Geographic mobility: Definition, types and legal keys for companies and employees

What is geographic mobility?

The geographical mobility refers to the change of an employee's place of work, involving a transfer or transfer outside your usual residence.

This concept is essential in the workplace, since it allows companies to adapt to needs organizational, technical or productive, ensuring the continuity of your operations.

Common geographical mobility circumstances:

• Opening of new offices in other cities.
• Specific projects that require temporary travel.
• Internal restructurings that require the relocation of key personnel.

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What does geographical displacement mean and how is it different from moving?

Geographic displacement is a temporary form of mobility.

Unlike the transfer, which is permanent, the displacement implies that the worker will return to their place of origin once their assignment is finished.

Example: An employee oversees the implementation of a system in another city for three months. At the end of the project, he returns to his usual residence.

Key Differences:

• Transfer: Permanent change that requires a change of residence.
• Displacement: Temporary change without the need to change residence.

Relevant legal aspect: Under Spanish labor law, a shift that exceeds 12 months in three years can be considered a transfer, creating additional obligations for the employer.

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Types of Geographic Mobility: Transfer and Displacement

1. Transfer

• Definition: Permanent change of place of work, forcing the employee to move.
• Legal requirements:
  • Justification for organizational or productive reasons.
  • Minimum notice of 30 days.
  • Coverage of expenses associated with the transfer.

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2. Displacement

• Definition: Temporary change in the workplace.
• Features:
  • It may involve temporary accommodations and diets.
  • It does not require a change of residence.

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How many kilometers are considered geographical mobility?

There is no specific distance that defines geographical mobility, but in practice it is considered when the change of place of work makes daily travel difficult.

Common Criteria:

• Distance greater than 30 kilometers.
• Travel time longer than 90 minutes round trip.

These parameters may vary depending on the country and the applicable collective agreements.

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The most important legal aspects of geographical mobility

Worker rights and obligations

• Financial compensations: Expenses for moving, accommodation and food.
• Labor rights: Guarantee of protection against significant work changes.

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Notification and deadlines

• The employer must notify the transfer with 30 days in advance.
• The worker can:
  • Accept the measure.
  • Implement it.
  • Terminate your contract with compensation.

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When does geographic mobility apply?

Geographic mobility applies when there are organizational needs that justify changing the workplace.

Common cases:

• Opening of new offices or offices.
• Execution of projects in other locations.
• Restructuring that requires staff relocation.

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Financial compensation: How much is charged for geographical mobility?

Financial compensation may vary depending on the collective agreement and the internal policy of each company.

Main compensations:

1. Moving expenses: They include transportation and packaging services.
2. Diets: Food and temporary housing.
3. Salary increases: Economic accessories due to the inconveniences of the gearbox.

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Impact on the worker and how to manage it effectively

Tips for employees

• Evaluate the benefits: professional growth and new experiences.
• Learn about your rights and the available compensations.
• Keep open communication with your employer.

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Recommendations for companies

• It justifies the need for geographical mobility.
• It provides logistical and economic support during the transition.
• It encourages fluid communication to mitigate personal and family impact.

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Tool to easily manage geographical mobility in your company

La geographical mobility is a key tool for the adaptation of companies and employees in a dynamic and globalized work environment.

Although it can present logistical and personal challenges, its proper management can turn it into an opportunity for professional and organizational development.

Key Success Factors:

• Respect for worker rights.
• Comprehensive support from the company.
• Clear and open communication between both parties.

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If properly managed, geographical mobility can be a differentiating element in ensuring business success and job satisfaction.

taclia offers a comprehensive solution that facilitates geolocation of workers and projects, ensuring real-time monitoring that improves planning and operational efficiency.

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In addition, its functionality of integrated time tracking allows you to record and manage working hours from anywhere, complying with regulations and optimizing the organization.

With taclia, companies can centralize all information in one intuitive platform, ensuring a smooth workflow and improving productivity no matter where the equipment is located.

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