Every year, numerous people immigrate permanently to other countries. In 2016 alone, according to statistics, more than 1.3 million people moved to another country. The reasons for this are varied but many move to be with partners or to start new careers.
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When moving abroad, it is not just about the transport of the goods to be moved, there are also many bureaucratic hurdles to be overcome. You must have the correct paperwork and visas in place so that the transition is smooth. So that you don’t lose track of things when moving, you should make a checklist. Do you need a visa? Do you need to apply? A fiance visa application for example, is important to look at. And before you move the center of your life abroad, however, you should ideally familiarize yourself with the living conditions there. Only then can you succeed in gaining a foothold there from the start.
Moving abroad – Things to inquire about
- Conditions for travel and work
- The local language (if English is not widely spoken)
- Regional customs
- Culture and food
- Social and health
- Climate
- Living conditions
Good contact points for obtaining information are the embassy of the relevant country or special cultural centers. You should have the necessary health insurance in place. This way you will have free access to a doctor, if you need a prescription. It saves money and gives you peace of mind. You will find a lot of helpful information online and with embassies. This maintains information and advice centers in every city or state, where you can find out more about many important topics. On the website of the Foreign Office you will also find a lot of helpful information on the main emigration countries for worldwide destinations. These include things such as:
- Entry requirements
- Regulations for minors
- Visa requirements
- Customs regulations
- Work permits and residence permits
- Medical notices and health insurance coverage
Transportation of your things
First of all, it is important to find a removal company that specialises in international transports or, if the move is done on your own, rent a vehicle. While this type of company usually takes care of everything related to the move, including the customs formalities, you will have to look at any other paperwork for specific items. Are you travelling with pets, exotic plants? You should ensure that everything is checked.
If you have arrived safely at your new home address, there is still a lot to do. You also have to register with the tax office and, if necessary, take out new insurance and open a bank account. If you have children, you should register them in school and maybe also in kindergarten. Download a checklist for moving abroad from a reputable online website. This will save you time and effort in the future if you are prepared. It is an exciting time to make a change, and it takes a little guts, but you must be aware that you are more than capable of making this leap!
Love Lilla xx