Currently, moving abroad is a big trend.
There are lots of different reasons why people do this, such as:
- They’ve found a new job
- The desire for a fresh start
- Retirement
Interestingly, another emerging reason is that the cost of living is too high in people’s home countries. For example, over 4.5 million UK workers are now considering moving countries for a better quality of life and a cheaper cost of living (Employer News).
Whatever your reason for moving abroad is, you’re probably very excited about it. However, don’t let the excitement distract you from the important tasks that you need to do. This way, you’ll be able to experience a smooth transition to your new country with minimal problems — you can’t ask for much more than that, right?
With that said, here’s a five-step checklist for anyone out there who’s planning on moving abroad this year.
- Get International Shipping for Your Furniture
In your current house or apartment, you probably have several key pieces of furniture that you want to take abroad with you.
For example, you might love your sofa, bed, and dressing table. If so, you need to get international shipping for the furniture you want to take. This way, you won’t have to wave an emotional goodbye to your favorite pieces of furniture when you leave. Instead, you’ll be able to take them with you, which can help you settle into your new home.
The cost of international shipping for furniture depends on several key factors, including:
- The size and value of the furniture
- How long the journey is
- The specific shipping method that you choose (e.g., sea freight)
No matter which country you’re moving to or how big your furniture is, there’s guaranteed to be a shipping option for it — so don’t worry!
- Get Vaccinated
Book an appointment with your doctor. During the appointment, they’ll be able to tell you which vaccines you do and don’t need for your move abroad. Future appointments will then be made before your flight so that you can get the right vaccine injections.
- Open an International Bank Account
Next, it’s highly recommended that you open an international bank account. On top of this, don’t forget to consult with a tax advisor so that you can understand how your tax payments might change as a result of your move abroad.
- Update Your Passport
Important reminder: your passport might be out of date! If it is, you need to get a new passport before you move abroad. Otherwise, you won’t be able to get on your flight. It’s also a very handy form of ID you might need when opening accounts, etc., in your new country. Thankfully, you can do a digital passport renewal request online and get it delivered to you in the post.
- Plan Your Healthcare
Moving abroad means you’ll need to register with a new doctor. To do this, you’ll need to research the healthcare systems in the new country that you’re moving to. Also, don’t forget to research the location of nearby drop-in centers and hospitals in case you ever need them in an emergency.
