Working Abroad

Thousands of Canadians live and work abroad. The vast majority do so successfully and, for many, working overseas is an enriching experience. If you are planning to work abroad, there are many details that you will need to consider prior to departure. Preparation and careful planning will go a long way to ensure a safe and successful international work experience.

The goal of Working Abroad: Unravelling the Maze is to provide you with practical information to maximize the chances of a successful venture and to offer advice on what to do if things don't work out as planned. Read it before you go, and pack it in your luggage for future reference.

The Consular Affairs Bureau of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada is committed to providing effective and efficient services throughout the world to all Canadians. We understand how accidents, illness, legal problems, and linguistic and cultural differences are difficult to manage alone. If you encounter problems while working abroad, we are there to assist you 24 hours a day, seven days a week, through our network of more than 260 offices worldwide. You will find a list of these offices in the publication Bon Voyage, But... or on our website.

Before You Go

A wide variety of international work opportunities exists around the world. If you are interested in finding overseas employment, where do you begin?

Whether you plan to find paid employment, pursue volunteer opportunities or explore new business ventures abroad, you first need to decide what you want to do and where you want to do it. You also need to seriously evaluate your job skills and decide whether you want to build on your previous work experience or do something altogether new. You will find Alan Cumyn's What in the World Is Going On? (see the Other Recommended Reading section) an excellent resource as you begin this process. The guide will help you assess your personal and professional goals, plan your job-hunting strategy and secure the overseas job you want.

The next step will be to look for opportunities on the Internet, in newspapers or magazines, or with placement agencies. Local newspapers not only contain job listings, but can also help you appreciate the cultural and political environment of your destination. Find them on the Web at www.ipl.org/div/news, or check a university or public library, newsagent, or the closest embassy or consulate of that country.

If you are unsure about the length of time you want to work abroad, you might consider looking for short-term projects, such as youth exchanges, internships, professional exchanges, work-and-learn programs or working holidays. A short-term placement may give you the experience and background you need to decide whether you want to work abroad for an extended period.

Each year, young Canadians can choose from more than 30,000 opportunities to travel and work abroad in about 40 different countries. These opportunities are made possible through reciprocal arrangements that Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (DFAIT) has negotiated with host countries.

Through these programs, Canadians 18 to 35 years of age can experience world travel and enjoy the many benefits of living and working abroad. As a participant, you can gain valuable global experience and skills.

If you are offered a job overseas, it is important to investigate it carefully before you accept. The more preparation and research you do in Canada, the more successful your employment abroad is likely to be.

Find out as much as you can about the organization or company that is offering you a job. Ask for references, visit its website and call your local Better Business Bureau (if the organization or company is Canadian). Contact others who have worked for the organization or company, or ask to speak to someone currently employed there.

Examine the terms of your contract carefully or have it reviewed by a lawyer. Keep in mind that it is never a good idea to accept a job overseas if the details are not going to be spelled out until your arrival.

Make sure that the financial and other conditions of the job offer are carefully detailed and that you fully understand them. For instance, you should know what currency your salary will be paid in and when you will be receiving your first paycheque. Having your salary paid in Canadian or U.S. dollars will prevent problems due to exchange rate fluctuations. If you will be paid in local currency, find out if the currency is convertible and, if not, whether there are restrictions on taking funds out of the country.

You should also be aware of the cost of living where you are going, since a good salary in Canada may not be sufficient there. For information, check the "Canadian foreign post indexes" published by Statistics Canada.

Before accepting any offer, verify the conditions to break your contract if things simply don't work out. To be on the safe side, plan ahead: establish an "emergency fund" or make prior arrangements with family or friends to assist you financially.

Understand the arrangements for your work visa. Although your employer may take on the responsibility of obtaining your work visa for you, it is up to you to ensure that all measures are legitimate and consistent with the requirements of the country concerned. Refer to the section entitled "What Documents Do You Need?" for details.

Avoid risky ventures. Always remain sceptical of overseas placement firms that operate solely by telephone or mail, and avoid companies that charge advance fees for placement. Women should be particularly wary of employment opportunities that offer quick and easy money for entertainment or hostess jobs. Many are thinly veiled prostitution rings. For more information, visit www.voyage.gc.ca/alt/scams.asp.

