Work From Anywhere: The Ultimate Guide to Remote Careers & Businesses

Introduction: Find the Remote Path That Fits You

What if you could build a life where Mondays are as exciting as Fridays, because you’re free to work from anywhere? This guide will help you do exactly that. We’re here to help you navigate the world of remote jobs and online businesses, so you can find an option that matches your skills, interests, and the lifestyle you dream about. Remote work has never been more popular or accessible.

Ready to break free from the office and design your life around what truly matters to you? Keep reading! This comprehensive guide will walk you through choosing a remote career or business path and getting started on that journey.

Who is this guide for?

Short answer: anyone who wants the freedom of remote work! People from all walks of life are transitioning to remote careers and businesses. You might see yourself in one of these groups:

• Career Switchers: Perhaps you’re considering learning new skills (like coding) to land a high-paying remote tech job after years in a different field.

• Non-Tech Professionals: Maybe you’re not a “techie” and have experience in marketing, education, writing, customer service, etc. Good news – many roles in these fields can now be done from home (or anywhere)!

• Adventurous Travelers & Nomads: You love the idea of working and traveling simultaneously – teaching English abroad, becoming an au pair, or taking on gigs that let you explore the world.

• Parents & Caregivers (or anyone needing flexibility): You want better work-life balance, flexible hours, and the comfort of working from home so you can be there for family or other responsibilities.

• Students & New Grads: You’re entering the workforce and figure, why not start remotely? There are entry-level paths that let you skip the commute and office politics from day one.

If any of these sound like you (or even if you don’t fit neatly into a category!), this guide will help you identify the best remote career path for your goals and background - and it will show you how to get started.

Take the Interactive Remote Career Quiz

Not sure where to begin? Start with our fun Interactive Remote Career Planner Quiz. This quick quiz (13 questions) will narrow down over 100+ remote career options to a few that suit you best. It asks about your skills, interests, willingness to retrain, salary goals, and more – then gives you personalized suggestions. It’s like a matchmaking tool for your remote career!

Take the Remote Career Quiz to see which path fits you – you’ll get a custom list of remote job or business ideas to explore.

Remote Tech Careers: High-Paying Paths in Tech

If a high-paying remote job is your goal, the tech industry is one of the best avenues. Roles like software developer, data analyst, UX designer, or cybersecurity specialist are in huge demand and can often be done 100% remotely. Many of these positions come with salaries well above the national average. For example, remote software engineers commonly earn over $80,000 per year (entry-level around ~$70k, with North America averages around $82,000+) and experienced developers at top companies can clear six figures. In fact, several of the highest-paying remote jobs are tech roles (think software engineering, data science, cloud computing, etc.). And as a bonus, these skills are sought-after worldwide, giving you job security and global opportunities.

• Pay Range: Typically mid to high. Many tech roles pay about $70k–$150k+ per year. (Entry-level devs around $70–80k; senior engineers often $100k+.)

• Reliability: High. There’s consistent demand for tech skills, and companies across the globe hire remotely for these roles.

• Ease to Start: Medium. You don’t necessarily need a college degree anymore, but you do need technical training and lots of practice. Expect to invest a few months to a year in learning the skills for an entry-level role.

• AI Risk: Low. While AI can assist with coding, it can’t fully replace human developers and problem-solvers. Tech roles involve creativity and complex thinking that aren’t easily automated.

• How to Begin: Learn in-demand skills like web development, data analysis, or UX design through focused study and projects. You could join a coding bootcamp or follow a structured self-study roadmap (more on these in a second).

What you need: Most remote tech jobs require proficiency in specific skills (programming languages, data tools, design software, etc.). The good news is you don’t need a Computer Science degree to break into these fields. There are two main training routes for beginners:

• Fast-Track Bootcamp: Consider enrolling in a coding bootcamp for a comprehensive, job-focused learning experience. (We offer a Remote Coding Bootcamp specifically designed to take beginners from zero to job-ready in under a year – it’s self-paced and online. You’ll build projects, earn industry-recognized certifications, and even get career support. We’ve priced it affordably at $249 for the entire program because we believe anyone willing to put in the effort should have a shot at a tech career.) This kind of structured program can be ideal if you want guidance, a clear curriculum, and quicker results.

• DIY Self-Study: If you prefer a self-paced, lower-cost approach, we’ve created a Remote Coding Roadmap ebook that outlines exactly what to learn and in what order. It’s great for disciplined learners on a budget. The roadmap points you to free/cheap online courses, practice projects, and interview prep resources so you can land a junior tech role without formal schooling. Essentially, it’s the path we wish we had when starting out!

Jobs you can get: After gaining some skills and experience, you can pursue titles like Web Developer, Software Engineer, Data Analyst, Data Scientist, UX/UI Designer, DevOps Engineer, QA Tester, and more. Many entry-level remote tech jobs don’t require a college degree – employers care more about what you can do (your portfolio, projects, and certifications). Plus, tech skills give you the flexibility to either freelance (take on coding projects for various clients) or land a full-time remote job with a company. For instance, you might start by freelancing on platforms like to build experience and income on your own schedule. Or you could aim for a full-time role at a remote-friendly company for a steady salary and benefits (like health insurance, 401k, etc.). It’s up to you – tech skills open doors to both paths.

Expected lifestyle: Remote tech jobs tend to offer some of the highest salaries in the remote work world. An entry-level developer working remotely might start around $65k–$80k/year, and within a few years (or a few promotions) could be making well into six figures. These jobs are usually full-time (40 hours/week), but often come with flexibility in when you work, as long as you meet your deadlines. Some companies still like a 9–5 schedule (especially if working in teams), but others are result-oriented and let you arrange your own hours. Stability is generally high – if you have the right skills, you’re likely to find consistent work since tech talent is in demand. And unlike some simpler remote gigs, these roles are less likely to be automated or outsourced anytime soon. There’s always new tech emerging, but humans are still very much needed for complex development and creative problem-solving.

Examples of High-Paying Remote Tech Jobs

To inspire you, here are a few of the highest-paying remote-friendly tech roles (and what they do):

1. Machine Learning Engineer – Builds algorithms and AI models (think of the brains behind recommendation engines or AI applications). Average Salary: ~$85,000 - $260,000+ (experience and company size make a big range)

2. Data Scientist – Analyzes complex datasets to extract insights for business decisions. Requires stats and programming knowledge. Average Salary: ~$80,000 - $220,000+

3. DevOps Engineer – Focuses on automating and streamlining software development and IT operations (CI/CD pipelines, cloud infrastructure). Average Salary: ~$80,000 - $200,000+

4. Cloud Architect – Designs and manages cloud computing systems for organizations. Often requires deep knowledge of platforms like AWS or Azure. Average Salary: ~$120,000 - $220,000+

5. Blockchain Developer – Develops applications using blockchain tech (for cryptocurrencies, smart contracts, etc.). Average Salary: ~$80,000 - $200,000+

6. Software Developer (Web/Mobile) – Creates software applications for web or mobile. (This is a broad category; specific technologies or industries can affect pay.) Average Salary: ~$70,000 - $120,000+

7. Information Security Analyst – Protects computer systems and networks from breaches and cyberattacks. Average Salary: ~$75,000 - $125,000+

8. Cybersecurity Engineer – Designs and implements security measures to safeguard systems. Average Salary: ~$85,000 - $130,000+

(These are ballpark figures; salaries vary by region and company. For instance, a US-based developer might earn more than one based elsewhere, but the cost of living differs. The beauty of remote work is you might earn a U.S. salary while living somewhere with a lower cost – a concept called geoarbitrage we’ll touch on later!)

Resources to get started: In addition to our own bootcamp and roadmap, there are many online platforms where you can begin learning tech skills. For example, freeCodeCamp, Codecademy, Coursera, and Udemy offer beginner-friendly coding courses (some free, some low-cost). The key is consistent practice and building a portfolio of small projects to show off your abilities. We also have an in-depth article on High-Paying Remote Tech Careers (covering what each role entails and which skills or certs you’d need) – check that out if you want to explore specific tech roles further.

