Globally, there are many companies for expat jobs available if you are thinking of temporarily or permanently relocating to a new country for work-related reasons. These companies offer amazing career opportunities to those with the right skill set.
From multinational corporations to small start-ups, companies are eager to hire talented individuals who can bring their unique perspectives and experiences. So if you’re ready for an exciting international adventure, we have listed ten of the top companies for expat jobs and what you need to know about finding that perfect overseas work.
If you want to invest as an expat or high-net-worth individual, which is what I specialize in, you can email me (advice@adamfayed.com) or use WhatsApp (+44-7393-450-837).
Table of Contents
Reasons to Pursue an Expat Job
According to the United Nations, there are currently 258 million international migrants worldwide, with 44.8 million international workers.
They can come from any background but are typically highly skilled professionals sent abroad by their employer or who choose to work abroad independently. They get the opportunity to experience different cultures and explore new places while simultaneously advancing their professional careers.
Working as an expat can be a lucrative career path for several reasons. For one, moving to a new country can offer new opportunities for career advancement and the chance to work with leading companies and experts in a specific field.
Many expats move to a new country for better pay and benefits than they would receive in their home country. It can also be a great opportunity for personal development and growth, requiring people to adapt to new situations and learn new skills.
An expat job can also offer a unique cultural experience and the opportunity to learn about a new culture and way of life. It can be an exciting and adventurous experience that allows people to explore new places and meet new people.
Some choose to work overseas to be with family members who already live there. While some aims for a better quality of life or a comfortable retirement destination since the cost of living or the climate may be more favorable.
Becoming An Expat
The process of applying for and becoming an expat can be complex as it often involves several steps.
To start your journey towards your expat dream, research potential countries and cities of destination to find the one that best suits your needs. Consider factors such as cost of living, job opportunities, and quality of life.
Look for opportunities and secure a job in your chosen destination. Apply for positions that match your qualifications and experience for better hiring chances. Some companies offer international assignments, which can be a great opportunity for expats.
Also, consider the financial implications of moving to a new country, such as currency exchange rates and taxes. Research housing options and arrange a place to live in your chosen destination.
It is also important to consider your family’s needs, such as education and support systems, to ensure their well-being.
Finally, be prepared for culture shock and be open to new experiences. Learn the basics of the local language to help you navigate your new home.
Best Industries for Expats to Work At
Several industries are known to be popular among expats due to their opportunities for career growth, high salaries, and a chance to live and work in different parts of the world.
Some of the best industries for expats to work in include:
- Oil and gas – The industry offers high-paying jobs and opportunities to work in remote locations worldwide, making it a popular choice for expats.
- Technology – The technology industry is global and offers many opportunities for expats with specialized skills such as software development, data analysis, and artificial intelligence.
- Consulting – Management consulting firms often hire expats for their global projects and expertise in specific industries.
- Finance – Financial services companies, such as banks and investment firms, often have a global presence and offer opportunities for expats in areas such as banking, finance, and accounting.
- Healthcare – The healthcare industry offers many opportunities for expats with specialized skills, such as doctors and nurses, to work in different parts of the world.
- Education – The education industry offers many opportunities for expats to work as teachers and educators in different parts of the world.
- Hospitality and Tourism – The industry offers opportunities for expats to work in different parts of the world in various roles, such as hotel managers, chefs, tour guides, and travel agents.
- Pharmaceuticals – The pharmaceutical industry offers many opportunities for expats with specialized skills in research, development, and sales.
Largest Expat Employers Globally
Many companies employ expats globally, but some of the largest employers in this category include oil and gas companies such as ExxonMobil, Chevron, and BP. These companies often have a significant number of expat employees due to the nature of their business and the need for specialized skills in remote locations.
Technology companies such as Microsoft, Google, and IBM, frequently have a large number of expat employees due to the global nature of the technology industry and the need for specialized skills.
The same is true with consulting firms such as McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group, and Accenture and financial services companies such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Citi.
Meanwhile, multinational corporations such as Unilever, Nestle, GE, and Procter & Gamble also employ a large number of expats due to their global operations and the need for specialized skills in different regions.