Some employers may say they will offer you a ticket home upon completion of the contract or will reimburse the costs of your trip. Be aware that sometimes this commitment is not honoured. It would be better to request an open-ended round-trip ticket in advance.

It is also wise to take with you extra copies of your résumé, degrees, diplomas and other certificates, and reference letters so that you have the option of pursuing other job opportunities while you are abroad. If you carry your résumé on diskette, you will be able to update it as you go. Find out, however, what the requirements are if you decide to change jobs or companies, as doing so may render your visa or work permit invalid. For more details, see the subsection entitled "Visa and Work Permit."

Take the time to learn about the political, cultural and economic environment of your destination. The working conditions and pace of life may be very different from what you are used to, affecting your personal life, work habits and job satisfaction. Read as much as you can and try to talk to people who have worked in the same country or for the same organization.

Your research will help you find out the do's and don'ts of social life abroad. Making your first contact will be easier if you know how to greet people, how to dress and how to behave in your new work environment.

Some countries experience ongoing wars, insurgencies or sporadic unrest. Find out if your destination is known to be dangerous. Consult the Travel Report for that country and the Current Issues section of our website for up-to-date information on safety and security conditions, health issues, and entry and visa requirements for approximately 200 destinations.

When you are abroad, you will be able to tune in to Radio Canada International (RCI) for the latest news. RCI also broadcasts messages from the Canadian government during emergency situations.

What Documents Do You Need?

You and all family members must have a valid passport before taking up residence abroad. Remember, the practice of adding a child's name to a parent's passport is no longer permitted. This security measure is also intended to help protect children and combat child slavery and prostitution. (More information on children's issues is available.)

Passport applications are available on-line, at Passport Canada offices, at postal outlets in Canada, and at Canadian government offices abroad. There are separate forms for adults and children. The processing of an application accompanied by the required documentation usually takes up to two weeks if it is presented in person at a passport issuing office, or up to eight weeks if it is mailed in. Allow more time if you need a visa, since a valid passport is required before you can apply for a visa. So, plan to apply well before your departure.

Your passport is valid for five years. If you are travelling with children, you should be aware that their passports are valid for five years if they are three to 15 years old, and for only three years if they are younger. Check with your host country's embassy or consulate accredited to Canada for its rules and restrictions regarding passport validity and expiration. Some countries will not let you enter if your passport is within six months of expiry. Once living overseas, you should continue to maintain a valid passport.

Before you leave Canada, be sure to complete the In case of accident or death notify section in your passport. This will help us quickly notify your family or friends if an emergency arises.

You should also prepare a passport emergency kit in case your passport is lost or stolen. This should include:

Keeping this information in a safe place separate from your passport will save you time and money should you lose the originals. For added security, you may also want to leave a kit with a friend or relative at home.

If your passport is lost or stolen while you are outside Canada, report the loss or theft to the local police, obtain a copy of the police report and immediately contact the nearest Canadian government office for a replacement. Before a new passport can be issued, you must complete an application form, produce written evidence of your Canadian citizenship (a birth or citizenship certificate and at least one current supplementary document to support your identity), present two recent photos, pay the required fee and complete a "Statutory Declaration Concerning a Lost, Stolen, Damaged, Destroyed or Inaccessible Canadian Passport or Travel Document" (Form PPT 203).

If you have any questions about passports, consult the Passport Canada website or call 1-800-567-6868.

All countries require you to obtain special permission for entry when you plan to work. This permission is called a visa or work permit.

Only the country concerned can provide you with definitive and official information on entry requirements. Before you go, you should obtain the required visa or work permit from that country's embassy or consulate accredited to Canada. Check our Country Travel Reports for contact information and Web addresses. Initiate the process well in advance of your departure date, as obtaining a visa or work permit can take several months.

Note that your work visa may have special provisions concerning departure and re-entry. If you plan to travel while working overseas, enquire about the process of obtaining a multiple-entry visa to avoid future difficulties.

To change your employment after your arrival, you may have to leave and re-enter the country under a different visa or work permit. Verify the requirements with the Canadian embassy or one of its consulates in the host country before moving to a new job.

