The process of going abroad has certainly changed, different rules and regulations lay ahead of us with obstacles and terrains that we have never tread before. Luckily, we are Voyagers at heart and like to overcome the toughest of situations!
Here is what you need to know prior to signing up for a program to go abroad:
1. Getting placed with a potential employer or host family might take a little bit longer than what we are used to. In some cases, flight restrictions, travel bans and visa delays might alter your ideal timeline. It is important to be flexible and adaptable to any type of situation – especially in these times where so many things are uncertain.
2. In some cases, your employer or host family might request that you get vaccinated prior to arrival. Some countries require a proof of vaccination to cross their borders. It is important to note that you may only travel 14 days after your 2nd vaccination if you received the Pfizer vaccine. If you had the Johnson & Johnson vaccine you may only be allowed to travel 48 days after receiving the vaccine. These restrictions may also change depending on the country that you would like to travel to.
3. When applying for your visa, the process might take a little bit longer as some embassies have a backlog. In rare cases the candidates qualify for emergency visas, or will get a work permit that will help to jump the line and cause for an earlier appointment at the consulate.
4. Prior to travelling it is important to know that you will have to get a COVID-19 PCR Test no older than 72 hours. Some countries require a test no older than 48 hours. In certain situations, travelers might also be asked to do a rapid test on the airport no more than 4 hours prior to the flight. This all depends on the rules of the destination country.
5. When arriving abroad travelers might be subject to quarantine. This will be communicated with you, prior to arrival. This may vary between self-isolation at home, government quarantine or quarantine in an isolation hotel. Typically, the traveler pays for the quarantine should it be in an isolation hotel, however we have seen cases where the employers cover the costs. This however is subject to change and will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
Don’t allow the above to destroy your dreams. Direct your compass to YOUR true North, even in challenging situations.
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