Job Discussion Forums

[ernie12]

Hi All

First posting here and wondering if anyone can help. I recently got hired via direct hire for a university position in the PYP year for what I thought was a good offer. However it has now come to light that I have to pay the whole cost of my visa upfront without reimbursement. Is this normal? I was under the impression (from even the most suspect recruiters) that the visa fee was refunded, or partly, on arrival.

Do you think I have any negotiations for this given that my currents quals are only BA+ A CELTA and a few years experience. Should I just consider myself lucky and get on with it?!

[nomad soul]

Not every employer---contracting company or direct-hire---reimburses the costs associated with obtaining the visa. Nor are they required to by law. Some pay a portion, while others pay zilch. Check with your employer to see if these costs are covered. Otherwise...

[ernie12]

Nomad- thanks for your prompt reply. Does this leave much chance of getting screwed by the employer though at the last minute?

[plumpy nut]

You need to examine your contract. If the contract doesn't say it will provide reimbursement, then they are not being dishonest and there is no need to assume that they will mess around over other things in the future. If visa reimbursement isn't in your contract, they're not going to provide money for your visa.

[cultofpersonality]

For Al Khaleej, they reimbursed me with $200 My new employer, a direct hire, didn't offer any reimbursement. I sadly had to part with £380 for my medical yesterday and they have not offered reimbursement nor am I expecting one. The contractors seem to reimburse which I guess is a positive.

[rollingk]