There are so many things to think about when relocating overseas. Here are some pointers to help you when you are relocating to a new country.
Documentation: Relocating Overseas
Before you set off abroad, collect all the documentation you will need for the application process for permits such as residence or work permits for an accompanying partner. Making sure you have duplicates and notarised documents or certificates before you leave your home country as this will speed up the process and save costs once you have relocated overseas.
Researching what paperwork you need and what restrictions exist, if any, on a partner working in the host country helps manage expectations and can avoid an administrative challenge once you have relocated overseas
Health Matters: Relocating Overseas
Prior to moving or relocating overseas, make sure you and your family receive any necessary vaccinations for your host region. Your embassy’s website details any recommended health precautions for your host country.
Check too whether your prescription drugs are available in your host country and that there are no import restrictions on medicines you are planning to take with you. Ask if the doctors and specialists you need are available overseas.
Think about your health insurance cover before you relocate overseas, so that you and your family are protected as soon as you touch down overseas. This may be in the form of travel insurance as a temporary measure, or a comprehensive international health insurance policy.
Education: Relocating Overseas
If you are moving overseas / relocating overseas with children, consider which type of schooling is best for them.
Language and Culture Training: Relocating Overseas
Making a start with learning the local language before you relocate has many advantages and will make you feel more comfortable once you arrive overseas. It is also advantageous to undertake some form of cultural training to gain an insight into the country you are moving to, so that you are prepared for the changes waiting for you.
Housing: Relocating Overseas
Think timely not only about your accommodation overseas (when relocating overseas), but also about the property you have in your home country. You will need to give adequate notice on a rental property or need time to find a tenant if you wish to rent your property out.
Finances: Relocating Overseas
Before you leave your home country to relocate overseas, think about your bank accounts and credit cards. Contact your bank to let them know that you are moving - particularly if you intend to use your existing financial arrangements - so that your bank or credit card company does not see the activity as unusual and block your account or cards.
Think also about your taxation status and find out what action needs to be taken in both your home and host country to ensure you keep on top of your tax affairs.
Insurance Policies: Relocating Overseas
When you are moving overseas / relocate overseas there may be new types of insurance cover to think about as an expat family.
An insurance policy providing you and your family with emergency medical evacuation and repatriation insurance is something to consider if the medical facilities in your host country are not of the same standard as your home country.
Life insurance is something that expats should consider when they are moving overseas, and it is advisable to check your existing cover prior to the move.
If you intend to take your car abroad with you, check your car insurance cover as you may need to take out a new policy to ensure you have cover for your time overseas, even if your trip with the car is temporary.
Before you ship all your worldly possessions overseas, make sure they are comprehensively covered under an international personal property insurance scheme. Talk to your shipping company and ensure you know exactly what cover is provided.
If you are renting out a property in your base country, or leaving it vacant whilst you are away, make sure you have the correct insurance cover in place. Note that vacant properties are not usually covered under your normal house insurance.
Pets: Relocating Overseas
If your pets are moving with you overseas / relocating overseas, there is plenty to arrange and consider before they travel.
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