- RoadMap Network
- Posts
- ✈️ Working Abroad
✈️ Working Abroad
Plus: Depopulation + A new demographic reality
🎙️ Did You Know? On this day in 1888, the National Geographic Society was founded, paving the way for a legacy of exploration, education, and storytelling about our planet.
From uncharted territories to untold human stories, National Geographic has reminded us of the importance of staying connected to the world. Stay curious, stay connected, and remember: our world is smaller than we think, and every corner matters. 🌍
Dreaming of Adventure
Working abroad could be your best move
Most people wait to find a job and then save up money to travel to their dream destinations. But what if we told you that you could do both at the same time? Working in a foreign country is not for the faint-hearted, but if you're looking to expand your horizons, it could be the perfect adventure. Plus, the current demographic situation in some countries coupled with some RoadMap tips might make it a little easier for you to land that job and work abroad.
The following are our honest suggestions, no affiliate links or kickbacks apply.
Top Countries for US Expats with International Offices
✔️ Canada: With a high quality of life, universal health care, and cultural similarities to the U.S., Canada is a top destination for Americans. The Express Entry system fast-tracks skilled workers into permanent residency, making it an attractive option.
✔️ Portugal: A stunning place with a low cost of living and a friendly, relaxed environment. The Golden Visa program is especially attractive to entrepreneurs and remote workers, allowing them to live and work in Portugal while securing residency.
✔️ Germany: Known for its strong economy, excellent healthcare system, and educational opportunities, Germany is a great destination for skilled workers. The EU Blue Card system attracts highly skilled professionals, while the Job Seeker Visa allows you to explore job options before committing.
✔️ Australia: If you're looking for a vibrant culture, excellent work-life balance, and opportunities in fields ranging from technology to healthcare, Australia is a top choice. The Skilled Independent Visa allows skilled workers to apply without employer sponsorship.
✔️ Japan: With its cutting-edge technology, rich culture, and many career opportunities in fields such as technology and education, Japan is a dream for those interested in innovation and culture. The Highly Skilled Professional Visa opens doors for foreign professionals.
AND, you are not going to be alone; Over 5 million Americans live abroad, with many working in countries like Canada, Japan, and the UK.
Working abroad is not just a chance to experience new places, it's an opportunity to build a diverse career and grow in ways you never thought possible. So why not make your dream destination your next career stop?
Geographical Magazine
The world's population is projected to peak at 10 billion in the mid-2080s before beginning a dramatic decline not seen since the Black Death. Fertility rates are falling in Europe, Asia, and the Americas, while life expectancy continues to rise, reshaping the world's demographics. Some regions, such as Africa and parts of the Middle East, will experience rapid growth, with Africa's population more than doubling to 3.8 billion by 2100.
In contrast, countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea will experience sharp declines due to aging populations and low birth rates. Efforts to increase fertility through financial incentives have had limited success, as broader cultural and systemic factors - such as gender roles and work-life balance - play a critical role.
Migration offers a temporary solution to labor shortages in aging countries. Experts emphasize holistic policies, including childcare, education, and flexible work arrangements, to support families and stabilize populations. Demographic change will challenge pension systems, health care, and economies, underscoring the need for forward-looking planning and cultural adaptation.
Much has been said about declining fertility rates – some see it as a looming crisis, others as an environmental opportunity. But is this the real picture, or just another wave of paranoia similar to the "overpopulation" fears of the 1970s?
To truly grasp the global implications of this demographic shift, we recommend exploring the McKinsey Global Institute report: Dependency and depopulation? Confronting the consequences of a new demographic reality. This comprehensive report delves into the data, trends, and potential outcomes of a world where fertility rates are below replacement levels and populations are aging faster than ever.
Why It Matters
This report reveals a disturbing yet vital reality: two-thirds of humanity now live in countries where fertility rates are too low to sustain their populations. By 2100, major economies could face population declines of 20 to 50 percent, accompanied by inverted age structures. The first wave of these changes is already reshaping advanced economies and China, with younger regions soon to follow.
The findings go beyond the numbers to explore how these shifts will transform economies, labor markets, and consumption patterns. But the report doesn't stop at diagnosis; it outlines the unprecedented challenges societies face, from rethinking retirement systems to reshaping social contracts. Without action, younger generations could inherit lower economic growth and bear the financial burden of more retirees.
RoadMap is a private network for recent college grads embarking on their job search and early career journey.