Work from Any Where 
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with Paul & Sarah Edwards

Live & Work Abroad
By Ruth Holcomb, Publisher, Network for Living Abroad

     If you thought the only way to be an entrepreneur abroad was to run an inn in the Caribbean, think again. The world is full of opportunities, especially for anyone with American business savvy and an above-average sense of adventure.

     Possibilities range from teaching English and/or importing technology to selling real estate and performing other services for expats (other Americans living abroad). First do some creative brainstorming. What can you do that local people can't or don't want to do? What do they need, and what can they pay for?

     If a warm climate and great beaches are what you want, the developing countries of Latin America and Asia are possibilities. If old European culture beckons, look into the former Eastern block countries where capitalism is still new. Western European countries which are part of the European Union generally have fewer business opportunities for outsiders.

     Here are several guidelines for creating an independent career abroad:

1. Choose your region or country as carefully as you choose your type of business. You'd better have a passion for both to get you past any tough times ahead. It helps if you speak the language or have studied or done volunteer work in the country. For example, one Peace Corps volunteer returned to Costa Rica to run a butterfly farm that sells to zoos and museums all over the world.

 From the Philippines to Poland, U.S. citizens are returning to places where they, their parents or grandparents came from. The legalities can be easier for those who have "roots" in Ireland and in some other countries as well.

 2. Resolve to adhere to the laws of your host country as well as of the U.S. You probably won't need to become a citizen of another country although the U.S. now allows dual citizenship. Most likely, you'll need to become a legal resident.

 Early in the game, research the regulations by contacting the embassy, the nearest consulate, trade commission or chamber of commerce. For example, some countries, such as the Czech Republic, require foreigners to have a local business partner.

 Find out what taxes apply, there and in the U.S. An enterprising American accountant in Belize helps expats with the U.S. taxes.

 3. Forge connections at all levels. Make contacts among officials, locals, and expats from all over. In small countries such as Belize (small enough to have just three stoplights in the entire country) and in some others, too, it's easier to have access to ministers and other officials.

 Get to know other expats and seek their recommendations as to local professionals you'll need to know. Develop relationships with local tradespeople, potential neighbors, and as many people as you can. Outside of the U.S., whom you know usually counts more than what you know.

 4. Bring more money than you think you'll need and manage it wisely. Think twice about having checks sent via the mail. You may want to use a mail forwarding service or wire transfers. Local banks may require you to be a legal resident of the country before you open an account.

 The lower cost of living in many foreign countries lets you take your time to get your business up and running. However, permits, legal fees, inevitable delays or increased shipping, postage and mail charges can eat up your capital. Sources of income may be few and far between. Teaching English may bring in some money on a regular basis as it does for Maria De Long, who, along with her partner, Jim Hearne, publish Guatemala Living and Retirement. For a time, She also earned money with a "cinema" that is, a VCR, a TV and some seating. Working as a caretaker or house sitter can stretch you resources, too, and can even be a full-time job.

5. Be flexible. If your first idea doesn't work out, be ready with a back-up plan. The country of your dreams may not be the best setting for your business. Note that a country bordering the one you fell in love with may offer a similar language and landscape, however, it may be on less than friendly terms with its neighbor. Learn to live with uncertainly of all kinds, and be open to new ideas.

6. Be prepared for a different pace and different values. "Manana doesn't mean tomorrow. It just means not now," says an American now living in Honduras. In much of the globe, people see no reason to be punctual or to hurry. Time isn't money. Adjust your attitude accordingly or you'll be very unhappy.

 7. Respect the local language. Memorize the words for "Hello," "Please" and "Thank you," even if the language is as challenging as, say, Hungarian. A cursory attempt is better than nothing. Learn gestures, table manners and proper behavior in the home and office. Don't wear resort wear where business attire is expected, and do learn to appreciate local food. Know something of the country's history, holidays and national heroes.

 Even if you do everything perfectly, don't expect to blend in. Accept that you'll be seen an outsider, perhaps "the crazy foreigner" that nobody really understands. Just don't lose sight of the reasons you came in the first place.

For more information on living and working abroad, visit The Network for Living Abroad  at  www.liveabroad.com or call 800/926-6652

c 1998 Network for Living Abroad. All rights reserved. This article is for your own personal use. Without the express permission of the copyright holder, any other use of this information is strictly prohibited by law.

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