Unlocking Global Expansion: Managing Mobility Risks for Specialist Recruiters

As the global workforce becomes more interconnected, recruitment firms are increasingly confronted with complex cross-border challenges. From taxation and social security to immigration and employment law, placing candidates in international roles – whether permanent or remote – brings significant compliance risks.

The aftermath of Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic has fragmented international employment rules even further, creating inconsistent compliance requirements across jurisdictions. While APSCo’s earlier publication, “Offshoring and Outsourcing in 2025,” explored broader global strategies, this paper shifts the lens to the specifics of global workforce mobility and the financial, legal, and operational challenges it presents.

For recruitment firms, the stakes are high. Errors in handling global mobility can result in significant penalties, reputational harm, and legal exposure — for both the firm and its clients.

Conversely, operating compliantly on an international scale allows recruiters to broaden their talent reach, attract global clients and expand their business. By staying ahead of evolving labour laws, tax regulations, and data protection standards, firms can confidently manage cross-border placements, win trust from clients and candidates alike, and establish a presence in emerging markets.

APSCo members have an added advantage – access to Access Financial’s expertise in global payroll, tax, and compliance matters related to mobile workforces.