Further to the above post.

When looking at overseas contracts there are some very important considerations to look for that you ordinarily might gloss over, but could make a big difference in your compensation. These, in no particular order, are payment of foreign income taxes, housing allowance, school fee payments, per diems, medical insurance, vacation, air fare to and from assignment, and an assortment of others small ones.

The big one is payment of foregn income tax. If you are working in a country with a 15 or 20 percent tax rate then that is a lot of money. It is very important to nail that down before commiting to a contract. Housing allowance is the next big one. In some cities it costs upwards of $3000 per month for a decent flat, that can take a big chunk out of your earnings. School fees for children would not normally be provided on shorter term contracts, but it is something to look at if you are going to relocate the family. Per diem can be a biggy. Whether it is a daily rate for time in the host country or overnight allowances it needs to be figured into the compensation package. Medical insurance obviously very important as you'll possibly be leaving behind a job with insurance in the States and need some coverage.

Always run the numbers and look at the bottom line, what you can put in your pocket at the end of the month. There can be a huge difference between two different contracts offering $12,000 per month. In one you may be putting the whole amount into your pocket and in another you could only be putting one quarter in your pocket.


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