Are 5 month initial contracts typical overseas ?

[xenopus123]

Been offered a 5-month initial contract, with potential for extension in the Middle East - curious as to whether these are becoming the norm (vs 6 month contracts) , or simply a reflection of the anticipated duration of onsite project ? What's the likelihood of extension (performance/budget/crystal ball factors aside) for 5 month contracts vs 6 month contracts ? Not sure whether to accept offer or ride this one out for a more promising one.


Thank you.

[Martin at NixonWilliams]

Been offered a 5-month initial contract, with potential for extension in the Middle East - curious as to whether these are becoming the norm (vs 6 month contracts) , or simply a reflection of the anticipated duration of onsite project ? What's the likelihood of extension (performance/budget factors/crystal ball aside) for 5 month contracts vs 6 month contracts ? Not sure whether to accept offer or ride this one out for a more promising one.


Thank you.

I have no idea whether this is common however from a tax point of view a 5 month contract is likely to prevent you from being subject to local taxes in many foreign countries, as many adopt a 6 month rule similar to that in the UK.

[GillsMan]

Yup, I've been on three month stints abroad quite a lot. Frankly, the shorter the better for me, as I wouldn't want to commit to being away from home for six months personally.

[xenopus123]

Yup, I've been on three month stints abroad quite a lot. Frankly, the shorter the better for me, as I wouldn't want to commit to being away from home for six months personally.

Thanks. just seems odd it is 5 months initially - I was expecting multiples of 3 months - 3,6,9 etc.

[aoxomoxoa]

Thanks. just seems odd it is 5 months initially - I was expecting multiples of 3 months - 3,6,9 etc.

Most likely related to budget available or anticipated length of the work in scope, but why don't you just ask them why?

[BlasterBates]

Overseas is a big place



The contracts I've done are usually 3 or 6 months initially "overseas".

[SueEllen]

Overseas is a big place

which happens when you live on an island like Great Britain.

[xenopus123]

Overseas is a big place



The contracts I've done are usually 3 or 6 months initially "overseas".

In my first post, I did allude to the Middle East.

[northernladuk]

Thanks. just seems odd it is 5 months initially - I was expecting multiples of 3 months - 3,6,9 etc.

I think the 3 month things are due to budget reporting and periods. I know it is at our place. Everything is on a 3 month cycle internally as well as contractors.

[darmstadt]

Possibly it was originally a 6 month contract, they had someone who was crap and let go after one month and need someone to finish off the last 5 months. The majority of contracts I see not in the UK are either 6 months or financial year ends.