Getting a job overseas

Optinium

Hey people

A question to the people who have attained work overseas. Where do you start?

I'm currently looking for work in the UK now that my studies are over and I'm certain I want my first studio job to be UK based but my goal has always been to move overseas and not limit myself within the UK.

So where do you start?
How did people tackle the geographical impairment when it comes to interviews?
Do studio's accommodate you moving etc...?

Any advice or insight would be helpful or even links to tip pages etc...

Kwramm

I found it pretty easy. Phone interviews aren't uncommon any more. The assistance you get really depends on the company and in some cases also how much you're worth to them. Tip: don't move furniture Some places fly you in, but often after an initial phone interview.

Some companies, especially in very exotic locations, prefer to hire people who've been there at least once and spent some time. Nobody wants you to get culture shock and leave after the probation time after investing in relocation, plane tickets, etc.

How easy it is also depends where the company is located and how much your skills are in demand. Moving from the UK to the EU is pretty hassle free as you can move and work wherever you want within the EU. If you want to experience a different country then this would be your best option since you're just done studying (unless you have a really insanely kickass folio). Also benefits (employment time, pension, health) are transferable. That's not always the case with non EU countries.

Other countries, especially western ones, which are not part of the EU can be more of a hassle to get into. US can be quite difficult if you don't have the right immigration lawyer and university degrees.

SuperFranky

Be super good, otherwise they don't need you

Gyrz

I want to know this too, how to make a demo reel, related for game, when i live, i only have animation for TV commercials.

Optinium

SuperFranky wrote: »

Be super good, otherwise they don't need you

So insightful :P The same goes for any studio I'm sure ^^

I'd like to know more about the process, places to look, pitfalls and such

radiancef0rge

Generally based on what Ive experienced in a studio the process of getting a visa to work in the US is near impossible - even if you are really awesome. The maximum allowed visas for the US fill up super quick so start the process of looking near the end of the year. I think for 2013 they are already full.

Even coming from Canada to the US which would seem fairly easily comparatively like Kwramm said if you dont have the right degree or experience theyll deny you at the border.

Getting a company to sponsor you is necessary unless you plan to naturalize.

Not sure about EU or other countries. Hopefully that info is somewhat helpful good luck in your search!

Gyrz

radiancef0rge wrote: »

Generally based on what Ive experienced in a studio the process of getting a visa to work in the US is near impossible - even if you are really awesome. The maximum allowed visas for the US fill up super quick so start the process of looking near the end of the year. I think for 2013 they are already full.

Even coming from Canada to the US which would seem fairly easily comparatively like Kwramm said if you dont have the right degree or experience theyll deny you at the border.

Getting a company to sponsor you is necessary unless you plan to naturalize.

Not sure about EU or other countries. Hopefully that info is somewhat helpful good luck in your search!

What about Canada? I a more interest for Canada.

JO420

Scandaniavia, Stockholm would be a good city to look, a good game scene there,english speaking population,good social safety nets if you lose your job and if you are single, some of the most beautiful women in the world.

chrisradsby

My first job was in the UK, I was living in Sweden at the time.

So where do you start?
Well first of, you apply to the companies. They'll probably contact you if they're interested and you guys set up some kind of phone-interview. This usually works like a regular interview, you and their recruiter, AD or whatever talk for a bit about your resum

Gyrz

I know for people who live in EU, is more easy to move between countries to live and work. But for countries like those from Balkan, who are not in EU, except Slovenia and now Croatia. What to do then?

I am more interest in Canada.

Xoliul

I'd forget about the US if you don't have experience. You should completely shelve the idea if you don't even have a 3 year degree. You need 12 years of experience or a 4-year degree to meet minimal requirements afaik, and even then it can be hard.

Within the EU is pretty simple if you're a European citizen. As a graduate you should be very skilled to have a chance though. If you're not a European, it will be tricky if you have 0 experience (plenty of decent, local graduates to pick from).

Gyrz

I am going to start a 3 years degree for Animation.After that, i want to get experience from local animation TV studios here. But, then i want to move.

Gyrz

Anyone, who moved in Canada, from EU or other place, to share his experience.
Does studio really help you with visa and sponsoring, including place to live?