank account in the country you are going to, including: to avoid high fees or unfavorable currency conversions. If you already have an account (in your own currency or international), remember to take your ATM card and confirmation that the account is yours – it may be necessary to present such a document during employment-related formalities. Take local currency with you at the beginning of your stay to cover your first expenses.
Destination address: Before leaving, make sure you know the exact address of your workplace and the address of the company or employment agency where you should go to complete employment formalities.
Before departure, consult your employer/employment agency regarding additional documents that may be necessary to complete employment formalities in a given country.
Everyday life – what to take?
Work clothes and footwear: If the job requires specialist clothing or footwear, ask your employer whether this is provided or if you need to bring your own.
Everyday clothes: Take clothes for different weather conditions, adapted to the climate of the country you are traveling to.
Mobile phone and charger: Make sure you have the right adapter for your power sockets.
Laptop/tablet: If you have such equipment, it is definitely worth taking it – it will be useful for contacting loved ones and dealing with matters online.
Essential medications: Take prescription medications and basic medical supplies with you that you may need in an emergency, such as painkillers or cold medications.
Hygienic products: It is worth having basic cosmetics and personal hygiene products with you for the first days of your stay.
Basic accommodation equipment: If you will use company accommodation, consult with your employer/employment agency before departure what things you should take with you, e.g. bedding or kitchen utensils.
Food: If you decide to take food, it is worth choosing products that are light, long-lasting and easy to prepare. It is worth bearing in mind that you may be too tired to go shopping immediately after arrival, and having your own food will keep you comfortable during the first days of your stay.
Preparing for a job abroad is the key to success and a positive experience. Remember the above tips and your first trip will go smoothly. Why choose to work in the Netherlands with Duijndam Works? We offer support at every stage of the process, from completing formalities, through finding appropriate accommodation, to assistance in adapting to the new environment. Thanks to our help, your first trip to work abroad can be hassle-free and full of positive experiences. Join thousands of satisfied employees who started their professional adventure in the Netherlands thanks to us!
Good luck!