Pro Tip: Don’t be intimidated if you don’t consider yourself “techy” right now. With the right roadmap and support, people from all kinds of backgrounds – teachers, artists, even truck drivers – have learned to code and switched into remote tech jobs. If you’re willing to invest a few months in learning, this path can transform your earning potential and freedom.

Remote Careers in Non-Tech Fields

Digital Marketing & Social Media

Do you have a knack for communication, social media, or strategy? Digital marketing could be a great remote career for you. Companies frequently hire remote roles like social media managers, SEO specialists, content marketers, email marketing coordinators, etc. If you’re creative or analytical (or both!), marketing lets you exercise those muscles and directly impact a business’s growth from anywhere.

• Expected Pay Range: This can vary widely. Entry-level digital marketing assistants might start around $40k/year, whereas experienced marketing managers or strategists can earn $60k–$100k+. High-level consultants or directors might even exceed $120k, especially if they drive big results. It’s a field where results and experience often matter more than having a specific degree.

• Reliability: Medium-High. Every company needs marketing! There’s steady demand across industries, particularly for roles tied to revenue (like paid advertising specialists or email marketing experts). Good marketers who can show ROI tend to have very secure jobs or client rosters. Freelancers can build up retainers with multiple clients for consistent income.

• Ease to Start: Moderate. You don’t need an advanced degree, but you do need to build skills and a portfolio. The barrier to entry is learning the ropes – understanding social media algorithms, SEO basics, ad platforms, etc. Luckily, there are many online courses and certifications to get you up to speed.

• AI Risk: Moderate. AI tools are emerging that can automate certain marketing tasks (for example, generating basic content or crunching analytics). But human marketers are still crucial for strategy, creative campaign ideas, and nuanced communication that connects with people. In fact, savvy marketers use AI as a helper to be more effective, rather than fear it.

• How to Begin: Start by educating yourself. Google offers free certificates in digital marketing and analytics which are great fundamentals. You can also find affordable, in-depth courses on platforms like Udemy for specific skills – e.g. a course on Facebook Ads, SEO, or content strategy. Building your own small project can help too: perhaps manage social media for a friend’s business, start a blog or Instagram about a topic you love, or volunteer to do marketing for a local nonprofit. These become portfolio pieces to show potential employers or clients. Networking in online marketing communities can also open doors; sometimes gigs are posted in Facebook groups or LinkedIn for marketers.

Writing & Content Creation

Are you good with words? Remote writing gigs are abundant – from freelance blogging and copywriting to full-time positions like technical writer, editor, or content strategist. Companies need content for their websites, marketing materials, and documentation, and many are happy to work with remote writers.

• Average Pay Range: Low to Medium. Many freelance writers might start around $30k/year if they’re doing it full-time, but experienced writers (especially in copywriting, technical writing, or grant writing) can earn $60k–$90k+ annually. On a per-article or per-hour basis, rates can range a lot: newbies might make $0.05/word while seasoned pros charge $0.50/word or more. There are also outliers (successful authors, etc.), but generally writing isn’t the highest-paid unless you specialize.

• Reliability: Medium. There’s a consistent need for written content, but competition is high. Freelance writing can be feast-or-famine if you rely on one-off gigs. However, many writers establish steady relationships with a few clients or find part-time contracts that provide reliable income. If you position yourself in a niche (say, writing about finance, tech, healthcare), you might find more regular work at higher rates.

• Ease to Start: High. Writing is one of the easiest remote fields to start in because you can do it without any official credentials – you just need to demonstrate your writing ability. If you have some writing samples (even self-published), you can start pitching clients. Platforms like ProBlogger job board, Upwork, or Freelancer.com have tons of postings for writers. The challenge is often building a portfolio and reputation to move up to better-paying gigs.

• AI Risk: Medium-High. With the rise of AI (like GPT-3/4), some lower-level writing tasks (simple articles, product descriptions) might be automated or at least the market rates for those might drop. However, quality writing that requires research, unique insight, brand voice, or storytelling still demands a human touch. Great writers who can adapt and maybe even use AI as a drafting tool will continue to be valuable. (Think of AI as a helper for first drafts, while you refine and add the soul.)

• How to Begin: Put together 2-3 writing samples (on topics you’d want to get paid to write about). They could be blog posts on Medium or WordPress, articles on LinkedIn, a YouTube or Vimeo channel, or even mock pieces you create and save as PDFs. Start applying to writing gigs – even if they’re small at first. Each piece you publish or client you impress can lead to referrals and a stronger portfolio. You can also improve your skills and credibility through courses (e.g., a copywriting or content marketing course on Udemy or a content marketing certification from HubSpot). And don’t be shy about your expertise from previous jobs or studies – if you were an accountant and can write about finance, or a teacher who can write about education, that domain knowledge is a big plus!

Virtual Assistance & Administrative Roles

If you’re organized, reliable, and good at multitasking, Virtual Assistant (VA) work can be a quick way to start earning remotely. VAs provide administrative support to businesses or entrepreneurs from afar – tasks might include managing emails and calendars, booking travel, doing research, data entry, social media posting, customer service, and more. It’s like being an executive assistant, just done online. This category can also include related roles like remote administrative assistants, receptionists, or project coordinators.

• Average Pay Range: Low to Medium. General virtual assistants often charge $15–$25 per hour when starting out. So if you cobble together full-time hours, that’s roughly $30k–$50k per year. With more experience or specialized skills (e.g. you also do bookkeeping or social media management), some VAs earn $30–$50/hour. There are even “VA agencies” that charge clients a premium and pay VAs higher rates for niche expertise.

• Reliability: Medium. There’s strong demand for VAs because many individuals and small businesses would rather outsource admin tasks. If you’re good, you may find long-term clients who keep you on retainer. However, as a contractor you might lose a client here or there, so having a couple of clients at once is ideal for stability. Overall, reliable VAs are almost always busy – word of mouth can keep opportunities flowing.

• Ease to Start: High. You can start as a VA with no formal training – it’s more about demonstrating competence and trustworthiness. You can literally create a profile on a freelancing platform today and start applying to basic VA jobs (like data entry or scheduling). The entry barrier is low, though scaling up to a high income might require expanding your skillset. There are even VA training courses that teach you how to find clients and package your services.

• AI Risk: Low-Medium. Some simple admin tasks (like scheduling or basic data sorting) might be automated by AI or software. But the role of a VA often requires human judgment and personal interaction – understanding the client’s needs, making judgment calls, and providing a personal touch. Those are hard to fully automate. In fact, AI tools can make a VA’s job easier (e.g. using an AI email triage tool), so embracing tech can make you an even more efficient VA.

• How to Begin: Decide what services you can offer (and enjoy). Common ones: email and calendar management, travel planning, social media management, basic bookkeeping, customer support, etc. Set up a LinkedIn profile or a simple one-page website highlighting your services. Then, join freelance marketplaces like Upwork or Fiverr and apply to VA gigs. You can also network in virtual assistant Facebook groups – clients sometimes post opportunities there. There are also VA-specific job boards and agencies. If you want more guidance, there are online courses and communities for VAs that can provide tips and even client leads (some are paid courses – you can find a few on Udemy or via VA coaches). But honestly, you can get started on your own by pitching what you already know how to do!

Graphic Design & Creative

Are you artistic or skilled in design tools? Graphic designers, video editors, illustrators, and even UX/UI designers (if you don’t go full coding) often work remotely on a freelance or contract basis. Clients care about your portfolio more than anything. If you have design talent, you can service clients remotely or land a remote job at a company as a designer.
➜ Expected pay: A junior graphic designer might start around $40k/year. Freelancers might charge per project – e.g. $50 for a simple logo or $500+ for a full brand package – it depends on your positioning. Highly skilled designers can earn a very good living remotely, especially in niches like animation or UX design, which can reach similar pay levels to tech jobs in some cases.
➜ How to get started: Build a portfolio of sample work. Even redesigning a few famous logos or making up fictitious projects can show your skills. Use platforms like to showcase your work. You might take some courses on Adobe Creative Suite, UX design (if interested in app/web design, which overlaps with tech), or even for quick social media graphics – whatever suits your niche. Remote design jobs can be found on job boards like Dribbble Jobs, We Work Remotely, or again freelance sites.

