Global mobility has become more than a logistical function. It's now a critical driver of business growth, talent acquisition, and operational resilience. But with rising costs, regulatory complexity, and stretched resources, companies are under pressure to modernize their programs.
The good news? With the right strategies, organizations can unlock the full potential of a global workforce while staying lean, compliant, and competitive.
Global Mobility challenges organizations are facing
Rising costs and resource constraints are putting pressure on global mobility programs in 2025. In response, HR and global mobility leaders must rethink their strategies to drive stability and business growth. Here are some of the current challenges that are forcing organizations to manage expenses better and optimize processes:
- Global inflation is driving up living expenses and making international business more expensive.
- Resource constraints are a significant barrier, as limited budgets and staffing shortages can make it challenging to manage the complexities of global mobility — including immigration considerations, tax compliance, and logistics support.
- Employee expectations are threatened in response to stretched resources, as they expect a supportive and seamless relocation experience.
These considerations add to an already complex business landscape. To ensure ongoing success, you must follow compliance and security best practices.
Recommended reading: How Companies Are Managing Their Global Mobility Strategies
How to respond — key takeaways and solutions
Based on the most pressing challenges discussed above, global mobility and HR managers must adapt.
There are solutions to lessen the blow of rising costs — which can also help set up organizations for future global mobility success. Whether you explore the power of technology and automation or partner with global mobility experts, you have options. Here are some top suggestions and quotes from Localyze's recent expert webinar.
Unlock cost-saving opportunities
Step one is to discover practical budget management strategies. You'll want to optimize your program's costs without compromising quality or employee experience. Many variables play a role, including process automation, talent retention rates, relocation costs, etc. So, cost optimization is an ongoing process that requires regular audits.
One way to cut costs is to look at your current vendors and always check your invoices. "Try to consolidate your service providers and negotiate better fees for your relocation, immigration, and tax services. And it's important to review your vendor contracts regularly to ensure that you are actually receiving value for money."
Beyond vendor contracts, another often-overlooked cost area is shipments. For example, "If it's a family completely relocating or if it's like one single employee, right? We have some employees that would happily just move with the furnishing allowance which yields much, much, much lower costs." - Rafaela Schleifer Mente, International HR Transformation & Global Mobility Manager
Look at your policy framework
"The first thing I think all organizations need to look at is their policy frameworks in terms of how they implement their talent to relocate to other locations." - Ali Mohammedali
You must develop tiered mobility policies to differentiate between assignment types. Create standalone policies for long-term, short-term, and commuter assignments, focusing on core-flex policies. This approach allows you to control costs while offering tailored employee support.
Another suggestion?
Take a local-plus approach, replacing your current long-term assignment policy. This cost-effective alternative will involve local contracts, local payroll, plus additional benefits or allowances.
Leverage technology and data
Use technology to streamline processes, automate tasks, and improve communication. This will make you more efficient and help reduce costs. The aim is to enhance operations and see the latest tools and platforms in a way that promotes balance — "I see technology as a good ally for us and not like a replacement." - Rafaela Schleifer Mente, International HR Transformation & Global Mobility Manager
Invest in platforms and solutions that help you reduce administrative burden and improve case management. Localyze's all-in-one platform is a great example of how to plan, manage, and support cross-border movement more easily.
AI is reshaping global mobility. Forward-thinking companies are beginning to embed AI into their assignment management systems, from automated payroll and real-time compensation adjustments to predictive analytics that ensure compliance across borders. While still emerging, these technologies offer the potential to reduce human error, save time, and stay ahead of complex regulations. "AI can ensure salaries, tax deductions, and allowances are compliant with local law, but they can go beyond that as well”.- Ali Mohammedali
Foster collaborative partnerships
Strategic partnerships can drive innovation, boost efficiency, and elevate your global mobility program.
To help cut costs, you'll want to build strong partner relationships with vendors and service providers. Treat them as long-term partners instead of transactional suppliers.
It is also essential to seek those who can help you with all aspects of workplace planning while executing global mobility strategies. An expert partner can help with the proposed solutions discussed above, combining technology, transparency, and global mobility services.
Dive deeper into Global Mobility challenges and solutions
At Localyze, we believe in a world where companies can hire from everywhere, and people can live and work where they want. If you're interested in diving deeper into how you can better navigate cost pressures and resource constraints, we welcome you to check out this webinar. It will cover practical insights and strategies to release the pressures this year presents while future-proofing your global mobility programs.
If you want to simplify cross-border movement, Localyze can help. Centralize your employee relocation and compliance needs into one platform. Book a demo today!
