Global mobility services are a massive lifesaver for HR professionals because many companies don’t have the infrastructure and policies to support large scale relocations. When putting together a relocation policy, it’s important to factor in global mobility and how easy a good policy can make it for you to move employees around the world. 

It’s one thing for a company to have a policy and an idea, but how easily are these policies executed and implemented throughout your company? Or worse yet, it’s possible that your global mobility program actually hinders your employees instead of supports them. 

Understanding Global Mobility

Global mobility solutions are a 21st century term to describe the process of physically moving employees around the world. More and more companies both large and small are expanding outside of their home countries for a variety of reasons. As a result, global mobility has become more popular and the workforce has become more diverse.

The Biggest Mobility Challenge Facing Companies  

Doing so creates challenges though. Moving people across the world from different countries requires a lot of preparation, paperwork, and pivoting as things change day-to-day. For most companies, this process is a disaster and it becomes riddled with bottlenecks, and other issues that hurt your morale and that of your employee. 

International relocation requires a different approach, you need to have a solid plan that is duplicatable across the board. If you don’t, you’re wasting a lot of time and money. This is one of the reasons why people hire a corporate relocation company like ARC Relocation. We specialize in this and take it out of your hands.

The company may simply not have the resources to handle a large scale move, in-house. If that’s the case, there’s no need to worry, because outsourcing the job to ARC will not only make it easier on you, it ends up being more affordable in the long run as well. 

How to Develop a Global Mobility Program

If you’re still determined to develop your own global mobility program, that’s fine too. This will serve as your strategy for transitioning employees out or into the country. The strategy offers guidance to both the employee and the employer and a high-quality program will coincide with the company vision and values. 

The best way for you to develop a program is to sit down with the chain of command and get some of the employees involved as well. Sit down and develop a strategy that you will tirelessly follow until you’ve determined that it doesn’t work or needs to be changed.

The problem is, this will look different for each company and each country you’re relocating someone to or from. So, as you can see, it’s a very complex process. This is once again why we recommend hiring professionals to handle your large-scale relocation projects. 

The Importance of a Global Mobility Strategy 

Nonetheless, no matter what you choose to do, having a global mobility strategy is crucial to the success of your company. It takes a lot of time and work to create but so many employees are relocating anymore that this will become a standard operating procedure. Providing this option to employees is a great thing and it represents a strong, forward-thinking company culture. Employees in younger generations look for this type of thing. 

In fact, 22% of workers are now working remotely and 65% report are wanting to work remotely full-time. These statistics open the door to companies that have a global mobility program because employees will feel more inclined to work with the companies that take their desires into consideration. In some cases, employees will even sacrifice pay in exchange for a flexible, remote-working environment. 

Another important reason why global mobility solutions matter is because you can then access a global workforce, rich with people who want to work for you. When you’re only looking within driving distance of your office, think of how limiting that is?

In years past, companies had to open additional offices in other cities if they wanted to access the workforce there. Now, you don’t have to do that. You can let the employee work remotely, as long as you have a global mobility strategy in place for onboarding and managing that employee. 

Key International Mobility Considerations 

Once you’ve answered “what is global mobility” and you’re ready to put together a strategy, there are some important factors to consider. 

Legal Structure 

When you’re operating with employees overseas, you need to understand how that impacts you legally. For anything longer than a month or two, the staff working outside of the country may have legal responsibilities to pay taxes in that country. If you don’t, a “dependent agent permanent establishment” may be created which could make you as the employer responsible for paying corporate income tax in both countries. 

There are a few different options like setting up a subsidiary company in that country if you’re moving a large number of people to the same place. You can also require each employee to obtain a temporary visa in the country but keep in mind that the requirements and regulations will vary dramatically based on where they’re moving. 

Immigration

Every country handles immigration differently so it’s important that this is a part of your global mobility planning as well. You should have a list of each employee, where they’re located, and the work and residence requirements for each of those countries. This will not only help you in the long run but it’ll help you develop an overall strategy for each country which will increase the overall global mobility initiative of the company. 

It’s also important to determine how much of the relocation is the employer’s responsibility and how much of it is on the back of the employee. 

Employment and Tax Requirements 

This is where things get tricky. You’ll need to understand the relocation tax and employment obligations of the home country and the destination country. Figuring this out ahead of time is the best choice because some countries have more difficult tax requirements than others which makes it difficult for employees to relocate there. 

Shadow payroll is a popular strategy here that involves keeping employees on their benefits and insurance in the home country while temporarily relocating them. This is a great option for employees that are spending more than six months in a new country. 

Compensation Structure

Determining the compensation structure for an employee living abroad is different than doing it for someone in the country. You’ll need to consider things such as cost of living differences, exchange rates, pay raises for relocation, compensation packages or relocation bonuses, and more. The employee needs to know exactly what to expect in terms of income to help them feel more confident and comfortable with the move. 

Employee Retention 

Don’t forget how many changes this employee is going through. Moving is a stressful experience even when it’s across town, moving across the country (or globe) is a whole different ball game. It’s up to the HR team to make this as smooth of a process as possible and that’s where proper global mobility solutions come into play.

If your policies don’t work or they don’t run smoothly, you may end up fronting the bill to send someone to Vietnam only to have them leave the company when they get there.

Part of your global mobility strategy should also involve acclimating the employee to their new surroundings. Perhaps having someone there to show them around and teach them about the culture would be nice.

Solutions For a Global Workplace

When it comes to relocating your valuable employees around the world, you need a partner who understands the intricacies of global mobility.

Expert Support, Seamless Transitions

Managing employee relocations across international borders requires specialized knowledge and resources.

When you partner with ARC Relocation for your global mobility needs, you gain access to comprehensive solutions that make the process smoother for both your company and your employees. Our dedicated team helps you navigate complexities while keeping costs manageable and employee satisfaction high.

Simplify Compliance

Ensure your global mobility program meets all legal global mobility services, tax, and immigration requirements with our expertly managed compliance services that keep you protected in every jurisdiction you operate.

Enhance Employee Experience

Create positive relocation experiences that boost retention with our personalized support services, cultural training, and destination assistance for employees and their families.

Maximize Efficiency

Streamline your relocation process with our technology-driven solutions that reduce administrative burden, eliminate bottlenecks, and provide real-time visibility into your global mobility program.

How ARC Helps With Global Mobility Services

As a global mobility provider, our specialized team of relocation experts offers end-to-end global mobility solutions that simplify the complex process of international employee transfers.

Expert Guidance and Tailored Solutions

ARC Relocation provides comprehensive global mobility services designed to meet your unique business needs. Our dedicated team of relocation professionals works closely with your HR department to develop and implement customized solutions.

Policy Development

Create effective global mobility policies that align with your company’s goals and culture while addressing the complex challenges of international relocations.

Destination Services

Support your employees with home finding, school selection, cultural training, and local orientation to ensure a smooth transition to their new location.

Immigration Support

Navigate complex visa and work permit requirements with our expert immigration services that keep your employees compliant and your business protected.

Global Mobility FAQs 

What are global mobility services? 

Global mobility services exist to make the move much easier for the employer and employee. Some of the services include:

• Researching local laws and tax requirements
• Assisting with hiring moving companies
• Helping employees find residence
• Helping employees acclimate to the cultural changes of their new country 

How do you explain global mobility? 

It refers to a company’s ability to relocate employees anywhere in the world. A company that has global mobility, has policies in place to make this process easy. A company without global mobility does not. 

