Disputes about pay abroad often come down to a misunderstanding at the point of signing rather than to dishonesty. The vocabulary is worth learning before you agree to anything.
Basic salary
The fixed monthly amount before allowances and overtime. End-of-service benefits and, in many countries, overtime rates are calculated on this figure, which is why an offer with a low basic and generous allowances may be worth less than it appears.
Allowances
Food, accommodation and transport may be provided in kind or paid as an allowance. “Accommodation provided” and “accommodation allowance” are different things, and the second may not cover the first.
Overtime
Usually a multiple of the hourly rate derived from the basic salary. Establish how many hours are normal, at what point overtime begins, and what rate applies on rest days.
Deductions
Ask specifically what will be deducted: visa costs, medical, transport, accommodation, or advances. In many jurisdictions certain deductions are not permitted at all.
Questions to ask before signing
- What is the basic salary, separately from allowances?
- How many hours are standard, and how is overtime calculated?
- What exactly is deducted each month?
- How and when is end-of-service benefit calculated?
- Who pays for the return flight, and under what circumstances?
Get the answers in the contract rather than in conversation.