Imagine starting a new journey with one of the most influential tech companies globally – Microsoft. Your excitement is palpable as you envision working in a dynamic, innovative environment. Although there’s one issue – you live hundreds or possibly thousands of miles away.
No need to worry, as Microsoft offers a comprehensive relocation package. This article will guide you through what to expect from Microsoft’s relocation benefits and how to navigate them.
Microsoft Relocation Benefits
Before we dive into the specifics of the relocation package, it’s essential to know that Microsoft takes care of its employees’ relocation needs through two main options: a lump sum and a relocation package. Both options have unique advantages; employees can choose the best suits their situation.
Lump Sum
The lump-sum relocation package is a fixed cash benefit provided to employees to cover the various expenses of relocating. A lump sum is considered a relocation bonus and not a reimbursement. The beauty of this package is the flexibility it affords. You can spend this money as you see fit, whether on moving services, temporary housing, or other incidental costs.
Relocation Package
In addition to the lump sum, Microsoft may offer a detailed relocation package encompassing various Microsoft relocation services. While specific inclusions may vary based on individual circumstances and job roles, typical components of the package may include:
- Professional packing and shipping of household goods.
- Temporary housing or assistance in finding a new home.
- Coverage for transportation costs, such as flights or mileage reimbursement.
- Assistance with selling or terminating the lease of the current residence.
- Support for spousal employment and job search assistance.
- Orientation services to help acquaint employees with their new location.
- Reimbursement for certain relocation-related expenses, such as visa fees and pet relocation.
How Much Does Microsoft Pay for Relocation?
Now to the burning question: how much does Microsoft shell out for relocation? Similar to the Google relocation package, Microsoft takes care of its employees during relocation.
It’s essential to understand that the amount provided for relocation varies depending on several factors. These may include your job role, your level in the company, the distance of the move, and whether it’s domestic or international.
Microsoft employees report that the lump sum can vary between $12,000 for a cross-country move and $25,000 for international relocation.
The company offers competitive packages to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible. The company wants to attract and retain the best talent, so they strive to cover most of your relocation costs if not all.
What Does Microsoft’s Relocation Package Include?
As mentioned, the Microsoft relocation package is tailored to meet individual needs, making it a comprehensive and customizable solution. While the specific inclusions may vary, employees can typically expect support in the following areas:
Moving Expenses: Microsoft usually covers the expenses related to moving household goods, whether within the country or internationally. Some common moving expenses include:
- Professional packing and shipping
- Storage costs
- Transport of special items
- Transportation of vehicles
- Insurance
Temporary Housing: For employees who need time to find a new home, the company may provide temporary housing or offer assistance in finding suitable accommodations. Common temporary housing aspects include:
- Furnished or corporate housing
- Flexibility in the duration of your stay
- Location
- Cost coverage
- Amenities
- Pet-friendly options
Travel Costs: Whether traveling domestically or internationally, Microsoft often covers the costs of flights or provides mileage reimbursement.
Home Sale and Lease Termination: If an employee owns a home, the company might offer support in selling the property or breaking the lease agreement if required. ARC can help you save a lot of money on a new home purchase with our ARC Realtor Rebate. We’ll cut you a check for thousands depending on the sale price of your home. Click here to learn more!
Spousal Employment Assistance: Recognizing the importance of spousal career opportunities, Microsoft may offer job search assistance to the employee’s spouse or partner.
Orientation Services: The company may provide orientation services to help employees settle into their new location smoothly. Some common components include:
- City and neighborhood familiarization
- Housing assistance
- Cultural awareness
- Education support
- Healthcare Information
- Government services
- Social and networking opportunities
- Language assistance
- Spousal and partner support
Visa and Immigration Support: For international relocations, Microsoft may cover visa application fees and provide guidance on immigration processes. Some aspects of visa and immigration support include:
- Visa application guidance
- Visa processing fees
- Immigration documentation
- Legal compliance
- Spousal and dependent visas
- Timely communication
- Relocation timing
- Immigration consultants
Pet Relocation: The company understands that pets are an integral part of many families and may offer assistance in relocating furry companions. Pet relocation services may include:
- Travel Arrangements: Assistance in booking flights or making travel arrangements for the pet, whether it’s in-cabin, as checked baggage, or via a pet transport service.
