In today's global economy, more people than ever are working abroad. If you're contemplating a career move overseas, here are some things you should know.

Passport and visa requirements

Generally, you'll need a valid passport and visa (or work permit) to work abroad. If you're working for a global company, it might obtain the visa for you. Otherwise, you'll need to apply on your own. Your chances for obtaining a visa are best if you have a special skill that would make you an asset to a prospective employer. The U.S. State Department posts specific visa requirements (as well as travel warnings) for foreign countries on its website at www.travel.state.gov

Citizenship

No matter how long you work abroad, you'll remain a U.S. citizen, as long as you don't formally renounce your citizenship. And if you have a child born overseas, he or she will be a U.S. citizen too (assuming at least one parent is a U.S. citizen, the child enters the U.S. or is formally admitted, and other requirements for citizenship are met).

Taxes

Just because you're earning income outside the United States doesn't mean you won't owe income taxes to Uncle Sam--the United States taxes Americans on income no matter where in the world it's earned.

But there is some good news. Even though you'll still have to file a federal income tax return, if you meet certain requirements you may be able to exclude up to $87,600 (in 2008) of foreign earned income. You may also qualify for the foreign housing exclusion and the foreign tax credit. For details, see IRS Publication 54, Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad.

But the tax laws of other countries vary widely. Although there's no guarantee you won't be taxed twice, most Western countries have tax treaties with the United States that attempt to eliminate double taxation. For a list of these countries, go to www.irs.gov and search "income tax treaties A to Z."

Also, any property you transfer while working abroad may be subject to federal gift tax, no matter where the property is located. And if you keep your U.S. residence while working abroad, you may still owe state income taxes.

The tax issues involved with working overseas can be complicated; you may want to consult a tax professional experienced in international tax matters.

Health care

Most U.S. health insurers don't provide coverage to Americans living abroad, so consider purchasing a supplemental policy that will cover any health-care expenses you incur overseas. (Some countries may require you to have such coverage in order to get a visa.) Make sure that any private policy includes emergencies and medical evacuations.

Banking

The availability of online banking and brokerage accounts makes it easy to manage your money in the United States while working abroad--all you need is an Internet connection. However, you might also need to open an account at a local bank, if for no other reason than to get cash. If you'll be converting local currency to U.S. dollars (or vice versa), make sure you understand how the exchange rate works to maximize your take-home pay.

Research, research, research

These are only a few of the issues you're likely to face. The best thing you can do to prepare is to research as much as you can ahead of time. The more you know, the more rewarding your experience is likely to be.