Things To Think About

It is worth thinking about your employment options at the earliest opportunity. Many locations have restricted employment opportunities, so it is important to do your research thoroughly, and understand the implications for you before you move overseas.

 

International Remote Working

Continuing your employment overseas is not as simple as just picking up your laptop and taking it with you. If you are hoping to continue working for your UK employer overseas, speak to them at the earliest opportunity, as both you and your employer will need to conduct your own due diligence checks, and ensure you meet any Host Nation requirements.

Some key things you need to consider include:

  • Do you need a work permit or visa?
  • What are the tax and social insurance requirements, both in your host nation and the UK?
  • What is the potential impact on your status in the host nation as an accompanying military partner?
  • Do you have the right to work remotely from home, or locally, in the host nation?
  • Are there local business licence requirements if you are working from home?
  • Are there any employment law, health & safety or GDPR considerations?
  • What is the quality and security of the internet system?

 

Self-Employment

If you are looking to run your own business overseas, many of the same questions apply, including the local work permits and tax implications. Other things you should consider, include:

  • Do you need to register your business locally?
  • Are there any licences that you require?
  • Do you need permission to run a business from your accommodation?
  • What are the customs requirements for importing/exporting goods
  • What are the local postal services like? You are not permitted to use BFPO for business activities.

 

Local Employment

Depending on your location, there may be opportunities for you to find local employment. It is important to understand visa/work permit requirements, your tax and social insurance responsibilities, and any impact local employment may have on your status as an accompanying spouse/partner.

To find local employment opportunities, you can speak to your Unit Welfare or Community Liaison Team. You may also find some overseas vacancies on the FFJ jobs board.

 

NHS Professional Registration

If you are a healthcare professional, the NHS Step into Health team have created a FAQ guide about maintaining or revalidating your health care professional registration while you are posted abroad with your serving partner or spouse:

https://www.militarystepintohealth.nhs.uk/professional-registration-posted-abroad-spouse/

 

Overseas Employment Support

If you have any questions, about working overseas, please contact your relevant Families Federation:

Naval Families Federation

Army Families Federation

RAF Families Federation