What factors should companies consider when selecting a global mobility partner?

Companies should evaluate potential mobility partners based on their industry experience, technology capabilities, global network, compliance expertise, and customer service approach.

The right partner should understand your specific business needs and provide customized solutions rather than a one-size-fits-all approach to international relocations.RetryClaude can make mistakes. Please double-check responses.

Final Thoughts 

Global mobility is becoming more important for growing companies. Employees are expecting employers to have policies and procedures in place for relocation and remote-working. Companies must also understand all the legal, regulatory, and tax requirements so they can ensure a smooth process for both the employee and the employer. 

This is a lot of work for the HR department. It’s a lot to handle, there are a lot of legal loopholes, and many things can go wrong. 

ARC Relocation understands that, and we specialize in global corporate relocation. If you need help creating a global mobility strategy or you’d like to learn more about how ARC makes your job easier, contact us today! 

Several things are highly important when we talk about talent and the right person to do a job. Every graduate or person always looks for an ideal platform where they can showcase their personal and professional skills. But getting a dream job is a challenging task.

Moreover, companies worldwide are going global and conducting international recruiting in the best way possible. The intent to go global is because talent has no boundaries, and you can find the right person from anywhere in the world. 

Today, people are connected with the latest and advanced technologies, making it easier for companies to use the facility to work online. This is why international recruitment is gaining importance, and many companies are finding ways to enhance intl recruiting.

This blog will discuss some of the essential steps that are needed for successful international recruitment and selection, but before we dive more into the steps, let’s have a look at what an international recruiter is.

What is an International Recruiter?

It has been years since international recruiters have been working to find the right talent for their clients and companies; but after the pandemic, things got a little fast because of the remote work culture. 

It has been observed that working in a remote setting drives productive results for companies. Many individuals nowadays also try their best to get hired by international recruiters.

There are several online platforms where international recruiters always actively find the right talent for various tasks. But, finding the right talent requires some growth-driven strategies to fulfill. Let’s look at some steps to successful international recruiting. 

7 Steps for Successful International Recruitment

International recruitment is quite common these days, as many companies are going global to expand their businesses and revenue. The international recruitment process involves several steps, and every step is highly important.

1. Take a Brief Look at the Market and Research

You can only start something with research and proper knowledge. When discussing international recruiting, a detailed market research about talent and competitors is necessary. You have to look in detail at all the aspects of the current hiring trends and figure out what will be the most suitable option for you. 

You can easily get a local talent without any effort but keep in mind that the local candidate of your state is surely exposed to your competitors, and there are high chances that he also gets in touch with them in case of slight mishandling from you. 

This is the reason why recruiters need to carry out market research and need to see what others are offering. It also helps them to meet the hiring parameters and get the best talent for the required roles.

2. What Requirements Do You Want to Fulfill?

Hiring international talent differs from hiring local talent. Identifying your needs is the primary thing to do before crafting an international recruitment plan. 

You should look in detail and answer these questions.

• For which role are you hiring?
• What is your recruitment budget?
• What are you looking for in a candidate?
• Experience or academic qualification of the candidate.
• How can your ideal candidate impact your organization?

These are some things you should look at in-depth and make things easy for the hiring process. You should ask the business head of organizations before making a remarkable recruitment plan. 

3. A Recruitment Plan 

This entails all the necessary things you will need in the international recruitment and selection process. The recruitment process does not depend on a single person’s decision because the hired candidate will work with many fellow mates, and the corporate sector needs to understand this.

A recruiter makes a recruitment plan by looking at all the parameters and aspects that can drive them in the right way to reach out to an ideal candidate. A recruitment plan includes:

• Which platform you will use for job advertising
• Needs of the company and the role
• One of the most important things to remember is what leads you to go for international hiring
• How to retain the candidate if he performs well?

A proper recruitment plan is a primary thing and gives you an idea of how successful your recruitment process will be. Hiring with a proper plan can lead to difficulties and mismanagement, and you will retain important resources such as time and budget.

4. Finding the Best Platform for Job Advertisement 

Today, there are several online platforms available, and welcoming a new employee is relatively easy. 

Nowadays, many online platforms and websites are present where you can find many local and international candidates, but you don’t need to get in touch with us in a matter of hours or days.

It has been noticed that many international recruiters often need help receiving several job applications from relevant candidates when they post a job, which makes the recruitment process quite difficult.  

Many candidates apply to several jobs daily without reading the job description on recruitment platforms. This is why the right platform is quite important, where you can easily post a job and get in touch with the right candidate easily. 

5. Job Description 

A job description is everything that will decide how many applications you are going to receive. Many online platforms offer different formats for job descriptions, and writing a compelling and brief description is challenging.

A job description includes the role requirements, the job structure, what you are looking for, and many more. In every job description, an ideal candidate looks for the compensation and the perks the job offers, as today, the quality of life is an ultimate demand of every candidate.  

You should include all the things in the job description concerning the expectations of the candidates. This is why we focused on the market research above, as you cannot write a job description without knowing what candidates want to see.

You can also include an additional step in the job description to get relevant job applications. Many international recruiting processes include tests or assessments in job descriptions to ensure that only the right candidates can get in touch with them. International recruiters go after candidates who go through the test and do it correctly.  

6. Application Reviewing Process and Interview

After posting your job on the right platform, you will receive several applications. Selecting the right applications is the most difficult thing in the international recruitment process as it is challenging to arrange an online interview with scores of talent. 

It is one of the essential steps in a successful recruitment plan, as a slight mishandling can cause you to lose the right candidate. So, it is better to list applicants based on their experience, academic background, and skills. Making a list is the step right before the interview, and it helps recruiters to interview only the relevant candidates they think would be the perfect fit for the role.

There are various online meeting platforms where you can easily meet candidates online and carry out an interview easily. Indeed, academics and experience matter, but the body language of ideal candidates tell you more about their abilities. It gets a clearer picture of the candidate, and this is where you know whether the decision to move the company to the global market to find the right candidate was beneficial.

7. Compensation and Perks 

When hiring at the international level, there is a big difference in the compensation structure. The economic factor is one of the things that affect the overall hiring budget.

For example, suppose your company is located in the US, UK, or any other developed country, and you are hiring international talent from countries of Asia and Africa. In that case, you should look into the hiring budget and compensation for the role as the economic conditions in most of the countries of Asia and Africa could be better. 

Even if hiring talent from another state, you must look deeply into the perks and benefits and good compensation for strong candidates.

Why Go for International Recruitment?

International recruitment has become a strategic necessity for forward-thinking organizations. As global markets expand and digital transformation enables remote collaboration, the benefits of tapping into worldwide talent pools have never been more compelling. Here’s why companies are increasingly investing in international recruitment:

Access to a Wider Talent Pool

When you limit your search to local candidates, you’re only seeing a small fraction of available talent. International recruiting removes geographical constraints, allowing you to find specialists with rare skill sets that might be scarce in your local market.

This is particularly valuable for technical roles or niche expertise where qualified candidates may be distributed across different regions globally.

Drive Innovation Through Diversity

Teams with diverse backgrounds bring different perspectives, experiences, and problem-solving approaches.

International employees contribute unique insights shaped by their cultural backgrounds, which often leads to more creative solutions and innovation. This diversity of thought can give your company a competitive edge in developing products and services that resonate with global audiences.