Graphic Design & User Experience (UX)

• Average Pay Range: Medium to high — typically $25–$75/hour for freelancers. Junior remote employees may start around $40k/year, while experienced designers or specialists (e.g., UX/UI, animation) can earn $70k–$120k+.

• Reliability: Medium. Freelance work can be inconsistent early on, but steady once you build a client base or niche (e.g., branding, UX, motion design). Remote employment roles are more stable.

• Ease to Start: Moderate. Requires portfolio creation and tool familiarity (e.g., Adobe Suite, Canva, Figma). Entry is accessible but competitive — strong visual work stands out.

• Risk of AI Replacement: Medium. Basic layout or template work may be impacted by tools like Canva AI or DALL·E, but creative strategy, branding, UX, and custom illustration still require human judgment.

• Affordable Quick Start: Build a portfolio on platforms like Behance or Dribbble. Take beginner-friendly courses on Udemy (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Figma) or practice on Canva. Offer initial services on Fiverr or Upwork (e.g., logos, social posts, brand kits). Use free trials of tools to learn before investing in licenses.

Are you artistic or skilled in design tools? Remote work has plenty of room for creatives. Graphic designers, visual designers, video editors, illustrators, even UX/UI designers (who overlap with tech) can often work from anywhere. If you have a good eye and some software skills (Adobe CC, Figma, Final Cut, Canva, etc.), you can serve clients all over the world without being in an office. Creative roles are very portfolio-driven – it’s about what you can create.

• Average Pay Range: Medium. For full-time remote jobs, a junior graphic designer might earn around $40k–$50k/year, while a senior designer or art director can earn $80k–$100k+. Freelance designers often charge per project or an hourly rate: newbies might start at $20/hour, whereas experienced designers can charge $50-$100/hour or more, depending on specialization. Niche skills like animation or UX design tend to command higher rates.

• Reliability: Medium. Good design is always needed, but the market is also pretty saturated with designers. The key is carving out a niche or style that sets you apart and continuously updating your skills as design trends and tools evolve. Many remote designers juggle multiple clients; losing one client isn’t a big deal if you have others, but you do have to consistently market yourself especially early on. Over time, many freelance designers get a stable of repeat clients or long-term contracts. In a company setting, a talented designer with a strong portfolio will have a fairly secure job, though there’s competition for those roles.

• Ease to Start: Medium. You can start learning design on your own (there are tons of tutorials and courses), and you can build a portfolio by creating sample works. The challenge is that without a portfolio, it’s hard to get clients – but without clients, how do you build a portfolio? The trick is to do practice projects: redesign a famous logo for fun, make posters for imaginary events, contribute to open-source UI projects, or volunteer design work for a charity. These pieces can fill your portfolio even if you weren’t paid. Entry-level opportunities do exist (e.g., production design roles, creating simple graphics for blogs, etc.), and those can be steppingstones.

• AI Risk: Medium. AI design tools (like logo generators or AI image creators) are emerging, which can handle simple or generic design tasks. This means designers doing very basic work might feel some pressure. However, creative work that requires a unique vision, complex decision-making, or brand consistency will still need a human touch. Many designers are actually using AI tools to speed up their workflow (for example, using AI to generate ideas or automate tedious parts of editing), then adding their expert finish. The net result could be positive for creative productivity.

• How to Begin: Sharpen your skills with design software – Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator for graphics, Figma or Adobe XD for UI/UX, Premiere or DaVinci for video, etc. There are great courses on Udemy for all of these, as well as platforms like Skillshare or YouTube tutorials. Simultaneously, start building that portfolio. You can host your work on Behance or Dribbble (which are also frequented by recruiters looking for talent). Apply for small gigs on freelance sites or check remote job boards for junior design roles. And remember, networking isn’t just for business folks – interact with other designers online, join design communities, share your work on social media. Sometimes a Twitter or LinkedIn post showing your design can lead to a client inquiry out of the blue!

Other Professional Roles Now Going Remote

Many traditional careers have remote options now. To name a few: Project Managers, Accountants/Bookkeepers, HR Recruiters, Customer Support Specialists, Teachers/Tutors, Lawyers, Therapists (via telehealth), and so on. If you have a professional background, there’s a good chance you can find a way to do that work remotely or at least partially remotely.

A few examples:

• Project Management: A lot of project manager jobs in IT, construction, marketing, etc., can be done remotely with the help of collaboration tools. Pay might range from $60k for entry-level coordinators to $120k+ for experienced PMs (with PMP certification or similar). In remote settings, strong communication and organization skills are key.

• Accounting/Bookkeeping: Cloud accounting software (QuickBooks Online, Xero) makes it easy for accountants and bookkeepers to work from anywhere. You might find remote roles with accounting firms or freelance for small businesses. Many bookkeepers start around $40k and experienced accountants can make $70k+. Credentials (CPA, etc.) help for higher-paying jobs.

• HR and Recruiting: Recruiting, especially in the tech industry, is often done remotely now. You’ll spend time on LinkedIn, doing video interviews, etc. HR roles like HR Generalist or Benefits Coordinator can sometimes be remote too (especially for distributed companies). Salaries vary widely, but recruiting can be lucrative if commissions are involved.

• Customer Service/Support: Lots of companies hire virtual customer support reps or chat support. This is often entry-level friendly. Pay might be hourly, equivalent to $30k–$45k/year, and the stability is usually good (but the work can be repetitive, and schedules might be fixed). This is a common choice for people looking to work from home without needing new qualifications – just a quiet workspace and good people skills.

• Healthcare & Counseling: With telehealth, roles like remote nurses (telephone triage or case management), therapists providing online counseling, or medical coders have grown. These generally require the relevant degrees/licenses, but they offer the flexibility of working from a home office.

How to get started in these roles: It often involves a traditional job search, just filtering for “remote” positions. Use LinkedIn, Indeed, or specialized job boards to look for remote listings in your field. You may need to tweak your resume to highlight remote-relevant skills (such as proficiency with remote collaboration tools, self-motivation, etc.). Tailor your resume to highlight any experience with remote collaboration tools (did you work with teams in different cities? did you use Zoom/Slack/Asana in previous jobs? mention that!). If you lack a certain certification that’s common in your field (like a Project Management Professional (PMP) certificate for project managers, or a QuickBooks ProAdvisor certification for bookkeepers, a CPA for accounting, TEFL for teaching English, etc.), consider obtaining it online to boost your credibility. You can also create a professional website using affordable hosting services (e.g., Bluehost, Wix) to boost your credibility further. Networking can also help here – for example, if you’re an accountant, join online groups for remote accountants or freelancers and see what paths others took.

Tips for Landing Non-Tech Remote Jobs

• Upskill if needed: For non-tech roles, one of the best things you can do is take an online course or certification to build the specific skill needed for the remote job you want. Identify if there’s a gap you need to close (e.g., learning a specific software or getting a certification). A little course or certificate can go a long way in making you competitive. Many are available online.

• Create an online presence: For creative fields, an online portfolio is a must. For others, having a polished LinkedIn profile is important. Consider writing a LinkedIn post or article about your field – showing you’re engaged in remote work topics could catch an employer’s eye.

• Leverage your existing experience: Even if you haven’t worked remotely before, you likely have valuable experience. Emphasize any instances of independent work or using digital tools. For example, “Led a project team across three offices using virtual collaboration tools” or “Managed client accounts remotely via email/phone.” These hints show you can handle remote coordination.

• Use specialized job boards: Aside from big sites like LinkedIn or Indeed, try remote-specific boards for non-tech jobs. Websites like Remote.co, We Work Remotely, FlexJobs, and Virtual Vocations often list marketing, customer service, and other remote professional jobs. Some are free, some may require a subscription for full access (FlexJobs, for example).

