How to Get Relocation Allowances from Global Employers

Relocating to a new country for a job can be exciting, but it also comes with extra costs and challenges. From visa fees to housing and travel expenses, moving for work isn’t cheap. The good news is that many international companies are willing to help. Understanding how to get relocation allowances from global employers can save you money and reduce stress during your move.

Whether you’re in tech, finance, or healthcare, knowing what support to ask for and when to ask can make all the difference. This guide shows you simple and effective steps to secure the relocation help you deserve.

What Is a Relocation Allowance?

A relocation allowance is money or support a company gives to help you move to a new city or country for work. It’s meant to cover the extra costs of moving, like flights, housing, shipping your belongings, and sometimes even visa fees. Global employers offer it to make hiring talent from other places easier and less stressful.

This support can come as a lump-sum payment, direct services, or reimbursements. It shows the company is serious about bringing you onboard. Whether you’re moving for a remote role or an office job, relocation help can make the process smoother and more affordable.

• Simple definition
• What it usually covers (moving costs, flights, temporary housing, visa, shipping, etc.)
• Why global employers offer it (to attract and retain talent from different countries)

Read: UK vs USA vs Canada: Which Country Offers Faster Immigration?

Who Qualifies for Relocation Allowance?

Global employers usually offer relocation allowances to full-time employees taking critical roles. If you’re in fields like tech, engineering, finance, or healthcare, you’re more likely to qualify. Mid- to senior-level professionals, especially those with in-demand skills, often get support. Roles that are hard to fill locally may also come with relocation help.

Companies hiring remotely or expanding globally may offer assistance to attract top talent from anywhere. Some startups also provide relocation support for key hires. If your role directly impacts business growth or operations, chances are higher that the company will invest in relocating you properly and quickly.

• Common job types and industries that offer it (tech, engineering, finance, healthcare, remote-first companies, etc.)
• Full-time vs contract vs remote positions
• Roles in high demand with global shortages
• Mid to senior-level positions often qualify

What to Do Before You Apply

Start by researching companies that hire globally and clearly state relocation benefits. Use job boards with filters like relocation offered or visa sponsorship. Update your resume and online profiles with skills that global employers value. Tailor your CV to match international standards. Learn what a typical relocation package looks like in your field and region.

Understand visa rules for countries you’re applying to. Be ready to explain why you’re open to moving. Showing preparation increases your chances. Join remote work forums, LinkedIn groups, and professional communities that focus on international jobs to get useful leads and referrals quickly.

• Research companies that hire globally and offer relocation
• Use job platforms with relocation filters (e.g., Remote OK, AngelList, Wellfound, Oyster, Deel)
• Update your resume to fit international standards
• Learn what typical relocation packages look like for your role

How to Ask for Relocation Support During Hiring

It’s best to ask for relocation help once you know the company is interested or during the offer stage. Be polite but direct. Say something like, Will this role include relocation support? Be clear about your needs: mention flights, visa, housing, or moving expenses. If you have cost estimates, share them.

Let the employer know you’re committed to the move and ready to start. Keep everything professional. Don’t demand frame it as a discussion. If it’s offered verbally, request it in writing. Many companies expect candidates to bring this up and are open to offering support if asked properly.

• When to bring it up (after interest is shown or during offer stage)
• How to phrase your request clearly and professionally
• Be specific: list what you’ll need (flights, visa help, housing, etc.)
• Always get it in writing

Read: The Visa Application Documents Most People Forget—But You Shouldn’t

What Employers Usually Cover

Relocation packages vary, but most employers cover major moving costs. This includes one-way flight tickets, visa and immigration paperwork, temporary housing for the first few weeks, and shipment of personal items. Some may give a lump-sum allowance to use as needed.

Higher-end packages can include family flights, car shipping, and even help with school enrollment for kids. In some cases, companies offer tax assistance or connect you with relocation consultants. Not all packages are equal, so ask for clear details. Always confirm what’s covered in writing to avoid surprises and make your transition to the new location easier.

• One-time cash allowance
• Visa and immigration processing
• Shipment of personal items
• Temporary housing or hotel stay
• Flights for you and family
• Tax assistance in some cases

What to Do If It’s Not Offered Upfront

If relocation support isn’t mentioned, don’t assume it’s off the table. Ask respectfully during the negotiation stage. Say you’re excited about the role but want to discuss moving support. Provide a rough estimate of your relocation costs. Suggest options like a one-time bonus, flight reimbursement, or visa help.

Show how relocation support would help you start the job smoothly and on time. Stay flexible some companies might offer partial help or reimbursement after you join. If the employer declines, weigh the total compensation and career growth against your moving costs before deciding whether to accept the offer.

• Ask if it can be included or negotiated into the total offer
• Offer to share estimates and explain your relocation needs
• Be flexible but clear some may give partial support or a sign-on bonus instead
• If a company won’t support at all, consider cost vs salary and long-term growth

Companies Known for Offering Relocation Support

Many large global companies offer relocation benefits as part of their hiring process. Tech giants like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and SAP have full relocation programs for international hires. Remote-first platforms such as Remote.com, Deel, and Oyster help startups and employers manage global hires and often include relocation assistance.

Fast-growing startups in tech, fintech, and biotech are also starting to offer packages to attract overseas talent. Companies with offices in countries facing local skill shortages (like Canada, Germany, Australia, and the UAE) frequently provide relocation perks. Research and target such companies if you’re serious about moving for a job abroad.

• List example companies in tech, finance, healthcare, etc. (Google, Amazon, SAP, Microsoft, etc.)
• Mention global hiring platforms (Remote.com, Deel, Oyster)
• Highlight startups and companies in regions with talent shortages

Important Tips to Secure Your Relocation Package

Start early and don’t wait to ask about relocation. Be clear about your timeline, needs, and readiness to move. Prepare a basic cost breakdown to help the company understand your expenses. Highlight how relocating you quickly benefits them too. Always compare offers from multiple companies and consider what’s included.

If you’re working with a recruiter, let them help you with the conversation. Save all receipts and confirm reimbursement terms in writing. Ask if they work with a relocation service provider. Good planning and clear communication make it easier for the company to approve your relocation package.

• Always negotiate early
• Compare packages between offers
• Keep receipts and documents for reimbursement
• Use a relocation service to simplify the process if budget allows

Read: Visa Agents vs DIY Application: What’s Really Worth Your Money?

This guide explains how to get relocation allowances from global employers, covering who qualifies, what’s typically included, and how to ask for support during the hiring process. It offers clear steps to help you prepare, negotiate, and secure the benefits you need to move smoothly for an international job opportunity.