Top 11 Relocation Consultant Certifications

Certifications are important for a relocation consultant in the job market because they demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field. Certifications show employers that a relocation consultant has taken the initiative to gain additional education, training, and experience in the industry. This can give them an advantage over their competition when it comes to getting hired. Additionally, certifications can help relocation consultants stay up-to-date with changes in the industry and ensure they are providing quality service to their clients.

This article reviews the most beneficial certifications for Relocation Consultants and explains how they can help enhance a consultant's career.

What are Relocation Consultant Certifications?

Relocation consultant certification is a professional designation that recognizes the expertise of individuals who specialize in helping people relocate from one place to another. This certification demonstrates an individual’s commitment to providing quality assistance and guidance throughout the relocation process, including helping clients organize their move and find appropriate housing.

This type of certification can be beneficial for those who are looking to work as relocation consultants or who want to pursue a career in this field. Holding the designation shows employers that the individual has completed training in areas such as communication skills, budgeting, problem-solving, and customer service. It also serves as proof that they have a comprehensive understanding of the entire relocation process and can help clients make informed decisions about their move.

Having this certification can give someone an edge over other applicants when seeking employment as a relocation consultant. It demonstrates their knowledge and experience in the field, which makes them more attractive to potential employers. Additionally, it can help increase their earning potential by showing employers that they are capable of offering reliable services at competitive rates.

Pro Tip: It is important to consider obtaining relocation consultant certification before offering relocation services. Certification programs can provide you with the necessary skills, knowledge and credentials to help ensure that you are providing quality service to your clients. Additionally, certification can give you a competitive edge in the industry and may be required by some employers.

Related: What does a Relocation Consultant do?

Top 11 Relocation Consultant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Relocation Consultants today.

1. Certified Relocation Professional (CRP)

A Certified Relocation Professional (CRP) is a designation given to individuals who have demonstrated the highest level of expertise and knowledge in the field of relocation. The CRP designation is awarded by Worldwide ERC®, an international association for workforce mobility, and recognizes individuals who have completed a comprehensive course of study in the areas of relocation management, policy design, tax implications, cost containment strategies, and other related topics.

In order to receive the CRP designation, individuals must complete a series of courses offered by Worldwide ERC®. The courses are offered online or in-person and cover topics such as relocation policy design, tax implications, cost containment strategies, customer service techniques, and more. The program consists of five modules which must be completed within two years.

The cost to obtain the CRP certification varies depending on the type of program chosen (online or in-person). Online programs typically range from $1,500 - $2,000 USD while in-person programs range from $3,000 - $4,000 USD. Additionally, there is an application fee of $100 USD that must be paid upon registration for either program type.

2. Global Mobility Specialist (GMS)

A Global Mobility Specialist (GMS) is a professional who specializes in the management of international assignments, relocations and expatriate programs. They are responsible for providing advice and guidance to companies on how to best manage global mobility issues, from hiring foreign nationals to repatriation strategies.

It typically takes between one and three years to become a Global Mobility Specialist, depending on the individual's level of experience and qualifications. To become certified as a GMS, individuals must pass an exam administered by the Worldwide ERC® (Employee Relocation Council). This exam covers topics such as global mobility policies and procedures, relocation tax planning, immigration regulations, compensation and benefits for expatriates, cultural awareness and language training.

In order to take the exam, individuals must have at least two years of experience in global mobility or related fields. Additionally, they must complete at least eight hours of approved continuing education credits within the past two years. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on whether the individual is already a member of Worldwide ERC® or not. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 USD for non-members and $200 USD for members.

3. Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS)

Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) is a designation offered by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). It is designed to recognize real estate professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in international real estate transactions. The CIPS program provides members with the skills and resources needed to conduct business on an international level, including working with foreign buyers, sellers, investors, and lenders.

It takes approximately six months to complete the five required courses for the CIPS designation. The courses cover topics such as global market analysis, cross-cultural negotiations, currency and exchange rate issues, legal considerations, and more. Courses are available online or in person at NAR-sponsored events.

The cost of obtaining the CIPS designation varies depending on how you choose to take the courses. Online courses typically range from $200-$300 per course while in-person courses can be up to $500 per course. Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $495 for those applying for the CIPS designation.

4. Certified International Relocation Professional (CIRP)

Certified International Relocation Professional (CIRP) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals in the field of international relocation. The CIRP credential is awarded by Worldwide ERC®, the workforce mobility association, and demonstrates an individual’s commitment to excellence and knowledge of global mobility best practices.

It typically takes about 6-9 months to complete the CIRP program. To get certified, you must successfully complete two courses: Global Mobility Basics and Advanced Global Mobility, as well as pass an online exam. You can take these courses online or in person at Worldwide ERC® conferences. After completing the course requirements, you will need to submit your application for certification along with the required fees.