• Stay adaptable: The remote job landscape is evolving and remote jobs demand the latest remote skills. Be open to starting with a hybrid situation or a contract gig to get your foot in the door. Once you have proven remote experience, it becomes easier to land the next fully remote role.

Travel-Friendly Jobs (Work & Explore the World)

One of the top reasons people pursue remote work is the dream of traveling or living abroad. And while fully remote jobs (like coding, marketing, or content writing) make it possible to live anywhere, there’s another category of work worth knowing about — jobs specifically designed to help you explore the world, often with built-in visa pathways, housing perks, or cultural exchange benefits. Even if they aren’t high paying in the traditional sense, they typically offer a legal way to stay in a country longer than a tourist visa would allow (we’ll explain why this is important below).

We’re talking about work-and-travel jobs — opportunities like:

• Teaching English abroad

• Becoming an au pair

• Taking a working holiday

• Doing volunteer or work-exchange programs

• Or even working on cruise ships or as a flight attendant

While these roles might not be the highest paying, they make it easy to get abroad fast, often at a very low cost or no cost at all. In fact, they’re some of the easiest ways to legally live and work in a foreign country — even without a fancy degree or years of experience.

Want to Work Abroad Legally? Here’s the Catch (and the Hack):

If you’ve ever thought, “I’d love to get a job in Europe or Asia, but how would I even start?” — you’re not alone. The truth is:

✅ To work in a foreign country, you need a work visa.
❌ But to get a work visa… most countries require a job offer first.
🔄 And to get a job offer, most companies want you to already have a visa.

It’s a frustrating loop. But there are proven ways to break out of that cycle and make your overseas dream job happen:

1. Get there first (then look for work)

Some people fly to their target country on a tourist visa or a working holiday visa, and look for jobs locally once they arrive. In-person networking, showing up to interviews, and being available on short notice all dramatically increase your odds of being hired. (Warning: some countries frown on job-hunting while on a tourist visa, so that’s why we recommend these other options.)

2. Study first, work later

If you enroll in a university or vocational program abroad, you’ll often receive a student visa that includes the right to work part-time. After graduation, many countries offer a post-study work visa, allowing you to stay and apply for jobs. This route is more expensive but a great way to immigrate permanently - and one of the few options that occasionally have no age limits!

3. Start with a shortage job

This is the most affordable and effective fast-track path:
Apply for jobs that are in high demand in that country — especially those listed on the government’s “skills shortage” list. These roles often come with pre-approved work visas because the country needs people to fill them. We help people find these with our FastLane Abroad Service.

And guess what?
The #1 most in-demand job worldwide — found on the shortage lists of dozens of countries — is…

Teaching English!

If you’re a native English speaker (or near-fluent), you already qualify. With a quick TEFL certification (Teaching English as a Foreign Language), you can get hired to teach in South Korea, Spain, Thailand, Vietnam, Mexico, Japan — just to name a few. These jobs often include visa sponsorship, housing assistance, and travel reimbursements. Some countries (not all) require that you have any four-year degree, but many others just require a TEFL (120-hours of training) and to be a native-English speaker.

And here’s the bonus:

Even if you don’t want to move abroad, you can teach English online — a legit remote job that you can do from your laptop, anywhere in the world.

The Strategy in a Nutshell:

If you want to move abroad fast, don’t wait for the perfect remote job or visa. Start with something that gets you in the door, like:

• A job that comes with visa sponsorship (teaching, au pair, hospitality)

• A working holiday visa (if you're eligible by age/nationality)

• A student visa with work rights

Once you’re in the country legally, doors start to open:

• You can network in person

• You’re eligible for local job listings

• You’ve gained cultural and language experience

• You may be able to switch to a better job or apply for a new visa after your contract ends

Think of it as Stage One of a bigger plan. You're not stuck in that first job forever — you're using it to leverage your next opportunity.

Next: Explore the Best Work & Travel Jobs

These are some of the most popular “earn-while-you-travel” jobs that can get you abroad, help you get a visa, or fund your lifestyle while you explore:

• Teach English Abroad

• Become an Au Pair

• Working Holiday Visas

• Work Exchange / Volunteer Programs

• Cruise Ship Jobs

• Flight Attendant Training

Each of these has pros, cons, and pathways that we’ll break down in the next section — so you can choose the best fit for your goals, timeline, and personality.

Teaching English (TEFL/TESOL) – online or abroad

Teaching English as a foreign language is arguably the easiest way to start working abroad if you’re a native (or fluent) English speaker. It’s a common first step for many world travelers – in fact, a number of famous travel bloggers and digital nomads funded their early adventures by teaching English overseas (Drew Binsky started out by teaching English in South Korea. Nomadic Matt started out by teaching English in Thailand. The couple from Goats on the Road - Nick and Dariece - started out by teaching English in China. Even Jenny - from Eat Wander Explore - started out by teaching English in Japan). You can go teach in a school abroad (very common in Asia, Europe, South America) or teach online from wherever you are (or you can do a mix of both over time).

Teach Abroad (In-Person): Countries like Japan, South Korea, China, Thailand, Vietnam, Spain, Mexico, and many others constantly seek English teachers. Typically, you’d sign a 6–12-month contract with a school or language institute. Requirements usually include being a native (or near-native) English speaker and having a TEFL certification, (TEFL = Teaching English as a Foreign Language). Some programs (especially in public schools) also require a bachelor’s degree in any subject, mainly for visa rules. The good news is these teaching jobs often include free housing or a housing allowance, assistance with your visa, and sometimes reimbursement for airfare. That means your major living expenses are covered, so even a modest local salary can go a long way.

• Example: In South Korea, an ESL teacher might earn around $1,800–$2,400 USD per month, plus a free apartment. In China, it could be about $1,200–$2,000/month plus housing. In less-developed countries, the pay might be lower (maybe $800–$1,500/month), but the cost of living is also very low, and housing might be provided. You won’t get rich doing this, but you can usually live comfortably and even save a bit of money (many teachers save $5k-$10k in a year) because your rent is $0 and local food/transport is cheap. Teaching hours are typically around 25 hours of classroom time per week (plus prep), so it’s a full-time job, but not an overwhelming schedule. It’s a fantastic way to experience a new culture while having a safety net (salary & housing).

Teach English Online: If moving abroad isn’t feasible right now, you can still teach English remotely! There are many online tutoring platforms – e.g. VIPKid, Tutor.com, Outschool, Teachable, Cambly, iTalki, and Preply, to name a few – where students (often children in other countries, like China or Korea) take English lessons over video chat. You set your availability and conduct 25min or 50min lessons using their curriculum (or sometimes your own). You can also find students independently via tutoring marketplaces or even market yourself on social media.

• Pay: Online teaching typically pays hourly. Beginners usually start around $10–$20 per hour. If you have a degree, a TEFL certificate, or experience, you might find gigs in the $20–$30/hour range (for example, some companies that cater to European or business clients pay more, or private students you find on your own might pay premium). Realistically, many new online teachers might make ~$15/hr to start. If you manage to fill a schedule of 20-30 hours a week, that’s about ~$1,500 – $2,000 a month, which can support you in a low-cost country. Some industrious teachers who work peak hours for multiple platforms (and have top reviews) can push closer to $3,000–$4,000 a month, but that usually comes after building some reputation. It’s often a good side income to combine with something else, unless you commit to it full-time. The nice thing is the flexibility – you can open slots when you want, and teach from anywhere you have stable internet. Demand is generally steady; millions of people worldwide want to learn English, so it’s a skill you can always fall back on.

How to Get Started (and Why TEFL Certification Matters): The main credential you’ll need is a TEFL certificate (or TESOL, which is essentially the same type of certification). This typically involves ~100-120 hours of coursework, which you can do online in as quick as a few weeks (intensively) or over a couple months part-time. The course teaches you how to plan lessons, teach English grammar, manage a classroom, and so on. While it might not be legally required in every situation, having a TEFL cert will make your life a lot easier: better job offers, higher pay in some cases, and the ability to get a work visa for teaching jobs. The good news is TEFL courses aren’t very expensive, and some even include job placement assistance or internships.

