Moving abroad? Here’s why and how you should get organised first
Moving to another country is no small feat. While blockbuster films might look like a simple process of packing your things and boarding the next flight, there’s a lot more planning involved.
Before you book your flight, ferry, or train, you’ll need to get your ducks in a row. We’ve outlined five of the most vital steps to getting organised before moving abroad.
Moving to another country? Follow these steps before you leave
- Research your destination
Learning as much as possible about your new destination is imperative. You need to know what the area is like before moving, and it’s also immensely helpful to be able to see yourself living there.
It could be worth planning a few visits beforehand to get a feel for the local area, including the facilities and spaces available to the local community. Why not take a family member or close friend there to help you get to know your new home?
- Tell your local council
You’ll need to contact your local council before you move abroad. Providing the authorities with a forwarding address means that you won’t miss out on any important letters or deliveries to your previous or unoccupied address.
Similarly, you should tell HMRC that you’re moving abroad too. This is a crucial responsibility and will ensure that you continue paying the right amount of tax, regardless of any changes to your income or employment.
- Organise your tax and finances
Though it might feel burdensome, getting your finances in the right place will be hugely beneficial after you move. Rather than being chased with correspondence from your bank, getting things in order means that you can settle down and relax as soon as you arrive.
Moving to another country might affect your credit score. You can build your credit history by making payments on time, using online tools, and keeping within credit limits. Moving abroad with an excellent credit score is guaranteed to help you start your venture on the right foot – whether you’re applying for a mortgage or taking out a loan for bigger purchases.
- Secure the right visa
It’s highly likely that you’ll need to apply and be accepted for the correct visa if you’re moving to another country, even if it’s within the European Economic Area. Since the Brexit Bill passed through parliament, free movement laws no longer apply.
You’ll usually need a visa if you’re planning to stay for longer than 90 days within any 180-day period. It’s therefore very important to know the requirements of the country you’re moving to and secure an appropriate visa, declaring your plans to all local authorities.
- Find new opportunities
Whether you’ll be looking for work or educational opportunities in the next place you call home, it’s worth looking at your options before you move. Check league tables and online reviewing sites to find out about the reputation and integrity of any company or institution before you apply.
And if you’re visiting the country before you move, you could also benefit from attending open days. Talk to members of the community to get a feel for the area – along with the reputation of the most popular places.
Overview
Getting organised is vital before moving abroad. Check your finances, working opportunities, and get a feel for the area first. Lastly, if you haven’t learned the local language yet, it’s not too late! Start an online course on Duolingo or arrange lessons with a tutor to give yourself a head start.
