Moving abroad requires a lot of planning – you’ve got to get to grips with a new country and new ways of doing things for a start. Of course if you’re moving for work, then your employer may arrange lot for you. However however if this is not the case, here is a check-list to help with your preparation:
Language
If you’re not moving to an English speaking country then learning the local language will give you a major advantage for socialising and going about your daily errands, speaking to doctors, schools etc and will help to prevent you from feeling lonely.
School
If you’re moving with children then you’ll need to find schools for them; transport, curriculum, languages and school hours will all need to be taken into consideration.
Visas
Moving inside the European Union is much easier than moving to somewhere such as America or Australia as you’ll need a visa and you might either need to have an occupational skill they are after or will need to be sponsored by a company. Make sure the paperwork is completed well in advance.
Property
When buying a house make sure you look into property taxes and the cost of legal fees as well as Capital Gains Tax when you sell your house. In many countries renting is much more popular than buying, so just because you’ve bought a house in England doesn’t mean that that might be the right choice in your new country.
Health Care
Whilst we’re used to having the NHS and free health care in the UK, that does not apply to everywhere else. In Europe you’ll need a European Health Insurance Card which will give you reduced or even sometimes free treatment. In North America you’ll need health insurance, whereas in Australia, both private and publicly funded healthcare is available. Do your research before you leave.
Finance
Along with learning a new currency, you’ll also need to research the cost of living in a new country as well as foreign exchange. Often UK banks charge more than foreign currency brokers, so shop around to find the best deals before you swap large sums of money into your new currency.
Transport
If you’re taking your car abroad then you’ll need to look into costs of transporting your car as well as taxes abroad. It is also worth looking into flights home so that you can go and visit family or vice versa.
Do as much planning as you can and your move will be a lot easier!