We partner with a TEFL provider, Premier TEFL, that offers reputable online TEFL courses plus they’ll guarantee you an internship placement after you certify (check out their guaranteed internship programs). That means when you finish your course, they line up a teaching placement for you in an exciting location (Europe, Asia, etc.) so you can hit the ground running. Programs like these also often help with your visa paperwork, and some include accommodations during the internship. It’s a fantastic option if you want a smoother transition into teaching abroad without doing all the job hunting yourself. (We love this because it removes a huge barrier – instead of “I got certified, now what?”, you have a position waiting for you.)

If you’d rather find jobs on your own, you absolutely can – just join some TEFL job boards or Facebook groups (there are many where schools post openings) and start applying to the country of your choice. And if you’re going the online route, look at companies like VIPKid or Preply and see their requirements to apply (usually the TEFL certificate and a practice demo lesson video).

Au Pair Programs (work-and-travel with free housing)

If you’re a younger adult (usually 18–30 range) and love the idea of cultural exchange (especially if you enjoy caring for kids), becoming an au pair is another unique way to live abroad. An au pair is like a nanny or big sibling from another country: you live with a host family and help with childcare and light household duties, in exchange for free room & board, meals, and a small stipend. It’s a work-and-travel cultural immersion program that can be an adventure in itself.

• What to Expect: As an au pair, you’ll typically be part of the family’s daily life. You might get the kids ready for school, play with them, help with homework, maybe do some light housework or cooking for the kids. Au pairs usually work ~25–35 hours per week, and have at least 1-2 days off weekly (plus sometimes a bit of paid vacation during the year). The program length is often 6 months to 1 year (with possibility to extend). Au pair arrangements are common in Europe (France, Germany, Spain, Nordic countries), the United States, and elsewhere. Each country has its own au pair visa with specific rules – for example, the U.S. au pair program requires you to be 18-26, unmarried with no children of your own, and it’s arranged through designated agencies. European countries often allow au pairs up to age 30.

• Pay (Stipend): Au pairs are not paid a traditional salary; think of it more as pocket money since your housing and meals are covered. For instance, in the U.S., host families must provide a minimum stipend of about $195.75 per week (around $800/month). Many families voluntarily give a bit more, but it’s not a lot in pure cash. In Western Europe, stipends might range from ~€250 to €450 per month, again depending on country and hours. Clearly, you won’t do an au pair program to make money – the real “pay” is free accommodation (often in expensive cities) and the experience of living abroad cheaply.

• Perks: The perks are huge if you value travel and culture. Your room and meals are covered, so you can live in (say) Paris, Tokyo, or Berlin without paying rent – that’s thousands of dollars saved. Many programs also include additional benefits: for example, U.S. au pairs get up to $500 toward taking classes at a local college (it’s a cultural exchange requirement). Some families might include you in their travels or holidays (imagine summer vacation in a different part of the country, all expenses paid). You’ll also typically have health insurance arranged through the program and sometimes transportation (like a transit pass). Perhaps the biggest perk: you become part of a family in another country. You’ll learn the language, traditions, and lifestyle in an authentic way. Many au pairs form lifelong bonds with their host families.

• How to Get Started: It’s wise to go through a reputable agency or platform to ensure everything is legit and the family is vetted. For example, AuPairWorld (a popular site to find host families globally) or agencies like InterExchange (for the U.S. au pair program) are good starting points. We recommend checking out AuPairWorld (great for Europe and beyond) and InterExchange’s Au Pair USA program if you’re interested in coming to the States. These organizations guide you through the process, help with matching you to a family, and assist with the visa. General requirements: usually you need to be within the specified age range (18–26 for USA, up to 30 for others), have a clean background, and some childcare experience (could be as informal as babysitting siblings or neighbors – you typically detail this in your application). Being open-minded, adaptable, and genuinely liking kids are musts. Often you’ll also need basic knowledge of the host country’s language (not always mandatory, but it helps – e.g., knowing some French if you’re going to France).

• Is it for Me? Au pairing is best for someone who wants a cultural immersion and doesn’t mind putting career on pause for a bit or doing childcare as the main work. It’s popular as a gap year experience or a steppingstone: e.g., you spend a year in Germany as an au pair, become fluent in German, then later that could help you get another job in Germany or simply enrich your life experience. It’s also one of the few ways to legally stay long-term in a country without being a student or having a traditional work visa, which is valuable in itself. If you need to be earning a large salary, this isn’t for you right now – but if you value the experience and can afford to earn little for 6-12 months, it can be amazing. Some au pairs use their time abroad to also take language classes (often required in Europe) or do side courses online, so you come back with enhanced skills.

Resources: To learn more or find au pair opportunities, check out platforms like AuPair.com or AuPairWorld for self-service matching. For Americans wanting to au pair in Europe, those sites work too. If you’re non-American and want to au pair in the US, you must go through one of about a dozen official agencies – InterExchange’s Au Pair USA and AuPairCare are examples. They will handle the visa sponsorship and match you with vetted families.

Other Work-Travel Opportunities (Working Holidays, Seasonal Jobs, etc.)

Beyond TEFL and au pair, there are a few other ways to combine work and travel, especially if you are under 30 (since many of these options have age limits):

• Working Holiday Visas: Countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the UK, Japan, South Korea, and many others have working holiday agreements. These visas allow young adults (usually 18–30 or 35) from eligible countries to live and work in the host country for 1-2 years. On a working holiday, you can take on short-term jobs like hospitality, farm work, retail, or office temp jobs to fund your travels. For example, Australia’s working holiday visa is famous – travelers earn money picking fruit, working at cafes, or other gigs, then travel around. It’s not remote work per se (you’re working locally in the country), but it does offer the freedom to move around and experience a new place while making money. Pay can vary; some jobs might just cover basic expenses, others (like working in a skill shortage job) can pay decently. If you’re itching for adventure and are okay with odd jobs, this is a path to consider. Programs often include support in finding work, and certain jobs (like farm work in Australia) can even earn you an extension on the visa.

• Seasonal or Cruise Jobs: Another angle – some folks take seasonal jobs in tourism (like working a ski season at a resort where lodging is provided, or a summer job at a national park lodge - there’s even an amazing one in Switzerland!). These jobs typically provide housing and maybe meals, similar to au pair in that you live on-site, and you earn a wage (which might be modest, but with few expenses). Working on a cruise ship or for an airline (flight attendant) also technically lets you travel for a living, though those are quite specific careers and involve long hours. The point is, if your priority is to travel now and not necessarily build a new career immediately, these options can be a fun way to sustain your travels for a while.

• Volunteering/Work Exchange: Websites like Workaway, HelpX, WWOOF connect travelers with hosts offering room and board in exchange for a few hours of work per day. This isn’t a paid job (more like volunteering), but it can extend your travels on the cheap. You might help on a farm, in a hostel, or even with babysitting (similar to au pair but usually shorter-term and less formal). We mention it because it’s part of the broader “nomadic lifestyle” toolkit. Just keep in mind, since it’s not paid, it’s something you do when you have savings or another income stream (like a remote freelance gig you do on the side).

We’ve partnered with a few organizations that specialize in work & travel programs and have already mentioned the TEFL internship program. We also recommend checking out work exchange programs that sometimes even cover airfare – yes, a few programs will pay for your flight if you commit to a contract. For example, some government-sponsored teaching programs (like in South Korea or Japan’s JET Program) include airfare, and certain farm work programs in Australia offer travel stipends. Keep an eye on our resources page for links to these opportunities (or reach out to us – we’re happy to point you in the right direction and share any current deals we know of).

As you can see, there are many ways to see the world while supporting yourself. Some, like teaching or a working holiday, give you an official visa to stay abroad. Others, like freelancing online or doing work exchanges, rely on the flexibility that remote income gives you to travel on tourist visas (or short-term stays). In the next section, let’s talk a bit about those remote work visas and the concept of geoarbitrage, which can be a game-changer for remote workers.

Remote Work Visas & Geoarbitrage

One amazing advantage of remote work is the ability to geoarbitrage – a fancy term for earning in a strong currency or high-paying economy, while living in a place with a lower cost of living. For example, if you have a U.S. remote job paying U.S. wages, but you decide to live in, say, Thailand, Mexico, or rural Portugal, you might find your expenses are half (or less) of what they’d be in a big American city. That means you can save more money, or work fewer hours, or simply enjoy a higher quality of life on the same salary. Geoarbitrage is how some remote workers accelerate reaching financial goals (like paying off debt or achieving FIRE – Financial Independence Retire Early) while still enjoying life’s adventures (learn more about geoarbitrage here).

Remote Work Visas (Digital Nomad Visas): Pre-2020, most remote workers were technically just tourists hopping around on tourist visas (which usually limit you to 30, 60, or 90 days in a country). But now, many countries have introduced special visas for remote workers to attract these “long-term tourists” who bring in foreign income. These are often called Digital Nomad Visas or Remote Work Visas. They generally allow you to stay longer (6-12 months, sometimes extendable) and legally reside in the country without local employment, as long as you prove you have a remote job or business and meet an income threshold.

A few examples: Estonia was one of the first, with a digital nomad visa requiring around €3,500 monthly income. Portugal now has a popular one (also around €2,800/month income requirement) and it’s a pathway to even permanent residency if you fall in love with Portugal. Spain launched a remote work visa too. Germany has something called a Freelance “Freiberufler” visa in cities like Berlin for certain professions. Outside Europe, Dubai (UAE) offers a 1-year remote work visa (income requirement ~$5k/month). Costa Rica has a rentista visa that remote folks use, and Mexico has a Temporary Resident visa (good for up to 4 years) with an income or savings requirement. Thailand recently rolled out a longer-term visa targeting “high earners” and retirees (though Thailand also has a more accessible Education visa route if you enroll in language school). There are many others – from Croatia to Malaysia – and more countries keep joining the trend.

These visas typically require: proof of income (like pay stubs or a letter from your company, or proof of business income), proof of remote work (like a work contract or business registration), health insurance, a background check, and a fee. They don’t usually allow you to take local jobs (since you’re supposed to be remote). But they solve the problem of “I love Bali and want to stay longer than my 60-day tourist visa” in a legal, hassle-free way. Each country’s rules differ, so you’ll want to look up the specifics for any place you’re considering.

We maintain a lot of info on this subject in our Geoarbitrage Guide – essentially how to make the most of your money by living in the right places. If you’re strategic, you can significantly lower your expenses and maybe even invest the difference or enjoy things that used to feel out of reach. For instance, one person might choose to keep their San Francisco tech job but move to Bali, and suddenly they can afford a villa with a pool and have money left over – whereas in SF they had a tiny studio apartment and high bills. Another person might take a remote gig paying a bit less, but since they move to a cheaper town or country, it’s enough to live comfortably and spend more time with family or on hobbies.

Cost-of-Living Advantages: We’ve touched on this, but let’s underscore it – if you can earn, say, $3,000 USD a month, in some parts of Southeast Asia or Latin America that can provide a lifestyle that might require $6,000 or more in a major Western city. It varies of course (big cities like Paris or Singapore will always cost more than a small town), but having the choice means you can optimize for what matters to you. Some remote workers choose quieter rural settings to save money and enjoy nature; others hop between affordable cities; and some just stay in their home city but appreciate the flexibility remote work gives them (e.g., to move out of the city center, or travel often since work is portable).

A Quick Example: Imagine you get a fully remote job at a U.S. company that pays $70k/year. You could live in the U.S. with that (depending on the city, you’d be comfortable or maybe scraping by). Or, you could move to, say, Portugal or Mexico on a remote work visa. Suddenly, rent might be half or a third of what it was, healthcare is cheaper, a nice dinner out costs $10 instead of $40, etc. You’re saving a ton and living a travel adventure. Or if you don’t want to go abroad, even moving from a high-cost state to a low-cost state (New York to Tennessee, for example) is a form of geoarbitrage.

The big message here is: remote work unlocks your geographic options. You’re not tied to commuting distance or a company office, so you can live where you truly want to live. That might be your hometown near family, or a tropical island, or traveling to a new country every few months – up to you. And if you optimize it well, you can reach financial and personal goals faster. Check out our full Geoarbitrage Guide for detailed tips on picking destinations, real cost-of-living breakdowns in various countries, and how to manage things like banking and taxes while abroad.

Starting a Remote Business (With Low Overhead & Global Flexibility)

If you’re not looking for a job or freelance clients — and want to be your own boss, create scalable income, or build an asset that can grow over time — then starting a remote-friendly business might be your ideal path.

These aren’t traditional brick-and-mortar businesses. We're talking about lightweight, online-first business models you can start with minimal investment and run from anywhere with a laptop and Wi-Fi.

Below are remote business ideas that are beginner-friendly, affordable to launch, and viable from almost anywhere in the world:

Digital Product Business

Sell things like ebooks, templates, courses, printables, or digital art.

• Why it works: No shipping or inventory. You create it once and sell it infinitely. Platforms like Gumroad, Etsy, Payhip, or Teachable make setup easy.

• Examples: Budget planners, resume templates, wedding spreadsheets, digital journals, online courses, icon sets, music loops, etc.

• Startup cost: As low as $0–$100.

• Potential income: $500–$20,000/month+ depending on traffic, niche, and marketing.

• Skills needed: Basic graphic design (Canva is enough), copywriting, and marketing know-how.

• Recommended tools: Canva, Gumroad, ConvertKit, Etsy, or LearnWorlds.
  

Dropshipping or Print-on-Demand Ecommerce Store

Start a Shopify or Etsy store that sells physical products — but without inventory. A third party handles the printing or shipping.

• Why it works: No warehouse needed. Print-on-demand lets you sell t-shirts, mugs, and merch that’s printed and shipped when ordered.

• Reliability: Medium reliability, subject to market trends and competition.

• Examples: T-shirt brands, travel mugs with custom slogans, digital nomad merch.

• Startup cost: $100–$300. Ease to Start: Medium, requiring research, initial setup, and marketing.

• Potential income: $1,000–$10,000/month+ (but competitive). Highly variable; many beginners fail to generate significant revenue, as only about 1 in 20 achieve sustainable success long-term. New dropshippers generally earn between $500 and $3,000 per month while experienced ones can earn $10,000+ per month.

• Skills needed: Product research, branding, social media marketing, customer service.

• Recommended tools: Use e-commerce platforms (e.g., Shopify + Printful, Etsy + Printify, Squarespace, Gelato, or WooCommerce) which offer low-cost setup options.

• Risk of AI Replacement: Medium risk of replacement. AI can automate many aspects, but human oversight is crucial for brand building and customer relations.

Content-Based Business (Blog, YouTube, Podcast)

Monetize your audience through affiliate marketing, ads, sponsorships, or your own products.

• Why it works: You can build a brand and community around a topic you love. It’s scalable and semi-passive once monetized.

• Examples: Travel blogs, remote job channels, minimalist living podcasts, budgeting TikTokers.

• Startup cost: $50–$300 (domain, hosting, gear).

• Potential income: $0–$30,000+/month over time.

• Skills needed: Writing, SEO, video editing, consistency.

• Recommended platforms: WordPress, Substack, YouTube, Buzzsprout (podcasts), ConvertKit for email lists.
  

Remote Agency or Micro-Consulting

Package a skill into a business (design, marketing, bookkeeping, etc.) and build a small team or offer premium services.

• Why it works: You’re trading your knowledge instead of time. As demand grows, you can outsource and scale.

• Examples: Web design agency, social media content repurposing service, remote bookkeeping service, resume writing service.

• Startup cost: $200–$1,000.

• Potential income: $3,000–$25,000/month.

• Skills needed: Expertise in a service area + ability to manage clients or contractors.

• Recommended platforms: Dubsado (client management), Notion, Upwork (to find first clients), LinkedIn, Calendly.
  

Online Teaching or Coaching Business

Teach what you know via 1:1 sessions, group coaching, or paid webinars.

• Why it works: More people are learning online than ever. If you have a teachable skill, there’s a niche for it.

• Examples: Fitness coach, IELTS tutor, travel consultant, parenting coach, freelance business coach.

• Startup cost: $0–$500 (Zoom + landing page).

• Potential income: $500–$10,000+/month.

• Skills needed: Teaching, curriculum planning, people skills, marketing.

• Recommended platforms: Zoom, Teachable, Calendly, Thinkific, Kajabi.
  

Tourism or Local Service Business (While Living Abroad)

Live in a popular tourist destination? Consider launching a local offering for other remote workers or travelers.

• Examples: Local food tours, co-working & coliving rentals, airport pickups, tour planning, or language coaching.

• Why it works: Many expats or nomads want help navigating local culture. You’re bridging that gap.

• Startup cost: Highly variable. May require permits if operating physically.

• Potential income: $1,000–$10,000+/month depending on services.

• Tools to support it: WhatsApp Business, Booking.com, Airbnb Experiences, TripAdvisor listings.

How to Choose the Right Remote Business for You

Ask yourself:

• What skills or hobbies do I already have that people would pay for?

• Am I comfortable building an audience, or do I prefer behind-the-scenes services?

• Do I want fast income (e.g., freelance) or scalable income (e.g., digital products)?

• Do I want to stay solo or eventually hire help?

Even if you start small — selling a few templates on Etsy or freelancing on the side — you’re building a business foundation. Many of the world’s biggest online entrepreneurs started exactly this way.

Remote Business Options

A remote business, one that can be operated from anywhere in the world with a computer and internet, can prevent you from running out of money while you’re traveling. The freedom is real because you choose how much you work you do and you can shift to whatever interests you at the moment instead of getting stuck with a single remote job.

Some remote businesses involve web design or creating apps, others involve creating courses or books, and some are focused on creating blogs or vlogs. However, the most common one that family-based remote businesses use is based on real estate: renting out their homes, which can be done from anywhere in the world if you have the team in place to look over your properties.

Other Remote Business Ideas

Our list of other amazing business ideas explains how to create your own income stream doing what you love. Some of the other methods include creating online courses or writing e-books. Check them all out on this page.

Comparing Remote Career Options: Income and Lifestyle at a Glance

To wrap up the discussion of paths, here’s a quick comparison of the different remote work directions we’ve covered, in terms of earning potential, ease of starting, and lifestyle factors:

• Remote Tech Careers (Software, Data, etc.): Income: High (starting salaries often $60k+*, with potential beyond $100k). Startup Effort: High – requires several months of training/learning, but no degree needed if you follow a good roadmap. Lifestyle: Steady full-time work; can be freelance or employed. High demand means good job security. You’ll likely be working at a computer most of the day, solving problems – if you enjoy that, it’s very rewarding, and you can do it from anywhere with internet.
  

• Remote Non-Tech Professional Jobs (Marketing, Writing, Design, etc.): Income: Medium to High (very role-dependent, e.g., a remote marketing coordinator might earn $40k, a remote project manager $80k, a senior marketer or consultant $100k+). Freelancers in these fields might start low but can scale up to match or exceed salaries with experience. Startup Effort: Medium – you may need to take a course or build a portfolio, but you might already have some transferable skills. Lifestyle: If employed, similar to any office job (just at home); if freelance, flexibility increases. Competition can be strong since many people without tech skills pivot to these fields, so focus on niche skills or credentials to stand out.
  

• Teaching English / TEFL (Remote or Abroad): Income: Low to Medium (approximately $15–$25/hour online; $1k–$2.5k/month in many countries abroad with low living costs). Startup Effort: Low – requires a TEFL certificate (maybe 1-2 months of coursework) and being a fluent English speaker. Lifestyle: Culturally rich experience, especially abroad. You may have to adhere to class schedules (early mornings or evenings if teaching online to students in different time zones). It’s a fantastic short-term or entry path to support yourself while exploring the world or as a side income.
  

• Au Pair / Work Exchange: Income: Very Low (stipend of a few hundred dollars a month, essentially “fun money”). Startup Effort: Low – mainly applying through programs and paperwork/visa, plus some childcare experience helps. Lifestyle: Highly immersive – you live with a family abroad, so you must be adaptable to their rules and culture. Lots of free time in many cases (when kids are at school, etc.), but you are also “on call” as a big sister/brother figure. Great for travel and language learning, not for building savings.
  

• Freelancing (General): Income: Variable (can be anything from pocket change to six figures, depending on skill and client base). Many new freelancers hustle for small gigs ($5-$15/hour equivalent) before finding higher-paying clients. Startup Effort: Medium – you must learn a marketable skill and how to market yourself. Often involves trial and error and building a reputation. Lifestyle: Ultimate flexibility if successful; can be stressful initially. Requires discipline and comfort with uncertainty. Potential to scale into your own business or agency.
  

• Remote Employment (General): Income: Steady (whatever the salary is – could be low, could be high; but you know what you’re getting each month). Startup Effort: Medium – you have to apply and interview for jobs, which can take time and persistence, but once you land a job, the path is straightforward. Lifestyle: More routine, less isolation than freelance since you have coworkers (even if virtual). You might need to align with company hours/time zones. You have support from an employer (mentorship, structure), but less spontaneity in your schedule.

• App Development & Tech Consulting as a Remote Business: If you're building tech skills, you’re not limited to employment or freelancing — many developers launch remote-first businesses by creating and monetizing mobile or web apps, building SaaS tools for niche audiences, selling API access or no-code automation systems, offering specialized consulting in areas like DevOps, AI, or cloud infrastructure, and even licensing internal tools or templates to other businesses. This can be one of the most scalable and lucrative remote business models once you gain experience. Many solo developers earn six figures with micro-SaaS or monthly retainers as consultants.
  

*(Note on income ranges): Remember that salaries vary by country and company. A “high” income in one region might be average in another. The figures given are ballpark to show relative differences. Always research your specific target role and location for accurate numbers. For instance, a US-based remote software developer might earn $100k, whereas a similar role based in South America might earn $40k – still good locally, but different market rates. The beauty of remote work is you can sometimes geoarbitrage this (e.g., earn a US salary while living in a cheaper country). We delve into that in our Geoarbitrage Guide on the site.

Most Stable and Reliable Remote Jobs: Software development, high-level consulting, and successful e-commerce ventures are among the most lucrative, with reliable income streams available in remote employment and online education. Freelance work and content creation are easy to start but may vary in income stability.

Next Steps: Launching Your Remote Work Journey

You’ve made it through a ton of information – awesome! 🎉 By now, you might have an idea of which remote path (or combination of paths) resonates with you. So, what’s next? It’s time to take action and turn that remote work dream into reality. Here are some concrete next steps to get you moving:

1. Take the Remote Career Quiz (if you haven’t already). Our free quiz is a great starting point to focus your direction. It will suggest specific remote roles or businesses that fit your background and interests. You’ll get a personalized list of ideas (from the 100+ options in our database) plus resources for each suggestion. If you skipped it earlier, consider giving it a try now – it’s quick and surprisingly insightful (Find it at the top of this page or on our site’s menu).

2. Grab Your Free Remote Starter Kit. We’ve put together a Remote Career Starter Kit that you can download for free. Inside, you’ll find:

• A step-by-step checklist for starting your remote job search or setting up your remote business.

• A list of our favorite remote job boards and freelance marketplaces (so you know where to find opportunities).

• A sample “remote-ready” resume template to help you present your experience in the best light for remote roles.

• Our Freelancing Toolkit, which includes tips on setting your rates, writing proposals, and a basic contract template (super helpful if you’re going the freelance route).