Working without an appropriate visa or overstaying a visa is illegal; if caught, you may be subject to imprisonment, a fine and/or deportation. You may also be barred from re-entry to that country.

Some countries include a medical certificate or proof of HIV testing as an entry requirement, particularly for long-term residents and students. Again, contact the embassy or consulate of the country concerned for the latest information. Have the test conducted and obtain the results before you leave.

If you are planning to work for a long time abroad, you may need a residency permit. This permit gives a non-national the right to live in a foreign country. Consult the embassy or a consulate of the country concerned for further information.

When you arrive in your host country, you may also need to obtain an alien registration card. You will be required to carry it at all times for identification purposes and as proof of your status, and you will have to turn it in before your departure.

Contact your local Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) office to find out the procedures for obtaining an international driver's licence. Keep in mind, however, that some countries require foreigners to apply for a local licence after a certain period. Make enquiries before leaving Canada or at the time of your arrival. In addition, it is important that you educate yourself on the traffic rules and procedures of your host country before you get behind the wheel. Always carry your car insurance policy with you when driving in case of an accident.

If your contract provides for housing, request a detailed description or photos, a floor plan, and a furniture inventory in advance. "Western" and "furnished" have different meanings in different places. Ask about the neighbourhood and transportation services. Verify whether you will have to share accommodation with someone else. By doing your homework before you leave, you increase the chances of being satisfied upon arrival.

If housing is not part of the agreement, it may be difficult to find suitable accommodation. For example, if your destination is a university city and you will be arriving in September, there may be few options left. Moreover, housing in some countries is very expensive. Start your research early. Look on the Internet, ask your future employer, call any contacts you have in the destination community, and use your network of friends and relatives for advice and suggestions.

Holding dual citizenship does not necessarily mean you can work in the other country. Obtaining Canadian citizenship may have led to the loss of your other citizenship without your knowledge. Call the country's embassy or consulate accredited to Canada to ask for a definitive ruling on your status.

If your citizenship status is clear and you decide to work in your country of second nationality, you could be under certain obligations. For instance, you may be required to perform obligatory military service or you could lose your right to protection and assistance from Canadian consular officials. For more information, refer to our on-line publication Dual Citizenship: What Travellers Should Know.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that you contact a travel medicine clinic or your physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on an individual risk assessment, a health care provider can determine your need for immunizations and any special precautions that will help you avoid disease while abroad.

For more information or to obtain a list of travel clinics in your area, contact the Public Health Agency of Canada at 613-957-8739 or consult www.travelhealth.gc.ca. A list of travel clinics may also be obtained from the Canadian Society for International Health or 613-241-5785.

Before travelling to any destination, find out well in advance of your departure if you need any special vaccinations or preventive medications for such illnesses as yellow fever, typhoid, meningitis, Japanese encephalitis, hepatitis or malaria.

For instance, a meningococcal vaccination is required for pilgrims travelling to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, for the annual hajj; and an International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever is a legal requirement to enter certain countries. You may need to start receiving your vaccination shots or taking medication six to eight weeks before you leave.

Also ensure that your immunizations - diphtheria, whooping cough (pertussis), tetanus, polio, measles, mumps and rubella - are up-to-date. Other immunization requirements will vary according to your age, existing medical conditions, and the nature and duration of your time abroad.

If you are travelling with infants or small children, you may need to arrange an alternative or accelerated childhood immunization schedule for them. Talk to your pediatrician, family doctor or travel medicine clinic.

When you are outside Canada, take the same precautions you do at home. Do not assume that condoms will be readily available. Even if they are, they may not meet the safety standards set by the World Health Organization.

In some countries you should avoid hospitals or dental facilities due to poor hygiene standards. For country-specific information, consult our Travel Reports.

Remember, using intravenous drugs is not only illegal but also extremely risky — especially if you share needles.

If you take medication, be sure to pack an extra supply or make arrangements for resupply in case you are away for longer than expected. Having a duplicate of your original prescription is highly recommended. Also, carry an extra prescription that lists both the generic and the trade names of any drug you are taking, in case your medication is lost or stolen. This is also a good idea if you wear glasses or contact lenses — having the prescription makes it easier to replace them.

