Relocation Assistance
Relocating abroad is exciting. But it can also be stressful and expensive – especially with a family! Packing up your house, applying for visas, and setting up life in a new destination often involve costs many families don’t even consider.
That’s why the relocation assistance package that international schools offer is a key benefit. It can help you (and your family) make the move less stressful – and more affordable!
Why Relocation Assistance Matters Financially
- International moves can cost USD $5,000–$15,000+ once you factor in flights, shipping, visas, and temporary housing.
- For families with children (and pets), the costs rise quickly. Without support, the transition can wipe out your savings before you even start teaching.
- Strong relocation benefits mean you can focus on settling in, instead of scrambling to cover unexpected expenses.
What Relocation Support Schools Typically Offer
Shipping Allowance
Coverage for moving household belongings, often capped by weight or cost.
Visa & Work Permits
Visa application fees and renewals for teacher and dependents.
Airport Transfers & Orientation
Pickup, local tours, or help with banking and SIM cards.
Settling-In Allowance
One-time funds for furnishings, appliances, utilities setup, or school supplies.
Temporary Housing
Short-term accommodation (usually between 2–6 weeks) while you find permanent housing.
Related: Family Moves Made Easier – What Good Relocation Support Looks Like
Common Policies by School Type
Top-tier international schools
Mid-range schools
Small or start-up schools
Relocation Support
Quality relocation support for families can help to make your transition to your new country so much better. Be sure to ask a lot of questions about what it included so you can understand how much preparation (and savings) you’ll need when arriving to your new country.
We’ve experienced a range of relocation support packages – such as cash on arrival to help pay for set up costs and additional baggage fees covered by the school. My advice? Make sure relocation support is adequate for your family size. Research costs like deposits for housing, to work out if the relocation support offered meets your needs.
International Teacher with 3 kidsAre There Regional Differences?
Like most teacher benefits, the differences can vary significantly between schools. But there are some general rules of thumb when it comes to regions and relocation support offered at international schools.
Asia & Middle East
Usually generous shipping allowances, housing support, and settling-in stipend.
Watch out for strict weight limits and keep any receipts.
Europe
Visa fees are usually covered and some schools offer a relocation stipend.
Shipping isn’t always covered which can be expensive for families.
Africa & Latin America
Highly variable with top-tier schools providing full support and smaller schools minimal relocation.
Be mindful of customs challenges with shipping. There are limits on what you can ship and hidden import duties.
Hidden Rules on Relocation Assistance To Watch For
- Customs & Import Duties – Even with a shipping allowance, duties/taxes can be high, especially in Latin America. Many schools recommend bringing everything in additional baggage rather than shipping.
- Pets – Flights, quarantine, and vet certificates are rarely covered – which can add significant costs to your budget.
- Temporary Housing Gaps – If the provided housing period is short and you don’t find suitable accommodation, you may have to pay for an Airbnb or hotel accommodation.
- Furniture & Appliances – “Furnished” can mean anything from fully equipped to just beds and a table.
- Reimbursement Delays – Some schools require teachers to pay up front and you may end up waiting months for reimbursement.
Real Teacher Scenarios
- Couple moving to the Middle East: School covered shipping + full visa fees + two months’ housing, making the transition smooth.
- Family moving to Europe: Received visas only; paid over USD $10,000 for shipping and short-term housing out of pocket.
- Teaching with family relocating to Asia: Relocation package included airfare for entire family and settling-in allowance that helped towards paying deposit for housing.
Related: Relocation Packages Explained – What’s Normal and What’s Generous?
Key Questions for Families to Ask About Relocation Assistance
What’s included?
Is the shipping allowance per person or per family? Is there any weight or cost limits on shipping?
Visa support
Are visa and permit costs covered for all dependents? What about costs for certifying documentation (e.g. apostille)?
On arrival
How long is temporary housing provided? Is there a settling-in allowance, and what can it be used for?
What’s reimbursed?
What costs are not reimbursed (pets, customs, insurance)? Is reimbursement fast, or will you need to cover expenses upfront?
Related: Your Guide to International Shipping for Families
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR
Quick Relocation Assistance Checklist
When considering an offer or looking at different international school packages, consider the below to help work out what out of pocket costs you can expect on arrival for you and your family.
Shipping
Understand amounts and limits for shipping allowance.
Settling in
Are settling-in funds included to help cover set up costs?
Visa costs
Check visa and permit costs are covered for your entire family.
Housing
If temporary housing, confirm length of stay and type.
Final Thoughts on Relocation Assistance and Allowances for Families
Relocation support can make or break your first months living overseas as a family. A strong package help ease the financial burden that can come with moving abroad. While a weak one can leave you with hefty bills before your first paycheck arrives.
Always compare relocation benefits side by side with salary and housing, and don’t be afraid to ask for details in writing from your HR team.
Want to know how schools handle flights? Read our guide to Flights Benefits for International Teaching Families.