Accelerate Global Expansion

Hiring international employees provides invaluable market intelligence and cultural understanding that can facilitate expansion into new territories.

Employees familiar with local markets can offer insights into consumer preferences, business practices, and regulatory requirements, making your global transition smoother and more effective. They can serve as cultural bridges, helping your organization navigate unfamiliar business environments.

Enhance Customer Service Across Time Zones

With team members across different time zones, your company can potentially offer round-the-clock service without requiring local staff to work night shifts.

This “follow-the-sun” approach ensures customers receive prompt responses regardless of their location, improving satisfaction and engagement while creating a more reasonable work schedule for all employees.

Build a Global Brand Identity

A multicultural workforce reflects and reinforces a global brand identity. Customers and partners worldwide feel more connected to organizations that demonstrate international inclusivity.

This global mindset helps build trust across different markets and positions your company as a forward-thinking global player rather than just a company with international operations.

Final Thoughts

International recruiting requires a lot of parameters and effective strategies to hire an ideal candidate. Candidates worldwide prefer a quality life and looking for smart ways to get hired. This is the reason for the demand for international recruitment services, and a successful international hiring process is the one that easily gets an ideal candidate on the right budget.

ARC can help you if you want to go global and recruit international talent for your business during relocation. Click here to schedule a no strings attached consultation today!

If your company is planning on moving some employees internationally, pulling off a smooth overseas move for your team can be a challenge, but it doesn’t need to be a nightmare. 

The key is having relocation experts in your corner to handle all the complex logistics. That’s where companies like ARC Relocation come in.

We provide relocation services overseas to make employees’ overseas transitions as seamless as possible. Our team has relocated professionals to over 85 countries for major corporations and government agencies. We know all the ins and outs to ensure everything goes off without a hitch.

How Our Relocation Services Overseas Works

The first step in our relocation services overseas is to assign your employees with a dedicated team of relocation counselors. These experienced pros will be their trusted guides throughout the entire move. We start with in-depth consultations to understand all their specific needs and concerns.

Then, our counselors custom-tailor the relocation plan for each employee’s unique situation. When moving to another country, we advise on all the key decisions — like which goods to ship, housing options in their new city, how to handle immigration paperwork, and much more. Having that personalized service gives employees peace of mind during a stressful life event.

Relocating Internationally For Corporate and Governmental Clients

Our client roster includes some of the biggest global corporations and government agencies out there. 

On the corporate side, we’ve relocated everyone from CEOs to skilled laborers around the world. With government clients like the IRS and State Department, we move customs agents wherever they’re needed at airports and seaports globally.

One thing that really helps us stand out and sets us apart from others is our mastery of international relocation regulations across 85+ countries. Our counselors are certified experts on local laws, customs duties, immigration requirements, and more. So you can be confident we’ll keep things 100% compliant, preventing costly legal issues.

Handling Paperwork

Unfortunately, the documentation involved in an overseas move is enough to give anyone a migraine. There’s immigration paperwork like visa applications to file. Tax, payroll, and financial regulations to navigate. Plus, customs requirements for clearing household goods through ports of entry.

As a part of our international moving relocation services, we take all those headache-inducing tasks off your plate. 

Our experts will acquire all the necessary docs and approvals for a hassle-free relocation. We keep your company compliant with relevant laws and keep employees happy — what could be better?

Packing Services

Obviously getting an employee’s possessions from Point A to Point B overseas is extremely critical. To ship belongings overseas, our team manages every aspect of the packing and global moving and shipping process with care.

We’ll inventory all household goods, properly crate everything for transit, and arrange pick-up at the origin residence. Your employees’ prized belongings will be efficiently transported door-to-door, thanks to our global logistics partners. We can even provide short-term storage if needed between residences.

Housing 

Finding adequate housing in a brand new country is one of the biggest stressors for relocating employees. Where should they even start looking in an unfamiliar city? Our relocation counselors take the guesswork out of this key aspect.

We start by assessing your employee’s housing needs and budget based on factors like family size, desired neighborhood amenities and more. Our local experts on the ground will provide a curated list of properties that check all the boxes. 

We assist with everything from home searches to lease negotiations to mortgage assistance if they’re looking to buy.

Support and Guidance

Simply arriving in a new country isn’t the end of the relocation journey — it’s just the start of a big life adjustment. To help employees and families adapt quickly, we connect them with essential support resources.

Our destination services include language training to get them communicating confidently. Cultural experts provide insights into regional norms and etiquette. We assist with finding employment for accompanying spouses and vetting school options for kids.

With our guidance, your team won’t feel like strangers in a strange land struggling to find their footing. They’ll have the tools and local knowledge for a smooth assimilation.

Minor Details

Even small logistical elements can make a big difference in reducing relocation stress. Details like international car leasing, for example, make sure employees won’t be stuck without transportation upon arrival before buying a vehicle.

With ARC’s assistance, we coordinate all these minor yet essential services. From getting local driver’s licenses to establishing new bank accounts, we’ve got employees covered on every front. Sweating the small stuff so they don’t have to.

Immigration and Tax Assistance

Navigating immigration and tax regulations is one of the trickiest parts of any international relocation. The rules get extraordinarily complex when you factor in details like:

• Immigration status and work authorization requirements
• Income tax implications across multiple countries
• Social Security contribution laws
• Tax equalization policies and more

It’s enough to make your head spin! Luckily, our relocation experts are fluent in relevant immigration and tax protocols worldwide. We ensure full compliance by handling visa applications, properly filing tax documents, and setting up legal payroll solutions.

Your employees can focus on their jobs while we sweat the legal complexities behind the scenes. With ARC managing immigration and taxes, you’ll avoid costly penalties, delays, or being denied entry entirely.

Cultural and Language Learning Services

Speaking the native language and understanding cultural norms are game-changers for employees maximizing their overseas success — professionally and personally. The right cross-cultural training allows them to talk fluently, behave appropriately in social settings, build meaningful connections, and gain a true appreciation of their new surroundings.

Our cultural and language learning services provide detailed classroom instruction. Families participate in hands-on activities exploring local history, food, arts, music, and more together. With that type of holistic learning approach, employees and loved ones return as global citizens enriched by their international experience.

Partner Assistance Programs

For married employees, their spouse’s career and quality of life carry just as much weight in the relocation decision. You want to avoid a situation where the transition goes smoothly work-wise but takes a big toll on the family.

That’s why we offer tailored partner assistance programs as part of the relocation package. These services help accompanying spouses maintain their own professional development, build community connections, and achieve personal fulfillment.

Spouse job search assistance identifies employment opportunities matching their skills and background. We locate language classes, coordinate networking events, research continued education options and more. Family coaches provide emotional guidance on the unique challenges of foreign assimilation.

With a full spectrum of partner support, you’ll increase the chances of long-term assignment success and retention for relocating employees. Keeping the entire family unit thriving is key.

Relocation Services Overseas: FAQs

What’s the approximate timeline for international relocations?

Most moves kick off 3-6 months prior to the desired arrival date to allow enough preparation time. But for extremely complex scenarios, we recommend allowing 6-12 months lead time.

Do you only handle permanent, long-term relocations?

No, we manage all types of domestic and international assignments — short-term, long-term, and permanent transfers. Our overseas moving services are flexible for any relocation duration.

Is there any limit on supported countries or regions?

Not at all. With an established global supply chain, we move clients virtually anywhere around the world across 85 plus countries.

