Finding Work Abroad

You also need to seriously evaluate your job skills and decide whether you want to build on your previous work experience or do something altogether new. You will find Jean-Marc Hachey's The Canadian Guide to Working and Living Overseas an excellent resource as you begin this process. The book will help you assess your personal and professional goals, plan your job-hunting strategy and secure the overseas job you want.

If you are unsure about the length of time you want to work abroad, you might consider looking for short-term projects, such as youth exchanges, internships, professional exchanges, work-and-learn programs or working holidays. A short-term placement may give you the experience and background you need to decide whether you want to work abroad for an extended period.

DFAIT Youth Initiatives

DFAIT co-ordinates two separate initiatives to assist young Canadians in securing employment abroad: the Youth International Internship Program (YIIP) and the International Youth Exchange Program (IYEP). The YIIP provides for paid internships with organizations operating in other countries. You can obtain further information by calling 1-800-559-2888 (in Canada) or (613) 944-2415 or by consulting the Internet (www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/interns). The IYEP provides a wealth of information concerning opportunities in more than 60 programs in over 20 countries.

For more details, call 1-800-267-8376 (in Canada) or (613) 992-6142, or consult DFAIT's Web site (www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/123go).