Stay safe · 1 min read
Why You Must Get a Written Employment Contract Before You Travel
By AssignmentsAbroad ·
A written employment contract is the clearest protection a candidate has. Without one, terms such as salary and job role can change after you have already travelled.
What the contract should show
- The employer's identity.
- Your job title and work location.
- Salary and allowances.
- Working hours, leave and other important conditions.
Check the signatures and the match
Make sure the contract is signed by the appropriate parties and matches the offer you agreed to. If the salary, role or location is different, do not proceed until it is corrected in writing.
Refuse "you will get it after arrival"
Do not accept a promise that the actual contract will be provided only after you arrive in the destination country. At that point you have already travelled and spent your money, and have far less power to refuse unfair terms.
Keep copies
Keep a copy of the signed contract with your documents, and give a copy to a family member.
Key takeaway
No written contract, no travel. Make sure it identifies the employer and matches the offer you accepted.
Official resources
- MEA guidance for intending emigrants. Official Ministry of External Affairs guidance on overseas employment, documents and precautions.