Moving abroad; The essential expat checklist

Moving abroad is one of the biggest commitments you can make in life. Many overseas moves can be complex and stressful, particularly when moving with young children, but if the right approach is taken you can enjoy a seamless transition. We’ve moved thousands of people abroad, so we thought we'd share our secrets with you to make your move as smooth as as possible.

Research, planning and preparation

Before moving anywhere, it is of vital importance that you know exactly where you’re going and what to expect. The Internet is the perfect moving companion, filled with detailed, helpful tips and advice so you can gain a real understanding of the place you’re moving to. If possible, you should also try to connect with people whom have lived there before, or talk to a local as part of your research.

Start organising everything as early as you can

Due to the complexity of overseas moves, and the amount of variables involved, it is definitely in your best interests to try and organise everything you can, as early as you can. This includes everything from visas and paperwork, to flights and the transportation of your belongings

Visit where you’re moving to before you move for good

When you move to another country, it’s not as easy to change your mind and move back home if things aren’t going well, as it would be if you were moving a to a new area in your home city for example. That’s why it’s important for you to spend a few days and nights in your potential destination, and get to know the local area. Make a pros and cons list and assess whether or not you can really live there.

Accommodation

This is definitely something you should try and sort out before you go. Your relocation will be much smoother if you know you have a guaranteed place to stay. This could be a friend’s couch, or a hotel, but make sure for at least the first few months you have somewhere to relax whilst you find your feet. When it comes time to find your perfect place, make sure to do your research and watch out for scams.

Learn a few basics

To allow for a smoother transition it would really help if you knew some basics to help you through the first couple of weeks. Try and learn some key words and phrases, to help you communicate in everyday situations. Even if you speak the same “language”, idioms and slang terms are often quite different, and can be cause for embarrassment. Also, keep an eye out for any special laws, as you don’t want to get caught out, and make a note of emergency numbers.

Finances

Before you go, it is important to have all your finances in check. Budgeting will be of vital importance, especially as you get used to your new currency. Make sure your bank is made aware of your move, to prevent your cards being blocked and that you have some emergency money to turn to at any point, should you need it. When you arrive, if you’re opening a new bank account do it straightaway, why wait?

Go with friends or family

Moving abroad with friends or family will help with the adjustment of moving to a new country. Of course you can make new friends when you get there, but having familiarity around you is invaluable, especially if you start to feel homesick.

Join groups and network

Make use of Facebook and other social media sites to ‘meet’ people before you move. A quick search should help you find useful groups and forums, where you can network, make friends and get some more advice. Networking could also prevent you from being alone during your first few weeks, if you have chosen to move unaccompanied.

Medical care

Most medical systems differ from country to country, so it’s important that you understand the medical system before you go. Take out health insurance prior to your departure and register with the local state system at the earliest opportunity. Don’t wait until you feel unwell to start sorting your registration out.

Packing

The importance of sensible packing when moving abroad can’t be stressed enough. It’s important not to overlook taking homely items such as pictures, your favourite cushions or candles. These simple things can make your new house feel like home straight away.

Don’t rush into anything

This is probably the most essential point in this guide, as moving abroad is probably one of the most important decisions you have ever made. It’s vital that you completely understand where you’re going, what it’s going to be like and whether this is definitely what you want. Take your time, and think everything through, do what is best for you.

We hope this guide helps make your transition into a new country as smooth as possible. We really hope all goes well and that you enjoy a stress free relocation to your new home.