You can always handle the entire relocation process by yourself; however, working with a relocation consultant can reduce your chances of making mistakes. Remember, you're moving to a different country with a different culture, tax regime, currency, and cost of living. It would be wise to consult a relocation expert.
Visit the Immigration offices to understand what you need to complete the move. You can inquire about more information on vaccines or quarantine.
Typically, most visa offices will request applicants to submit their passports during the application process. Apply or renew your passport before you begin your visa application.
The U.S. has one of the world's most powerful passports, granting holders visa-free access to 185 countries. You can travel to most countries in South America, Europe, and the Caribbean without a visa.
However, countries like India, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Russia, and many others require visas for American passport holders. Also, you'll need to specify the purpose of your trip. Are you relocating to work, study, or on business?
Transporting your belongings to a different country is going to be hectic and stressful. Ideally, you should consult international movers and get free quotes. Don't just go with the price; also, look at the services they offer.
You need to compile the following documents; visa, passport, school records, work permit, social security cards, medical records, marriage certificate, pet vaccination records, drivers' license, and more.
The embassy of the country you're relocating to can offer all the information you need about your travel and stay.
When choosing insurance, keep in mind that international health insurance is different from travel insurance. Don't choose the latter and hope to get the benefits of the former. International health insurance is moving to another country for an extended period.
You'll need to pay for travel, accommodation, food, quarantine, international moving services, and other expenses. If you're a student, the government or institution offering the scholarship might pay for some of the services, but you'll still need to think about finances.
You're relocating to a different country; thus, you'll need funds to keep you afloat for several months. Look at the cost of living in the country and save up enough to cover several months.
Most countries will require proof of certain inoculations and medical tests before allowing entry. Check the CDC website for more information on vaccines and tests needed when traveling to various countries.
You can also contact the foreign embassy of the country you're relocating to or transiting through to get their current entry requirements.
Since you have quotes from several international moving companies, select one that offers all the services you want at an affordable price.
Ask whether the moving company will offer moving boxes; if not, you can buy online. Also, consider selling some of your belongings to reduce the moving costs. You can get household items in whichever country you go to at affordable prices.
Additionally, consider leasing storage units to hold your belongings. This will come in handy, especially if you're selling your home.
Ask if your bank has a branch wherever you're going. If not, consider opening another account with a different bank with branches in your new country. If there are none, consider alternative money transfer services such as PayPal, Venmo, Skrill, or Wise.
How long do you intend to stay in your new country? If it's a few months to a year, consider furniture rentals. However, if it's more than two years, consider buying new furniture.
If you're shipping your belongings with international movers, be sure to confirm all the details about the shipment. How long will it take? Where do you collect your shipment? How do you contact the movers in case of anything?
Prepare all the documents you need to travel from travel itinerary, tickets, vaccination records, proof of medical tests, visa, passport, and cash.
You can never go wrong with a travel guide. If possible, talk to people living in your new country to understand the cost of living, move abroad, and acclimate to the new culture.
Contact your family doctor, get your medical records, and refill your current medications. Be sure to confirm with the embassy of your destination whether you can carry medication. For example, medical marijuana is legal in the U.S. but illegal in most countries.
Relocating to a new country is an enormous step, but it's also a chance to explore, learn, enjoy and start living on your own terms. It will be a challenging journey, and sometimes you'll wish you were at home with your family and friends.
However, with proper planning and the right moving partners, your move becomes easier. Don't stress about your move; instead, contact us at Sunshine Movers for that hassle-free relocation.
Learn about your destination by researching online and visiting their embassy. Prepare an international moving checklist and consult an international relocation professional.
The duration will depend on the mode of transport. If you use air travel, it will take a few days, but it can take months if you use sea travel. Alternatively, you can use road travel which can take weeks or months depending on the location.
That depends on the kind of furniture you have. If you have unique and expensive furniture, consider using international moving services. However, if you own cheap furniture that you can get elsewhere, opt to buy them when you land instead of shipping internationally.
You can ship the items via international moving companies. Contact any local moving companies and request a quote.
Typically, you'll need to confirm that you have proper travel documents, up-to-date vaccinations, proof of medical tests, medical records, social security documents, and finances.
