Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Getting your paperwork sorted
Before you go, you should:
•
Check whether you need to set up a job - you may need a confirmed work offer be-
fore you can get a work permit and visa - try
www.gap-year.com
for contact lists
and more advice, or refer to the internship and graduate opportunities section in the
directory of this guidebook.
•
Check on the work permit and visa regulations for the country you plan to work
in and make sure you have the right paperwork before you leave. Remember, you
don't need a work permit or visa if you're an EU citizen and planning to work in an
EU country.
•
Check if there's any special equipment or clothing you'll need to take,
eg
sturdy
boots and trousers for manual jobs, reasonably smart clothes for office internships
etc
.
•
When you're getting your insurance, remember to check that you'll be covered if
you're planning on working. Working can invalidate a claim for loss or damage to
your belongings on some travel policies. If in doubt, ask.
•
Make sure you understand all the regulations and restrictions. You can get into ser-
ious trouble if you work without the necessary documents - you don't want to be
deported during your gap-year! The best place to get information is the relevant em-
bassy in London - there's a link on
www.gap-year.com
to the Foreign and Com-
monwealth Office website, where you will find links to all embassies.
Finding a job
Finding a job may take time and effort. The more places you can send your CV to, the greater
the chances of you getting a job. You can also register with international employment agen-
cies but make sure you know what the agency fee will be if you get employment. To find
short-term jobs try:
If you use an agency, always insist on talking to someone who has used it before - that way
you'll really find out what the deal is.