The cost for the CIRP program varies depending on whether you are a member of Worldwide ERC® or not. For members, it costs $1,400 USD plus applicable taxes; for non-members it costs $1,600 USD plus applicable taxes.

5. Certified Expatriate Manager (CEM)

Certified Expatriate Manager (CEM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in managing expatriates. The CEM certification was developed by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the American Council on International Personnel (ACIP).

The CEM program consists of three levels: Level I, II, and III. Each level requires passing an exam that tests knowledge in areas such as international human resources management, global mobility, immigration law, cultural awareness and communication, compensation and benefits, taxation, and risk management.

It typically takes about six months to complete all three levels. To get started on the path to becoming a certified expatriate manager, you must first become a SHRM member. Once you are a member, you can then register for the CEM program.

The cost of the CEM program varies depending on your SHRM membership status. For non-members it costs $1,495 for all three levels; for members it costs $995 for all three levels; and for student members it costs $795 for all three levels.

6. Certified Global Mobility Manager (CGMM)

Certified Global Mobility Manager (CGMM) is a professional certification program offered by the Forum for Expatriate Management (FEM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in global mobility management. The CGMM program provides an international standard of excellence for those working in the field of global mobility management.

The CGMM program consists of three components: an online assessment, a two-day workshop, and a final exam. The online assessment is designed to test your knowledge on topics related to global mobility management, such as immigration law, taxation, and relocation services. The two-day workshop covers more in-depth topics such as cultural awareness and expatriate compensation. Finally, the final exam tests your overall understanding of global mobility management concepts and best practices.

It typically takes 2-3 months to complete the CGMM program from start to finish. To get started, you must first register for the course through FEM’s website and pay the applicable fees. After registering, you will receive access to the online assessment which must be completed within 30 days of registration. Once you have completed the online assessment, you will be invited to attend a two-day workshop which is typically held at various locations around the world. Following successful completion of both components, you will then be eligible to take the final exam which must be passed with a score of 70% or higher in order to earn your certification.

The cost for completing the CGMM program varies depending on where you are located and whether or not you need assistance with travel arrangements or other related costs. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $1,000-$2,500 USD depending on these factors.

7. Certified International Assignment Professional (CIAP)

The Certified International Assignment Professional (CIAP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills of individuals who work in international assignments. It is a comprehensive program that focuses on the knowledge, skills and abilities needed to effectively manage global mobility programs.

It takes approximately 6-9 months to complete the CIAP program. The process includes completing an online application, passing an assessment exam, attending a two-day training course, and completing an assignment project.

To get the CIAP certification, you must first apply online at the Global Mobility Institute website. Once your application is accepted, you will be required to take an assessment exam which tests your knowledge of global mobility topics such as immigration, taxation, relocation services, and more. After passing the exam, you will need to attend a two-day training course which covers topics such as developing global compensation strategies, managing international relocations and expatriate assignments, understanding cross-cultural communication issues, and more. Finally, you will need to complete an assignment project which demonstrates your ability to apply what you have learned in the training course.

The cost of obtaining the CIAP certification is $1,995 USD for members of the Global Mobility Institute or $2195 USD for non-members.

8. Senior Professional in Human Resources – Global Mobility Specialist (SPHR-GMS)

A Senior Professional in Human Resources – Global Mobility Specialist (SPHR-GMS) is a certification that recognizes an individual’s expertise in the field of global mobility. This certification is offered by the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI). The SPHR-GMS designation is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in managing global mobility programs, including expatriate assignments, immigration, and international compensation.

It typically takes around 6-12 months to earn the SPHR-GMS certification. To be eligible for this certification, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in human resources management, with at least three of those years specifically devoted to global mobility. Applicants must also pass a rigorous exam administered by HRCI.

The cost of the SPHR-GMS certification varies depending on the applicant's location and other factors. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,000 USD for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam.

9. Certified Immigration Consultant (CIC)

A Certified Immigration Consultant (CIC) is a professional who has been trained and accredited to provide immigration advice and assistance. CICs are regulated by the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). To become a CIC, applicants must meet certain educational, language, and work experience requirements.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to become a CIC. The process includes completing an approved program in immigration consulting, passing the ICCRC’s Entry to Practice Exam, obtaining a valid criminal record check, and submitting an application to the ICCRC for registration.

To get started on the path to becoming a CIC, you must first complete an approved program in immigration consulting at an accredited institution. This can be done either through online or classroom-based courses. Once you have completed the program, you will need to pass the ICCRC’s Entry to Practice Exam before being eligible for registration.

The cost of becoming a CIC varies depending on your chosen program and other associated expenses such as exam fees or criminal record checks. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$5,000 CAD in total.

10. Certified Immigration Professional (CIP)

Certified Immigration Professional (CIP) is a professional designation awarded by the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC). The CIP designation is a mark of excellence in the field of immigration consulting, and it is recognized by employers, governments, and other professionals.