What happens if an employee’s possessions are lost or damaged?

We go above and beyond to properly pack and transport belongings. But in the rare event of any issues, you and your employees are fully covered through our valuation protection plans for total peace of mind.

How do you determine the most ideal candidate for an overseas transfer?

There’s no one-size-fits-all, but our counselors provide guidance on assessing an employee’s suitability based on key factors like overall flexibility, cross-cultural competency, language abilities, motivation for the role, and family circumstances. Proper vetting ensures relocations have the highest chance of success.

Final Thoughts on Relocation Services Overseas

Relocating your valued team members overseas raises the stakes considerably. If the transition is too rocky, it can risk derailing an employee’s success, which puts your business investment in jeopardy. That’s why partnering with relocation experts you can trust is so critical.

With ARC, you’re calling in seasoned overseas relocation guides to make sure you get a seamless experience. We coordinate every last detail according to each employee’s specific needs. Your team will arrive at their destination with an effortless move behind them, ready to dive into their new roles. 

Stop stressing about relocation services overseas and let the pros handle everything.

Contact us at ARC Relocation today to begin planning your relocation overseas.

Expanding your business internationally can be an exciting yet daunting prospect. From navigating complex visa and immigration regulations to finding suitable housing and schools for your employees and their families, the logistics of an international relocation can quickly become overwhelming. 

This is where international assignment services come into play, providing a comprehensive solution to streamline the entire process.

What Are International Assignment Services?

International assignment services are specialized companies that offer a wide range of support services to businesses and individuals relocating globally. These services are designed to facilitate a smooth transition, ensuring that your employees and their families can settle into their new environment with minimal disruption to their personal and professional lives.

What Is Included With International Assignment Services?

International assignment solutions typically encompass a variety of offerings tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. From handling visa and immigration formalities to assisting with housing, education, and cultural integration, these services aim to provide a comprehensive solution that addresses every aspect of the international relocation process.

Visa and Immigration Services

One of the most critical components of international assignment services is visa and immigration assistance. 

These services ensure that your employees and their families have the necessary documentation and legal standing to live and work in their new country. Experienced professionals will guide you through the often-complex visa application process, ensuring compliance with local regulations and minimizing delays.

Home Finding Assistance

Finding suitable housing in a new country can be a time-consuming and overwhelming task. International assignment services offer home finding assistance, leveraging their local knowledge and network of trusted real estate professionals to help your employees secure comfortable and convenient living arrangements. 

ARC Relocation’s Realtor Rebate Program can help your employees save money on buying or selling homes by offering rebates and discounts on home sale, home purchase, and movers. Click the button below to learn how to save thousands using ARC’s Realtor Rebate. 

From conducting property searches to negotiating leases and coordinating move-in logistics, these services streamline the entire process.

Education Services

Ensuring a seamless transition for your employees’ children is crucial for a successful relocation. International assignment services provide education assistance, helping families research and enroll their children in appropriate schools or educational programs. 

This includes guidance on curriculum differences, admission requirements, and any necessary language support.

Vehicle Finding Assistance

Navigating the intricacies of purchasing or leasing a vehicle in a new country can be a complex endeavor. 

International assignment services offer vehicle finding assistance, helping your employees secure reliable transportation while navigating local regulations, insurance requirements, and financing options.

Partner/Spouse Assistance

The relocation process can be particularly challenging for the partners or spouses of your employees. International assignment services offer dedicated support to help them integrate into their new community. This may include assistance with finding employment opportunities, networking groups, or social activities to foster a sense of belonging.

Language and Cultural Training

Effective communication and cultural awareness are essential for a successful international long term assignment. 

International assignment services provide language and culturalt training programs to help your employees and their families navigate the linguistic and cultural nuances of their new environment. These programs can range from basic language lessons to in-depth cultural immersion workshops.

Tax Compliance and Planning

Navigating the tax implications of international assignments can be extremely complex. Assignment services provide specialized tax expertise to ensure your employees remain compliant with both home and host country tax laws.

These professionals coordinate tax equalization programs that prevent your employees from facing financial disadvantages due to their relocation. They’ll manage tax return preparation in multiple jurisdictions, track tax payment deadlines, and identify potential tax savings opportunities.

This comprehensive approach helps you avoid costly penalties while optimizing the tax position of both your company and your assignees. Many providers also offer digital tax organizers that simplify the collection of necessary documents and streamline the filing process across different tax systems.

Destination Orientation Services

Adapting to life in a new country goes beyond finding a place to live. International assignment services offer thorough destination orientation to help your employees and their families feel at home quickly.

These services typically include guided tours of relevant neighborhoods, introduction to local transportation systems, and assistance with practical matters like setting up bank accounts and utilities. Your assignees will learn about local healthcare options, emergency services, and community resources that match their interests and needs.

Some providers even arrange meet-and-greet events with local residents or other expatriates to help your employees build social connections. This practical orientation significantly reduces the adjustment period, allowing your team members to settle in and focus on their work sooner.

Ongoing Assignment Support

The support needs of international assignees don’t end once they’ve arrived at their destination. Quality assignment services provide continued assistance throughout the entire assignment duration.

This includes regular check-ins to address emerging concerns, assistance with lease renewals or housing maintenance issues, and guidance on local holidays or customs. If family members join later or if there are changes in the assignment parameters, these services help manage the transitions smoothly.

They can also provide emergency support for unexpected situations such as natural disasters, political unrest, or health crises. This continuous care ensures your employees have reliable resources to turn to whenever challenges arise, regardless of how long they’ve been in-country.

Benefits of Partnering with International Assignment Services

Engaging with international assignment services provides numerous advantages for businesses undertaking global relocation initiatives. These services not only alleviate the administrative burden but also offer peace of mind, knowing that experienced professionals are guiding the process. 

By leveraging their expertise and resources, businesses can minimize disruptions, ensure compliance with local regulations, and focus on their core operations while their employees seamlessly transition to their new environment.

Moreover, international assignment services can significantly reduce the stress and uncertainty associated with global relocations, fostering a positive employee experience. 

By providing comprehensive support throughout the relocation journey, these services help create a sense of security and confidence for employees and their families, enabling them to embrace the new opportunity with enthusiasm and focus on their professional responsibilities. This, in turn, can lead to higher productivity, retention rates, and overall success in the new market.

International Assignment Services: FAQs

How long does the relocation process typically take?

The duration of the relocation process can vary depending on the specific needs and requirements of each client. However, international assignment services aim to streamline the process, minimizing delays and ensuring a smooth transition within a reasonable timeframe.

Can international assignment services assist with temporary housing?

Yes, many international assignment services offer temporary housing solutions, such as furnished apartments or corporate housing, to accommodate your employees and their families during the initial stages of their relocation.

Are international assignment services only for large corporations?

No, international assignment services cater to businesses of all sizes, from large corporations to small and medium-sized enterprises. They understand the unique challenges faced by organizations of varying scales and tailor their services accordingly.

Can international assignment services assist with repatriation?

Yes, many international assignment services also offer repatriation support to help employees and their families transition back to their home country after completing their international assignment. This can include assistance with shipping personal belongings, finding housing, and navigating any necessary legal or administrative processes.

How do international assignment services ensure compliance with local regulations?

International assignment services employ teams of experienced professionals who are well-versed in the local regulations and legal requirements of the countries they operate in. They stay up-to-date with changes in immigration laws, tax policies, and other relevant regulations to ensure full compliance throughout the relocation process.

