A bachelor’s degree in accounting is required for the majority of international accountant positions with US-based employers. Many companies, on the other hand, demand that candidates have a post-secondary education in order to work as international accountants. A master’s degree in accounting or certification as a certified public accountant are examples of qualifying credentials (CPA). Candidates with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) may be eligible for these positions in some cases.
The majority of international accounting positions require at least five years of related work experience, though some positions only require two years. Although entry-level positions are rare, they are not impossible to come by, especially if you graduated from a top-tier college or university. Keep in mind that some employers will be looking for accounting specialists in one or more areas. You may have an advantage over your competitors if you can claim expert-level experience in at least one aspect of this field, or call it a specialty.
If you want to work as an international accountant, you may be expected to know at least one additional language due to the nature of international work environments. Some employers will seek candidates who can speak, read, and write in a variety of languages. If you don’t have this particular skill, don’t get discouraged. If your educational credentials are strong enough, your inability to communicate in a foreign language may not disqualify you from consideration.
Aside from foreign languages, it’s possible that you’ll need excellent communication skills in your native tongue to work as an international accountant. In addition to communicating with your coworkers, you may be required to communicate with individuals from other companies. Not only do these people speak a different language, but they also come from different cultures and environments. If you have some experience or training in international communication practices, it may be beneficial in your job search.
Depending on which countries your employer does business with, you will almost certainly be expected to be familiar with foreign accounting practices. Taxation, audit policies, and expense allocation are common areas where you’ll need to be well-versed. This can be quite difficult, which is why having a background in international accounting procedures can aid your career as an international accountant.