Here are 7 things that can be done to overcome the work authorization barrier as an international job seeker:
1. You work in a multinational and there’s a vacancy elsewhere. Check the internal rotation rules. NB: Some multinationals can do this, others can’t for legal reasons.
2. What you do is in high demand. Companies can’t find employees locally/regionally and they’re ready to pay for a work visa. NB: This requires networking skills.
3. Look for a job in surrounding countries with which your country has strong “positive” ties which would have “easier” work visa conditions. NB: These may change with politics.
4. Apply to international companies/NGOs already known for hiring int’l candidates. NB: Expect process to be very competitive.
5. Start with remote work/contract/project-based job/project with companies that don’t have location limitations because there’s always a chance for things to change when the company experiences your work. NB: This helps getting your skills known to more people inside the company.
6. Knowing that employers need a permit before they can sponsor a foreign worker, many countries post a list with their names. NB: The number of countries who do that is very limited.
7. Apply for an immigration program (if available) that allows you to work in the country you’re targeting.