During the past few years, remote work has moved into the mainstream. Work from anywhere (WFA) is no longer just a dream – it is something that millions of people can realistically do. If you want to travel, see new places, and experience new cultures while keeping your current job, you can.
If you’ve set your sights on remote work in the United States, there are a few things you should know to ease your transition. This is especially the case if you plan on applying for a job in the U.S.
1. You’ll Need to Update Your CV
You have no doubt worked hard to create a stunning CV. But when applying to jobs in the United States, you will need a resume instead.
A resume is similar to a CV but shorter – generally, a resume is no more than one page in length. To create your resume, you can use your CV as a guide. Your CV already includes all the information you’ll need on your American-style resume.
Trim down your CV until it only includes the following:
- Your name and contact information (phone number, email address, and LinkedIn profile).
- A skills list, tailored to the most important skills you’ll need for the job you are applying to
- Work experience – only list your three previous jobs, and only experience from the past 10 years. Each entry should include the position title, company name, location, dates, and bulleted descriptions. You will want to customize what you highlight in your job descriptions (duties, skills, accomplishments, etc.) to fit the job you want.
- Education – each degree, along with the school, location, and graduation date.
- Optional: detailed summaries of your skills, an objective statement, hobbies or volunteerism relevant to the job to which you are applying.
2. Get the Right Visas
When entering the U.S., you will usually do so on a tourist visa – an endorsement on your passport that allows you to stay in the country for a specified period of time. Currently, you will be authorised to stay for up to 6 months. You may be able to apply for an extension of up to one year.
If you will be working remotely for your job back home, a tourist visa is sufficient. However, if you plan on getting a job with an American company, you will need to apply for a work visa or nonmigrant visa, depending on your situation.
3. Know Where to Find Wi-Fi
Most remote work is done using a laptop computer with an internet connection. Likely, your accommodations will offer internet access, either for free or for a fee. You can also access free public Wi-Fi at many restaurants and coffee shops, certain stores, shopping malls, and even the downtown areas of some towns.
Another option is a mobile hotspot. These pocket-sized devices connect to any cell phone service to offer you internet access almost anywhere. Solis is a popular option. One month of unlimited internet access in the United States costs £38. If you plan on visiting multiple countries, you might opt for global monthly access for £76. Unlimited day passes cost around £8.
4. Get the Best Deals on Accommodations
Unlike in Europe, inexpensive hostels are not common in the U.S., and hotel costs can quickly deplete your travel budget.
The most affordable way to stay in the United States is to room with a friend or acquaintance. If this is not possible, you may try one of the following options:
- Look for hotels such as Sonesta, which have full kitchens and offer discounts on extended stays.
- Rent a room or a whole house on Airbnb or a similar residential rental service. Property owners often agree to discount extended stays.
- Services like Trusted Housesitters match travellers with homeowners. You get to stay for free in exchange for caring for the property and pets.
5. Purchase Travel Health Insurance
Healthcare in the United States is not free. If you get sick or are injured, you may find yourself stuck with high, unexpected medical bills. Purchase an insurance plan from your travel agent that covers emergencies as well as any anticipated expenses (such as prescriptions or doctor’s appointments). Alternatively, you can arrange for telehealth visits with your physician back home.
6. Learn the Laws
If you act like a decent citizen, just as you would back home, you’re not likely to break any major laws. But you should familiarise yourself with certain differences, such as traffic laws (after all, Americans drive on the wrong side of the road. Speaking from experience, this can take some getting used to).
Other laws differ from state to state. Do your research before your trip. You can even ask new acquaintances in your locale about what laws you should know.