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Guide

How to hire international talent

Hiring internationally is more complex than domestic recruiting, but it opens access to a far larger talent pool, diverse perspectives, and entry into new markets.

This guide gives employers a step-by-step process for recruiting across borders, followed by best practices. It is general guidance — partner with immigration counsel for legal compliance in each market.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-22

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01

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Plan: needs, recruitment model, and job description

Identify hiring needs. Define which roles require global recruitment and why — focus on high-impact or hard-to-fill positions.

Build a recruitment plan. Decide whether you will hire remotely, through an Employer of Record (EOR), or by relocating employees; choose advertising channels and plan screening and interviews.

Write a clear, compelling job description. Highlight essential skills, visa sponsorship availability, and any location flexibility so candidates self-select accurately. Our globally remote checklist helps you describe remote eligibility honestly.

02

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Source and screen globally

Advertise globally. Use global job boards, targeted communities, and university partnerships. Proactive sourcing is often necessary for niche skills.

Pre-screen and interview. Assess language ability, cultural fit, and readiness to relocate or work remotely. Provide clear information about the hiring timeline and visa process so candidates can plan.

List sponsor-friendly roles where international candidates already look — post roles on Global Sponsor Hub.

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Compensation, benefits, and work authorisation

Determine compensation and benefits. Account for cost-of-living differences and ensure pay equity across locations. Offer relocation or remote-work support where appropriate.

Handle work authorisation. Review legal requirements in both the hiring country and the candidate's home country. Partner with immigration counsel to obtain the necessary visas and ensure compliance — see our employer sponsorship resources.

04

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Onboard international hires

Onboard thoughtfully. Provide orientation on company culture, local labour laws, and cross-cultural communication. A structured first 90 days reduces early attrition.

Where your support is limited, route specialist cases (immigration, relocation, tax) to trusted providers in the partner directory.

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Best practices for employers

Segment target markets. Understand where your ideal candidates live and tailor strategies accordingly.

Offer a strong candidate experience. Transparent communication, timely feedback, and cultural sensitivity improve your reputation.

Develop a global employer brand. Showcase diversity, inclusion, and international success stories.

Hire for skills, not degrees. Focus on transferable skills and potential, especially across different education systems.

Leverage HR technology. Use applicant tracking, video-interview tools, and global payroll to streamline the process.

Next step

Put this guidance into action

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What's next

Related guides and links

More on this site: related guides, official government pages to double-check rules and fees, and quick links to jobs and partners.

Guides that pair well with this page

Official sources

Always verify with official sources

Visa rules and salary thresholds change. Confirm current requirements directly on government immigration portals before making any decisions.

Source
USCIS — working in the United States (employers)
IRCC — hire a foreign worker

Official government or regulator page—verify eligibility, fees, and forms there.

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Everything in one place

Employer jobs stay on the hub. External roles open elsewhere but say so. Partners list in the directory. Guides sit next to search.

Common questions

Should we hire through an Employer of Record or sponsor a visa?+

It depends. An EOR lets you employ someone in a country where you have no legal entity, without sponsoring a relocation. Sponsorship is for bringing a worker into your country. Many employers use both depending on the role and location.

How do we keep pay equitable across countries?+

Define a compensation philosophy up front — whether you pay to local market, a global band, or a blend — and account for cost-of-living and tax differences so offers are fair and defensible.

Do we need immigration counsel?+

For anything beyond the simplest cases, yes. Immigration counsel helps you choose the right visa route, stay compliant, and avoid delays or penalties that can derail a hire.