Don't try to save luggage space by combining medications into a single container. Keep all medications in the original, labelled container to avoid problems.

Find out whether your medication is sold in the country where you will be working. Also check to make sure it is legal. Some over-the-counter medications in Canada are illegal in other countries or require a prescription. Obtaining a note from your doctor that states the medical reasons for your prescription and the recommended dosage is also encouraged.

If you need syringes for a medical condition such as diabetes, it is very important that you take an appropriate supply. As well, you should have a medical certificate that shows they are needed for medical use.

If you have a pre-existing medical condition that could present a problem while you are abroad, it is wise to wear a MedicAlert® bracelet. Through the MedicAlert® Foundation, your vital medical facts become part of a database that can be accessed 24 hours a day from anywhere in the world.

If you are pregnant and plan to work abroad, talk to your doctor. Some vaccinations may not be recommended. Also, check your health insurance plan carefully to ensure it covers health complications arising from pregnancy.

It is unlikely that your health insurance in Canada will provide adequate coverage while you are abroad. You must obtain appropriate health insurance before you leave. Make sure you understand the terms of your policy; it should cover all your needs and those of all accompanying dependants. There is nothing worse than being ill and on your own in a foreign country, and having to worry about large financial obligations. Health insurance is one of the best investments you can make.

Out-of-country health insurance is available through travel agents or directly from insurers and brokers listed in the Yellow Pages. There are many points to consider, depending on your destination and insurance needs, including:

Keep a supply of insurance claim forms handy. Always carry a copy of your insurance policy with you, along with the telephone numbers of the insurer's service centre. This information should also be left with a friend or relative at home and a co-worker or friend in the country where you will be working.

If you pay for medical attention out of your own pocket, obtain a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes. Keep a copy of the submitted documents for your files.

When you arrive in the destination country, make a point of locating the nearest reputable clinic or hospital. Don't wait for an emergency: it may be too late! The local Canadian government office will be able to provide information on clinics and hospitals.

Planning to drive while abroad? Keep in mind that most countries have laws that require drivers to have adequate insurance. Personal insurance is important, too. There are companies in Canada that will sell you insurance no matter where you are going to be. Where possible, purchase your insurance from one of these companies, as their procedures may be more familiar to you.

It is possible that the company employing you overseas will make arrangements for health and other types of insurance for you. However, rather than making this assumption, check with the company's human resources department to find out your status and coverage. If you are not totally covered, take the necessary steps to rectify this. Also, confirm that coverage applies to your accompanying spouse, partner and children, if applicable.

If you are planning to take your pet overseas, call the host country's embassy or consulate accredited to Canada well in advance of your departure to obtain information on all the requirements. At a minimum, your pet will need a detailed health certificate and may need an import permit. Your pet may also be required to undergo a period of quarantine before or upon entering the country. When returning home, you will have to follow similar procedures and present a certificate stating that your dog or cat is currently vaccinated for rabies. For additional information on dogs and cats, or for information on other pets (which often require an import permit before they can return to Canada ), contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

Before you leave Canada, make sure you will have enough money with you to get properly settled. Although some companies provide a settlement allowance, keep in mind that it may be several weeks before you receive your first paycheque. Consult a bank or a foreign currency agent to find out the most appropriate currency to take with you. Canadian currency and traveller's cheques in Canadian dollars are not always accepted. Traveller's cheques in U.S. dollars are often the safest and most convenient option.

Be aware that your debit card or credit card will not necessarily be usable in another country. Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also consult the websites of VISA and MasterCard for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account.

If credit cards are accepted, it is always a good idea to take at least one card with you. Although you may choose not to use it, it will provide you with some peace of mind. Keep it in a safe place for unexpected expenses or emergencies.

Before leaving Canada, make sure you have settled all your financial obligations or make arrangements to do so while you are abroad. This may involve setting up automatic payments from your Canadian bank account to cover outstanding or ongoing commitments.

Most banks can provide a variety of services to assist you in managing your finances from outside Canada . Some allow you to access your account 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from anywhere in the world with on-line and telephone banking. You can check balances, pay bills and transfer funds as you wish. If you are not familiar with e-banking, ask someone at your financial institution to show you how it works before you go. If you will not have access to a computer while abroad, many websites — such as www.cybercaptive.com — can help you locate cybercafés around the world. Once you have completed your transactions at a cybercafé, don't forget to erase all traces of your messages.

