I am exploring the option of working in Argentina. Any suggestion what steps to take?

Question

I am 26 w/ an undergraduate degree in Psychology. However, my goal is to pursue gradauate school in International Relations in the future. I am hoping to work in Argentina to gain additional experience in the international affairs field. I yet have not applied to graduate school because....I want to still have fun.

Answer 1

Well you have two choices:  you can work "in the black" or illegally, or you can work "en blanco" or legally. It is not uncommon for both foreigners and Argentines to work "in the black" because both the employee and the employer save $ on taxes.  However, if you choose to work legally, you will need to obtain a work visa, which requires an application, forms (translated birth certficiate, letter of good conduct from the police), and a contract of employment from a registered Argentine company.  

So, having said that, try craigslist for jobs that are "in the black" and try www.bumeran.com.ar (our version of Monster.com) for available jobs en blanco.

Jobs, both illegal and legal, in the international affairs field will be very difficult to come by for foreigners, however, so keep your options open.

Answer 2

Try to get a job there before you go. For your goals, it would be better to get a job in something more managerial or administrative rather than teaching English. You can find out from your local Chamber of Commerce if any businesses in your area have operations in Argentina. If you're bilingual, you have a good chance at applying to jobs with Argentinian companies. Contact your undergrad career center too and ask them for any helpful tips or resources. There might even be fellow alums down there already who can give you advice. It's hard to move abroad and get a job, so just be flexible and open to alternative choices. Like you might find a job that will only hire you after a few months of unpaid internship.