If you are to take a job overseas or your current company is to send you on a business trip, there are a few things to consider to be fully prepared. Much of the detail will depend on where you are working, although some details are universal. Here are five things to be on top of when working overseas.

Taxes

If you are to be working overseas, it is important to be aware of how it may affect your tax affairs. There are many different scenarios where your tax obligations will change, too many for all the permutations to be listed here, but here are some of the main points. Where your taxes are due is the focus to be casting a critical eye over. It is best to be prepared and check with your home country and the destination what the rules are for filing. If you neglect to prepare these arrangements in advance you may find yourself in the unwanted situation of being issued with two tax bills, and sorting this out can be tricky.

Accommodation

Where you will stay for the duration of your working trip depends on how long you plan to be there? If it is a short visit, then a hotel stay will most likely be in order. If you are permanently moving, or even just staying for a matter of months or years, then perhaps a rental house is a better idea? Search online for a suitable property and arrange it in advance.

Healthcare

Never travel without adequate health cover. If you find yourself in need of treatment and have no insurance, the bills can swiftly end up in the many thousands. There are times when your current insurance or healthcare plan is valid as some premium plans include overseas cover, or certain nationals gain automatic cover in partner countries, such as EU nationals. But for most of us, we need to look into health insurance for travelling abroad.

Work Visas

It’s relatively easy to obtain a visa for most countries to visit as a tourist. However, this becomes more complicated when travelling for work. If you are working, then you may require a visa. It is important to ensure you apply for the correct visa; for example, there is a difference between a working visa, and a business trip one. Working visas are for those working a job in the host country, whereas if you are travelling for a meeting or two a business trip visa is all that is required.

Language & Culture

It might be important to learn what you can of the language and culture of the place you are visiting for business. While it may be true that English is often recognized as the international language of business, it can seem arrogant not to even attempt to offer some deference to local culture. With heightened nationalistic feelings around the world, a small gesture can go a long way in easing relations.