If you are living abroad but maintain residential ties in Canada, you are considered a factual resident of Canada for taxation purposes. However, there may be other factors involved, so you should review your situation with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) before you leave in order to avoid surprises. The CRA publication T4131,Canadian Residents Abroad, provides excellent information for individuals.

The CRA's International Tax Services Office processes income tax returns for non-residents and deemed residents of Canada, including Canadians working overseas. It also provides general assistance by telephone, correspondence and counter service, and looks after all non-resident tax withholding accounts.

You may also wish to consult a private financial planner, who can provide advice and guidance on such matters as contributing to a Registered Retirement Savings Plan and the Canada Pension Plan while you are abroad.

You should make a will before you leave. If the worst happens, it will prevent some of the complications associated with a death abroad. If you are planning a long stay, you might consider having two wills — one for Canada and one for the foreign country — since different legislation will apply.

It is important to make sure your mail is moving abroad with you. Before you go, fill out a change of address notice for Canada Post and inform all your contacts, including financial institutions, relatives and friends, of your new address. If you plan to use an e-mail service, make sure you have all the addresses you need before you go. You can e-mail a message to yourself containing valuable information like postal and electronic addresses, phone numbers, hotel confirmation numbers, traveller's cheque identification numbers, and so on. You can then retrieve the information anywhere that has Internet access.

Shipping your goods and household effects to another country can be costly. Find out what you need to take, and ship only what you will not be able to find locally. Keep in mind that you may need adapters for your electrical appliances. Ask if your employer will partially or fully cover the costs of moving your belongings or provide you with essential items when you arrive. Make an inventory of the household effects stored and shipped.

As well, find out ahead of time what you are allowed to take with you. Most countries have stringent import controls.

Before going abroad with valuable items, you can take advantage of a free identification procedure at any Canadian customs office. This service is available for items that have serial numbers or other unique markings. Alternatively, in certain circumstances, customs officers may apply a sticker to an item to give it an accounting number.

Jewellery often has significant value and can be difficult to identify. To make it easier to re-enter Canada with jewellery, contact your nearest customs office to find out the steps you should take to identify items of jewellery prior to your departure.

Many countries do not provide access for people in wheelchairs or make allowances for those with special hearing, sight or other physical requirements. For more information, refer to the Frequently Asked Questions section of our website, check the Canadian Transportation Agency website or talk to others who have lived in your host country in the past.

Canadians with disabilities who hold a valid parking permit in Canada may take their permit with them for use in any of the 48 member and associate member countries of the European Conference of Ministers of Transport (ECMT). Be sure to check with local authorities there to determine entitlement. For more information, consult the ECMT or Transport Canada website.

If you are a woman planning to work overseas, find out everything you can about the culture and customs, and the role of women, in the country concerned. Knowing what to expect will help you prepare yourself.

Unfortunately, the possibility of a sexual assault is a reality in all countries. If this happens to you while you are abroad, you should immediately seek the assistance of the nearest medical and police authorities. The Canadian consul can:

Immigration authorities in most countries, including Canada, are vigilant about documentation for children crossing international borders. Unless a child has a valid Canadian passport or is accompanied by both natural parents, he or she needs special documentation in addition to proof of citizenship.

If only one parent is escorting the child, certified consent from the other parent must be presented, in addition to a copy of any separation or divorce decree. This consent is required even if the separation or divorce documents award custody of the child to the accompanying parent.

If you have school-age children, education is probably the most significant issue you will need to consider. It is important that you secure appropriate schooling for your children before leaving Canada. Carry copies of your children's school records in case you need them. To help your family prepare for the move, have an open discussion where everybody has a chance to express his or her feelings and concerns. A helpful book on this topic is Culture Shock! A Parent's Guide (see the Other Recommended Reading section). It offers practical advice, explaining the do's and don'ts of living abroad with children.

Working abroad can put an added strain on family relationships. If you are moving to another country with your child and there is a possibility of a custody dispute developing while you are there, you should talk to a lawyer before you leave. A special publication, International Child Abductions: A Manual for Parents, is available from Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada.