Top Companies for Expat Jobs
Working as an expat can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. However, finding the right company as an expat can be challenging. Hence it’s important to research companies with a good history of hiring and supporting expats. Based on several different factors, these companies are highly regarded as top companies for expat jobs globally:
Microsoft
Microsoft is a leading technology company well-known for its innovative products and services. It is also considered an expat-friendly company that offers many job opportunities and support for expat employees.
With operations in over 190 countries, Microsoft offers various job opportunities across different departments, such as engineering, sales, marketing, and more.
The company has a well-established support system for expat employees, including assistance with visa and immigration processes, relocation support, and language training.
Additionally, Microsoft is a reputable and successful company, which can be attractive for expats looking to work for a well-known and respected organization. It also offers competitive compensation packages and benefits for its employees, including health and retirement benefits, flexible work arrangements, and many other perks.
Amazon
Amazon is one of the world’s most recognized and successful companies, known for its e-commerce platform and various other business ventures. It’s also a great choice for expats looking for a challenging and rewarding career opportunity.
With operations in many countries, Amazon offers a wide range of job opportunities in different departments, such as operations, engineering, IT, marketing, and more.
It’s also considered an expat-friendly company, providing support for expat employees through its global mobility program, which includes assistance with visa and immigration processes, relocation support, and cultural integration training.
Additionally, Amazon is known for its innovative and fast-paced work environment, which can be attractive for expats looking for a dynamic and challenging career. It also offers a comprehensive benefits package for its employees, including health and retirement benefits, stock options, and paid time off.
Furthermore, Amazon is also known for its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, making it an ideal place for expats to work and share their culture and perspectives.
Google is a global technology giant widely recognized as one of the best companies to work for, particularly if you are an expat.
With offices in many countries worldwide, Google offers various job opportunities in different departments, such as software engineering, product management, marketing, and more.
One of the major reasons why Google is considered a top company for expats is its reputation for being a great workplace with a culture that values creativity, collaboration, and inclusivity. Google is committed to creating an environment where employees from all backgrounds can thrive, including expats.
Additionally, Google’s reputation as a leading innovator in the technology industry can be attractive for expats looking to work for a reputable and successful organization.
IBM
IBM is a global technology company with a long history of innovation and success. The company is well-known for its cutting-edge technology solutions and research and development activities and is considered a great employer for expats.
It has a strong global presence, with operations in over 170 countries, providing a wide range of job opportunities for expats in various departments such as software engineering, consulting, research and development, and more.
The company also emphasizes work-life balance, offering flexible working arrangements to help employees achieve a balance between their professional and personal lives.
It is also committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture, which makes it a great place for expats from all backgrounds to work.
Cisco
Cisco Systems, Inc. is an American multinational technology conglomerate that develops, manufactures, and sells networking hardware, telecommunications equipment, and other high-technology services and products.
The company has a global presence, and expats can work on projects and in teams with colleagues from different countries and cultures. It is a well-respected company in the technology industry, and working there can provide a valuable experience for an expat’s career.
Aside from having a strong company culture that values teamwork, innovation, and collaboration, Cisco also offers competitive compensation packages and benefits to its employees.
GE
General Electric (GE) is a multinational conglomerate corporation that operates in various industries, such as aviation, energy, healthcare, transportation, and finance. It offers a wide range of products and services to customers worldwide.
For expats, GE offers a variety of opportunities to work in different locations around the world. Expats may be able to find positions in GE’s global operations, including roles in engineering, sales, finance, and management.
GE also offers competitive compensation packages, including benefits and relocation assistance. Additionally, the company strongly focuses on diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity for all, which can be a plus for expats.
Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble (P&G) is a multinational consumer goods corporation that produces a wide range of beauty and personal care, cleaning, baby and feminine care, and health care products. It operates in more than 180 countries and has a strong presence in the global market.
P&G offers a variety of programs for expats, including international assignments, global rotational programs, and global leadership development programs. These programs provide expats with opportunities to gain international experience, develop their skills, and advance their careers within the company.
