FINDING WORK

If you are moving abroad in order to work, the companion volume to this book, Getting a Job Abroad, will prove more relevant to your purpose. However, there are people who after retirement are suddenly presented with a job opportunity which they feel they cannot turn down.

Paid employment

If you are offered a job on a part-time, casual or full-time basis you need to check with the authorities that you are allowed to take it up under the terms of your residence permit.

In the USA, for instance, taking paid employment if you do not possess the appropriate work visa can lead to deportation. It may be possible to have your visa changed to enable you to work, but you must proceed through the correct channels and this can take time.

If you have a job offer before you leave Britain it is essential to show your letter of appointment to the embassy or consulate issuing the visa. (See also Chapter 12.)

Self-employment

Again, you need to investigate the terms of your residence visa. Even if you are planning to set up as an odd job person you may have to obtain a licence to do so and register with the tax authorities. The precise requirements differ from country to country and you should certainly take legal advice if you are considering forming a company or partnership.

There are some places where self-employment may bring unforeseen benefits. In the USA, for instance, you may be able to get a temporary visa which will enable you to live in the country the whole year round.

Voluntary work

No restrictions are usually put on voluntary (ie unpaid) work, but you should check up on this. If by doing a job for no reward you deprive someone else of a paid job, the authorities may decide to step in.