Accompanying a Service person overseas presents a great opportunity. However, an overseas move needs to be carefully considered as it involves large amounts of change, and in some instances a degree of sacrifice.

Overseas employment considerations for RAF spouses and partners

If you want to accompany your partner on an overseas assignment, it's important to consider any implications it may have for your own career and employment. 

Here we share considerations for the possible overseas partner employment scenarios: 

Note: We are only able to highlight what you need to consider. The overseas picture is complex and each country is different therefore we are unable to offer comprehensive guidance. Together with the Naval and Army Families Federations we have raised this issue and are pushing for clarity so that families can make informed decisions about overseas postings. 

Taking UK employment overseas

Whether you are self-employed or employed (by the military or a civilian employer) continuing your employment overseas is not as easy as picking up your laptop and taking it with you, even if your role is fully remote in the UK. There are tax and legal implications which you and your employer need to think about.

If you want to continue working for a UK employer overseas, we recommend you discuss your intentions with them as early as possible as they may be unable to facilitate.

Here are some of the key points to consider: 

  • local employment law, which may differ from the UK
  • whether a work or residence visa/permit is required
  • tax and social insurance, in the UK and the location you are posted to
  • your right to work remotely from home, in the overseas location
  • GDPR regulations, plus quality & security of internet systems
  • Potential impact on your status – NATO SOFA/Vienna Convention/Diplomatic etc.

Employers will have similar considerations to yours in respect of employment law, tax and GDPR, but may also need to think about:

  • if they will establish a tax presence in the host nation because you are working there
  • if they have any payroll responsibilities in the host nation, and if not, they may need to facilitate this
  • any potential changes to your employment contract
  • data protection and any additional costs for communications
  • different time zones and national holidays
  • insurances and company benefits, health & safety
  • Potential professional considerations, e.g. whether you can provide financial or legal advice when outside the UK

If you wish to continue running your own UK business/self-employment overseas many of the same considerations will apply, including local laws and tax implications. In addition you will need to consider:

  • your business may need to be registered in the host nation
  • you will need to seek permission to run a business from your accommodation
  • there may be restrictions on the type of business you can run in certain locations
  • customs tax on imported goods
  • access to local postal services – you are not permitted to use BFPO for business activities

Working abroad

If you want to find work in-country you need to be aware of the potential barriers; including limited opportunities, visa restrictions, recognition of qualifications and a requirement to speak the local language. In addition, the pay may not be what you are accustomed to in the UK.  

Depending on your location, there may be an opportunity to work on base. Information on local employment opportunities can be found in location guides and Forces Families Jobs (FFJ) includes some job vacancies overseas.

If you find employment in-country it is important to understand the personal tax implications, social insurance responsibilities, visa/work permit requirements and any impact on your status as an accompanying spouse. 

Personal tax implications

When working overseas you may need to pay UK Income Tax on your ‘foreign income’.

View the Government Tax on Foreign Income guidance (GOV.UK)>

Tax responsibilities are specific to your individual circumstances and the Statutory Residence Test, you should contact HMRC direct and ask to speak to a tax specialist.

Alternatives to employment overseas

Working whilst overseas may not be practical, for example, childcare limitations, visa restrictions or challenges finding work in-country.

If you decide not to work, or you are unable to and you want to reduce the gaps on your CV, you could consider these alternatives:

Training

You may be able to access training and education opportunities and gain new skills or qualifications whilst overseas. This can help fill gaps on your CV and ensure you are ‘employment ready’ when you return to the UK. The FFJ website shares available training and career support for Forces family members.

If you go down this route check there are no study or education restrictions in your location, and ensure any training and exams are accessible remotely. If the training is funded, ensure that this is available outside of the UK.

Volunteering

Volunteering is a good way to fill gaps on your CV, and can help you gain new skills and experience. The FFJ website offers advice on Volunteering and advertises voluntary positions.

Stay connected

While overseas maintaining a profile and connections with the UK is important for enhancing employability, identifying opportunities and engaging with a like-minded community. LinkedIn is a great platform to grow your professional network and there are a number of networks specifically for military spouses that can support your career and provide a community, alleviating feelings of isolation.

NHS Professional Registration

NHS Step Into Health have designed a FAQ guide ‘Maintaining your professional registration when your spouse or partner is posted abroad (nhs.uk)‘ to answer questions around your professional healthcare validation or registration if you are accompanying your serving partner or spouse overseas. It aims to offer advice and guidance from various regulatory bodies, and also support for when you return to practice in the UK. It can help you to make an informed decision as to whether an overseas posting is right for you and your career.

Returning to the UK

National Insurance Credits

NI Credits are important as they fill gaps in your National Insurance record whilst outside of the UK. NI credits can make sure you qualify for certain benefits including the State Pension upon your return.

Note: you will need to complete some paperwork and obtain a signature before leaving your overseas location so it’s worth checking the process before you head back to the UK. You can apply up to 4 months before your return.

Detailed information can be found on GOV.UK>

View our National Insurance credits case study >

Certificate of Good Conduct

If on your return to the UK you are going into a role that requires a DBS check, you will need a Certificate of Good Conduct to cover your time whilst out of the UK.

How to apply:

Email [email protected] to request your certificate, with the following details:

  • Full name including any previous names. (maiden name, deed poll change)
  • Date and place of birth
  • Military Service number if applicable
  • Your current Home Address
  • Copy of photo ID, passport is preferred
  • The dates (from and to) and countries you require the certificate to cover

View our security clearance case study >

Additionally, consider registering for the DBS Update Service (gov.uk) to make it easier to keep DBS certificates up to date

Going Overseas with your partner?

If you are considering accompanying your partner overseas and you are uncertain what the implications may be for your work let us know. We will do our best to help you make an informed decision that is right for you.