- Health and Vaccination Requirements: Guidance on the necessary health certifications, vaccinations, and documentation required for pets to travel, especially for international relocations where different countries have varying import regulations.
- Crate and Comfort: Recommendations on suitable pet carriers or crates, ensuring that they are appropriate for the pet’s size and breed, as well as tips to make the crate a comfortable and familiar space for the pet during the journey.
- Pet Boarding: Support finding reputable pet boarding facilities or pet-friendly accommodations during the transition period, especially if the new home is not immediately available or pet-friendly.
- Pet Travel Specialists: Access to pet travel specialists who can offer expert advice and handle logistics to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey for the pet.
- Quarantine Requirements: Information on quarantine regulations, if applicable, for international relocations and assistance in fulfilling any necessary quarantine requirements.
Does Microsoft Offer an International Relocation Package?
Like the Apple relocation package, Microsoft offers an international relocation package for employees required to move to a different country for work. This international package addresses the additional complexities and challenges of moving across borders.
International relocations often involve more intricate visa and immigration processes, cultural adjustments, and potentially more extended periods of temporary housing. Therefore, the international relocation package includes a broader range of benefits to cater to employees’ unique needs moving abroad.
How to Get a Microsoft Relocation Package
If you’re considering joining Microsoft or have already been offered a position, you may wonder how to access the relocation package. It’s important to note that not all positions at Microsoft come with relocation benefits. Generally, relocation assistance is more common for higher-level positions or roles that require specialized skills.
When negotiating your job offer, be sure to inquire about the availability of relocation benefits and which options (lump sum or comprehensive package) are available. If the company agrees to provide relocation assistance, they will typically outline the specifics in the offer letter or contract.
Microsoft Relocation Package – FAQs
When am I eligible to receive a relocation package with Microsoft?
Eligibility for a relocation package with Microsoft depends on the position and level of employment. Higher-level positions and roles that require specific skills are more likely to qualify for relocation benefits. Entry-level or junior positions may not always include relocation assistance.
What is a common relocation package?
A common relocation package at Microsoft includes benefits such as moving expenses, temporary housing, travel costs, home sale/lease termination assistance, spousal employment support, orientation services, visa and immigration assistance, and pet relocation.
Can I negotiate my relocation package?
Yes, you can negotiate your relocation package with Microsoft. If your circumstances warrant additional assistance or you have unique needs, don’t hesitate to discuss them during the job offer negotiation phase. Microsoft values its employees and aims to ensure a smooth transition, so they may be open to accommodate reasonable requests.
How much does Microsoft give for relocation?
The amount Microsoft gives for relocation varies depending on several factors, including the employee’s position, the distance of the move, and the chosen relocation option (lump sum or comprehensive package).
Higher-level positions and international relocations generally receive more substantial relocation benefits. While Microsoft does not publicly disclose the amount they give for relocation, Microsoft compensation for employees has been reported to be around $10,000 for local moves and up to $25,000 for cross-country moves.
Conclusion
Relocating for a new job opportunity can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. However, the transition can become much smoother and stress-free with Microsoft’s comprehensive relocation package. Whether you’re moving domestically or internationally, Microsoft offers various benefits and services to ensure your relocation experience is seamless.
From covering moving expenses and providing temporary housing to offering spousal employment assistance and orientation services, the company goes above and beyond to support its employees during this significant life change.
If you are considering a position at Microsoft that involves relocation, don’t hesitate to discuss the options with the company’s HR department. With the right approach and planning, your journey to a new location with Microsoft can be the start of an exciting and fulfilling chapter in your career.
ARC Relocation can help with multiple factors regarding your Microsoft relocation package. Whether you need help with vehicle shipping, finding a moving company, or packing and unpacking services, ARC Relocation will help you with whatever you need. Contact ARC Relocation today to schedule a complimentary call.