Working Abroad: International Staffing
Whether you are a Dartmouth department with an employee working abroad, or engaging an independent contractor in another country, the International Staffing Committee (ISC) can guide you to the best solutions for your international workers.
Working abroad can raise unique questions about taxes, employment law, benefits, and compliance with local and U.S. regulations. The ISC reviews these requests to make sure departments, workers, and the institution are protected. Typical considerations also include: data security, export controls, and intellectual property (IP) implications. The considerations are also specific to the country and work being requested.
ISC | Submit a ISQ Request | FAQ | Typical Approvals | PEO Transitions | Contact Us
When to Contact the ISC
You should reach out to the ISC if your department is considering:
- An employee will be working while abroad for more than 30 days (including sabbaticals)
- Engaging an independent contractor who will be working outside the U.S.
Even if your situation doesn’t exactly match these categories, the ISC can advise on international staffing questions
What is the International Staffing Questionnaire (ISQ)?
This questionnaire is used to request a review from the International Staffing Committee (ISC) when an employee or independent contractor will be working outside the U.S. The form gathers the key details the ISC needs to evaluate risks and recommend solutions.
What the Questionnaire Covers
- Department Contact Information
Who is submitting the request, including department and contact details. - Divisional Support for Request
Confirmation that divisional leadership supports the proposed international work. - Type of Request
Whether the request involves an independent contractor or a Dartmouth employee working abroad. - Location and Dates
The non-U.S. country (or countries) where the work will take place, along with planned start and end dates. - Work Duties / Statement of Work (SOW)
A description of the work to be performed and how it connects to Dartmouth’s mission. - Worker Information
Details about the individual performing the work (employee or contractor), including relevant background. - Hours and Pay
Expected work schedule, compensation arrangements, and source of funding. - Independent Contractor Screening
Additional information to help determine whether an engagement meets the criteria for an independent contractor under Dartmouth’s policies.
If you are requesting an extension to previously approved work, reach out to the ISC to get an abbreviated copy of the form.
What the ISC Does
The committee helps departments by:
- Reviewing ISQ requests for international work and contractor engagements
- Identifying risks related to taxes, labor laws, benefits, compliance, and more
- Recommending solutions that fit Dartmouth’s teaching and research mission
- Providing guidance on best practices for staff and contractors abroad
Why It Matters
International work can benefit departments, but it also comes with risks if not managed correctly. By working with the ISC, you’ll ensure:
- Compliance with U.S. and host-country laws
- Protection of Dartmouth’s reputation and resources
Next Steps
Contact Us
Cleston Murray – ISC Coordinator
clestonm@dartmouth.edu
Last Updated
