Whether you are moving or just in the early stages of thinking about immigrating to a new country, you know that you have your work cut out for you. There are challenges and hurdles that you must cross, but a new life is worth the effort. Today, the Immigration Lawyers Organisation shares a few tips on how you can make your transition a less stressful event.
Start early.
The sooner you get your proverbial ducks in a row, the sooner and more efficiently you can address any issues that may arise. Ideally, you’ll begin your transition preparations six to twelve months prior to your relocation. You’ll want to begin with research regarding your target destination so that you can get an idea of what to expect upon arrival. International Sea & Air Shipping recommends beginning with your future new home country’s websites.
Consider your business aspirations.
If your goals include launching a new business, make sure that you know all there is to know about starting a business in a new country. You’ll want to research your market carefully and have a working understanding of business rules and regulations. You’ll also need to create a financial projection and make connections early on.
Get your housing sorted out.
Even if you don’t plan to take much with you, the moving process is long, tedious, and often complicated. Partner with a local (to your new country) realtor, moving planner, and moving company that can help get you, your family, whatever belongings you plan to take with you on the road, in the air, or over the ocean. Your moving company should provide a dedicated contact and specialize in international packing.
Partner with an immigration attorney.
There are many ins and outs, moving pieces, and legal intricacies associated with moving to any new country. Find an immigration attorney at Immigration Lawyers Organisation who can help you with anything you don’t understand, including getting a passport in establishing your legal rights. Choose an attorney that specializes in your new location and that has a track record of helping others in your current position.
Prioritise healthcare.
Healthcare doesn’t operate the same way from one country to the next, and you may not initially qualify for universal healthcare if you’re moving to a country that offers it to citizens. You can use services, such as International Citizens Insurance, to compare medical insurers from major companies, including CIGNA, William Russell, and IMG.
Gather your documents.
Moving to a new country means that you’ll need all of your documents handy and available on demand. To apply for a VISA (or citizenship), you’ll need your birth certificate, custody papers, drivers license, marriage certificate, divorce decree, school records, dental records, information on immunizations, and documentation for your furry family members.
Ensure you have access to money.
Just like healthcare is different in different countries, money may not work quite the same way. You will need to ensure that you have an international bank account and that you fully understand currency exchange rates. Boss Revolution acknowledges that there are many American banks with an international presence, including Citibank, Capital One Bank, and others.
While this is not intended to be a complete checklist of everything you need to know before you move abroad, the advice above can help you start the process early so that you can easily bypass many of the most common snags. From planning ahead to start your business to getting healthcare and knowing that you have access to money, the small steps you take today will put you that much further into your journey.
