The advantages of short-term assignments
A move abroad for a short period brings a range of advantages for the assignee, the family and the company:
A complete move is not necessary in most cases
The exisiting house or apartment can be kept
No need to de-register with the authorities
There is no change in the existing job or position. On return, the old job is continued.
Legal issues like employment law, taxation and social security are less complicated than longer stays abroad
Special features of short-term assignments
Good preparation is important, even if the stay abroad is short.
What do assignees need to watch out for if they decide on a short-term assignment?
Does a transfer policy exist?
What are the terms of the assignment contract? Are mutual rights and obligations defined?
Does the company cover the costs for the hotel, temporary housing, intercultural and language training? What about a visa? Who looks after what?
What are the country entry requirements and what documents are needed? How long does it take to get these documents?
Where are taxes on salary paid? Must any taxes be paid where the work takes place? How are these paid?
What personal legal obligations do expats have in the country of destination?
Are there any legal possibilities to minimise the tax burden (e.g. salary split, deferred compensation)? Can the company provide information or is a tax consultant required?
From a legal point of view, the company has to look after many more factors than the assignee needs to know about. It can pay to know about these too.
Tailor-made Short-Term Assignment Programm - STAP
We at Henk International provide support before, during and after the short-term assignment. We have developed a special programme (STAP) to support assignees quickly and easily.
Our programme includes the following services:
Fast-track customs clearance, transport and delivery / priority check-in and check-out
Support for the "pack it yourself" option
Search for temporary housing
Quick orientation support
Additional services
