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Although expat-benefit packages can differ broadly from country to country, here's a brief outline of a "fully loaded expat package," compiled from conversations with a number of international relocation specialists:
Cultural and language training. The extent of this training often depends on the destination country - in other words, an expat headed to an English-speaking environment may not receive as much assistance as one heading to Asia. "Many times [cultural and language training] is provided for the employee; to a lesser extent, to spouses and children," says Fender.
Resettlement assistance. Many firms pay for an initial house-hunting trip, the services of a moving consultant and storage and shipping of goods abroad. Some employers - like King & Spalding - even help expats sell their US residences, if need be.
Immigration and visa issues. "Immigration paperwork is always part of the [standard] package," says Curtis.
Family assistance. If an expat moves abroad with his or her family, the US employer often will pay for the children's schooling.
Tax preparation and equalisation. Many firms pay for a tax professional to compile and file an expat's domestic and foreign-country tax returns. Tax equalisation, another common feature of most packages, ensures that an expat doesn't suffer double taxation for living abroad.
Health care. Don't leave home without it. While some countries offer socialized, free health care, most firms will pay for private health care. If you're heading to a dangerous locale, make sure you also have a health plan that covers the cost of emergency evacuation, if necessary.
Exchange-rate protection. This isn't a trivial matter - if you're paid in US dollars and the dollar weakens versus the local currency of the country in which you're currently living, you could sustain a huge financial hit. Don't underestimate this risk.
Repatriation assistance. In all likelihood, you won't stay abroad forever. Most companies cover the costs of moving you - and all of your belongings - back to the US.
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