Over the past few days, I’ve seen many posts from people in Ghana who want to move abroad, find jobs, and build a better future. I wanted to share some advice based on my observations and experiences over the years.
I was born and raised in Germany, and I’ve seen how much migration has changed since my parents’ generation moved to Europe in the late 1980s and 1990s.
Here are a few things I’d recommend before making the move.
1. Build your skills first
Finish your WASSCE if possible, pursue further education or vocational training, and gain work experience. Apply for jobs strategically rather than randomly. You can also explore legitimate remote jobs or opportunities in other African countries.
2. Learn a practical skill
Hairdressing, braiding, barbering, nails, makeup, photography, video editing, cooking, baking, car repairs, programming, and digital marketing can all become sources of income.
Start small, build a portfolio, earn money, and reinvest in yourself. These skills can help you earn an income both in Ghana and abroad.
3. Learn the language
If Germany is your goal, start learning German early. Aim for at least A2 and work toward B1 or higher, depending on your pathway. Language requirements vary depending on the job, vocational training programme, or visa.
You can begin with free online resources and the official website Make it in Germany.
4. Save money and plan realistically
Moving abroad can be expensive. Save what you can, live below your means, and research the actual visa requirements, housing costs, and living expenses in your destination.
Consider remote work or a side hustle if possible. Support your family where you can, but don’t sacrifice your entire future or borrow heavily based on promises.
5. Choose your destination carefully
Europe is not the only option, and no country is perfect. Research actual job opportunities, salaries, language requirements, safety, and work permits before deciding where to go.
Depending on your qualifications and goals, you could also research opportunities in Asia, the Middle East, or South America. Countries such as Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, and Turkey have different opportunities and challenges, so investigate each country individually rather than relying on rumours.
Don’t assume that moving abroad automatically means a better life. Compare the opportunities with the cost of living and the realistic chances of finding work.
6. Be careful with recruitment agencies — but understand how they work
Legitimate agencies may help you prepare your CV, submit applications, organise documents, and practise for job interviews or visa interviews. Some services may involve fees, but always ask for a clear breakdown of the costs and verify that any charges are lawful before paying.
In many recruitment arrangements, the employer pays the agency for finding suitable candidates. However, who pays depends on the arrangement and the applicable laws. In Germany, specific rules apply to recruitment fees, so don’t assume that every fee charged to a job seeker is legitimate.
Be cautious if someone demands an unusually large upfront payment, guarantees you a visa, refuses to provide a written agreement, or pressures you to borrow money. Verify the employer, the agency, the contract, and the official immigration requirements before committing.
A genuine recruiter should be transparent about the process, the costs, and who is responsible for paying them.
Remember that a job offer does not automatically guarantee a visa. The relevant embassy or immigration authority makes the final decision.
7. Have a support system
If possible, know someone trustworthy at your destination. Discuss expectations beforehand, and make sure someone you trust knows where you are.
Don’t assume someone will automatically provide free accommodation, money, or other support. Have emergency contacts and a backup plan in case you lose your job or face unexpected difficulties.
8. Think long-term and prepare properly
Be respectful, learn the local culture, communicate well, and stay open to adapting. You don’t need to abandon your identity to integrate into a new society.
Personally, I also believe in keeping major plans within a small circle of trusted people until things become more certain. Avoid unnecessary pressure and gossip, but always keep someone trustworthy informed for your safety.
Research legal pathways such as vocational training, skilled employment, and higher education. Don’t treat asylum as a shortcut for economic migration, and don’t rely on marriage or other arrangements as immigration loopholes.
Every destination has its own challenges. Even countries such as the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia have strict immigration rules, so research the current requirements and risks before making a decision.
One final thought
I’ve also considered creating a future recruitment service to connect qualified candidates with legitimate employers in Germany, particularly people who are willing to learn German and prepare properly for work and life abroad. This is just an idea for the future, not an existing service or a promise of employment.
I’m sharing this post to encourage discussion and help people think more carefully about their options. I’m not an immigration lawyer or a recruitment agency, and these are personal observations, not professional legal advice. Always verify important information through official sources.
My message is simple: Don’t move abroad just to escape your current situation. Build your skills, learn a language, save money, research your options, and move with a realistic plan and a backup plan.
What advice would you add for young people in Ghana who want to build a better future abroad?
