When you’re relocating to a new country, there’s just so much stuff to handle. But there are also some things you forget to do when you move – things that can make your transition a lot harder. Here are the main things that you should remember to tackle when you move internationally.
Finding the best place to live abroad and getting a job there are typically the first steps in the relocation process. Even if these are essential procedures when you prepare to live in another country, certain key duties are overlooked. However, by paying attention to these minor, arguably unimportant factors, you can avoid making common relocation mistakes. Let’s examine these tasks one by one.
One of the Things You Forget to Do When You Move Is Collect All the Right Documents
One of the things you forget to do when you move internationally is collect all the right documents required to travel abroad on time. Depending on where you’re moving, you’ll need different types of documentation in order to stay legal. Here are some of the most important documents you’ll need to remember to collect – passport, visa, work permit, residency permit, and health insurance.
If you’re moving to a country that requires a visa, make sure to apply for one well in advance of your move. The process can take several weeks or even months, so it’s important to start early. You’ll also need to make sure your passport is up to date and will not expire within the next six months.
If you’re moving for a job (for instance, you may have found work in Vancouver), you’ll need to apply for a work permit. This can often be done through your employer, so make sure to check with them first. You’ll also need to apply for a residency permit, which allows you to stay in the country for a certain period of time.
Finally, don’t forget to get health insurance. This is especially important if you’re moving to a country with a different healthcare system. Even if you’ve moved to one of the best countries to live in, it may happen that you can’t get insurance right away. Make sure to research the options and find a plan that’s right for you.
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Obtaining Papers for the Pet Is One of the Things to Remember to Do When Moving
Do you plan to move with your dogs or other pets? The first thing you need to do is to find out whether your destination country requires an import permit for the animal. If so, you need to get one from the country’s embassy or consulate. The second thing to do is to make sure that your pet’s vaccinations are up-to-date and that you have the vaccination records with you. You may also need to get a health certificate from a veterinarian.
The third thing to do is to make sure that you have all of the necessary paperwork in order before you leave. This includes your pet’s passport, as well as any other required documents. Fourth, you will need to make sure that you have a way to transport your pet safely. This means having a carrier that is large enough for the animal and that meets the requirements of the airline or other mode of transportation that you are using. You will also need to make sure that you have food and water for the trip, as well as a way to clean up any messes that your pet makes.
Finally, you need to think about what you will do with your pet when you arrive at your destination. You may need to find a place to stay that allows pets, or you may need to make arrangements for someone to take care of the animal while you are settling in.
The following video contains some advice about International Health Certificates from a veterinarian.
Don’t Forget to Research the Cost of Living When Moving Internationally
Amongst the most crucial tasks before relocating abroad is to create a preliminary budget and set aside funds to get you through the first months. And you won’t know what you can afford with your salary and savings unless you research the typical cost of living. For instance, the cost of living in Canada is a broad term. The cost of living in Vancouver can differ greatly from the costs in Toronto, so ensure that you travel prepared.
Numbeo is a fantastic place to start your investigation. However, you may find that Quora, Reddit, and Facebook are much more useful because you can search for posts from other users in comparable living circumstances.
Try Not to Forget to Save Up Some Money for the Emergency Fund
Speaking about money, you should definitely have savings before moving abroad. Unexpected costs, mishaps, and difficulties can severely damage your funds. Additionally, nobody wants to begin to live abroad in debt from credit cards! Here are a few examples of how recent expats may run into financial difficulties:
- Due to sluggish payroll processing, the first salary is delayed by one month.
- You might be residing in a hotel while you look for a new place to live since the condo you wanted to lease is dangerous, misrepresented, or a fraud.
- The hospital won’t treat you if you get hurt before the start of your employer’s health insurance.
Three to six months’ worth of living expenses should generally be set up for emergencies. If you can, we advise leaning toward the upper end, especially if you have a family and can’t just travel to your homeland if things go south or your income is erratic (for example, if you freelance). Literally, possessing emergency savings can save your life. The safety net will be worth a few budget cuts during the months before your move.