The company also provides expats comprehensive support, including relocation, housing, language training, and cultural integration support.
Additionally, P&G has a diverse and inclusive culture, which can benefit expats looking for a diverse and inclusive work environment.
PepsiCo
PepsiCo is a multinational food, snack, and beverage corporation that is considered a top choice among expats globally for several reasons. It operates in more than 200 countries and territories, providing expats with a wide range of opportunities to work in different locations around the world.
The company offers a diverse portfolio of products and brands, such as Pepsi, Frito-Lay, Gatorade, and Quaker, allowing expats to gain experience in different business areas.
It is known for its strong corporate culture and commitment to its employees, as well as its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. This is perfect for expats who want to contribute to meaningful causes globally.
Unilever
Unilever is a British-Dutch multinational consumer goods company that operates in over 190 countries and has over 400 brands under its portfolio. Some of them are Dove, Lipton, Hellmann’s, and Ben & Jerry’s.
It is considered one of the world’s most ethical companies and was ranked third in the 2019 World’s Most Ethical Companies list by Ethisphere. The company is known for its focus on sustainability and social responsibility and has set ambitious goals to reduce its environmental impact and increase its positive social impact.
In general, Unilever is a company with a good reputation for hiring expats and allowing them to grow in a multinational environment. It has a long history of hiring and keeping expats as workers, particularly in leadership and management roles. This is partly due to the global nature of the company’s operations and the need for employees with international experience and cultural sensitivity.
Unilever also has a diverse and inclusive workforce and is committed to providing equal opportunities for all employees regardless of their background or nationality. It has programs in place that help expats transition to new roles and cultures and provides support for their families.
Nestle
Nestle is a global food and beverage company that was founded in Switzerland in 1866. It is one of the world’s largest and most diversified food companies, with over 2,000 brands and operations in 191 countries. Nestle employs around 300,000 people worldwide and is known for its strong corporate culture and commitment to sustainability.
As an employer, Nestle offers a wide range of career opportunities in areas such as marketing, engineering, finance, and supply chain management. Like many multinational companies, it employs many expat employees or workers sent to work in a foreign country temporarily. Expat employees play an important role in helping Nestle expand its operations and build relationships with local partners and customers.
It also strongly emphasizes developing its employees through training and career development programs. Aside from its competitive compensation and benefits packages and its commitment to work-life balance, the company also provides support to its expat employees through various programs and resources, such as language training, cultural immersion programs, and employee assistance services.
Choosing a Company for Expat Jobs
When choosing a company to work for as an expat, there are several factors to consider to ensure that it is the right fit for you:
- Compensation and benefits – Look at the salary and benefits package offered by the company, including any additional perks such as housing allowances, health insurance, and relocation costs.
- Career opportunities – Consider the company’s track record for promoting expats and providing opportunities for career growth and advancement.
- Cultural fit – Research the company’s culture and values to ensure they align with your own. Consider if the company is diverse and multicultural.
- Support for expats – Look for companies with a support system for expats, such as an expat liaison or mentorship program.
- Location – Consider the location of the company and the cost of living in that area. Research the availability of housing, transportation, and other necessary services.
- Industry and job stability – Consider the stability of the industry and the company’s financial stability to ensure that your job is secure in the long term.
- Language – If you are moving to a country where you are not fluent in the language, consider the company’s language policy and if they offer language support or classes.
- Visa and work permit – Look into the company’s visa and work permit sponsorship policy.
Conclusion
There are many exciting opportunities available to those who opt for a job abroad. With the right company, expats can experience new cultures, gain valuable professional experience, and even enjoy an improved quality of life.
From tech giants like Microsoft to FMCG firms like Unilever, there’s a perfect company for every expat. Depending on your industry and desired location, some companies could be the perfect fit for you.
By taking the time to do extensive research and ensure you have all the resources you need to succeed in your job abroad, you can ensure a smooth transition into your expat career. With the right company and a little preparation, you can ensure that your expat job is an unforgettable experience.
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Adam is an internationally recognised author on financial matters, with over 760.2 million answer views on Quora.com, a widely sold book on Amazon, and a contributor on Forbes.
