Moving abroad can be a rather daunting prospect.
To many individuals, it may mean uprooting the life they have had and established in their homeland and starting fresh in a new and foreign place. That said, a significant move such as one that takes you overseas will require adequate and proper preparation. If you are planning to relocate abroad, have a plan and a proper checklist. With so many things to do, it can be quite easy to miss out on essential items of task deadlines in your preparation.
Below is a helpful checklist for individuals who may be considering moving overseas. This is something you want to look into at least six months prior to your departure. In doing so, you can make your move go as efficiently and smoothly as possible.
a.) Immigration
One of the most important things you need to do before your departure is to get all the necessary documents for immigration. This includes your passport, entry visas, work and residence permits, etc. If you are moving overseas for work, it would be a good idea to look for an apostille service provider in the Philippines, as you may need to have your documents certified. If you are applying for a student visa, you would need to show documents that state that you have been accepted and registered as a student in the university or college at your new location. Be sure to check all of your family members’ passports if they are moving with you. At the very least, they need to remain at least 12 months valid after your moving date.
b.) Home Search
Another thing you ought to consider prior to your moving date is whether you will rent or buy a home abroad. Each destination offers you a myriad of options with a wide range of accommodation styles to suit your needs, lifestyles, and budgets of everyone. If you are moving abroad alone, it may be a good idea to start renting property instead of outright buying one. However, if your family is coming along and if your budget permits, it may be prudent to find the right home. While finding the right home can be a lengthy and complex process, it is paramount. Ensuring that you have somewhere to move into once you arrive is crucial. That said, you need to start planning early.
c.) Destination Research
Before moving out to a new country, it is helpful to learn about their culture. This is particularly true if your relocation is lengthy. Some of the things you need to know are the new culture’s cuisine, basic greetings, and how to use their public transportation efficiently. Other things you need to research are the weather, climate, and topography, as these are the things that will give you a better idea of what to pack for your move. Apart from the country itself, you should also get to know about your neighborhood online. Meet new people by joining social groups and start making friends. Also, check the prospective food and utility costs. If you plan on renting property, know how much your monthly rent will be, as this will give you an idea of what your budget will be like once you are abroad. In some cases, this will help you plan ahead should you need additional financial support.
d.) Healthcare
Your destination country may require various types of vaccination, which you will need before you are allowed to enter. That said, check your local health clinic or department of health and know what you will need. Take note of the arrival requirements of your relocation country. This will include border entry registration forms and, in some cases, quarantine. Keep in mind that these requirements may change at short notice. You will also need to notify your doctor, dentist, and optician about your relocation and get copies of all your medical records. Keep these alongside your vaccination records and travel documents. Also, if you are taking any regular medications, you may need to stock up before your move as you may not be able to quickly get them before you get settled abroad.
e.) Home inventory
Prior to your departure, it is a good idea to go through your household items and purge anything that you would not be taking with you. If possible, give these away to your friends, sell them online, or donate them to a local charity. After you have decided which items will be moving with you, make a list of what they are and take pictures of all your valuable and fragile items. From there, estimate their approximate value. You may also wish to record the condition of the things that already have existing damage. It is also worth noting that you may have some electrical appliances that may not work or will need adaptors. If you think that there is a chance that certain electronics and appliances will not work overseas, it is best not to take them with you to save on freight costs.