The first step in building an international modeling career often starts with development markets. These markets are where agencies send new faces to fast-track growth, strengthen portfolios, and gain the experience needed to move into major markets.

This guide was created to give both models and mother agents a clear, honest picture of what development markets are, why they matter, and what to expect when stepping into them.

Why Development Markets Matter

For many models, going abroad is the first time they’ll live and work outside their home country. Agencies use these placements to test a model’s adaptability, professionalism, and ability to book jobs in a range of categories — from e-commerce to editorial.

By working in a development market, models can:

• Gain more bookings and on-set experience in a shorter amount of time

• Build a stronger and more versatile portfolio

• Learn to navigate castings, client expectations, and daily agency life

• Prove reliability and readiness for future placement in major markets

Who This Guide Is For

• Aspiring Models & Parents – to understand the path agencies often recommend and what to expect from a first international placement.

• Mother Agents & Agencies – to provide a trusted resource that sets accurate expectations for talent before placement.

Markets Covered

We highlight the most common and influential international development hubs, including:

• Asia (various markets across the region)

• Australia

• Mexico (CDMX)

• South Africa (Cape Town, Johannesburg)

• Turkey (Istanbul)

• Greece (Athens)

Each market has unique opportunities and challenges, and this guide helps you understand how to prepare for them — before you ever get on a plane.

What You’ll Learn Inside

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything models and mother agents need to know about development markets, including:

• Visas & Travel Requirements – what’s needed and how to prepare

• Contracts & Commissions – how agreements work and what to watch for

• Taxes & Legal Considerations – often overlooked, but essential for planning

• Accommodations – what to expect from model apartments or alternative housing

• Daily Life Abroad – from transportation to cultural expectations and working conditions

• Agency & Client Expectations – the professional standards you’ll be held to

Why This Guide is Essential

The modeling industry is full of myths and mixed messages about what development markets are really like. This guide cuts through the confusion with practical, experience-based insights you won’t find in agency brochures.

By the end, you’ll have the clarity and confidence to:

• Decide if development markets are the right step

• Understand exactly what agencies are looking for

• Avoid costly mistakes and surprises while abroad

• Set realistic expectations for work, earnings, and lifestyle