How Can I Participate in a Work Abroad Programme?
The International Association for Educational Work Exchange Programmes (IAEWEP) has been arranging
work abroad programmes for students and young people since 1990. Every year
it helps more than 20,000 people to participate in programmes around the world.
There are hundreds of different international work abroad programmes to choose
from, which are run through specialist organisations affiliated with the ISTC.
IAEWEP members work directly with local companies and government authorities
to:
- Arrange visas and special work permits
- Help students to find work placements
- Organise travel arrangements and accommodation
- Provide localised orientation sessions and ongoing support to participants
during their work abroad programme
To find out about work abroad programmes available to you, contact an IAEWEP member organisation in your country.
Who are the members of IAEWEP?
IAEWEP members are student travel organisations, affiliated with the ISTC,
which specialise in work and study abroad programmes, as well as student, youth,
academic or educational organisations and government authorities involved in
student welfare.
Most IAEWEP Members are international not-for-profit organisations that operate
independently of government control or funding.
Do I need a work permit?
Working in a foreign country will often require specific permission from the
government of that country in the form of a visa or work permit. A visa legally
entitles you to work for a specified period of time in the country of your choice.
The visa is either stamped in your passport or is on an official government
form that you carry along with your passport. In some countries, you receive
a special employment card, which you must exchange for a work visa when you
start working.
How much does it cost?
Normally, you are required to pay a registration fee to participate in a work
abroad programme. These fees vary from country to country and often go towards
funding the work exchange programmes. In most cases, you are also responsible
for your own travel and living expenses.
The programme registration fee includes:
- An acceptance package, with useful travel information and a visa application form and step-by-step instructions
- A pre-departure package, including information on what you should do when you arrive
- Legal documentation required to work abroad
- Travel and tourist information
- Two-night accommodation upon arrival (for most countries)
- An orientation session upon arrival
- A sample list of job opportunities and details of employers who have previously hired programme participants
- Advice on job hunting, interview techniques and how to write a successful CV in the local style
- Ongoing hosting services in the host country
- After hours emergency line
- Mail services (for most countries)
- Budget travel advice from expert travel counsellors
Note: IAEWEP members' hosting centres can provide you with information resources required to find employment and accommodation when you are abroad. Local labour and immigration offices strictly regulate the work abroad programmes and your employer will assume responsibility for you during the programme.
