The Best Country to Work In: Where to Start Your Career Abroad
A modeling career is like a high-stakes game: some girls land roles quickly, while others grow slowly but steadily. Many dream of “flying out” and starting their fashion career abroad — and they’re right. There are more castings, higher rates, and a real chance to book editorial work or walk major shows. But where should you begin — New York, Milan, London, Paris, or Tokyo? Here’s an honest, down-to-earth breakdown with personal insights and real living conditions.
What Makes a Country the Best Place for Models to Work
You can’t just say “the best countries to work abroad” — it depends on what you need. We highlight three key factors:
- Market and demand — the number of brands, magazines, shows, international castings, and commercial projects.
- Preferred looks and requirements — where they love a “strange face,” where they want a commercial look, and where they’re flexible with height/measurements.
- Logistics and support — safety, living conditions, agency attitude toward newcomers (visas, flights, bookers, contract structure).
If a country is strong in all three — it’s top-tier. But for beginners, agency flexibility and the ability to build a portfolio without “old industry connections” matters even more.
The Best Countries for Starting a Modeling Career Abroad
These are the destinations models dream of most — and here’s why they’re considered the strongest options:
1. New York
The main headquarters of the global fashion industry: magazines, designers, major shows, editorials. New York values uniqueness — strange faces, tall girls (usually 175 cm+), and very slim measurements for runway.
For beginners, it often requires strong recommendations, a rare portfolio, or a standout look.
Living: apartments in Brooklyn or Jersey with easy metro access to Manhattan.
Downside: intense competition and very high costs.
2. London
Creative, atmospheric, and open to unconventional “strong faces.”
It’s not mandatory to be ultra-thin — the city has solid commercial opportunities.
Plenty of work: emerging designers, ads, campaigns, catalogs.
Housing is often in townhouses or small flats, sometimes arranged by the agency with a cozy, home-like feel.
Plus: more creative freedom and less weight pressure compared to New York.
3. Milan (my personal favorite)
Warm, stylish, comfortable.
Italian brands appreciate classic beauty — commercial, glossy looks.
For beginners, Milan is one of the easiest markets to enter: agencies often take newcomers, give test shoots, catalogs, and help build a book.
Housing: apartments near the center, friendly atmosphere.
Bonus — food and lifestyle make your everyday routine much easier.
4. Paris
High fashion, couture, and pure aesthetics.
Paris loves “strong” high-fashion faces. Requirements are similar to New York, but with more theatricality and artistic flair.
Income varies: some seasons are extremely busy and well-paid, others are quiet.
Living conditions are comfortable, but prices and competition are tough.
5. Tokyo
A fantastic starting point for beginners.
The Japanese market loves a youthful look, big eyes, soft features; height requirements are lower (around 168 cm+).
For those wanting to earn quickly and build a portfolio fast — this is ideal.
Agencies usually offer strong support: driving models to castings, helping with logistics, daily life, etc.
How Agencies Help Models Work Abroad
Your agency is your main “buffer” at the start. Here’s the step-by-step process from the first move to your first trip:
- Portfolio and casting prep — the agency reviews your photos, tells you what to improve, and books a test shoot.
- Booker and contacts — a good booker knows exactly who needs your type right now, whether it’s strange, commercial, or editorial.
- Visa support — agencies often assist with work visas or Schengen visas, prepare documents and invitations.
- Flights and transfers — the agency frequently books your flight, meets you at the airport, and brings you to the apartment (especially in Asia).
- Accommodation — shared model apartments for safety and budget efficiency.
- Contracts and payments — the agency checks the contract, explains commissions, payment terms, and sometimes offers advances.
- Portfolio development — arranging shoots, test work, castings; bookers manage your schedule and deadlines.
- On-site support — a representative assists during castings, translates, and handles daily issues.
If you’re working with Prestige Model Agency, you can relax — they don’t charge fake fees. It’s a reputable agency with verified contracts and real feedback from girls who have already worked internationally.
How to Choose the Right Country to Start Your Modeling Career
- Determine your type.
Are you more commercial (Milan), youthful (Tokyo), or high-fashion/strange (New York/Paris)? - Evaluate your language level and readiness to move.
If you understand English well — New York or London are easier.
If not, Milan or Tokyo might feel more supportive. - Calculate your budget.
Where does the agency help with visa/flight? Where is accommodation more affordable? - Check agencies carefully.
Ratings, real reviews, contract details — don’t hesitate to contact models who have worked there. - Think about health and safety.
Where will you feel protected and comfortable?
