International Onboarding

If you’re looking to expand your workforce internationally, you’re in the right place! This article offers an overview of how to create a smooth onboarding experience for you and your candidates, along with FAQs about international onboarding.

Pre-Requisites for Onboarding: 

Before sending an offer to your candidate, TCWGlobal will help ensure the following two items are in place:

  • Country Specific Addendum: Each country has unique laws and regulations, necessitating a specific addendum before extending offers. Your TCWGlobal Support Team will assist in establishing any required addendums.
    • We recommend reviewing our Country Hiring Guides, which provide you with further information about the countries around the globe 🌍 
  • Candidate’s Quote: Since most countries have varying costs per engagement, we'll customize a quote in the local currency so you can see the breakdowns - Check out this article here for a guide on quotes. You can submit your quote requests here.
    • Our team will work on this for you and check if you need a country addendum in the meantime. 
    • Where TCWGlobal has a standard mark-up (Australia, Canada, Puerto Rico, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom), a custom quote is not required. Once you have the signed country addendum, you can proceed directly to onboarding your worker.

International Onboarding: 

  1. After any addendums and quotes are signed, submit the International Worker Onboarding Requisition form here
    1.  If the requisition’s salary does not match the signed quote, a new quote will be required. 
  2. Your TCWGlobal team will reach out to the worker with a Letter of Intent to Hire – this is a general letter to quickly confirm they are interested in moving forward. 
  3. Once the letter is signed by the worker, our local country teams draft the Employment Contract
    1. A draft of the employment contract is sent for your review as well before it’s provided to the candidate. This way, you can ask any questions upfront. 
    2. If a background check is requested, keep in mind that requirements may vary depending on the country's regulations. 
  4. During this entire process, TCWGlobal will provide you with updates and ensure all necessary details are obtained for the onboarding! 
    1. Since countries outside of the US have various requirements & specifics, require review of formal contracts, etc. onboardings usually take 2-3 weeks. Check out the FAQs below for items that can impact onboarding speed.
  5. Once the onboarding is complete, TCWGlobal will notify you as soon as possible so that your worker(s) can begin. 🎉 

As always, if you need any further assistance during an onboarding or are unsure of what is required – please contact your Global Account Manager or hello@tcwglobal.com.We’re here to assist! 👍  

FAQs with International Onboarding 

  1.  Why is it required to list the pay rate in the local currency, rather than USD? 
    1. It’s best to provide payment information in the worker's local currency, as this reflects their actual pay and helps clients budget effectively, considering daily fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.
  2. It says onboarding typically takes 2-3 weeks. Why might it take longer?  
    1. While we always work hard to move the process along quickly, the following scenarios can extend the timeline: 
      1. Workers negotiating terms of their employment contract 
      2. Workers needing to obtain work authorization in the country 
      3. Redlines of the country addendum, employment contract, etc. between parties 
      4. Certain nuances in more remote locations that may limit digital delivery of documents
    1. Whenever possible, TCWGlobal will keep you informed on the expected length to onboard a worker.
  1. It’s my first-time onboarding someone internationally. How can we best ensure it goes smoothly? 
    1. TCWGlobal understands that international employment can be both exciting and challenging. By following the outlined steps, you can ensure a smooth onboarding experience. We are also available to guide your team through the process and address any questions.