If you are proficient in English, French or both, you have a good language base for working in many areas of the world and communicating effectively. But if you are planning to work in a country that is neither Anglophone nor Francophone, you will have communication problems. If you intend to learn the language of your host country, you might consider beginning your studies before your departure by obtaining audiotapes or registering in a language course.

Many people who work overseas experience what is commonly referred to as culture shock. Although its intensity varies from one individual to another, most people experience a period of cultural adjustment.

During the first stage, often described as the honeymoon, all encounters in the new place are perceived as exciting and positive. In the second stage, sometimes called the "emptiness phase," foreigners feel a sense of dislocation and a general unease. Symptoms include:

During the third and final stage, foreigners start to accept their new surroundings and make a compromise between the honeymoon and the emptiness phases. To better deal with culture shock, learn to recognize the symptoms. You will then be able to react quickly and efficiently to overcome its effects.

You should also be aware that you might experience a reverse form of culture shock after living abroad. Be prepared to face a period of readjustment when you return to Canada. For more information about the symptoms of culture shock and coping strategies, see the Coping with Culture Shock page and the Other Recommended Reading section.

Before you leave Canada, it is a good idea to assess how working abroad fits into the context of your career and life goals. Bear in mind that, after living overseas, returning to Canada can be difficult and stressful. Coming home can make some people feel very unsettled and can even lead to depression.

If possible, make some preparations for your return before you leave. For example, if you already have a job in Canada, you might want to ask about taking a leave of absence. If you are planning to return to college or university, make sure that you have all the necessary forms with you or arrange to have them sent overseas, so that you do not miss application deadlines. Keep in mind that maintaining a strong support network in Canada while you are abroad is likely to make coming back much easier. Trying to envisage your return before you have even left may seem unnecessary, but a little advance planning could go a long way toward easing your return.

Working Abroad

It is recommended that you register at the nearest Canadian government office abroad. This will help us contact you in case of an emergency. Registration is voluntary, and the information you provide is protected and used in accordance with the provisions of the Privacy Act. You can register on-line.

In countries where Canada has no direct representation, there may be arrangements in place for you to register with another country's embassy or consulate. For instance, Canada has a formal reciprocal agreement with Australia.

Canadian government offices abroad are ready to help you in case of an emergency. In some instances, there may be a fee for services.

Canadian government offices abroad offer 24-hour assistance. Outside of office hours, your telephone call will automatically be transferred to a consular officer in Ottawa or you will be asked to leave a message. In either case, there will be a prompt response. If you leave a recorded message, make sure that it is clear and that you leave a complete telephone number or contact address. In addition, you can make a collect call (where available) to Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in Ottawa at (613) 996-8885.

Canadian citizens can, under certain conditions, vote in federal elections when they are temporarily living or travelling outside Canada. To vote by special mail-in ballot, you must first register by sending an Application for Registration and Special Ballot form to Elections Canada. Information on how to register and vote by special mail-in ballot is available on the Elections Canada website. During an election, all registered electors will receive a voting kit with instructions. For more information, contact Elections Canada.

You may wish to set up a bank account in your host country that is fed by funds from your Canadian account. To do this, you will need to go to a local foreign exchange bank with your passport, your alien registration card and Canadian banking information (your branch and account number). Usually, someone who can speak English or French will be available to assist you. The process can be complicated and time-consuming, and you should make sure that you have a source of funds during this period. Retain all documentation on financial transfers, as you may need it for local income tax purposes.

It is also important to establish how much money you are allowed to send home. The amount of money you are permitted to leave with or to transfer may be strictly regulated by your host country. Keep all receipts and transaction records.

Once you are abroad, it may be difficult to assess how much money you can spend due to changes in your needs or unfamiliarity with the local currency and prices. If you overspend and run out of money, it may take a while before your friends and relatives in Canada can lend you a hand. Plan accordingly.

Before buying a car, verify with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) if you will be allowed to import the car upon your return. For detailed information, consult the CBSA brochure Importing a Vehicle into Canada, or contact the CBSA.

