Why Employee Happiness Could Make or Break Your Overseas Assignments

Jan de Vries · 2026-07-15

When you send an employee overseas, you're investing time, money, and trust. But there's one factor that often gets overlooked: employee happiness. It's not just a nice-to-have; it's directly tied to the success of the assignment. According to our research, 26% of employers worry that their overseas employees will be unhappy and want to return home. Another 19% are concerned the assignment might fail altogether. The good news? Supporting health and wellbeing can turn that around. ### The Connection Between Happiness and Productivity Healthy, happy employees are more productive. It's that simple. When someone feels supported mentally and physically, they're more engaged, more creative, and more likely to see the assignment through to success. This isn't just theory—our data shows that employers who prioritize wellbeing see better outcomes. But here's the catch: nearly a third of businesses (32%) don't prioritize the health and wellbeing of their overseas employees. And only 60% list safety as a top priority. That's a gap that needs closing. ### Why Overseas Employees Need Extra Support Working abroad comes with unique challenges. Isolation, different healthcare systems, unfamiliar safety risks—all of these can take a toll. The risks vary by country, from guidance on traveling alone to emergency protocols. Employers need to be aware of these and offer tailored support. Mandatory health and wellbeing requirements also differ by region. Navigating this can be complex, but it's not an excuse to overlook it. Expert advice can help ensure compliance and protect both the employee and the business. ### What Employers Are Prioritizing (and What They're Missing) Our research reveals a mixed picture: - 47% of employers say fulfilling business objectives is a top priority for supporting employees abroad. - 41% focus on career progression. - But only 60% prioritize safety, and 35% are concerned about mental health. It's a worrying disconnect. Employers are worried about employee happiness—35% are concerned about mental health, 35% about physical health, and 34% about personal safety—yet 32% don't prioritize these areas. That's a missed opportunity. ### A Holistic Approach to Wellbeing The solution isn't complicated. Employers need to take a holistic approach that addresses mental health, physical health, safety, and happiness all at once. This isn't just about compliance; it's about creating an environment where employees can thrive. When you invest in wellbeing, you're not just checking a box. You're improving the chances of a successful assignment, reducing the risk of early returns, and building a stronger, more loyal workforce. ### Practical Steps for Employers If you're concerned about your overseas employees, here are some actionable steps: - Review your current support offerings. Are they comprehensive enough? - Understand the specific risks and requirements in each country. - Provide resources for mental health, like counseling or wellness programs. - Ensure safety protocols are clear and accessible. - Listen to your employees. Their feedback can reveal gaps you might miss. Remember, the goal isn't just to fulfill business objectives. It's to support the people who make those objectives possible. When employees feel cared for, they're more likely to stay, succeed, and contribute to your bottom line. ### The Bottom Line Employee happiness isn't a soft metric. It's a business driver. By prioritizing health, safety, and wellbeing, you're not just doing the right thing—you're setting your overseas assignments up for success. The data is clear: employers who take action see positive outcomes. So why wait?