Here is a list of things to keep in mind before you emigrate.
Make sure that you have tied up all financial matters in the UK before you leave. For example, pay all outstanding bills, organise all taxes and arrange how you are going to manage your money once you have moved. Often, it may be easiest to set up bank accounts that can operate from both the UK and the new country to which you are moving, since not all bills can remain outstanding once you have left the UK. Keep in mind that there is usually some crossover with telephone or utility bills that will need to be paid even after the date of your moving.
Don’t forget that many of the items that you have in your home now may not comply with standards in other countries. Although international shipping is increasingly easy and it is typically pain free to move your life and its contents across the world, it is always useful to note that some electrical equipment may not comply with Australian or American standards, for example.
It can often be the obvious things that people forget. On arrival at your destination, you will no doubt need various documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, work and medical reports. And of course, don’t forget your passport!
Remember that all UK citiziens have the right to work in another EU member state. However, to work outside the EU, you will need an employment visa. The visa required will vary according to your own personal salary and expertise. For more information on this matter, visit the DirectGov website .
However, visas are not the only things to consider when moving abroad. Despite their importance, it is often easy to forget that working conditions can be very different in other countries. For example, employment rights, working hours and annual leave can all vary. Also note that living costs can vary wildly across different cities. Make sure that before making the decision to accept a new job abroad, you are aware of the living costs and are sure that your new salary will cover them. If you are selling your house before moving abroad, you should discuss with your employer the possibility of returning to the UK to sign any papers relating to the sale.
Moving abroad can be stressful, but it is also a very exciting experience. It is always best to avoid leaving things to be arranged until you arrive in your new location. If you have children, try to arrange schools before you move, reducing any unwanted stress on top of arranging a new house and settling into a different environment. Try to also arrange medical care such as doctors, dentists and opticians before you move, so once you arrive everything is already in place.
Keep in mind to research the driving laws in your new country. When you first move abroad, driving is usually a great way of getting to know your area. Before your departure, check with the DVLA whether you will need to exchange your licence or obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP).
If you are retiring abroad, you can still continue to receive your state pension when living in a new country. Before you move abroad, be sure to contact the pension service for all information on how your pension will transfer once you have relocated.
To ensure that you enjoy your new lifestyle long term, you should become familiar with your new country's culture. Invest time before you leave to learn about the local customs, etiquette and laws. Try to respect local social codes – such as appropriate dressing and use of language. Follow the latest news of the country to which you are moving so you are aware of the country's current political situation.
Most of all, enjoy your move! And good luck.
This article has been submitted by John Mason International Ltd.