The Best Country to Work: Where to Start a Career Abroad

The modeling business is a high-stakes game: some land roles quickly, while others experience slow but steady growth. Many girls dream of taking off and launching a fashion career abroad—and rightly so. There are more castings, higher stakes, and a chance to land a spot in a magazine or on a runway show. But where to start—New York, Milan, London, Paris, or Tokyo? We’ll give you an honest, real-life perspective, featuring personal life hacks and real-life situations.

What makes a country the best place for a model to work?

You can’t just say “the best countries for working abroad” and be done with it—it’s important to understand your specific needs. We’ve identified three key factors:

• • Market and demand – how many brands, magazines, shows, international castings and commercial shoots there are.

• • Types and requirements – where they love a “strange face”, where they value a commercial look, where different heights/parameters are accepted.

• • Logistics and support – safety, living conditions, agencies’ attitude towards newcomers (visas, flights, bookers, modeling contracts).

If a country is strong in three areas, it’s considered “top.” But for a budding model, agency flexibility and the ability to build a portfolio without relying on “old” connections are also more important.

The best countries to work abroad

Here are the most favorable countries for working, where models most often dream of landing their jobs. But why these countries? What makes them so popular?

1. New York

The fashion industry’s biggest “go-tos”: magazines, designers, major shows, photo shoots. Uniqueness is paramount here—a strange face, tall stature (usually 175 cm or more), and very thin measurements are essential for the runway. For a newcomer, getting in often requires recommendations, a rare portfolio, or a unique appearance. Accommodations include apartments in Brooklyn or Jersey, with Manhattan easily accessible by subway. The downside is intense competition and high prices.

2. London

Atmospheric, creative, loves originality and “strong faces.” You don’t have to be ultra-thin here—there are good commercial opportunities. There’s plenty of work: shows for young designers, advertising shoots, catalogs. Accommodations are often in townhouses or apartments, so the team can provide a homelike environment. Plus, there’s creative freedom and less weight pressure than in New York.

3. Milan (my favorite)

Warm, delicious, comfortable. Italian brands love “beautiful” women—the commercial, glossy type. For beginners, getting into Milan is easier: they often hire newcomers, provide shoots and catalogs, and build a portfolio. Accommodation is in apartments closer to the center, and the atmosphere is friendly. Plus, the food and life make the day easier.

4. Paris

High fashion, couture structures, and aesthetics. Parazh loves “strong” and high fashion; the demands are similar to New York, but there’s also a theatricality and a cult of art. Earnings can be uneven—some seasons are very busy and pay high fees, while others are quieter. The housing is comfortable, but the prices and competition are high.

5. Tokyo

An excellent starting point for beginners. The Japanese market favors a youthful appearance, with large eyes and a pretty face; height may be shorter (from ~168 cm). For those looking to make money quickly and build a portfolio, this is an ideal option. Agencies often accompany girls, transport them to castings by car, and take care of everyday matters.

How the agency helps models work abroad

The agency is your main “buffer” when starting out. Here’s a step-by-step guide from where to start to your first trip:

• • Portfolio and casting – the agency will evaluate your photos, suggest which ones to upload, and book you for a test shoot.

• • Booker and contacts – a good booker knows who to submit your materials to: who is currently looking for “strange”, who is looking for a commercial type.

• • Visa support – the agency often helps with obtaining a work or Schengen visa and will advise on the necessary documents and invitations.

• • Flight and transfer – often the agent books the flight, meets you at the airport and takes you to the apartment (especially in Asia/Tokyo).

• • Accommodation – you’ll be housed in apartments with other models; it’s safe and economical.

• • Contracts and Payments – The agent will review the contract, explain fees and payment terms, and sometimes advance payment.

• • Portfolio development – organizes filming, tests, and castings; the booker monitors the schedule and deadlines.

• • On-set support – an agent or representative accompanies you to castings, translates, and handles everyday issues.

If you work with Prestige Model Agency, you can rest assured—they don’t take fluff. It’s an agency with a genuine reputation, verified contracts, and reviews from women who have successfully worked abroad.

How to choose a country to start a modeling career

1. 1. Find your type. Do you prefer commercial beauty (Milan), youthfulness (Tokyo), or strangeness/catwalk (New York/Paris)?

1. 1. Assess your language level and readiness to move. Do you understand English? Then New York and London are easier. If not, Milan and Tokyo might be warmer.

1. 1. Calculate your budget. Where can an agent help with flights/visas? Where is housing cheaper?

1. 1. Check out the agencies. Ratings, real reviews, contracts—don’t be shy about calling models they’ve worked with.

1. 1. Think about your health and safety. Where will you feel comfortable and protected?