The Harsh Truth About Finding Work Abroad
Many people dream of moving to countries like New Zealand or Australia for better job opportunities and a higher quality of life. However, the reality of securing employment as a migrant is challenging—even for highly skilled and qualified professionals. For those who lack specialized skills or proper qualifications, the barriers become nearly insurmountable.
Migration is expensive, time-consuming, and full of uncertainty. It requires not only meeting immigration benchmarks but also proving your value in a competitive job market. Without the right skills, experience, or professional background, the chances of long-term success are slim. Understanding these challenges early on can help individuals make better career choices and set themselves up for success before attempting migration.
The Challenges Faced by Skilled and Qualified Migrants
Even highly skilled professionals struggle to secure jobs abroad. Here’s why:
- High Cost of Migration: Visa fees, relocation expenses, and the cost of living in a new country can quickly deplete savings.
- Strict Immigration Rules: New Zealand and Australia require migrants to meet specific income thresholds to qualify for permanent residency. These rules exist to prevent financial hardship and protect local job markets.
- Job Market Competition: Employers prefer hiring locals first unless a migrant has a rare, in-demand skill set.
- Emotional and Psychological Stress: Uncertainty, rejection, and financial pressure can take a toll on mental health.
- Time and Risk Factors: Finding a job as a migrant can take months or even years, and failure to secure employment within a given visa period can result in forced departure.
If even skilled professionals face these difficulties, those without qualifications or specialized experience have an even harder time.
Why Migration Without Skills or Qualifications Is a High-Risk Strategy
For those who lack formal training or years of experience in a specialized field, migration often leads to financial hardship rather than success. Many hopeful migrants believe they can secure jobs in low-skilled roles upon arrival, but most work visas are only granted to those earning above a certain income threshold. Without meeting these requirements, migrants often face:
- Limited job options that don’t provide enough income to qualify for residency.
- Legal and visa restrictions preventing them from working in certain industries.
- Exploitation or job insecurity, as employers may take advantage of workers in vulnerable positions.
- Failure to secure residency, leading to eventual return to their home country.
A Smarter Strategy: Invest in Skills First
Instead of taking the risk of migrating without qualifications, a better approach is to focus on upskilling and gaining specialized experience in your home country first. This not only improves job prospects abroad but also ensures financial stability and professional success at home.
Steps to Prepare for a Successful Migration:
- Choose a High-Demand Profession: Research occupations that are in demand in New Zealand, Australia, or other Western countries.
- Gain the Necessary Qualifications: A four-year trade certification or university degree is often required.
- Develop Years of Competent Experience: Migration authorities prioritize candidates who have proven their ability in the workforce.
- Become a High Performer in Your Industry: Employers seek candidates who have demonstrated success in their field.
- Test Your Success at Home First: If you can secure a good-paying job and grow professionally in your home country, your chances of success abroad increase significantly.
Successful people find more success because they understand how to excel in their industry. Achieve success once at home, then leverage that experience for migration.
The Pathway to Success: Job Pathway Navigator
For those serious about aligning their career with migration goals, click here: Job Pathway Navigator provides a structured approach to:
- Assess current skills and qualifications.
- Identify gaps and develop an action plan.
- Map out a step-by-step strategy to achieve high-demand status.
- Receive coaching for job applications, resume building, and interview preparation.
A well-prepared candidate has a much higher chance of securing employment, qualifying for residency, and integrating successfully into a new country. If you are ready to take control of your future, start by sending your CV to Tate@employmentforimmigration.nz for a professional evaluation.
Final Thoughts
Migration is not just about moving to another country—it’s about bringing value to your new home and ensuring long-term success for yourself and your family. Take the right steps before making the move, invest in your skills, and set yourself up for a career that can thrive anywhere in the world.
By building a strong professional foundation, you can turn your migration dreams into a sustainable and rewarding reality.











