If you are moving overseas, whether for education or to settle permanently, it can be a drawn-out process that is overwhelming and stressful. The best way to ensure your move goes as successfully and smoothly as possible is to divide everything you need to do into sections and tick these off once completed. Here we take a look at some of the key things you need to accomplish prior to your move.
Valid documentation
Before travelling, make sure that you have an up-to-date and valid passport. Typical entry requirements request that the passport is still valid for six months before your intended departure date. Visas can be particularly challenging, and you can be refused one for a number of reasons – make sure you have done thorough research into the documents and paperwork requirements prior to your application, student visas often differ from permanent residency. Additionally, find out from medical professionals if you need to get any vaccinations before travelling, as this may prevent entry to a country.
Belongings
Arguably one of the most stressful factors that you will need to consider includes determining what you want to do with your possessions. Will you transport them to your new house or put them in storage somewhere at home? This can be very expensive, so you may opt to sell or get rid of items you don’t need or use as often, as you can always buy new ones once you arrive.
Transport
If you are travelling abroad, you will more than likely need to fly to your destination. To save time and money, make sure to book an airport transfer for when you arrive; this is especially useful if you are bringing lots of luggage and don’t know the area you are flying into. If you want to bring your car to your new destination, you could get this shipped over or look to drive – but make sure you are comfortable driving abroad and have the correct insurance in place.
Culture
Before you begin your relocation process, it is important that you have a good understanding of the culture and way of life in the country you are planning on moving to. From different laws, customs and expectations, it is essential that you feel comfortable and understand what is expected of citizens there. If they speak a different language than you, try learning some fundamental words and phrases so that you can communicate with locals – in some areas you will need to speak the native language to get by. This can be daunting, but with the use of online apps and practice, over time you will begin to become accustomed with the culture.
Leave a Reply