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First job abroad: how to get it without international experience

written by
Natasha Machado
10/7/2025
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5 min
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Be Easy has accompanied the transformation journey of hundreds of young professionals who took their first steps in the global market. With the right strategies and choosing the ideal destinations, you can also gain your first international professional experience.

Why the international experience is more accessible than it seems

Many countries have specific programs to attract young international talent, recognizing the value they bring to their economies. As shown in our article about 5 Unexpected Skills You Gain by Studying Abroad, international experience develops skills highly valued by the global market.

The international labor market is increasingly receptive to candidates with no previous experience abroad, especially when they demonstrate:

  • Willingness to learn and adapt
  • Strong language skills
  • Relevant technical qualification
  • Global mentality and cultural flexibility

In addition, many employers understand that hiring international talent without local experience allows them to be shaped according to their organizational culture, creating professionals that are more aligned with their values.

Best destinations for your first international job

Canada: the country of opportunities

Canada leads as an ideal destination for those seeking their first job abroad. As highlighted in our guide on 7 promising areas to work in Canada the country offers exceptional opportunities in:

Trending sectors for beginners:

  • Information Technology: With Vancouver and Toronto as technology hubs
  • Customer Service: Especially for Portuguese speakers
  • Hospitality and Tourism: Ever-growing sector
  • Retail and Food: Excellent gateway to the Canadian market

Advantages for beginners:

  • Competitive minimum wage (on average CAD $17/hour)
  • Possibility to work 20 hours a week during studies
  • Multicultural and welcoming environment
  • Facilitated immigration programs for students

The program Private College in Canada - Co-op it is especially strategic for those seeking this first opportunity, combining studies with guaranteed professional experience.

Australia: dynamic market and abundant opportunities

Australia stands out for its excellent working conditions and quality of life. Australian differentials:

  • Highest minimum wage in the world (AUD $24.95/hour)
  • Stable economy and constant growth
  • Climate similar to the Brazilian one facilitates adaptation
  • Permission to work while studying

Germany: European economic powerhouse

Germany offers exceptional opportunities, especially in technical areas. As we showed in the article Germany or Canada: which is the best destination for your IT career?, the country is ideal for technology professionals.

Promising sectors for beginners:

  • Engineering and Technology: Constant demand for qualified professionals
  • Health and Care: Especially nursing and elderly care
  • Logistics and Supply Chain: Europe's logistics hub

German advantages:

  • Minimum wage of €12.82/hour (2025)
  • Robust economy with low unemployment
  • Excellent vocational training system (Ausbildung)
  • Possibility of permanent residence

The program Study and Work in Germany it is an excellent gateway to the European market.

Ireland: gateway to Europe

Ireland remains one of the most affordable destinations for Brazilians, especially after the Minimum wage increase in Ireland in 2025.

Opportunities for beginners:

  • Tech: Dublin is a hub for large tech companies
  • Pharmacist: Strong and growing sector
  • Multilingual service: Appreciation of Portuguese
  • Tourism: Traditional and stable sector

Spain: diversity of opportunities

Spain offers excellent conditions for those seeking their first international job. Our guide on The 8 best cities to work in Spain in 2025 highlights opportunities across the country.

Accessible sectors:

  • Tourism and Hospitality: Strong traditional sector
  • Language Teaching: High demand for Portuguese
  • Tech: Sector growth in Madrid and Barcelona

Strategies for getting your first job

1. Combine studies with work

The most effective strategy is to start with a study program that includes a work permit. This allows you to:

  • Develop language skills in the real environment
  • Build a network of local contacts
  • Gain practical experience in the market
  • Get to know the local business culture

2. Focus on sectors with high demand

Identify sectors with labor shortages in the chosen country:

  • Canada: Technology, Health, Engineering
  • Australia: Mining, construction, agriculture
  • Germany: Technology, Health, Engineering
  • Ireland: Technology, Pharmaceutical, Service
  • Spain: Tourism, Technology, Education

3. Develop transferable skills

Even without international experience, you can highlight universal abilities:

  • Intercultural communication
  • Adaptability and flexibility
  • Problem solving
  • teamwork
  • Specific technical knowledge

How to highlight your Brazilian experience

Your Brazilian background is a differential, not a limitation. International employers value:

  • Cultural diversity: Ability to bring unique perspectives
  • Multilingualism: Mastery of Portuguese opens up Latin American markets
  • Adaptability: Experience in a constantly changing environment
  • Creativity: Ability to find innovative solutions
  • Networking: Ability to build strong relationships

The key is to present your Brazilian experiences as competitive advantages.

Be Easy: your partner on the international journey

Getting your first job abroad without international experience is totally possible with the right strategy and the right support. Na Be Easy, we have over a decade of experience helping Brazilians take that first step toward successful international careers. Our team offers full support, from choosing the ideal program to its adaptation in the destination country, ensuring that you have all the necessary tools to turn your professional dream into reality. Contact us and start planning your first international professional experience today!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy