"First-Time Caregiver Abroad: Essential Tips for Success"

Published: 02.11.2021 v tipy pre opatrovateľky

This article is intended for those of you who have not yet ventured abroad and are still gathering the courage to do so. Concerns about working abroad vary; often, the reasons include a weak command of a foreign language or unfamiliarity with the laws of the country. The distance from loved ones also does not add to the feeling of security, and many take years to decide to travel. Specifically, for example, the job of a caregiver requires a longer separation from family, ranging from several weeks to several months. On the other hand, those who have already taken the plunge have the opportunity to experience a different country and its culture, thereby broadening their horizons.

In the previous edition of our blog, we focused on the countries where Slovak women most frequently travel for caregiver work. These are primarily Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.

Do you know what documents you need for working abroad and what you should not forget before leaving?

Documents required for work in the EU/abroad:

  • Ensure you have a valid ID card or passport
    • You can travel to all European Union countries and also to Switzerland with just an ID card
  • Ensure you have a valid European Health Insurance Card/ insurance card
    • The European card ensures you receive necessary treatment, whether in a hospital or outpatient, in case of an acute condition such as an injury or illness
    • If you plan to receive treatment in the country where you will work, such as dental care, arrange commercial health insurance before traveling
  • Check the validity of your driver's license and verify if it is valid in the country you are traveling to
    • A driver's license issued in the EU is automatically valid throughout the union
  • In case you work as a freelancer, ensure it is active
    It is advisable to have your trade license officially translated into the relevant language for reference

Before the Journey 

  • Schedule a preventive check-up with your doctor
    • Before working abroad, it is advisable to undergo a medical examination to ensure your health does not surprise you at an inconvenient time
  • Write a list of items you need to pack
    • Over time, packing will become routine, but the first time you travel, you may think of many things and easily forget something at home
  • Take with you the medications you usually take
    • Some medications are not available abroad and are replaced by products with similar active ingredients, so if you take any medicines, it is safest to pack them with you
  • If you are a beginner in a foreign language, do not forget to pack a dictionary
    • There are also online dictionaries, but in case you find yourself without internet access, we recommend obtaining an offline version as well

What to Remember Before Starting Employment?

And how to manage the first day at work completely without problems?

We hope that this summary has made it easier for you to decide whether to start a new job directly. Fear of the unknown is natural, and we can only combat it by facing it head-on. Working abroad offers the opportunity to learn a language, get to know the country, its people, and their customs, thereby contributing to your personal and professional development. In the next edition, we will focus on diagnoses that most commonly affect the elderly. We look forward to your suggestions for new topics and feedback on current ones.