Moving Overseas for Business – things to consider  

It is estimated that 250,000 Brits work abroad taking advantage of the benefits to career progression that this has always provided. Working abroad can be both daunting and exciting and when the day of the posting arrives you are bound to have some mixed emotions. Moving overseas is a massive change to your way of living and your decision will have needed careful thought.

Planning is key and if you and your employer have taken account of all the issues that you may face then you will leave confident that you are fully prepared. Some aspects to consider are: 

Family.

How will the move affect you and your family

Is your partner fully supportive?

Will your family be going with you or will you be on your own?

How frequently will you be able to return home to see your family?

Financial

Is the higher salary and improved status going to be worth the time away from your family in the long run? 

Research your tax position – how long will you be away? Will you be paying tax abroad? How much?

What are the effects to your pension?

Health

What is the healthcare situation in your destination?

Is there a state system?

Do you have healthcare insurance?

No matter how confident you are in your own ability to adapt to a change as drastic as moving overseas, it is important you do not underestimate how stressful a move to another country can be. This is especially true for young and teen-aged children who will also be leaving friends and family behind. 

If the company you work for has your living arrangements and transportation taken care of in advance, that's great. However, what if they do not?  

Do you know the area following visits and can arrange a rental property?

Does the new role include a car? 

Driving 

You may also need to obtain a driver permit specifically for the country in which you are moving. 

Culture

• If you are going completely alone, do you speak the local language? 
• How you will spend your time when you aren't working?
• Where will you find like minded people with whom you can connect? 

Moving to a different country at any age, especially if you've never been there before, can be both just a little bit terrifying and totally exhilarating.

Take the time to think your decision through before you set anything in stone. Perhaps talk to a few people who have moved overseas at some point in time. Pick their brains a little about what it was like and what exactly you should have in place before you go.  

A thorough checklist will go a long way and give you piece of mind.

Finally, don't forget to set some time aside to explore and enjoy the new country you've just arrived in.

Depending on the position you have moved overseas for, the adventure of your new territory may just be the best part of the experience after all. 

Mayfair, we care.