The clauses that matter most in an overseas employment contract and why verbal promises are not enough.
The employment contract is the single document that will legally define your work abroad. Read it carefully before you sign anything, and keep the signed copy with you. Verbal promises — even from an agent — do not protect you.
Let the contract agree with the offer letter
Lay the offer letter and the contract side by side. Job title, location, monthly salary, working hours and allowances must match. If anything differs, ask for a written explanation before signing.
The items you should always confirm
- Job title, duties and the employer's legal name
- Work location and the duration of the contract
- Basic salary, allowances and the exact payment schedule
- Working hours and weekly rest days
- Accommodation — provided by the employer, or paid from your salary?
- Food, transport and medical cover
- Overtime rates and how overtime is recorded
- Who pays for the visa, ticket and agency service fees
- Conditions for renewal, leave and termination
- What happens if the contract ends early
Read the small print
Contracts are long and full of legal terms. Read the whole document — not just the page with the salary — and ask for a copy in a language you understand. Never sign pages that are blank or while you are being rushed.
If an agent tells you to sign quickly 'because the visa expires' or refuses to give you a copy of your own contract, treat this as a serious warning sign.
Get an independent review when possible
A consultant or a trusted person with contract experience can catch problems you might miss. In Nepal, the workplace agreement is also reviewed as part of the official labour approval process. Ask your consultant how your contract will be registered and verified.
Keep at least two copies of your signed contract: one at home with your family and one with you when you travel. Photograph every page and store it online.