How do international assignment services address language barriers?

International assignment services employ multilingual staff and provide translation assistance for important documents. They offer customized language training programs based on your employees’ needs and schedules.

These services also connect assignees with interpreters for crucial meetings and provide digital language tools for everyday situations. Their goal is to minimize communication challenges so your employees can engage effectively in both professional and personal settings.

What kind of support is available for employees with special needs or circumstances?

Assignment service providers develop personalized support plans for employees with unique requirements. This includes finding appropriate medical care for those with health concerns, sourcing schools with necessary accommodations for children with special educational needs, and addressing specific religious or dietary preferences.

They conduct detailed needs assessments early in the process to identify these considerations and create tailored solutions that respect privacy while ensuring all necessary support is in place.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on an international business expansion or relocation can be a complex and challenging endeavor. By partnering with reputable international assignment services, businesses can leverage the expertise and resources of professionals who specialize in facilitating seamless global transitions. 

From handling visa and immigration formalities to providing comprehensive support for housing, education, and cultural integration, these services ensure a smooth and stress-free relocation experience for your employees and their families, enabling them to hit the ground running in their new environment.

If you are considering international assignment services for your company, ARC Relocation can help. Contact ARC Relocation today to set up a free consultation call.

Imagine waking up every morning to gentle trade winds, the sound of palm fronds rustling, and a view of turquoise waters lapping at white sand beaches. For many, to live in the Virgin Islands is the ultimate vision of paradise. In the US Virgin Islands, it can be your everyday reality.

As a US territory located just east of Puerto Rico, the USVI offers mainland conveniences and lifestyle with an undeniable Caribbean charm. Thanks to its status and location, relocating your business to St. Croix, St. John, or St. Thomas provides a unique opportunity to enjoy island life while maintaining US infrastructure, currency, and policies.

Beyond the obvious appeal of sun, sand, and sea, the USVI boasts benefits that make it an increasingly popular destination for entrepreneurs and remote workers. 

From attractive tax incentives to Mid-Atlantic internet speeds, let’s explore what makes America’s Paradise such an appealing place to grow your business.

Island Incentives: Tax Benefits for Businesses

One of the biggest draws for companies considering a move to the USVI is its Economic Development Commission (EDC) program. EDC benefits allow eligible businesses moving to or operating in the USVI to take advantage of:

• 90% Exemption on Corporate Income Tax
• 100% Exemption on Personal Income Tax
• 100% Exemption on Gross Receipt Tax
• 90% Exemption on Most Excise Taxes

Combined with an average year-round temperature of 80°F, it’s easy to see why the USVI is one of the top destinations for aerospace, rum production, biotech, call centers, manufacturing, and maritime operations. The EDC program continues attracting new business investment while retaining companies that have called the islands home for decades.

Additional Financial Incentives

• Duty-Free Imports: Businesses can import equipment, machinery, raw materials, inventory, and personal items completely duty-free. This provides substantial cost savings.
• Foreign Trade Zone Access: USVI Foreign Trade Zone companies can further reduce operational expenses through deferrals, exemptions, and reduced duties.

Strategic Location for Business Growth

Beyond taxes, the strategic geographic position of the US Virgin Islands provides advantages that make it an increasingly popular destination for entrepreneurs and remote workers. Benefits include:

• Prime Access to Major Markets: Situated between North America, South America, and Europe, the USVI provides a prime geographic base to access major consumer markets across the Americas and globally.
• Maritime Transport Connectivity: With deep water ports and its position along Caribbean shipping lanes, maritime transport connectivity rivals major hub ports. Frequent air travel options through airports like Cyril E. King provide direct cargo and passenger routes to the US mainland and beyond.
• Export Incentives: Duty exemptions and access to foreign trade zones empower businesses to target export markets more profitably. The USVI’s status facilitates trade accords across the region.

Additional Business Advantages of Moving to US Virgin Islands

While tax incentives provide significant savings, they aren’t the only reason to relocate your company to the US Virgin Islands. Additional benefits include:

Highly Educated Workforce: With literacy rates over 90%, the islands deliver a reliably educated talent pool. Public and private K-12 schools and partnerships with colleges like UVI support work from overseas.

State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: As part of the US, the USVI delivers similar telecoms and transport that most mainland areas enjoy while retaining its Caribbean identity. Fiber optic networks provide fast internet to support business operations and growth across sectors. Sea and air travel hubs link to the world.

Business-Friendly Laws: The islands foster an accommodating environment for outside business through incentives and simplified legal and regulatory policies. Forming an LLC or captive insurance provider is straightforward. Supportive policymakers recognize commercial growth aids economic expansion, welcoming new business investment.

Cost Savings: The USVI empowers organizations to realize their profit potential through substantially lower operating expenses in areas from real estate and construction to utilities and compensation. Employees will appreciate the US Virgin Islands cost of living, as it is affordable.  Combined with tax savings, relocating enables substantially higher margins.

Access to Knowledge and Capital: An established business community spanning rum production to financial services and biotech provides openings for mutual investment, knowledge exchange, and strategic alignment to drive shared results. Local leaders recognize cultivating partnerships expands economic capabilities.

Potential Disadvantages of Moving to US Virgin Islands

While there are mainly advantages to working and living in US virgin islands, there are some potential disadvantages to relocating a business here:

• Small Local Market Size: With under 105,000 residents, the islands have a limited local consumer base. Tourism helps expand market reach.
• Import Reliance: The USVI depends heavily on imports with limited local manufacturing. Shipping logistics should be examined.
• Infrastructure Challenges: Recent hurricanes exposed infrastructure vulnerabilities. While improvements continue, issues can cause power, connectivity, and transportation disruptions.

Navigating Logistical Considerations

Import reliance and small market size do necessitate examination of specific logistical considerations around expanding in the USVI:

• Supply Chain Logistics: Importing or exporting materials can be more complex. Shipping times and costs should be thoroughly analyzed to ensure profitable operations.
• Tourism Market Potential: Even with a modest resident population, over 2.5 million visitors come to the islands annually. For many businesses, tapping into this tourist market can significantly boost revenue.
• Strategic Planning: As with any expansion effort, fully modeling various growth scenarios enables the creation of contingency plans to overcome any potential obstacles.

However, the profound business incentives available often outweigh these manageable factors. Strategic planning helps overcome any potential obstacles.

Why Are the US Virgin Islands a Hotspot for Businesses?

Between the financial incentives, strategic location, modern infrastructure, and flexible business laws, it’s easy to see why moving to the USVI has become increasingly popular when relocating diverse industries. 

Companies benefit from significantly lower operating costs and greater access to markets and resources than other Caribbean locales. Combining immense business advantages with unmatched tropical lifestyle perks, the USVI delivers an ideal environment to grow an enterprise.

Lifestyle Benefits of Moving to US Virgin Islands

While attractive from a business standpoint, the lifestyle is one of the biggest allures of the US Virgin Islands. Those looking to escape considerable city congestion, high costs of living, or cold winter climates will find the USVI’s relaxed pace and warm weather most appealing.

By relocating your home and business, you can enjoy island living to the fullest. Spend weekends boating, golfing, scuba diving, or simply relaxing on the beach with a good book. An efficient road system and short commutes reduce day-to-day stress while allowing more time with family and friends. 

The islands’ multicultural heritage provides a vibrant arts and culinary scene to experience. Helping your employees with moving costs, like offering relocation packages, will help those within your company feel eager to expand to the US Virgin Islands. 

