You have probably heard of the famous expat package, also known as the "golden package". This is something that has driven thousands of professionals abroad to boost their careers. However, things have changed significantly with the COVID-19 pandemic. While there are still plenty of opportunities for foreign professionals in some countries, the expat package has become a myth, mainly due to the current economic downturn. Besides, today, more and more companies prefer remote work, which has become even more widespread in recent months. But if you still manage to land a job abroad after months of research, considering the instability of the global labour job market, you don't have to jump on the first offer! There are many things to consider depending on the country where you are planning to relocate.
Define the type of contract you'll settle for
It all depends on your life goals. But it is best to know where you are heading if you have a solid project in mind. For example, is the company offering your an expat package with all its benefits or a local contract? This will be a crucial element for your long term plans, especially if you are looking to relocate with your family. Even in times of crisis, it is totally legitimate to negotiate your job contract while remaining reasonable. But according to global mobility experts, those who wish to move to the United States, Europe, or even certain Asian countries in Asia, for example, are currently finding it harder to negotiate. In general, the least attractive countries, especially in Africa, are the most likely to go the extra mile to attract foreign professionals who can meet theirs and the market's needs.
How do you distinguish between an expat contract and a local contract? Its quite simple. An expatriate contract is a new contract signed with a company overseas, with a lot of benefits. It can be a fixed-term or an open-ended contract, so make sure you know how long you intend to stay in your host country. In general, you are most likely to sign an expat contract with a large or multinational company. But if you're negotiating with a small or medium-sized business, you better expect a local contract. Some companies might offer a “local plus” contract, so make sure you are aware of all the details and its benefits.
Things to negotiate with your employer
Whether you are moving alone or with your family, you probably have some dreams and plans in mind, and are expecting a better standard of living. So what should you negotiate with your employer before signing your new job contract? Remuneration is probably the first thing that comes to your mind. So take the time to inquire about the salaries offered for the type of position you are about to take. Will you receive your salary in foreign or local currency, and under what conditions? What is the conversion rate if you have to make regular international money transfers? Do you have to pay income tax? What are the tax rates for expats? If you have any doubts, feel free to ask your questions on forums like Expat.com or on expat groups you will easily find on social media.
Also check with the HR department whether the company is offering an expat package including health insurance, accommodation or a housing allowance, a car, etc. If the company is providing accommodation, be sure to tell them your needs and preferences based on your family situation. Some companies even take care of the children's schooling. So if you are moving with your family, make sure to inform your employer so that he can make the necessary arrangements.
If you have to find accommodation on your own, do not hesitate to seek help from your employer. In these pandemic times, it can be difficult to find adequate housing in a short notice. The company may offer you temporary accommodation until you find something that works for you. You can also seek your employer's help with your international relocation and administrative formalities such as opening a bank account, or even taking out complementary insurance if necessary. In the COVID-19 era, having medical coverage is more important than ever. So inquire about the conditions for joining the social security scheme in your host country and do not hesitate to ask your employer's help.
Another important step is to obtain your visa or work permit. Keep in mind that most administrative procedures have considerably slowed down during the pandemic, so expect a certain delay in getting your documents. It is recommended that you anticipate the delay before booking your tickets or accommodation. Your employer could perhaps give you a helping hand to speed up the process. The key is to keep in touch with the company and provide them with all the necessary details.
These days, there are strict conditions for entering certain countries. For example, you may be required to provide a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test upon arrival. Some countries may even require you to quarantine or self-isolate upon arrival if you have not been vaccinated against COVID-19. These are other things to agree on with your future employer before taking on your new job.
What if there is no expat contract?
Given the current economic downturn, your future employer may not be able to offer you an expat contract at all with all the benefits you expect. But that's doesn't mean that you have to give up. You might be able to negotiate bonuses depending on your performance or even salary rises after certain periods, at least until the company can gets back on track financially. Keep in mind that there is nothing wrong with asking or negotiating. If you don't get what you wanted initially, all you need to do is prove your worth to the company once you've been hired. Who knows? Your employer might recognise your efforts and reward you accordingly.
It's worth noting that in recent years, companies that hire globally tend to offer more other types of benefit, for example, providing language courses or professional training, which is not so bad after all. So, obviously, you have nothing to lose. But make sure you have all the information from the start, that is, before signing your new job contract.
