The Fastest Way to Move Abroad? Quit Your 9-5 & Start Freelancing

You know you want to move abroad, but your job is keeping you stuck. Maybe your employer won’t approve remote work. Maybe you’re tied to an office. Or maybe you’re just tired of the 9-5 grind and want more freedom.

If you’re waiting for your company to transfer you abroad or magically allow remote work, you could be waiting forever. But there’s another way—freelancing. It could be the fastest, easiest path to moving abroad on your own terms.

In this post, we’re breaking down why freelancing is the ultimate shortcut to international freedom, how it solves the biggest problems of a traditional job, and the exact steps to start today—even while you’re still employed.

Why Your 9-5 Job Is Keeping You Stuck

If you’re working a traditional 9-5, moving abroad can feel impossible. Here’s why:

• You have to ask permission. Most companies aren’t handing out remote work approvals.
• You’re tied to one location. Unless you find an overseas job, you’re stuck.
• You’re on someone else’s schedule. Taking extended trips or navigating visa processes is hard.
• Your salary limits your lifestyle. The cost of living abroad might be more affordable, but your job controls your income.

The tough truth? If you’re relying on your employer to make your move abroad possible, you’re giving up control. Freelancing puts that control back in your hands.

Why Freelancing Is the Fastest Way to Move Abroad

Freelancing isn’t just about quitting your job—it’s about creating the freedom to live where you want. Here’s why it works:

1. You Can Work from Anywhere

All you need is WiFi. Your income isn’t tied to one country, so you can move freely without needing employer approval.

2. You Can Start While You Still Have a Job

Freelancing doesn’t require quitting immediately. Start as a side hustle, build up clients, and transition when you’re ready.

3. You Control Your Income

Unlike a salary, freelancing allows you to scale your earnings. Plus, in many countries with a lower cost of living, you might need less money than you think.

4. It’s the Easiest Way to Qualify for a Visa

Many countries now offer digital nomad visas, allowing remote workers to live abroad legally without needing a job offer or sponsorship.

The biggest myth about freelancing? That it’s risky. But is it really riskier than a job where you could be laid off tomorrow, have no control over your time, and be stuck in one place? Freelancing gives you options.

How to Start Freelancing & Move Abroad Faster

If freelancing sounds like a good option, here’s how to get started:

1. Pick a Freelance Skill

Some of the most in-demand freelance skills include:

• Writing
• Graphic design
• Social media management
• Virtual assistance
• Video editing
• Programming

If you’re unsure what to offer, think about what you already do at work that businesses might pay for.

2. Get Your First Client

You don’t need years of experience—just start.

• Offer services on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or LinkedIn.
• Reach out to businesses that need help.
• Use your network.

3. Scale Up & Set an Income Goal

Decide how much you need to earn to replace your salary or hit your “move abroad” number. Many freelancers go full-time once they’re making $2K-$3K per month.

4. Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa

Countries like Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Croatia offer freelancer-friendly visas. Start your visa process while growing your income.

5. Book Your Flight & Go!

Once your visa is sorted and income is stable, you’re free to move.

Most people spend years waiting for the “right time” to move abroad. Freelancing lets you stop waiting and start making it happen now.

Take Action Today

Freelancing might sound intimidating if you’ve never done it before. But here’s the truth: you’re already trading your time for money—you’re just doing it for someone else. Why not do it for yourself and gain the freedom to live abroad?

So here’s your challenge: Within the next 24 hours, take one step toward freelancing. Whether that’s:

• Researching skills you could offer
• Setting up a profile on Upwork
• Reaching out to someone who’s already freelancing

Looking for more guidance on making the move? Check out these helpful posts:

• If I Were Moving Abroad Again, This Is What I Would Do
• Moving Abroad With No Job: How to Make It Work

Just start. Because starting is the hardest part—and once you do, everything else gets easier.