Moving to US Virgin Islands: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main industries and employers on the islands?

Tourism is the top industry, but rum production, financial services, textiles, electronics assembly, construction, and scientific research also thrive thanks to EDC incentives. Major employers include Cruzan Rum, Hess Oil, Vitelco Telecommunications, and Schneider Regional Medical Center.

Why did I choose the US Virgin Islands to move my business to?

I chose the USVI for several key advantages compared to other Caribbean destinations. As a US territory, it provides political and economic stability, modern infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and access to mainland funding and markets while still providing an unbeatable island lifestyle and strategic position near major shipping lanes. 

The EDC tax incentives make it even more financially appealing. When comparing domiciles, the USVI came out on top.

Is healthcare available?

As a US territory, the islands have access to quality healthcare. Most major insurance is accepted. Schneider Regional Medical Center on St. Thomas is certified for advanced cardiac procedures, neurosurgery, etc. Specialty care may require occasional trips to Puerto Rico or Miami.

Can I enroll my kids in US schools?

Yes, the islands follow a US educational curriculum. Public schools are available but come with waitlists and challenges. Quality private schools like Antilles School, St. Croix Montessori, and All Saints Cathedral School are popular options.

What trends do businesses see after moving to the US Virgin Islands?

Many companies that relocate to the USVI experience faster-than-average growth and hiring rates. With operational costs reduced through incentives like tax savings, healthcare credits, and property discounts, businesses often reinvest that capital into expansion. 

The moderate operating costs and talented workforce also spur the establishment of new headquarters and subsidiaries. Across industries from tech to rum production, the USVI continues to facilitate business investment and development.

Final Thoughts

The US Virgin Islands presents an appealing option for companies looking to reduce operating costs while maintaining access to American infrastructure and commerce. 

The territory’s strategic geographic location, incentive programs, educated workforce, and business-friendly laws facilitate profitable expansion for organizations across diverse industries. If you’re considering a move to the Caribbean, look no further than America’s Paradise, the US Virgin Islands. 

If you are considering relocating your company to the US Virgin Islands, hiring relocation professionals can help make the move easier. 

Contact ARC Relocation today to set up a free consultation call. 

Portugal has become an increasingly popular destination for businesses looking to relocate or open new offices. 

As a safe and stable country with a skilled workforce and pro-business environment, Portugal offers many advantages for companies seeking a fresh start or expansion opportunity abroad.

Why Companies Are Moving to Portugal 

In recent years, Portugal’s government has enacted various incentives to attract foreign investment and talent. Coupled with the country’s optimal location as a gateway to Europe, Africa, and the Americas, these factors make Portugal a strategic choice for establishing headquarters or regional hubs.

Additionally, Portugal boasts a high quality of life, a vibrant culture, and competitive business costs. For executives and employees alike, a Portugal move can be appealing both professionally and personally.

Benefits of Moving Your Company to Portugal

These are the main reasons why companies want to relocate to Portugal.

Skilled and Educated Workforce

Portugal produces highly skilled, multilingual workers. The workforce is also very affordable compared to other Western European nations. Engineers, developers, designers, and other professionals can be hired at very reasonable rates.

Portugal’s workforce is also very well-educated, with literate and numerate employees available for hiring. Portugal is ideal for knowledge-based industries or companies establishing new R&D and innovation centers.

Attractive Tax Environment

Portugal offers an attractive tax regime to incentivize business investment and job creation. For example, Portugal has a corporate tax rate of just 21%, far lower than rates in its Western European counterparts. The country also offers tax breaks for companies that meet specific criteria, like creating a minimum number of local jobs.

These tax incentives make operational costs more affordable when relocating to Portugal. Companies keep more revenue that can be allocated to growth, hiring, facilities, and more.

Gateway to Global Markets

Situated on Europe’s west coast, Portugal is an ideal launch pad for expanding into significant consumer markets across the continent and abroad. Its coastline position also makes ocean trade routes easily accessible.

Portugal’s geography is a natural bridge to Europe, Africa, the Americas, and beyond. Companies can cost-effectively export goods and services from Portugal to major global markets.

In addition, Portugal offers direct land, sea, and air routes that help reduce transportation costs substantially compared to other countries. This connectivity makes global customer reach more profitable.

Strong Infrastructure

Critical infrastructure in Portugal meets high modern standards to satisfy business needs.

For example, Portugal offers reliable electric grids that provide affordable and consistent energy nationwide. This allows factories, offices, and other facilities to operate smoothly.

Likewise, potable water and high-speed internet are available nearly everywhere in the country through solid utility and telecom networks. This connectivity keeps the day-to-day business running seamlessly.

High Quality of Life

Beyond pure economics, one of Portugal’s greatest assets is its high quality of life. Portugal offers stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, clean environments, reliable healthcare, and an overall safe society.

For executives spearheading a Portuguese expansion, relocating to a beautiful coastal community provides great lifestyle perks. Employees also benefit from competitive wages going further in Portugal’s affordable cost of living.

This gives companies an advantage in attracting top-tier talent who seek professional opportunities, like millennials, without sacrificing personal enjoyment and comfort.

Strong Local Partnership Opportunities

Portugal has cultivated an impressive roster of domestic firms across many verticals, from financial services to renewables and everything in between. These innovative local businesses make great potential partners for foreign enterprises entering the Portuguese market.

Partnering with established Portuguese companies in complementary industries allows overseas firms to leverage local connections and domain expertise. The partnerships also aid in navigating Portugal’s regulatory environment faster and forging trust-based customer relationships.

Portuguese firms also gain exposure to new markets, inverted talent, and impactful technologies that strengthen their offerings worldwide. It’s a win-win scenario for both parties and a reliable gateway for newcomers to thrive quickly in Portugal’s business landscape.

Access to Top Talent Within the EU

While Portugal has a skilled workforce, securing top professionals across the European Union is also quite feasible.

Portugal’s borders are open to EU citizens, meaning leading minds from member nations can be readily hired and relocated for critical positions. Whether seeking niche technical experts, pioneering researchers, visionary leaders, or other elite talent, Portugal grants access to the full EU workforce.

Hiring from the wider EU pool allows companies to assemble “all-star” teams to drive cutting-edge advancements from Portugal. Diverse skill sets and perspectives ultimately produce greater innovations than restricting local talent searches.

As an added benefit, staff sourced externally from the EU may qualify for attractive tax schemes like the non-habitual residency tax regime in Portugal. This low flat rate for high-value workers makes relocation to Portugal even more enticing.

Tapping EU human capital while based in business-friendly Portugal is crucial for sustaining a competitive advantage through world-class talent.

Optimized Geographic Position

Portugal occupies a prime geographic position along the western edge of mainland Europe with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean. This allows businesses located in Portugal to optimize logistics across three key areas:

• Europe Portugal has direct access to European Union member markets comprising over 445 million consumers. Transport via land and short-haul flights facilitates quick turnaround on European distribution and sales.
• Atlantic Shipping Lanes: Maritime ports connect Portugal to critical ocean trade routes to the Americas, Africa, and beyond. Businesses can cost-efficiently access resources & customers from nearly every continent.
• Global Air Travel Hub Thanks to rare geographic positioning and infrastructure investments, Portugal provides air connections to major global metros. This global connectivity through optimized travel makes it efficient for overseas firms to service worldwide accounts while operating from a Portuguese home base.

