25% of expats not offered moving allowance

A quarter (25%) of expatriates were not provided with a moving allowance from their employer, according to research by Lloyds Bank.

Its research, which surveyed 1,039 British expatriates in 13 destinations, found that 26% said their employer had not helped with housing costs.

The research also found that:

• 69% of respondents did not receive schooling assistance or guidance from their employers. Among those who did, 57% found it useful.
• 63% of respondents had no assistance with language training. Among those who did, 56% found it useful.
• 58% of respondents received no assistance with social or networking events. Among those who did, 51% found it useful.

Richard Musty (pictured), international director at Lloyds Bank, said: “Even though there has been a slight decline in people moving abroad as the UK economy picks up, working abroad remains popular because many people jump at the chance to experience different cultures and lifestyles firsthand, or just escape the weather.

“When sending employees abroad, it is important that employers consider their needs as well as their contract in order to ensure a successful assignment.

“It’s perhaps understandable that some employees aren’t receiving financial assistance, such as moving or housing allowances, especially among those who live in European destinations, but it’s surprising to see that lifestyle aspects are generally less catered for than financial factors.

“Help with language and the kids’ education can be relatively low cost, but it really contributes to making expats feel at home in their new countries.”