Reports Highlight Global Mobility Importance for Businesses

Increase in Global Workforce Expected

The latest annual survey from financial company MetLife revealed 68 per cent of employers are expecting an increase in the global workforce in the coming year– a rise from 45 per cent in 2023.

MetLife’s study also revealed the importance of companies in supporting their global workers in key moments during their employment as doing so can lead to more loyalty, increase productivity and engagement.

Recruiters Keen to Enjoy Benefits of Global Mobility

Meanwhile, research from Localyze shows that in 2025, business planning will focus on global mobility as more companies struggle to recruit the world’s most talented workers.

The report consulted HR departments in the UK, Germany and the Netherlands about their current long-term business plans and revealed a trend towards employee relocation – both short-term and long-term. Many companies believe global mobility could improve operations and open up markets internationally.

A total of 55 per cent of firms involved in the research confirmed their global mobility budgets have increased in the past two years, with 64 per cent having plans to grow overseas.

The Importance of Immigration Compliance

However, some firms, especially those located in the UK and Germany, expressed concern about changing immigration policies and visa requirements and its impact on the process of renewing worker visas.

Research participants also stressed worried about being in a position to arrange the correct visas, with 35 per cent struggling to ensure compliance despite having policies in place.

Earlier this year, a survey from EY 2024 Mobility Reimagined Survey showed three in four firms are not taking advantage of global mobility and the benefits it brings such as staff retention and economic resilience.

How Can IAS Help?

A company’s workforce is one of its most important assets and it is vital to ensure your business is well-placed to benefit from the trend towards global recruitment and mobility.

Hiring staff from overseas can be overwhelming but our IAS team are on-hand to provide support in arranging the correct Sponsor Licence, overseeing UK work visa applications and helping with ongoing compliance to ensure you are meeting your legal obligations as an employer.

As well as providing support for UK businesses looking to recruit from overseas, our lawyers have global legal experience and can support your business in many worldwide markets including Canada, the US, Spain and Ireland.

For more information on global mobility and our professional services, reach out to us on +44 (0)333 414 9244, or contact us online today.