With strategic proximity leveraging land, sea, and air routes, companies situated in Portugal hold a distinct logistical advantage in reaching customers scattered globally. 

The time and cost efficiencies also open new international markets previously out of reach for competitors in landlocked regions. For today’s globally-minded businesses, it’s hard to beat Portugal’s optimized geography for profitability and sustainable access to new frontiers.

Relocate to Portugal: FAQs

What visa options exist for relocating my company?

Portugal offers several visa schemes to facilitate business relocation and expansion. Key options include:

• Startup visa: For innovative early-stage companies able to meet investment and job creation requirements.
• Tech visa: Targeted at tech talent to allow faster access to Portugal’s skilled workforce.
• D7 passive income visa: Allows location-independent workers/companies to reside in Portugal without needing a local job.

Each program has specific stipulations, but all aim to streamline entrance for validated businesses and workers that can contribute to Portugal’s economy.

What grants or incentives are available?

Cash grants, subsidized loans/credit, R&D funding support, tax relief, and other incentives exist to promote investment and hiring. Incentives are often tied to criteria like industry, project types, location, and job creation numbers.

Inward investment agencies like AICEP are the best resources for identifying relevant incentive programs during Portugal’s expansion planning phases.

How affordable is it to live and work in Portugal?

Portugal boasts Western European living standards at an affordable price point. Office rental rates average 30% lower than the EU generally. Given reasonable local wages, salary expenses can also be 20-30% below EU norms.

Beyond work, fresh food, property rentals/purchases, leisure activities, and other staples carry significant savings versus regional alternatives. Reasonable taxes also let residents keep more income in their pockets.

Is financing available for overseas expansions?

Government subsidies like credit lines, loan guarantees, and direct funding are available from programs managed by AICEP and IFD. Private institutions like banks also structure Portuguese-centric debt financing and capital investment options.

Between public & private mechanisms, ample affordable financing plans can be secured to launch or grow Portuguese operations.

What cultural adaptation support is available?

While the Portuguese are very welcoming, assimilating to a new regional culture can still present transitional challenges affecting expat worker satisfaction and effectiveness. 

To ease integration, the government funds cultural orientation and language training. Cross-cultural training helps make cultural shifts a bit easier. 

Additional private relocation services provide immersive experiences facilitating smooth cultural acclimation and faster proficiency in navigating daily life. Customized or group sessions teach critical etiquette, customs, communication norms, and other tips for politely blending into Portugal’s society. 

Quicker adaptation enhances life quality for relocated workers and allows fuller focus on applying their capabilities professionally. For employers, culturally adjusted teams integrate faster and perform better, aligned to local dynamics.

Final Thoughts

Portugal checks all the boxes as an optimal locale for international business expansion and relocation. Portugal warrants serious consideration for enterprises seeking skilled talent, gateway access to global markets, attractive operating costs, and a high quality of life.

Utilizing available incentives and support programs can make the process smoother for qualified firms ready to leap. With all factors combined, Portugal enables overseas ventures to thrive and realize their full potential.

If you are considering having your company relocate to Portugal, hiring relocation professionals can help make the process less complicated. ARC Relocation can help you find professional movers to relocate your business to Portugal. 

Contact ARC Relocation today to set up a free consultation call. 

Expanding globally brings tremendous opportunities for growth. But sending employees abroad also comes with challenges. As an HR manager, you want to ensure a smooth transition so your employees can hit the ground running in their new location. 

And as an employee, you want the relocation to go as seamlessly as possible so you can focus on your new role.

This guide covers key considerations for HR managers and employees to successfully manage international assignments.

For HR Managers

As an HR manager, you play a critical role in ensuring international assignments are a success. Here are some best practices when relocating employees globally:

Identify the Business Need

Before extending an international assignment offer, clearly identify the business need. Typical reasons include:

• Filling a skill gap
• Transferring knowledge
• Expanding to a new market
• Developing high-potential employees

Understanding the rationale will help determine the assignment length, position level, and candidate selection.

Choose the Right Candidate

Selecting the right person is crucial. Assess both technical qualifications and soft skills like adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and communication.

Look for signals of open-mindedness and flexibility during interviews. Ask questions like:

• How have you adapted to multicultural environments in the past?
• What challenges or frustrations have you faced abroad? How did you respond?
• How do you go about building relationships with colleagues from different backgrounds?

Check references thoroughly to confirm the candidate has the right experience and temperament to succeed.

Offer Cross-Cultural Training

Investing in cross-cultural training helps employees adapt faster once abroad. Training typically covers:

• Background on the host country culture
• Tips for communicating across cultures
• Guidance navigating daily life and etiquette
• Best practices for mingling with locals
• Stress management techniques

Employees walk away better prepared and more excited about the assignment. Partner with a relocation specialist like ARC Relocation to provide training.

Help with Visas and Immigration

Securing the proper work permits and visas is one of the most complex aspects of an international assignment. Requirements, paperwork, and processing times vary greatly by country.

To set your employees up for success, provide hands-on support with:

• Researching visa categories and documents needed. Categories may include work permits, work visas, and dependent visas for family members.
• Completing lengthy applications accurately to avoid delays. Mistakes can significantly slow down processing.
• Translating and authenticating necessary documents like bank records, medical history, police certificates, etc.
• Scheduling appointments and representing the employee in embassy meetings. Navigating bureaucracy is tricky.
• Covering visa fees and associated costs like document translations and health checks. These add up quickly.
• Tracking application status and troubleshooting issues if delays arise. Proactively communicating with authorities speeds things up.
• Coordinating timing with shipment of household goods and temporary accommodations. Visas need to be secured before departure.

Keep in mind that time frames range from two weeks for some work permits to six months or more for residency visas in places like Singapore. Research requirements early and account for the employee’s notice period.

Offer Relocation Services

Relocating is stressful enough without logistical headaches. Offer services like:

• Home finding trips
• Household goods shipping
• Temporary housing
• School search assistance for families
• Settling-in services

Work with ARC Relocation to coordinate end-to-end relocation services for a smooth employee move.

Provide Cultural Training for Family

An employee’s success often hinges on their family’s transition. Offer cultural training for spouses and kids covering topics like:

• Etiquette and customs
• Making friends abroad
• Maintaining mental wellness
• Finding a job for the spouse

This facilitates better adjustment and improves success rates.

Assign a Mentor

Connecting assignees with a home office mentor prevents “out of sight, out of mind” syndrome. The mentor can:

• Give visibility into promotions and department changes
• Offer advice for applying overseas experience
• Provide a sounding board on challenges

Schedule check-ins during home leaves too. This retains institutional knowledge.

Track Performance Consistently

Set clear expectations before departure and evaluate performance regularly. Account for cultural nuances when setting goals and metrics.

Schedule video check-ins to discuss successes, challenges, and additional support required. This prevents surprises come review time.

Plan a Smooth Repatriation

Start planning the return home well in advance. If not managed carefully, repatriation can spur turnover. Proactively take steps like:

• Solicit assignees’ job preferences
• Provide interview opportunities upon home leaves
• Offer career planning services and resume reviews
• Host a “welcome home” event for sharing insights

With preparation, you can retain and leverage talent that’s gained international expertise.

ARC Relocation can advise on repatriation best practices to keep global assignees engaged.

By investing upfront in selecting, preparing, and supporting employees, you significantly increase the odds of a successful international assignment. 

