A Guide to Moving Abroad for a New Job: Things You Need to Know
Author Bio: Jessica is the head of content for Hire a Mover – her father’s moving company. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling around the world to different surf spots and tasting the local cuisine. If you want to learn more about her, click here.
The idea of packing your bags and moving abroad for work may seem challenging and daunting. You will even hear some people discouraging you from taking the plunge. If you are young and just starting out, people from back home might not be ready to let you go. While if you are more seasoned, you might be tied down by other obligations.
With so many things to consider, it is understandable that moving abroad may seem overwhelming. So before you scratch out the idea of living overseas, here is a list of things you need to consider before you move abroad for a new job.
Proper Documents
Before you pack your bags and say goodbye, you first need to make sure that you have all the proper documents with you.
Visa Concerns
One of the main things you may have to consider is having the right visa. Many countries demand that you have a working permit before you can work there legally.
It is a common practice for employers to apply for a visa on behalf of their foreign employees. The best thing for you to do is to ask your employer who would be processing the application of your visa before you accept the job post. Also note that the validity of some visas end when you leave a job or get fired.
Bear in mind that different countries have different processes and requirements for acquiring a visa. Visa requirements also change from time to time. Visit the consulate’s website of the country you intend to work in.
Passport Validity
Some countries countercheck the validity period of your passport against your expected work duration in their country. Check if you need to renew your passport.
Cost of Relocation
Of course, there will be expenses associated with relocating to another country. If your company is eager to have you join their team, you may want to talk to them about your accommodations. They may be able to fully cover your housing expenses, or you can ask if they can recommend a real estate agency that can assist in finding a suitable place for you.
Tips to Reduce the Cost of Relocation
- Research the cost of rent and furniture. Find out where you can find affordable places to stay and where you can purchase furniture. Doing your research would help you save money and get your money’s worth.
- Weigh in the option of buying new furniture versus shipping your old furniture. Consider which option would be more cost-efficient for you.
- If you intend to stay and work long-term abroad, you may want to consider selling your old furniture at home. The funds you could get from selling those items can help cover the cost of buying new furniture.
Research Your Employer and the Company
As this is the main reason for your move, researching your employer is imperative. You need to know who you will be reporting to and what kind of company you are about to join.
Don’t expect that their work culture would be the same as the one you had at your previous company back home. Work culture and work ethics may vary from one place to another. Reach out to your contacts who can help you gain insights about the company and your future employer.
If you have an opportunity to visit before your move, or at least before your first day at work, talk to people from the organization who could clarify your concerns.
Key Things to Consider
- Work culture and work ethics – Different countries have different work cultures and work ethics. Understand that this boils down to the fact that being in a different country entails experiencing a culture different from yours.
- Work-life balance – Different countries have different views on work-life balance. Some countries prioritize it more than others. Workplaces in some countries may have a more laid-back atmosphere, while others may be more fast-paced and demanding.
- Promotion processes – If you intend to make your big leap into working abroad count, you may want to look ahead. Find out the promotion process that your future company has. Check if you are eligible for it or how you can be.
- Tax Facts
Once more, researching ahead of time is key. You need to know how taxes are computed before you move in. A number of countries have bilateral tax agreements in place. These treaties help identify how much a non-resident gets taxed on their income, pension, and shares. They are also in place to prevent double taxation in your home nation and in your new host country.
Questions to Ask
- How much is the tax in your new work country?
- What is the process of taxation abroad?
- Are you required to pay taxes in your country while working abroad?
- Are there existing tax agreements between your home country and your new host country?
- Are there tax exemptions you can claim?
How will this affect your pension?
Family Concerns
Deciding to work abroad may be a decision that will not only affect you but your family as well. There are many considerations, and each varies from family to family. Here are some questions you need to answer before moving.
Key Questions
- In case of emergency, will you be able to easily go back home?
- Will your employer cover your airfare?
- If you are relocating with your family, are there possible work opportunities for your spouse?
- Will your spouse be eligible to work?
- If you have children, will your new location have available schooling options for them?
- Are international schools an option?
The process of moving may be quite stressful with so many things to consider. However, the reality is that working abroad may be the smartest decision you will make, especially in your career. With proper planning and by following these simple tips, you may soon enjoy a successful and wonderful journey of living life abroad.