To get the kit, just enter your email in the form at the bottom of this page. We’ll send it right over! 📩 (This will also subscribe you to our newsletter, where we occasionally send out remote work tips, new resources, and success stories – no spam, just useful content to keep you motivated.)

3. Start Building Relevant Skills. Based on the path you’re pursuing, consider what skills or certifications could boost your confidence and employability.

• Tech Path: Look into our Remote Coding Bootcamp if you want a guided, project-based learning experience with mentorship – it’s designed to fast-track you into a developer or data role. If you prefer self-study, our Remote Coding Roadmap book lays out the curriculum for you. Beyond our offerings, there are excellent free resources like freeCodeCamp (for web development) or The Odin Project, and inexpensive courses on Coursera or Udemy to learn everything from Python to UX Design. Don’t forget to actually build stuff (websites, apps, data projects) that you can show off to employers.

• Non-Tech Path: Identify one or two key skills to focus on (e.g., SEO for marketing, or QuickBooks for bookkeeping, or Adobe Illustrator for design). Platforms like Udemy are fantastic for bite-sized courses (often $10-$20 during sales) on practically any skill. Also consider official certs if applicable: Google has certificates in project management, UX design, and IT support; HubSpot offers free certs in marketing; PMI has project management credentials, etc. A certification or two can make your resume stand out and they can often be earned online.

• Teaching/Travel Path: If you’re leaning towards teaching English, a TEFL course is step one (as discussed). We recommend Premier TEFL (our readers get a discount via our link, plus that job placement assistance) for quality training. If you’re considering au pairing, start brushing up on the language of your target country and maybe take a short first-aid or childcare course (it can make your profile more appealing to host families). For working holidays, research the visa timeline (some have annual quotas or specific application seasons).

• Freelance Path: To succeed as a freelancer, beyond the core skill you’re offering, you might need to learn a bit about self-marketing and business. We love the book “Freelance to Freedom” by Vincent Pugliese for mindset and practical tips. Online, communities like the r/freelance subreddit or LinkedIn groups for freelancers are great for advice. If you haven’t already, create profiles on Upwork, Fiverr, or whatever platform suits your skill, and start applying for small gigs just to get your feet wet. The first gig is the hardest to get – after that, you build reviews and it gets easier.

• Business/Entrepreneur Path: If you plan to start an online business, try to validate your idea on a small scale first. For instance, if it’s a digital product, create a simple version and put it on Gumroad or Etsy to see if there’s interest. If it’s a service agency, try freelancing that service to gauge demand. There are many courses out there for specific online businesses (drop-shipping, course creation, etc.) but be wary of overly salesy “gurus.” We trust platforms like Coursera for general business courses or specific courses on, say, Shopify store setup on Udemy. Also, our Free Nomad MBA (mentioned earlier) might be useful – it’s geared towards launching and growing online income streams ethically and sustainably.

4. Set a Timeline and Routine. It’s easy for a goal like “learn to code” or “start applying to remote jobs” to fall by the wayside if you don’t create some structure for yourself. So, set a realistic timeline: Write it down. For example, “August - September: complete XYZ course, October: polish my resume/portfolio, November: start job applications or pitching clients.” Or maybe “Within 6 months, I will secure a remote job or have 3 steady freelance clients.” Having a target date can motivate you. Then, break it into a routine: dedicate certain hours each day or days each week for this purpose. Even if you’re busy with a current job or school, could you spare 1 hour a day or 5 hours on weekends for your future? Consistency beats cramming. Little steps each day (one lesson, one job application, one networking email) add up to big leaps before you know it.

5. Connect with the Community (and Us!). Remember, you’re not doing this alone. There are thousands of others on this journey, and connecting with them can provide support, tips, and even job leads. Consider joining:

• Online forums or social media groups for remote workers or digital nomads. There are Facebook groups like “Digital Nomad Central” or subreddits like r/remotework, r/digitalnomad, etc., where people ask questions and share opportunities.

• If your field has a community (e.g., a Slack group for remote developers, or a writers’ Discord, or a marketing LinkedIn group), join it. Lurk, learn, and when you’re ready, ask questions – people are often surprisingly helpful if you’ve shown you did a bit of homework.

• Follow bloggers or YouTubers who share remote work content (besides us, of course!). Hearing others’ success stories or day-in-the-life can keep you inspired and provide practical insights.

• And hey, we at Eat Wander Explore are here for you too. Feel free to Get in Touch (you can contact us through the site or simply reply to any of our newsletter emails). We love hearing from readers and helping where we can – whether you need clarification on something from this guide or you just want to share your progress (we celebrate every win, big or small!). Also, keep an eye out for any community spaces we host – we’re considering launching a private Facebook group or Discord for our readers if there’s interest, where you all can ask questions and share experiences with each other.

Finally, a dose of encouragement: Remote work truly can be life changing. It’s not always easy – you might have to learn new things, face a few rejections, or navigate skeptics – but the payoff is enormous. Picture a life with no commute, with the ability to set your own schedule, to live wherever makes you happiest, and to integrate work with your life instead of having it control your life. Maybe that means traveling to a new country every few months, or maybe it just means being home when your kids get back from school. Maybe it’s about escaping the 9–5 grind to spend more time on hobbies or side projects. Whatever your personal vision of freedom is, remote work is a vehicle that can get you there.

You’re always one decision away from a totally different life. The fact that you’re reading this shows you’ve already made a decision to explore something new. Now take the next step: dive in and go for it. A year from now, you could be telling your own success story of how you landed that remote job or built that online business. We believe in you – and we’re excited to see where your journey leads!

(Suggestion: End with an inviting image, perhaps someone jumping with a laptop in excitement on a beach at sunset, and a final call-to-action button or link back to the quiz or resources.)

Ready to get started? Take the quiz, download the kit, and let’s make your remote dream a reality!

Remote Work Sites

Once you have the skills and certificates necessary to do one of these remote jobs, you’ll need to find a remote job. There are a number of remote job sites that are dedicated to helping you find remote work jobs - and not just in the field of tech! The Remote Coding Bootcamp has a couple of programs that bring jobs directly to you, as well as a default one that pays $40-$80/hour and allows you to pick your own hours.

Check out some other remote job sites here:

• Location Independence: The Best Remote Work Jobs

What if I don’t qualify for a remote job?

First, try our interactive remote career planer to see what you might be able to do

It’s the fun little quiz near the top of this page that helps you choose the highest paying remote career that fits your background and desires - over 100 different remote careers!

If there’s nothing you like, you’ll still likely be eligible for fairly instant‑exit jobs

Use one of the quickest paths overseas - ESL teaching - to find careers with only a few days of up‑skilling, letting you earn online and move freely across borders. Or you can dedicate a few months to train for for a high-paying remote career - securing your remote lifestyle for the rest of your life. The choice is yours!

Training Programs for High-Paying Remote Jobs

Remote Training Programs aim to equip you with the skills needed to secure prevalent high-paying remote positions. The majority of these lucrative remote roles are in programming, which is evident when browsing job boards for remote opportunities—most listings are for remote programming positions. Consequently, programming emerges as the optimal route to remote employment.

We Can Get You into a Future‑Proof Tech Path

We fast‑track you into coding or data careers—fields with 4× more remote jobs than any other industry and open doors to virtually every country - using our proven Remote Coding Bootcamp.

The Remote Coding Bootcamp

This is the most affordable ($249) Remote Coding Bootcamp, which not only trains you to be able to do any one of the top 8 highest-paying remote jobs, but gets you professional certifications, job experience, and helps match you with the high paying remote jobs as well!

Imagine having the freedom to work from anywhere in the world. That's what this program offers – the ability to get a high-paying remote job with just 6-12 months of training. It doesn't matter if you're just starting out or if you're switching careers – this program is perfect for anyone who wants more freedom and higher pay.

Other Remote Training Programs

We do recommend a few other remote training bootcamps, as well as a few affordable Bachelors Degree Programs, that will give you access to high-paying remote jobs like these as well. Check out this link to learn more about them: