Category: OFW Guide

Working abroad comes with tons of challenges, both personal and external. You have to deal with homesickness and carry the burden of ensuring that you will provide a better future for your family.

Apart from that, there is another challenge you have to deal with: foreign work place.

Starting a new job in the Philippines can be daunting. Can you imagine what it feels like to work to a new company that is thousands of miles away from home and with co-workers who don’t speak your language?

Not to worry because here are tips that will help you adapt to your foreign workplace and get along with your co-workers:

Tip No. 1: Always Do Your Research

This is important and the first thing you need to do before you go overseas.

Before you leave, read and learn as much as you can about your country destination. The PDOS will cover the basics but keep yourself informed as much as you can. Learn about their culture, way of life, traditions, clothing choice, and even food.

Research about work etiquette, too. Some countries prefer shake hands as a means of introduction while others like to bow. Some cultures are specific when it comes to introduction, so make sure to look into it as well.

The more you know, the easier for you to adapt because you know what to expect.

Tip No. 2: If Unsure, Then Ask Questions

In Filipino culture, oftentimes, asking questions is a sign of weakness. People assume and expect that you know until your mistake blows up.

Thankfully, other countries are not assuming. In fact, they will appreciate it more if you are honest about your limitations and willing to ask questions. Ask for help if you are not familiar about anything.

Just make sure to pay attention and remember what they say so they don’t have to repeat themselves.

Tip No. 3: Be A Good Observer

Again, you are in a different country. The things you are used to back home may not be the same as what others are doing in your work place. You might even be shocked with the things they are used to.

That being said, make it a habit to observe. Pay attention to how your co-workers are, especially the locals. Your research may not say a thing or two about how work is carried out in your work place so make sure you see how your co-workers are handling the work.

Tip No. 4: Learn Their Language

English may be the universal language but don’t assume that everyone knows how to speak it. In fact, you will have co-workers who won’t even make an effort to learn English.

This is why it is important to do your research. Make list of the common words and greetings in their local language. Make sure you practice proper pronounciation so people will understand you easily. This will make it easier for you to connect with them and vice versa.

Tip No. 5: Take Time To Explore

It’s not easy to make friends with someone who grew up with a different culture than yours. While you are still familiarizing your new environment, keep an open mind and start exploring the area around you. This will give you a better understanding of the new place and culture you are in.

Take this opportunity as well to build rapport with your new colleagues. Ask about must visit spots and recommended restaurants you can try. Who knows, they’ll give you a free tour.

Tip No. 6: Connect With The Filipino Community

Filipinos are everywhere so make sure you use that to your advantage, especially if you are the new kid on the block.

You will most likely have Filipino co-workers and it will help you a lot if you co-worker will guide you. If you are the lone Filipino in the workplace, then that’s fine, too. You will meet fellow Filipinos in the country where you’re working, so be friendly and say hi.

It will make a difference if you have the Filipino community backing you up. They will give you tips, do’s, and don’ts that you can remember to make working easier and enjoyable for you.

They’re a good source of connections as well, just in case you need a side job.

Adapting to a new environment, especially a foreign one, will not be a walk in the park. Take it one day at a time and you’ll get better eventually.

Working in the Philippines might seem hopeless for you. You want to make sure that you will provide the best life and future for your family so you decided to seek greener pastures.

The question is where. There are tons of countries in need of Filipino workers and the choices could be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. Hong Kong may be an instant choice as well but with the current condition of the city, it is best to explore your other options.

If you are a first-time OFW, then here are some of the country destinations ideal for you:

Singapore

This is recommended especially if you don’t want to feel too far from home.

Singapore is among the best and most stable countries to work in because of their current economic status. Plus, the pay is good, so you will be able to save money in no time. You just have to be competitive, hardworking, and patient because Singaporeans are known for being workaholic.

Language won’t be an issue as well since many Singaporeans can speak English. It is also a haven for expats from around the world, which means communication won’t be a problem.

Technology-related jobs are in demand in Singapore. Marketing, sales, and food and beverage industry have tons of job openings as well that you might want to check out.

READ: OFW Guide to Living and Working In Singapore

United Arab Emirates

UAE is also another OFW-favorite. This immensely-rich country, thanks to oil and gas deposits, are in need of skilled workers who want to advance in their field of expertise.

Healthcare, engineering, domestic work, food and beverage, and BPO are in demand nowadays. The best part is your income is tax-free, so there’s nothing to worry.

READ: OFW Guide to Living and Working In UAE

Taiwan

There is a reason why Taiwan is becoming a popular tourist destination among Filipinos. Aside from food, there’s so much to see in this small but proud country. This is why it’s not surprising why many aspiring OFWs are looking into this as well.

There are tons of job opportunities in Taiwan such as factory work, domestic work, production, and other similar jobs. Plus, Taiwanese are generally not discriminatory and work permit will be taken cared of by your employer.

READ: OFW Guide to Living and Working In Taiwan

New Zealand

No, New Zealand is not all about cows. Believe it or not, there are tons of job opportunities for OFWs that you might want to consider working here. There’s a job waiting in the healthcare industry, tourism, sports, and even electronics.

Plus one since New Zealand also provides equal opportunities, regardless of gender and citizenship.

If you love nature, then this country is for you.

READ: OFW Guide to Living and Working In New Zealand

Canada

Sometimes, it’s not enough that you are working overseas. Eventually, you will miss your family and you would want to be with them 24/7. If you plan to move your family for good to a different country, then Canada is the best choice.

There are tons of job opportunities waiting with competitive employment and healthcare benefits. It’s also easier to secure permanent residency as long as you submit all the needed requirements.

The weather may be more challenging, though, so choose your state wisely.

READ: OFW Guide to Living and Working in Canada

Which among these countries are you most likely to go? Regardless of your choice, make sure you submit all requirements and be truthful about your information.

More importantly, work hard. These countries will provide you with the best opportunities and benefits but if you don’t take your job seriously, then you might end up going home with nothing.

In 1978, the PAG-IBIG, which stands for Pagtutulungan sa Kinabukasan: Ikaw, Bangko, Industria at Gobyerno, fund was established by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 1530. Now known as Home Development Mutual Fund or HDMF, the agency aims to address the need for national savings program and affordable shelter financing for Filipinos, including Overseas Filipino Workers, both land-based and seafarers.

PAG-IBIG offers several benefits to all its members. This includes:

• Savings through PAG-IBIG Savings I and Modified PAG-IBIG II Savings
• Short-Term Loan through its Multi-Purpose Loan
• Housing Loan, which has lower interest rates compared to banks and with more flexible payment terms of up to 30 years

Before you can enjoy these benefits, you need to be a member first. Once you become a member, contributions must be made religiously to be able to avail of any of these.

The good news is you can be a PAG-IBIG member easily. Here is a step-by-step procedure on how you can enroll as a new member with NO issued PAG-IBIG Membership ID or MID number:

Step 1: Visit the PAG-IBIG Fund Online Registration System

First things first. Make sure that your browser, Safari, Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, and Google Chrome has the latest version. Otherwise, the system won’t work.

Once you ensured that your browser is up-to-date, go to PAG-IBIG’s Online Registration System website. You can visit it by clicking this link.

Step 2: Fill Out The Pre-Registration Form

Supply the information being asked. Make sure that your name is according to what was written in your birth certificate. Then, click Proceed.

At this point, the system will check if you already have an existing online account with PAG-IBIG. If there is no duplicate account, then you can proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Complete the PAG-IBIG Membership Form

This can be quite extensive. On this step, you will be asked to supply information such as:

• Name as how it appears in your birth certificate
• Mother’s maiden name, which you can see in your birth certificate
• Birthday and place of birth
• Government-issued ID numbers like TIN or SSS
• Spouse’s information
• Complete address
• Contact information like email address and mobile number
• Heirs, who will become your beneficiaries in case of death
• Employment information such as employer, employment status, and employment history

Before you click Submit Registration, make sure all of the information is correct and complete. You can click the Back button to go back to the previous tabs to make the necessary changes in your application form.

As soon as you’re done, click Submit Registration.

Step 4: Print The Member’s Data Form or MDF

Once you submit your online application form, it will display the Successful Registration Page. This informs you that you successfully registered with the HDMF Online System. Read the instructions carefully and take note of what you need to do to get your RTN.

RTN is important since you will use this as your reference when paying your contributions in lieu of your permanent PAG-IBIG number. Make sure to take note of this otherwise, contributions might not be credited to your name.

Then, click Print MDF. This will serve as proof that you registered with the PAG-IBIG system.

Step 5: Verify PAG-IBIG Number

After two working days, you can finally request for a permanent PAG-IBIG number. All you have to do is to send a text message in this format:

IDSTAT RTN BIRTHDATE in mm/dd/yyyy format

You can send it to 0917-8884363 for Globe and TM and 0918-8984363 for Smart, TNT, and Sun subscribers.

You may also call the PAG-IBIG hotline at 8-724-4244 to inquire regarding your PAG-IBIG number.

Tips To Remember When Registering Online:

• Make sure to provide correct and complete information when filling out the online application form. Incorrect information will lead to delay, which means you won’t be able to avail of the benefits.
• Take note of your RTN and PAG-IBIG ID number. This way, you are sure that the contributions you made will be credited to your name.
• Payment is not necessary. In fact, registering as a new member is for free.
• Don’t worry about documents. All you need is to fill out the application form to register as a new member.

The best part is OFWs can become PAG-IBIG members even if you are miles away. Convenient, don’t you think?

Time and again, people will always tell you that OFW life is not forever. That’s true. In fact, you’re only as good as your contract. This means once your contract expires, you have to go back home and look for another job.

Or, you can start your own business and stay here for good – with your family.

“Wala naman akong pang-capital,” you might say.

Private lending firms such as Balikbayad offers business loans for OFWs like you. But if you want to make the most out of your benefits, then you might want to consider SSS Business Loan.

Stick around because you’ll learn everything you need to know about this type of facility from the government.

What is SSS’ Business Development Loan Facility?

The Business Development Loan Facility is SSS’ lending facility that aims to provide financial assistance to the business sector to increase productivity and enhance potential earnings. The borrowed funds may be used for expansion, diversification, and other business development projects.

This facility is also aimed to support the program of the government towards more employment opportunities and increased economic activity for the country’s economic growth and development.

The good thing about this facility is that there is no pre-payment fees and penalties to be charged in case you want to pay earlier.

What are the terms under this type of facility?

Loanable Amount

The maximum loan amount shall be the lowest of the following:

• Amount of the loan being applied
• Actual and total project cost
• Loan value of the assigned securities or collateral
• Maximum of P500 million per borrower

Take note that the equity ratio after financing is 3:1. Consequently, the total loan with the agency must not be more than five percent of the SSS Investment Reserve fund.

Interest Rate

The prevailing market rate, which will be reviewed every month. You also have the option between variable or fixed interest rate.

Loan Term

The term of the loan must be maximum of 15 years. The agency also allowed a grace period of more than three years on principal payment for those who will use the amount to finance projects related to forest development or extractive industries. In this instance, the maximum loan term is 25 years.

Collateral

The SSS Business Development Facility loan is a secured loan. Asset of any kind may be used as long the total amount will fully cover the loan.

What are the allowed businesses?

• Agri-business
• Food processing
• Manufacturing
• Commercial Production
• Service-Oriented Enterprises
• Tourism-Related Projects
• Real Estate Development Projects
• Sustainable Energy Projects
• Extractive Industries
• Forest Development Projects
• Trading
• Leasing or Lending Business

What are the allowed purposes of the loan?

• Site development
• Enhance or modernize of existing facilities
• Construction or repair of building and other civil works
• Acquisition, repair, or upgrading of machinery and equipment, including furnishings
• Acquisition of existing facilities
• Acquisition of land, which is up to 50 percent of the acquisition cost
• Working capital

What are the eligibility requirements?

The borrowers must be:

• SSS member-employee in good standing
• New or existing private industries and enterprises
• Single proprietor, partnership, or corporation that is at least 60 percent Filipino-owned, including cooperatives and non-governmental organizations
• Engaged in any of the businesses mentioned above
• For existing businesses, must have a proven track records of profitability with no incurred losses for the past three years and average income for the past two years is positive

There are tons of financial companies that could assist you with your needs. Nonetheless, SSS is a good option that you might want to consider for your future business needs.

If you are interested, you may contact any SSS-accredited participating financial institutions or PFIs. You may call the Business and Development Loans Department at 8920-6401 local 5115 for a complete list of PFIs and to start your loan application process.

It’s Christmas season once again. Finally, after months or years of being away from your family, you can finally go back home and spend the most joyful celebration of the year. You already informed your family about when you’ll come home and how long you will stay.

Don’t get too excited. As an OFW, there are things you need to do and remember to ensure that you can go back to your job site without any stress or hassle.

Before you count the days, here is a list and guidelines on what to do, not to bring, and how you can make the most out of your stay:

Tip No. 1: Make the necessary preparations.

Surely, your family and friends miss you a lot. As soon as you step on Philippine soil, you will be bombarded by tons of parties here and there because they genuinely miss you. You also want to make up for the lost time with your family, so expect trips to the mall, shopping, eating out, and even going on a quick vacation.

Before you fly out, make sure you made the necessary preparations and arrangements. First thing on your list must be your budget. A lot of people will tease you to sponsor one round of drinks or your kids might ask you to buy this and that. You might also want to go on a staycation with your family for two days, which is something you should prepare for as well.

Bottom line is prepare. Set a budget and make sure you still have money left on your way back to your job site. Stick to that budget and learn to say no whenever necessary. OFW life is tough and the people back home must know that.

Aside from the budget, you need to have a list of things to do while you’re home. Make a list of what to do, where to go, the people you plan to see, and matters you need to take care of. Having an itinerary help you make the most out of your stay while making sure that you cover everything that needs to be done.

Tip No. 2: Your family should know when you’ll be back.

Surprising your family that you are home for the holidays is one of the best Christmas gifts ever. But if you want to lose that element, then make sure you inform them the exact details of your arrival – from arrival date, time, airline, and what terminal in NAIA you will be picked up.

Make sure your family knows how many luggages you have so that they could make necessary car arrangements, too.

Tip No. 3: Leave prohibited, unnecessary, and expensive items.

When packing your things, make sure you bring only what is necessary – your change of clothes, shoes, and pasalubong to your family. If you have items you want to leave in the Philippines, then pack those, too.

As much as possible, do not bring items that could potentially delay your departure. Expensive and unnecessary items must be left behind. Make sure you don’t bring prohibited items as well.

Check out this link where the Department of Transportation and Communications listed items that are prohibited in the airport.

Tip No. 4: Take it easy on your luggage and balikbayan boxes.

Depending on the airline, every passenger is allowed to bring baggages of up to 40 or 50 kilos. Anything in excess must either be left at the airport or pay for an additional fee, which is quite costly.

Therefore, take it easy on your luggage. It’s normal to bring pasalubong to your family, but make sure you meet the baggage requirements of the airline company. Bring only what you need to avoid leaving or paying an additional fee. Anyway, you can always send another set of boxes while you’re still working overseas. Duty Free is also an alternative in case you want to give something to your relatives and friends.

Better yet, don’t feel obligated to give everyone a present this Christmas. It’s okay if you can’t “share your blessings” to others. Don’t compromise your financial standing for the sake of pleasing everyone.

Tip No. 5: Know your benefits as an OFW.

Did you know that you are exempted from travel tax? Have you considered shopping in Duty Free in case you were unable to buy pasalubong?

These are just some of the perks you can avail of as OFW so make sure you take advantage of it.

Tip No. 6: Don’t forget about your government records.

Your vacation is the perfect opportunity to start or update your government records like SSS, Philhealth, and PAG-IBIG. Make sure you dedicate some time on that to avoid any hassle in the future.

Getting an OEC is also a must, which will serve as proof that you are a legitimate OFW. If you will be working in the same employer and job site, then make sure you get an OEC exemption.

READ: Returning Land-Based Workers

Tip No. 6: Include savings and investment in your itinerary.

Aside from government services, your vacation is the perfect time to update or start your savings and investment journey. Take this opportunity to explore your options in growing your money. There are several government-backed savings program you can try, which allows you to save higher than in banks. This way, your money won’t be put to waste.

If it were up to you, how will you spend your vacation in the Philippines?

Let’s face it: applying for a job, whether here or overseas, requires you to submit TONS of documents. These documents will be photocopies several times, depending on how many agencies you applied to.

One of the documents you need to secure is a police clearance.

Not all countries or agencies you will apply for requires you to get a police clearance. On the other hand, countries like USA, Canada, Australia, here’s what you need to know when applying for this type of requirement as well as a step-by-step procedure on how to get one.

But first, what is a police clearance?

A police clearance is a type of document that proves that you, the holder, has no criminal or derogatory record. This is valid for six months with a unique QR code to verify its authenticity.

You may be asked to get a police clearance either from:

• Your place of residence, to ensure that you didn’t commit any crime in the area where you live; or
• Your place of work, which ensures that you are not guilty of committing any crime in the companies you worked for within the same area.

Take note that the scope of police clearance is for a specific locality. It is also different from NBI Clearance in terms of scope since the clearance issued by the agency covers all criminal records anywhere in the Philippines.

Step-By-Step Procedure On How To Apply For A Police Clearance

Step 1: Prepare the requirements.

You will need:

• At least two valid IDs with photo, complete name, and signature
• PSA-certified birth certificate in case you only have one ID
• Police clearance application form, in case you have not registered online
• Cash for payment of police clearance fee – in case you have not registered online
• An active email address

Take note that most local government offices prefer that you register with the NPCS website instead of applying thru walk-in.

Step 2: Register and create an account with NPCS.

Most city governments require applicants to register with the National Police Clearance System to speed up the process.

Go to the NPCS website and click Register. A new window will appear, so make sure to tick all the boxes to continue. Don’t forget to read everything since this serves as a guideline when applying for a police clearance.

Then, fill out the New Applicant Registration form and click Register. Check your email because a verification link will be sent, which you need to click to verify your information. Thereafter, you will be asked to sign with the email address you used to register.

Once you logged in, don’t forget to edit your profile by completing the necessary information being asked.

Step 3: Set up an appointment.

Click the Clearance Application button. Choose the police station where you will apply. Thereafter, a list of available schedules will appear. Choose your preferred date and time, and click Next.

Don’t forget to click the Land Bank of the Philippines button before saving your appointment.

Take note of the payment details, which will be displayed as soon as you saved your appointment. A reference number will likewise be given so TAKE NOTE and write it down. You will use this reference number when paying for the fee.

Step 4: Payment.

To pay, click Pay to LANDBANK button, which will lead you directly to the bank’s e-Payment portal. You can use your Landbank account, GCash, or Bancnet.

Take note that the police clearance fee is P150 plus P10 transaction fee.

Step 5: Go to your scheduled appointment.

Don’t forget to bring the requirements such as valid IDs, reference number, and official receipt of your payment. Once you presented the documents, you will undergo biometrics process wherein photo, fingerprints, and digital signature are taken.

When done, wait for your name to be called for the release of your police clearance.

In case your application got a hit, you have to go through a verification process first before you can claim your police clearance.

The good thing about applying for a police clearance now is that the process is faster since it is digital. It’s more efficient now compared before; hence making the process more convenient for you.

Finally, after months of trying and waiting, you are on your way to another country to work. From the moment you stepped on the entrance gate of NAIA up until the plane landed to your destination, there will always be mixed emotions. This will remain true, especially for first-time OFWs.

Unfortunately, this mixture of emotions could backfire against you.

This is why preparation is important to make sure that you won’t forget anything come departure. Don’t worry because we listed the documents you need to bring plus other preparations and tips you need to remember to ensure that your trip will be smooth and hassle-free.

Documents To Prepare

Before you go to the airport and face the Immigration Officer, make sure you have the original as well as photocopies of the following documents:

• Pre-Departure Overseas Seminar or PDOS Certificate
• Valid passport
• Working visa
• Overseas Employment Certificate or OEC
• Flight ticket and Boarding pass
• Employment Contract
• NBI Clearance
• Valid government-issued ID with your photo
• Letter of Guarantee or Letter of Endrosement, if applicable
• Seaman’s Book, for seafarers

These documents will be presented to the Immigration Officer or IO. These signifies that you are a documented Overseas Filipino Worker and may leave the country legally. Have these documents stacked in an organized manner to make it easier for you to look for what you need.

What happens when you face the Immigration Officer?

Aside from ensuring your documents are ready, you need to fill out a Departure Card, which is readily available in the airport.

Once you’re done, line up and present the following documents to the officer in charge:

• Passport
• Visa
• OEC
• Plane ticket
• Seaman’s Book, for seafarers
• Departure card

This is tricky. IOs need to ensure that no Filipino will be a victim of human trafficking, which is why they pay extra attention to OFWs. Remember to:

• Be calm and composed.
• Answer the IO’s questions honestly and truthfully.
• Answer the question directly and avoid giving too much information.
• Dress appropriately.

