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Can I be required to work overseas?

With globalisation there is an increasing practice of employers requiring workers to work overseas.

Any requirement to work abroad for a month or more must be included in the written statement of particulars, which you should receive within 8 weeks of starting work. It should specify:

  • how long you are expected to work abroad
  • the currency of payment
  • any additional payment
  • the terms and conditions of employment on return to the UK.

The Posted Workers Directive gives protection to workers who are required to work in another EU country. It guarantees that employment rights in that country, such as working hours, holidays and health and safety, also apply to the posted worker.

Unfortunately, although the Directive entitled posted workers to receive no less than the minimum specified by the member state’s laws, it (controversially) does not currently automatically entitle posted workers to the collectively agreed rights operating in their sector.