In other countries, the procedures surrounding relationships can be more difficult than at home. If you decide to marry while you are abroad, make sure you understand the local requirements and laws. Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, they are not recognized in many countries. Homosexual activity is illegal in some countries. For more information, consult our Country Travel Reports and the Frequently Asked Questions section of our website (www.voyage.gc.ca/main/before/faq/marriage-en.asp). Further information is also available on the Amnesty International website. v

If your future spouse is not a Canadian citizen, find out whether he or she will be eligible to travel back to Canada with you on either a temporary or a permanent basis. This information can be obtained from the nearest Canadian government office abroad.

Divorce or separation can be more complicated abroad than in Canada. Property settlement and child custody issues will be different, too. If your spouse is a citizen of the country in which you are living, he or she may have more rights than you do as a foreigner. Always make sure you understand the local laws and procedures. Establish whether what you plan to do locally will be legally recognized on your return to Canada. Do nothing without the advice and guidance of a lawyer.

If you or your spouse gives birth to a child during your stay abroad, contact the Canadian embassy or one of its consulates in your host country to find out how to get a Canadian citizenship card and a passport for the baby. Start the process early since it may be time-consuming.

Difficult situations or frustrating confrontations can sometimes occur if you are unaware of the local customs and laws of your host country. Be wise and learn ahead of time what behaviour is appropriate and what is likely to offend the local citizens. For example, consumption of alcohol is illegal in certain countries.

Thousands of Canadians are currently imprisoned abroad for various offences. Keep in mind that while you are in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws and regulations. Ignorance is no defence, and your Canadian citizenship offers you no immunity.

If you are arrested or detained, you can request that the arresting officer inform the nearest Canadian government office abroad. You will need a lawyer, and the consular official can refer you to one who speaks English. In the meantime, be aware that what you say can be used against you. Avoid making any statements unless your lawyer is present. Do not sign anything in a language you do not understand without the permission of your lawyer.

Most countries impose severe penalties for the possession of even a minuscule amount of illegal drugs. Even prescription drugs and syringes used for legitimate medical purposes come under intense scrutiny and should therefore have proper accompanying documentation. As previously mentioned, keep all drugs in their original containers and carry the prescriptions with you.

Choose your travelling companions wisely. Do not pick up hitchhikers. Never agree to take any parcel that is not yours across a border.

Returning to Canada

Some countries impose a departure tax or service fee at the airport or point of departure. Prior to leaving, make sure you set aside enough money, in local funds, to pay this tax.

It is important that you settle all your obligations before leaving your host country. For example, make sure you pay all your local bills or make acceptable arrangements to do so. It may also be a good idea to obtain a letter of release from domestic or other employees, if applicable, stating that you are free of any obligation to them. In addition, you will need to meet all local tax requirements and obtain clearance from the local tax authorities before you will be allowed to leave.

When you return to Canada, you will need to present proper identification. Depending on how long you have resided outside Canada, you may be subject to special import provisions for household items and personal belongings on your return. You will require either receipts for goods acquired outside the country or a list of all goods you are importing. Customs enforces regulations on behalf of many different government departments. There are complex restrictions on the importation of, among other things, food, and animal and plant products.

The Government of Canada has introduced the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act. Under this new legislation, there are no restrictions on the amount of money that you can bring into or take out of Canada, nor is it illegal to do so. However, you now have to report to a customs officer amounts equal to or greater than C$10,000. For more information, refer to the CBSA brochure entitled Crossing the Border With $10,000 or More?

Before you purchase an animal or plant, or a product made from animals or plants, be sure you know what rules and regulations apply. Many attractive items sold in foreign countries are made from endangered plants or animals. Live cactus and orchid plants, ivory bracelets and carvings and marine turtle shells are some of the more common items illegally brought back to Canada. These items are included in the more than 30,000 species of wild animals and plants regulated under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). A violation of CITES could lead to seizure of your purchase, as well as a fine and/or prison term. Contact Environment Canada for details.

Also, be aware that it is forbidden to bring home cultural property whose sale or export is banned or controlled by its country of origin. Strict penalties may be imposed, and the cultural property can be confiscated and returned to the country of origin. For more information, contact Canadian Heritage or the embassy of the country concerned.

