+31 (0)40 7600055
Contact us
What to arrange when you are going to work abroad
EPSN Relocation Services

EPSN Workforce & International recruitment: what to arrange when you are going to work abroad

Working abroad is an awesome challenge, but here at EPSN Workforce we understand that this step can be quite exciting or even a little scary. Therefore, we can help you arrange everything.

Relocation services

At EPSN Workforce, we know there is a lot to think about when you are moving across country or abroad for a new job. Firstly, you need a place to live. Secondly, transportation to and from work is something to worry about. Thirdly, you need to think about opening a bank account: what are the possibilities or is a local bank account not necessary? Next, you have to think about what to do with (official) documents, such as insurances, work permit etc. At EPSN we can assist with relocation matters, this is reviewed case by case and also EPSN clients often cooperate, aiming for a smooth procedure/”landing”

Tip 1: don’t just follow advice; also do your own research

Although we help a lot with arranging your move, it is always recommendable to be prepared. Our advice is to do research online and ask your partner, family and friends for advice. Do you know someone who moved abroad for a new job or someone who is living in the country you are moving to? Ask them too! If this is not the case, there are plenty of forums or Facebook groups you can use to ask your questions.

We recommend you to do research in practical things to arrange, such as obligate paperwork, but it is also highly recommendable to do research in the country its culture, climate, gross domestic product (GDP) and the exchange rate. Some examples:

Example 1: an income of CHF 3.000 (gross salary of €2.823,70) in Switzerland is not much, because cost of living index in Switzerland is higher compared to most European countries.

Example 2: check what way of paying is most common in a country. In the Netherlands for instance, most people pay by (Maestro) card and it is hard to pay with a (Visa) credit card at a convenience store. Tip: bring cash with you. If your bank account is not directly accessible, you have a backup plan.

Example 3: cold or hot? If you prefer a nice temperature of 20ºC (68ºF) an entire year, we would not recommend you to move Reykjavik, Iceland. Reykjavik would be great for you if you like an average temperature of 1,7 till 7 C (35 till 44,7ºF).

Tip 2: Country & cultural experience

A lot of desk research can be done at forehand, but the best way to check if you will like your new home is by experiencing it. Go visit your new hometown first before making this big decision.

Tip 3: Reduce language barrier with EPSN academy

The best way to integrate into a country, is to learn the language. At EPSN Workforce, we help you learn the language. Click here to read more about the EPSN academy.

Tip 4: Bring your (signed) contract with you

Want to arrange things such as insurance and accommodation? In most countries, it is obligatory to show your work permit or signed contract. In this case, your new home will not see you as a refugee or tourist, but as a new inhabitant.

Tip 5: savings or backup plan

Although we hope you do not have to make use of it, it is highly recommendable to have some money on your bank account. Moving (abroad) will always cost you money and in some cases it can take a while before your new employer helps you with required fees.

Tip 6: Get in contact with these people and organisations

The first organisation to get in contact with is the local embassy, obviously. But there are more organisations and people you can get in contact with for practical and social reasons:

  • Local government;
  • Other expats;
  • Blend in a community and join a local club, for instance a sports team or follow painting (or language) classes.

Final tip: are you sure you (and your partner) want to move?

You won’t be the first (and last one) who last minute decides not to move abroad. One of the most common reasons is the disagreement of close ones. Our advice is to let your partner be part of all doubts, discussions and decisions you will have to make. In this way you, your partner, the recruiter and your next employer will not be disappointed last minute.

Interested in working abroad?

Create a job-alert or see our international vacancies below.

Latest News


Government provides clarity The UK government set out further details yesterday on its points-based immigration system. The new arrangements will take effect from 1 January 2021, once freedom of movement with th...

Extremely proud of all our European healthcare professionals! At EPSN Workforce, recruiting international medical & healthcare professionals is part of our core business. This article is a shout out to all these superheroes. Coronavirus: state of emerge...

Problems finding doctors and nurses? Look across the border! One of the areas EPSN Workforce is specialised in, is medical healthcare. This is not without reason: study shows that doctors and nurses are willing to leave their country for the perfect job. We hel...

Recruitment Preparations In recruitment, it is common to share the reasons for not selecting a candidate following an interview. But wouldn’t it be lovely to know? What actions you can take to ensure you have the b...

‹ Back