The planning involved with any move is of the utmost importance and never more so than when preparing for an adventure abroad. Make sure you mastermind the move to your dream destination and climbing the poles won’t seem like such an insurmountable task. Take a look at our checklist of essential tasks to help make your move abroad go as smoothly as possible.
investigation bureaucracy
To be admitted as a resident in the country of your choice, you must complete the corresponding procedures. As such, visas are the most important element of any move abroad. While many companies can provide their employees and their families with the appropriate work permits or visas, it is still advisable to meet with an immigration office in your destination country.
When organizing your own immigration, it is essential to fill out all the paperwork correctly. The visa application process for some countries can be painfully long, so make sure your proposed stay meets the requirements. Employing the services of an immigration attorney is one way to help cut through the red tape. Specialists in this field can also offer helpful assistance with application forms and other elements of the immigration process in general. Make sure you understand the immigration laws of the chosen country. Take note of the deadlines for submitting the forms and, more importantly, the legalities related to residency.
Similarly, make sure your identification documents and those of your family are up to date and accessible. From birth and marriage certificates to driver’s licenses and medical records, you should be able to easily access all of your important documentation. A good tip is to back up your documents digitally. Scan them and store them in the cloud to make sure they are available at all times.
Calculate your finances
From the cost of living to the practical costs associated with moving, it is important to anticipate both the resettlement period and beyond. Considerations may include an emergency fund as well as financial planning for the future.
Depending on your state of residence, you may be required to pay UK tax even when living abroad. However, if you pay taxes in more than one country, you may be able to claim tax relief. With this, it is worth contacting the Treasury to discuss if this would apply to you. You will also need to check the tax policies of your destination country.
It is advisable to check with your bank if you can use your funds abroad. Most banks provide an online banking service, and large global banks often have expat-specific services. Opening a bank account abroad may not be as easy as you imagine. So please contact your current bank for advice on opening foreign accounts.
The cost of living varies enormously around the world. Calculate the average daily and periodic expenditure in your destination, since it is essential to be able to face your new life abroad.
Hurry up
It’s easy to underestimate the cost of moving abroad. However, from furniture to people and even pets, moving abroad is no easy task. Make sure you have realistic estimates of the costs involved to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
In general, it is advisable to consider arranging to move your home abroad at least one month in advance, but ideally as soon as possible. The notice period required often depends on the time of year, as some months are busier than others for international movers. It is definitely important to get quotes from at least three different moving companies. A reputable mover may visit your property before confirming a booking, as this allows them to accurately assess the volume of goods to be moved. This also offers an ideal opportunity to discuss any custom requirements. Specialized international movers can provide you with guidance for your destination country’s customs requirements regarding household items. Having familiar things from home will help make relocation an exciting experience rather than just overwhelming.
Home Sweet Home
Initially, renting a property may be preferable to buying it. However, whether you’re renting or buying, it’s important to have a place to hang your hat when you arrive to help lessen the initial agitation. Technology has made it much easier to find a home abroad without having to travel.
For security purposes, it is recommended that you maintain control of your domestic home in case you change your mind about moving abroad. A sensible approach would be to rent your house in the UK, settle into your new surroundings and give yourself time to look for a house. It is also worth researching about buying a house in the country you have decided to move to.
Cover your health care
Be sure to check the medical care available in your destination country. You may be covered by your contributions to the NHS. However, you may also need to take out private health insurance. You will need to notify your GP of your move. Once you move out of the UK permanently, you will generally not be entitled to NHS healthcare in the UK and will need to leave the scheme.
Also, health care requirements differ from country to country. If you are registered to work and pay taxes, you should be entitled to state health care on the same terms as a resident of that country. However, many countries still expect residents to make patient contributions or join a national health insurance plan. Be sure to also confirm any injections that may be required and arrange them well in advance of travel.
The stress of moving abroad can overshadow what should be an exciting time. With good planning and preparation, the right support and a reputable moving company, the transition to your new life abroad will be much easier.