Moving abroad sounds romantic, but passport stamps, new beginnings, and scenic views don’t come free. For many Black and Brown folks dreaming of a life outside the U.S., one of the biggest barriers isn’t desire, it’s dollars. But, what if funding your international leap isn’t as impossible as it seems?
Whether you’re escaping burnout, political fatigue, or simply craving a better quality of life, this guide breaks down practical, proven ways to fund your move abroad, especially as a person of color navigating systemic barriers at home.
1. Pursue Higher Education (Yes, Even 50+)
One of the most accessible pathways to living abroad long-term is through student visas and you don’t have to be 21 or fresh out of undergrad to qualify.
Why this works:
- Student visas often include work permissions (20–40 hours/week).
- You gain access to local housing, public transportation discounts, and healthcare.
- You’ll be introduced to a ready-made community, making integration easier.
Bonus tip: Some countries (like Germany, Norway, and Sweden) offer low-cost or tuition-free programs, even at the master’s or PhD level. And many offer programs in English.
Search terms to try:
- “Tuition-free master’s programs in Europe”
- “Fully funded scholarships for international students 2025”
- “Graduate programs abroad with work visas”
2. Apply for Remote Jobs or Keep Your Current One
If you’re already working remotely, consider it one of your greatest financial assets. Maintaining that income stream can offer critical stability as you transition abroad.
If you’re not remote yet:
- Look into contract and freelance roles through platforms like Upwork, Contra, We Work Remotely.
- Consider customer support, tech, project management, or content creation roles that often don’t require being in a specific location.
- Explore identity-driven job boards like RemotePOC, POCIT, or Techqueria.
Your U.S. income will likely stretch much further in countries like Mexico, Thailand, or Portugal.
3. Leverage Fellowships, Teaching Programs & Paid Cultural Exchange
There are programs that will pay you to live abroad. Yes, even now in 2025.
I personally joined the EPIK Program (English Program in Korea) and taught in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, and it changed the way I saw myself, my earning power, and what was possible. Not only was my housing covered, but I had the freedom to explore a new culture, build savings, and reset my life in a place where curiosity and growth were welcomed.
Similar opportunities include:
- EPIK Program (South Korea) – Paid public school English teaching placements across the country, with benefits like housing, flight reimbursement, and national insurance.
- JET Programme (Japan) – Competitive and well-respected teaching placements with great support.
- English Opens Doors (Chile) – Volunteer-based with stipends and homestays.
- Fulbright U.S. Student Program – Fully funded opportunity to teach or do research abroad.
- Erasmus Mundus Scholarships – Funded master’s degrees across European universities.
4. Start a Side Hustle That’s Borderless
Digital skills can fund your relocation and keep you afloat abroad.
Ideas that travel well:
- Digital products (e-books, templates, Notion planners)
- Online tutoring or course creation
- Affiliate marketing or blogging
- Freelance data analysis, graphic design, or social media consulting
- Selling niche products via Etsy or Shopify
If you already do the thing, chances are you can sell, teach, or automate it.
5. Tap Into Grants and Business Visas
Many countries actively want skilled immigrants and are offering money to help you move.
Consider:
- Chile Start-Up Visa – Up to $80K in equity-free funding
- Spain’s Digital Nomad Visa – Encourages remote workers to settle legally
- Germany’s Freelancer Visa – Designed for creative and independent professionals
You can also research grant databases like:
- Black Tech Saturdays’ grant database (especially helpful for U.S.-based innovators)
- IFundWomen of Color
- Google for Startups
6. Crowdfund with Intention
Not every journey has to be solo. If you’re moving abroad for mental health, education, or career growth, consider telling your story and raising funds through platforms like:
- FundMyTravel – Designed specifically for people moving abroad with purpose.
- Ko-fi or Patreon – Especially useful if you’re a creative sharing your journey.
- Even small, automated tools like Chime’s round-up savings or Acorns’ micro-investing can quietly help you build your move fund over time.
- Email newsletter or Instagram – Document your prep and invite your community in.
Frame your ask around a mission, not just an escape.
7. Liquidate What Doesn’t Serve You
Don’t underestimate what you already own. Downsizing can fund your first few months abroad.
What to sell:
- Furniture, clothing, or electronics on Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark, ThredUp, or OfferUp.
- Collectibles, unused subscriptions, or even your car (if relocating, permanently).
Final Thoughts: You Deserve An Exit Plan
You don’t have to be rich. You don’t have to wait for “someday.” You just need a strategy that honors your truth and your timeline.
Whether it’s going back to school, flipping vintage clothes online, or teaching English in South Korea, there is a way to finance your new life. And with the right plan, that dream of building something freer, safer, and more sustainable outside the U.S. becomes real.
You don’t need permission. You just need a plan.
If you’re looking for thoughtful support as you navigate where to begin, especially when it comes to becoming a strong candidate for English teaching programs abroad, including opportunities at colleges and universities—I’m happy to share what I’ve learned through my own experience. Feel free to reach out.
Lence in Layers 
One response to “How to Finance Your Move Abroad as a Person of Color (Without Draining Your Savings)”
[…] if you’re worried about funding your move/travels, check out my articles on this very topic here. I have others that offer insight into living and moving abroad that you can peruse […]
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