I’ve Signed My Contract - What Comes Next?
First of all - congratulations!
Signing your contract is a huge milestone in your international teaching journey. After months of applications, interviews, and decision-making, you finally know where your next adventure is taking you.
But once the excitement settles, many teachers immediately ask the same question:
“What happens now?”
The good news is that this next stage is usually very structured, and your school - alongside your recruiter - will guide you through the process step by step.
1. Onboarding Begins
After signing, your school will typically begin the onboarding process.
This may include:
● Welcome emails and HR paperwork
● Safeguarding and background checks
● Reference verification
● Medical forms
● Qualification and document checks
● Staff handbooks and school policies
Some schools move very quickly, while others may take a little more time - especially if you signed during busy recruitment periods.
Don’t panic if communication occasionally slows down; it’s nothing to be alarmed about. Large international schools often process a multitude of new hires at once.
2. Visa Application & Document Legalisation
For many teachers, this is the stage that feels the most overwhelming - but it’s also completely normal.
Your school will usually provide guidance on:
● Visa application forms
● Required documents
● Degree/legalisation requirements
● Police checks
● Medical checks
● Passport validity
● Attestation or apostille processes
Visa timelines vary hugely depending on the country, your nationality, and local immigration rules.
The most important thing you can do is stay organised and submit documents quickly when requested.
3. Planning Your Relocation
Once your visa process is underway, attention usually turns to relocation.
This often includes:
● Booking flights
● Organising accommodation
● Shipping belongings
● Budgeting for arrival expenses
● Researching your new city and lifestyle
● Joining staff or expat groups online
This stage is exciting - but can also be emotional and overwhelming. Moving abroad is a major life change, even for experienced international teachers.
It’s completely normal to feel excited one day and overwhelmed the next.
4. Pre-Arrival Communication
As your start date gets closer, schools will normally begin sharing more detailed arrival information.
This may include:
● Airport pickup details
● Hotel or temporary accommodation arrangements
● Induction schedules
● Curriculum planning
● Staff introductions
● Arrival dates and orientation timelines
Many schools also begin adding new teachers into group chats or staff communities before arrival, helping you start building connections early.
5. Arriving & Settling In
The first few weeks abroad are usually a mix of excitement, exhaustion, paperwork, and adjustment.
You’ll likely spend your first days:
● Opening bank accounts
● Completing immigration checks
● Finding your way around
● Setting up SIM cards and apps
● Meeting colleagues
● Preparing classrooms
● Adjusting to a completely new environment
It can feel overwhelming at times, but remember: every international teacher has gone through this stage too. You may have already handled it yourself before.
Very quickly, unfamiliar places begin to feel like home. You’ve got this!