IOs may intimidate you to ensure that you are telling them the truth. Just relax because sweating profusely and distorted stories might cause you to be offloaded.

Things To Bring Aside From The Documents Listed Above

Your documentation requirements are crucial. Still, you need to remember to bring these things to avoid hassle:

• Black pen, for filling out other documentation requirements in the airport
• Small notebook with your employer and/or agency’s contact details like contact person, mobile number, and address
• Cash. Despite the exemption from airport terminal fees and taxes, you’ll never know when you’ll need another bottle of water. It’s better to be prepared.
• Water tumbler. Drinking fountains are available in the airport, so make sure you keep those filled. This will prevent you from spending too much money on something you can get for free, right?
• Extra clothes. Who knows, you might be stuck in the airport or there is a sudden change of weather in your destination. It’s better to be prepared.

That being said, here is a step-by-step process of what you need to follow once you’re in the airport:

• Go to the OFW Lounge. This is where your OEC and Employment Contract will be validated.
• Go through the airport security and scanning.
• Proceed to your designated airline for check-in and dropping of bags. A boarding pass and baggage claim tag will be given to you after.
• Go to the Departure Lobby for another scan. Make sure you present your passport and boarding pass.
• Get a Departure Card and fill it out.
• Head to the Immigration counter – OFW Express Lane. Make sure that all your documents are ready.
• Once approved by the IO, pass through Customs for another scan. At this point, body search is legal and you will also be asked to remove your shoes.
• After passing through Customs, go to your designated pre-departure gate for boarding.

Going through Immigration will take time, so make sure you arrive at least three hours before your designated departure. This way, you still have enough time to relax and enjoy the airport facilities.

Do you plan to seek greener pastures and work overseas? If yes, then you’re not alone. There are hundreds, even thousands of Filipinos who are willing to work abroad and earn more than what they can earn here,

Here’s the reality: despite the promise of higher salary, there are fees you need to pay – some shouldered by you while the others will be paid for by your employer or agency.

Apart from the documentary requirements, here are the costs you need to prepare for before you say to a job overseas:

Shouldered By The Worker

You need to prepare your wallet for the following expenses:

• NBI Clearance – P130.00
• Philippine Passport – P950.00 and P1,200.00 for regular and express processing, respectively. You also have to pay additional P150.00 if you want it delivered to your home.
• Philhealth – P2,400 every year
• Police Clearance – P100
• Birth Certificate – P150
• SSS Contribution – Depends on your salary grade but it starts at P960 per month
• Medical Exam Fee – Depends on the medical clinic conducting the examination, but it usually charges P5,000
• Placement Fee – Equivalent to less than or equal to one month salary stated in your contract
• Immunization Fee – Depends on the immunization, but it is safe to prepare at least P5,000. This is not mandatory but some host countries require that workers take necessary shots before being deployed.

Shouldered By The Employer / Agency

Don’t worry. Not everything will be shouldered by you. With the passage of Republic Act 8042, there are costs that must be shouldered by the employer. This includes:

• POEA Processing Fee – P200
• OWWA Membership Fee – $25 or its peso equivalent
• OFW Compulsory Insurance – Depends on the insurance provider
• Visa Fee – This will depend on the host country
• Airfare – Varies, depends on the airline
• Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar or PDOS – P100

In other words, you will be charged at least P50,000 for the documentary requirements and mandatory memberships alone.

Apparently, the costs don’t stop here. Even if you were able to comply with all of these requirements, you need to worry about the costs of living overseas. This is why it is important that before you leave the country, you will set aside a budget that will help you pay for basic necessities like food and water in order to survive the first few weeks.

“How much?,” you might ask.

Again, it depends on your country of destination, Some countries like Singapore, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait have higher cost of living than in Manila. This means even if you are earning three or four times than your salary in the Philippines, you will end up paying more because the cost of goods are high.

Still, don’t let this discourage you. Filipinos are known for being resilient and ma-diskarte, so use those to make the most out of your salary. Be wise with your spending and avoid buying unnecessary things, especially during the first few months overseas. Set a budget, prioritize your spending, and get a side job if time permits so you will be able to earn more.

You’ll get used to this eventually. Just make sure you use your salary wisely.