Working offshore - a guide for lawyers

The Robert Walters offshore legal team specialises in the recruitment of lawyers into roles within the Channel Islands, the Caribbean (in particular the Cayman Islands and British Virgin Islands) and other growing jurisdictions such as Mauritius.

Have you considered a change of scenery and explored the possibility of moving offshore? 

Take a look at our guide that has been designed to give those considering relocating an insight into what it’s like to live and work offshore, the salaries and benefits on offer and advice on how best to go about making the move.

Why move offshore?

There are many advantages to living and working offshore. You will undoubtedly have a higher quality of life, will pay less income tax and have access to many outdoor pursuits every weekend which are not available onshore.

Common draws for moving offshore may be:

• A change of environment – City life has its advantages but for some the lure of a less hectic life in a tropical environment is a strong one.

• A great place to raise a family – there is an understandable draw to being able to live in a well-appointed villa with a pool and a view of the islands. Add in a 15 minute commute, good quality schools and the kind of outdoor family activities that would ordinarily be reserved for summer holidays and you can see the attraction.

You will undoubtedly have a higher quality of life living offshore, will pay less income tax and have access to many outdoor pursuits every weekend which are not available onshore.

• A great place for adventure – many people use their time offshore to travel to places that would normally be out of reach from Europe without a long trip. From Cayman you can take a direct flight and be in Cuba or Jamaica in an hour. From the BVI you can spend a weekend exploring the old town of San Juan or the El Yunque rainforest in Puerto Rico.

• A new challenge – the work undertaken offshore may be directly related to experience you have onshore, but it will inevitably be different in many respects. The offices may be significantly smaller and you may get a lot more involved in client relationships and business development.

• Money – with low or no income tax, working offshore can be a good opportunity to earn and save a substantial amount of money.

As with any decision, there are also always going to be downsides that you will also need to consider. The distance from friends and family back home, the unavailability or expense of some home comforts you may take for granted or even adjusting to the heat can mean this isn’t the right move for everyone.