The total cost of hire is more than the salary
A realistic hiring budget considers one-time mobilisation costs and the recurring cost of employing a worker. Employers who plan the full picture avoid under-budgeting and later disputes.
One-time mobilisation costs
- Recruitment service fee, charged to the employer under ethical-recruitment principles
- Work permit, visa and government fees in the destination country
- Medical examination and biometrics
- Air ticket to the destination
- Insurance and pre-departure orientation costs where applicable
Recurring employment costs
- Basic wage and agreed allowances
- Accommodation, transport and food, or allowances in lieu
- Health insurance as required by local law
- Overtime, annual leave and return ticket provisions
- End-of-service benefits according to local labour law
What drives the price up or down
Trade scarcity, experience level, destination, volume, urgency and the need for specialised testing all influence pricing. Bulk batches with predictable timelines are generally more cost-efficient per worker.
How to compare quotations
Ask each recruiter for an itemised quotation that separates service fees from government and third-party costs. Beware of quotes that look cheap because they exclude medicals, visas or travel, or because they plan to charge candidates.
Use our planner for an indicative estimate
Our Manpower Planner gives an indicative wage band and mobilisation timeline by country and role. Final numbers always depend on your package and the current rules of the destination.
This guide is general information for employers and not legal advice. Immigration and labour rules change; confirm current requirements with the relevant authority or your labour consultant.