Decluttering and Downsizing Can Slip Your Mind When Moving Overseas
Some individuals believe that shipping everything abroad requires less packing. However, unless you are extremely wealthy or your employer is covering the cost (this is one of those questions to ask your employer), we strongly advise you to get rid of unnecessary items and only bring luggage. In addition to saving a ton of money on shipping overseas and customs fees, you can avoid the time-consuming paperwork needed to import your goods.
People Forget to Pack a Bag of Essentials
Believe it or not, a bag of relocation essentials and necessities can prove to be a life-saving relocation hack. Here’s a list of things you forget to pack, which you should, by all means, bring with you:
- Crucial documents,
- Prescriptions,
- Portable adaptor,
- Cellular power supply,
- Items with sentimental meaning,
- Bag of clothing and toiletries labeled “The First Week,”
- Pet products.
You Shouldn’t Forget to Hire an International Moving Company to Help You Move
Many people question themselves, “how do I hire an international moving company,” but they are unaware that extensive research is the key to a successful move. It takes time to thoroughly research each overseas shipping company you are considering, but it will be worthwhile in the long run.
One thing is certain: researching a company before hiring them will take more time than trying to find con artists who stole your possessions. So make use of our advice, ask the right questions, receive recommendations, and get in-home quotes. There is no other more effective or secure method of transportation, especially when you’re relocating across the world.
A reliable and trustworthy company will not only offer international moving services but a lot of other handy solutions, too. They can assist you a great deal with their packing services, and they can also transport your car safely with their overseas vehicle shipping.
Many People Forget to Update Their Addresses, Don’t Be One of Them
When you relocate overseas, getting your mail forwarded to a friend or relative is really helpful. There may be occasions when you wish you had access to your mail, from power bill refund checks to arbitrary legal letters. You should update your address with significant organizations besides the Post Office, such as your bank or anyone else that sends you critical information. So, before you leave, ensure you’ve notified everyone of your move.
Make a List so You Don’t Forget to Notify Everybody About Your Move
Making a list is the best way to ensure you don’t forget anything important when you’re moving. Include everyone who needs to be notified about your move on your list, and make sure to include their contact information. This way, you can be sure that everyone will be able to stay in touch with you after you’ve moved.
Besides the USPS and the bank, you should also update your whereabouts with the United States Embassy, utility companies, Social Security Administration, Tax Agencies (IRS/Tax agencies abroad,) insurance providers, and your landlord/realtor. Also, don’t skip notifying your employer and saying goodbyes to your friends and family.
Some Additional Tips to Help You Keep Track of Everything
Moving can be a stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to be. By taking a breath and enjoying the moment, you can make the most of this big day and start your new chapter off on the right foot. Additionally, you can follow some more relocation tips that can help you stay organized.
Print Out a Checklist
If you want to be 100% sure you don’t skip any important tasks ahead of you, download a printable checklist. Use it to create a list of what needs to be done and delegate tasks to family members or friends. This will help ensure that everything gets done, that you’re not feeling overwhelmed by the process, and that nothing’s forgotten or skipped.
Plan the Arrangement of Your New Residence
Whether you’re moving into a rented apartment or buying a house, it’s important to know where everything is going to go. This will make unpacking and getting settled much easier. Although this isn’t exactly a priority, squeeze it into your schedule. You will congratulate yourself later, while you’re settling in, that you didn’t forget to do it.
Take Your Time
It’s easy to want to rush through the process of moving, but it’s important to take your time and enjoy the experience. After all, this is a big moment in your life. And taking some things slowly will also ensure that you don’t forget anything.
Document the Move
This is a great way to look back on the experience and remember all the details of your big day. You can do this by taking photos or videos or even writing down your thoughts and feelings in a journal. That way, this stage of your life won’t be easily forgotten.
Savor the Moment
Once everything is done and you’re settled into your new home, take a moment to sit back and reflect on the experience. This is a time to celebrate your accomplishment and enjoy all that comes with them. Don’t forget the most important thing – that this is an exciting period of your life. So, take a deep breath and savor the moment, and deflect any relocation stress.
When the Moving Day Comes, Don’t Forget to Take a Breathe and Enjoy
As your move-out day approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the flurry of activity and forget to take a moment to enjoy the experience. After all, there’s a lot to do, and the whole process and the culture shock may seem overwhelming. But, it’s important to remember that this is a big moment in your life – a time of change and new beginnings.