To obtain the CIP designation, applicants must have a minimum of two years’ experience working as an immigration consultant or in another related field. They must also pass an extensive written examination that covers all aspects of Canadian immigration law and practice. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and case studies.

The cost for taking the exam is $400 plus applicable taxes. In addition to this fee, applicants must pay an annual membership fee to CAPIC in order to maintain their CIP designation. This fee is currently set at $200 per year.

Once applicants have successfully passed the exam, they will receive their CIP designation certificate within six weeks. The certificate is valid for five years from the date it was issued. After five years, applicants must renew their certification by paying the annual membership fee and submitting proof that they have maintained their knowledge of Canadian immigration law and practice through continuing education activities such as attending conferences or taking courses related to immigration law.

11. Society of Human Resource Management – Global Mobility Certification Program (SHRM-GMC).

The Society of Human Resource Management – Global Mobility Certification Program (SHRM-GMC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those working in the field of global mobility. The SHRM-GMC program was developed by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) in order to provide an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates proficiency in the field of global mobility.

The SHRM-GMC program is a two-part process that includes both an online exam and a practical experience requirement. The online exam covers topics such as immigration laws, international relocation management, compensation and benefits, cultural awareness, and more. It is designed to test the knowledge and skills required to perform successfully in a global mobility role. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and must be taken at an approved testing center.

In addition to completing the online exam, applicants must also have at least one year of professional experience in global mobility or related fields. This experience can include working with clients on immigration matters, coordinating international relocations, or providing strategic advice on global mobility initiatives. Once these requirements are met, applicants will receive their SHRM-GMC certification.

The cost for the SHRM-GMC program varies depending on whether you are a member or nonmember of SHRM. For members, it costs $395; for nonmembers it costs $495.

Overall, obtaining your SHRM-GMC certification requires dedication and commitment but can be well worth it if you want to demonstrate your expertise in global mobility and advance your career opportunities within this field.

Do You Really Need a Relocation Consultant Certificate?

Relocation consultants provide a valuable service to those who are moving, helping them to navigate the complexities of the process. As such, many people may wonder if they need to obtain a relocation consultant certificate in order to be successful. While having a certification is not absolutely necessary, it can give you an advantage in certain situations.

First and foremost, having a relocation consultant certificate shows potential clients that you have taken the time and effort to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills needed for the job. It demonstrates your commitment to the profession and your dedication to providing quality service. Additionally, it serves as proof that you have met certain standards set by industry organizations or government bodies. This gives clients peace of mind knowing that their move is being handled by a qualified professional with experience in managing these types of transitions.

Having a certification also allows you access to resources and networks that may not be available without it. For example, many certifying organizations offer exclusive discounts on services or products related to relocations, allowing you to save money for your clients while still providing quality service. You may also find networking opportunities through these organizations which can open up new avenues for referrals and business growth.

Finally, obtaining a relocation consultant certificate can help you stand out from other professionals in the field. In today’s competitive marketplace, having this type of credential can make all the difference when it comes to attracting new clients or getting hired for certain jobs. The bottom line is that having a certification can give you an edge over your competitors and increase your chances of success as a relocation consultant.

In conclusion, while becoming certified is not essential for every relocation consultant, there are numerous benefits associated with obtaining one that could help make you more successful in your career endeavors. Doing so will show potential customers that you are committed to excellence and provide them with peace of mind knowing they are working with a qualified professional who knows what they’re doing when helping them transition into their new home or office space.

Related: Relocation Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About Relocation Consultant Certifications

1. What is a Relocation Consultant Certification?

Answer: A relocation consultant certification is a qualification that demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to provide professional relocation services to companies and individuals. It validates an individual’s expertise in understanding the complexities of global mobility, immigration law, tax implications, cross-cultural issues, tenancy agreements, and other associated matters.

2. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Relocation Consultant?

Answer: Becoming a certified Relocation Consultant allows you to demonstrate your commitment to professional excellence and provides recognition for your expertise in providing quality relocation services. Additionally, it gives you access to valuable resources and networking opportunities that can help advance your career in this field.

3. How do I become a certified Relocation Consultant?

Answer: To become a certified Relocation Consultant, you must complete an accredited training program or coursework approved by the Global Mobility Institute (GMI). Once completed, you will need to pass an assessment exam before being awarded certification status.

4. How long does it take to get my certification?

Answer: The length of time it takes to obtain your certification depends on how quickly you complete the required training and assessment process. Generally speaking, most people can expect to receive their certification within 3-6 months from start of training.

5. Is there any ongoing education required after receiving my certification?

Answer: Yes, all Certified Relocation Consultants must complete continuing education courses every two years in order to maintain their certifications. These courses may include topics such as legal compliance, cultural competency, international assignments management and more.