Let’s face it—with the U.S. political landscape resembling something between a reality TV show and a never-ending family Thanksgiving argument, you might be contemplating a change of scenery. If you’re in the publishing industry and eyeing the exit signs, you’re not alone. Many book industry professionals consider taking their editorial, marketing, or production skills to more settled shores. But where to begin?

When looking abroad, certain cities stand out as publishing powerhouses where you’ll find familiar names and robust opportunities. London remains the undisputed center of English-language publishing outside the U.S. All of the Big Five publishers—Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, Simon & Schuster, Hachette, and Macmillan—have substantial operations there. The U.K. publishing scene offers a comfortable transition for American professionals, with similar industry structures but just enough cultural differences to make Monday meetings more interesting. The primary hurdle? Securing a work visa. Although, publishing roles often qualify for the U.K.’s skilled worker visa pathway.

Toronto offers another relatively seamless transition. Canada’s publishing landscape features outposts of major publishers alongside vibrant independent houses like House of Anansi Press and Coach House Books. The visa process is straightforward compared to many countries, especially for those with in demand skills, and you won’t need to convince anyone that “editorial” is spelled without a “u.”

For those feeling more adventurous, Sydney and Melbourne host significant publishing operations, including branches of the Big Five. Australia offers working holiday visas for Americans under thirty, making it an excellent starter option for early career professionals. Plus, you can say things like “g’day” to authors without irony.

Contrary to popular belief, securing work authorization abroad isn’t always a bureaucratic nightmare (though it’s rarely a walk in the park). Ireland offers a relatively accessible path for Americans through their Critical Skills Employment Permit, and Dublin hosts several major publishers. As a bonus, Irish publishing houses appreciate American expertise in marketing and digital innovation. Germany, particularly Berlin and Munich, provides opportunities with international publishers and a growing English-language publishing scene. Their EU Blue Card system welcomes skilled professionals, and Germany’s strong book culture means they value publishing expertise.

The Netherlands deserves special mention—Amsterdam houses several international publishers with English-language divisions. The Dutch’s Highly Skilled Migrant visa program is among Europe’s most straightforward, and nearly everyone speaks English, sparing you from having to master pronouncing “scheveningen” on day one.

Your meticulously crafted American resume might need a makeover before heading overseas. In the U.K. and Australia, it’s a CV (curriculum vitae), and in many European countries, personal details like your photo, age, and marital status are standard inclusions—a practice that would make HR departments in the U.S. break out in hives. European employers often appreciate certificates and formal qualifications more than their American counterparts. If you’ve completed professional development courses or hold industry certifications, feature them prominently.

When describing your experience, emphasize adaptability and international awareness. Publishing is increasingly global, but editorial sensibilities vary dramatically across markets. Demonstrating that you understand this balance makes you more attractive to foreign employers. Remember to adjust your language—highlight your experience with “turnover” rather than “revenue” for U.K. applications, and be prepared to explain American publishing terminology that doesn’t translate internationally. That VP title might not carry the same weight overseas, where hierarchies are often flatter.

The publishing world is surprisingly small and connected. Reach out to your network—that editor you met at Frankfurt three years ago might be your ticket to a new life abroad. Professional associations like the Society for Editors and Proofreaders (U.K.) or the Australian Publishers Association often welcome international members and provide valuable connections.

So pack your Chicago Manual of Style, practice saying “brilliant” instead of “awesome,” and take that publishing career global. After all, books are the ultimate passport—why shouldn’t your career be just as adventurous?