If you have worked abroad for a long time, your social insurance number (SIN) may be flagged as dormant. The number still belongs to you. To have your SIN reactivated when you return, you will be required to accurately identify yourself. For more information, visit Service Canada's site or call 1-800-206-7218.

Remember that, when you return, there may be a waiting period before your government health insurance becomes effective. To renew your coverage, you will have to contact the health department of your province or territory to register and fulfill the waiting period. Apply for reinstatement immediately upon arrival. The page http://canada.gc.ca/othergov/prov_e.html will help you find links to the official sites of Canada 's provinces and territories.

If you become sick or feel unwell on your return to Canada, see a doctor promptly. Inform the doctor that you have been living outside Canada, and where. Likewise, if you were ill while you were abroad, see your doctor on your return and explain your medical history and any treatment you received.

Other Recommended Reading

Axtell, Roger E. 1997. Do’s and Taboos Around the World for Women in Business. 1st ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons.

Cumyn, Alan. 2001. What in the World Is Going On? A Guide for Canadians Wishing to Work, Volunteer or Study in Other Countries. Ottawa, ON: Canadian Bureau for International Education.
www.destineducation.ca/pdfs/witwigo_e.pdf

Golden, Godrey & Kogan, Helen. 2002. The Daily Telegraph Guide to Working Abroad. 22nd ed. London, UK: Kogan Page.

Griffith, Susan. 2001. Work Your Way Around the World. 11th ed. Oxford, UK: Vacation Work.
Hachey, Jean-Marc. 2004. The BIG Guide to Living and Working Overseas.

4th ed. Canada: Intercultural Systems/Systèmes interculturels (ISSI)
www.workingoverseas.com

Pascoe, Robin. 2000. Culture Shock! A Parent’s Guide. Times Books International.
www.expatexpert.com

Pascoe, Robin. 2003. A Moveable Marriage: Relocate Your Relationship Without Breaking It. Expatriate Press. www.expatriatepress.com

Consular Services

Consular Affairs Bureau
www.voyage.gc.ca

General
Tel.: 1-800-267-6788 (in Canada and the U.S.) or 613-944-6788
TTY: 1-800-394-3472 (in Canada and the U.S.) or 613-944-1310
E-mail: voyage@international.gc.ca

Emergencies
Tel.: 613-996-8885
(call collect from abroad where available)
E-mail: sos@international.gc.ca

The Consular Affairs Bureau publishes, in both official languages, a series of safe travel brochures.

Country Travel Reports provide information on safety and security conditions, health issues and entry requirements for approximately 200 travel destinations. This information is also available by telephone: 1-800-267-6788 (in Canada and the U.S.) or 613-944-6788.

Publication Info

Information in this publication is readily available for personal and public non-commercial use and may be reproduced, in part or in whole and by any means, without charge or further permission from Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada. We ask only that:

All information in this publication is provided on an “as is” basis without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied. Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada makes all reasonable efforts to ensure that the information contained in this publication is accurate. The reader is also encouraged to supplement this information with independent research and professional advice.

This publication is available in alternative formats upon request.

To obtain more information or free copies of this publication, write to:

Enquiries Service
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
125 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, ON K1A 0G2
Tel.: 1-800-267-8376 (in Canada) or 613-944-4000
E-mail: enqserv@international.gc.ca

We would like to receive your comments on this publication. Write to us at the address above or e-mail us at voyage@international.gc.ca.

Common menu bar links

Institutional links

PLANNING A TRIP

COUNTRY INFORMATION

RESOURCES

QUICK LINKS

DEPARTMENT

ACCOUNTABILITY

Working Abroad
Unravelling the Maze

Introduction

Before You Go

What Documents Do You Need?

Returning to Canada

Other Recommended Reading

Consular Services

Publication Info

Common menu bar links

Institutional links

PLANNING A TRIP

COUNTRY INFORMATION

RESOURCES

QUICK LINKS

DEPARTMENT

ACCOUNTABILITY

Working Abroad Unravelling the Maze

Introduction

Before You Go

What Documents Do You Need?

Working Abroad

Returning to Canada

Other Recommended Reading

Consular Services

Publication Info

Working Abroad
Unravelling the Maze