Don’t hesitate to enlist help from a relocation specialist like ARC Relocation to handle the heavy lifting. Their expertise will pay dividends through engaged, productive global teams.

For Employees

Receiving an offer to relocate internationally is incredibly exciting, but also challenging. Here are some tips to smooth your transition:

Understand the Assignment Terms

Review the details in your assignment letter thoroughly. Key points to look for:

• Location and duration
• Your role and responsibilities
• Salary, benefits, and incentives
• Relocation support provided
• Repatriation expectations

Don’t hesitate to ask questions to clarify anything that’s unclear. Getting aligned early prevents surprises later.

Discuss the Move with Family

Relocating affects your whole family. Have open conversations to understand everyone’s hopes and concerns. Topics to cover:

• Expected lifestyle abroad
• Schooling options if you have kids
• Career impacts for a working spouse
• Ways to stay connected to existing friends and family

Addressing concerns proactively eases the transition.

Embrace Cross-Cultural Training

Don’t underestimate the value of cultural training. It provides insights on:

• Etiquette and communication norms
• Building relationships with locals
• Daily life in your new home
• Managing stress and adjustment struggles

Arriving better prepared helps you adapt faster.

Learn the Local Language

Even basic language skills go a long way toward blending into the culture. Use resources like:

• Online lessons and mobile apps
• In-person or virtual tutoring
• Language meetups in your new hometown
• Labeling common items at home in the local language

Immerse yourself as much as possible before departure and after you arrive.

Network with Alumni

Connect with people in your company who have lived in your destination city before. They can share insider tips on things like:

• Housing and neighborhoods
• Schools and childcare
• Navigating transportation
• Where to shop for familiar foods and products from home
• Recruiting bilingual domestic help

Learning from others’ on-the-ground experience accelerates your adjustment.

Seek Out a Mentor

Ask your manager about pairing you with a home office mentor before you depart. Maintaining ties helps avoid feeling “out of sight, out of mind.” A mentor can advise you on things like:

• Promotion opportunities and organizational changes
• How to apply your overseas learnings
• Repatriation preparations

This ensures you stay connected to advance your career.

With preparation and a positive mindset, an international assignment can be a life-changing experience both professionally and personally. Immerse yourself in the culture and local community. 

Maintaining an open and flexible attitude goes a long way toward adaptation and happiness in your new home country.

Don’t hesitate to use relocation specialists like ARC Relocation to help with transition details big and small. Their expertise will help you and your family settle in smoothly.

You might think that relocation services are just about finding a new home in your desired country for your employee. On the contrary, global relocation services help the employer, employee, and HR have a smoother transition. 

In this article, we will tell you what global relocation is, what services exist, and layout a comprehensive global relocation guide. Remember that most companies have a relocation policy, which their HR and management put together. So, before you create your relocation strategy, make sure to read through this article. 

What Is Global Relocation? 

Global relocation is a term used to describe when a company moves its employee, or entire sector, to another location. 

Every day companies are moving around the world, to broaden their horizons, minimize taxes, or take advantage of a shifting economy. That is why global relocation services have become so popular. It’s a sizable chunk of work for a family to move across town. Imagine how much work would an international move include. 

What Are Global Relocation Services? 

Since hours of planning and even more hours for acting on the plan are needed, when international relocation is in question, most companies search for a global relocation service. These are entirely different companies, which propose help throughout the global mobility process. 

Global relocation services include operational, planning, taxing, and strategic undertaking of the relocation policy, strategy, or plan. They help companies of all sizes reach their final destination as smoothly as possible. 

When moving, the company needs to reimburse or fund in advance several expenses for their employee, like rewards, immigration, taxes, compensation, transportation, travel, and payroll. 

Why Is Global Relocation so Popular? 

Global relocation aims to put the most qualified personnel in the right position. Move management services help to accomplish that. With a skill-based work market, it’s important to be globally mobile. 

Relocation Guide: What Do Global Relocation Services Entail?

Research shows that around 10% of all moves in the U.S. relate to work, and after the pandemic, this number is surely going to move upwards. 

Research the Culture

When moving to another part of the globe, any information you can share with your relocating team members is priceless to your personnel. Try to accommodate your employees to the new workspace even before they start their journey. Information like weather, culture, and food is key in understanding their new environment. 

Also, encourage your employees to do their research too. Ask them if they have any special medication they need or hobbies they want to take part in when relocated. Acknowledge all their needs!

Transporting Furniture, Supplies, and Equipment

When planning transportation, you need to take into consideration what your employee can’t work without. Is it their computer or their favorite office chair? You can start by simplifying this task as much as possible and then moving up in the size and complexity of the items. 

Decide how you will transport the goods, by mail, international movers, truck rental, or will the employee handle this themselves? 

Planning Ahead

These relocation guides and tasks are pointless without a steady plan. This is where the company’s human resources department and the rest of the management need to collaborate. In fact, a global mobility plan is the core of any global relocation, regardless of whether one is moving one person, an entire department, or the whole office. 

A relocation strategy will help you with transitioning your employees into a new country. This is a very complex process and varies from company to company. The human resources, management, and finance departments need to collaborate and develop this strategy together. 

Budgeting

As most things are in a company, costs play a crucial role in planning and performance. Checking shipping costs is crucial when determining if it’s cheaper to buy something new or have it shipped. 

This is just the start of this list. It goes on, extending on real estate ownership, legal matters, and travel expenses. 

Researching Legal, Tax, and Immigration Requirements

Before global relocation, a company needs to understand the legal and tax requirements in demand. Different legal systems, taxation, and foreign policies can limit factors in international mobility. Therefore, we recommend doing thorough research on these requirements.

Longer stays overseas require regulatory obligations. If a company does nothing, they can be fined, or they will have to pay income tax in both countries. Therefore, taxation, legal, and immigration requirements are all met or acknowledged, before deciding on global relocation. 

Real Estate

The most obvious of all global relocation services are real estate purchases or rentals. Most companies believe that buying a house and setting employees on their way is everything global relocation is. 

It’s much more complex. In the example of real estate, it also depends on whether the employee was a homeowner or renter, new hire, or old associate. Some companies offer a “guaranteed buyout” program as part of their benefits package. A solid move management services provider can help accomplish this. 

Employee Satisfaction

In the end, all that matters is your employee’s satisfaction. You want to make it as easy of a transition as possible, to make sure you keep our associates as long as possible. 

On the other hand, if things don’t run smoothly, you could experience the employee leaving the company even before the relocation, or as soon as the transition period is finished. 

FAQ

Q: What is global relocation?

A: As opposed to domestic relocation, international relocation or global relocation means relocating your employees on an international scale. This includes planning, regulations, and actions done to legally transition the employee, but also finding a new home, transportation of household goods, and travel plans. 

Q: What does a global relocation service do?

A: A relocation service offers an array of global relocation services, from the transportation of goods and real estate purchase to planning and maintaining. These businesses specialize in moving from one country or region to another. 

Conclusion

The key to a successful global relocation is to plan ahead and keep the employee in mind. Set out an adequate method by using this relocation guide and compensate for their time invested. In the long run, the company benefits from thoughtful, well-executed move management.

Now that you know how much planning is included in a global move, you see how much work it is for one HR department to handle. 

If you are looking for a global relocation services company that can help you make the process run as smoothly as possible, we can help. Contact us to learn more about our business and make your relocation process easier!