Are you contemplating a move to another country? If so, you’ve got tons of preparing and planning to do before you take the leap. What exactly do you need to do?
This list isn’t comprehensive by any means, but here’s a breakdown of seven things you need to know before making an international move.
1. Where You Plan to Live
First and foremost, determine where you’re going to live, so you can start planning out all of the other details of your relocation. Will you live there permanently? Or do you plan to move around frequently and explore?
Where you choose to move and how long you plan to stay will affect several move details, including the visas, other documentation you need to acquire, and your tax obligations.
2. The Type of Visa (Plus Other Documentation) You Need
Getting your visa(s) can take quite a while, so once you’ve determined where you plan to live and how long you plan to stay, start working on your visa application(s).
Keep in mind that there are multiple types of visas, so you’ll need to figure out which type you need based on where you’re going and what you’ll be doing while you’re there. To start researching what you need, check out the embassy website of the country or countries you plan to visit.
3. Where You Plan to Store Your Extra Stuff
If you’re moving your entire life overseas, you’ve got two options: Get rid of everything you don’t need right now or put some of your things in storage in the States and come back for them later.
If you plan to get rid of stuff, check out our top tips on decluttering and downsizing.
And if you’d prefer to store your things safely, learn more about why climate-controlled storage is the best option for your stuff.
4. How You’ll Move Your Belongings (& Who Will Move Them)
Once you know where you’re going and when you’re likely to get your travel visa(s), it’s time to start researching international moving companies that ship to ports in your destination country.
Get several quotes from reputable movers to ensure you’re getting a reasonable price. Also, make sure the company you choose can help you complete the required customs paperwork, so you can legally bring your things to your destination country.
Not sure what to look for? No worries! Check out our plethora of tips on how to find the best moving company for your needs.
5. Your Tax Obligations
Will you be working in your destination country? If so, you may be responsible for paying taxes in that country and in your country of citizenship.
To determine what you’ll need to pay and which forms you’ll need to fill out, speak with an accountant who can break down the details and tax laws for you.
6. How to Reroute Your Mail
If you’ve ever moved within the U.S., you know rerouting your mail to your new home is as simple as filling out a Change of Address form on the USPS website. Moving internationally and getting your mail re-routed to another country is a bit more complicated.
Take care of this as early as possible after you set your move date so you don’t miss out on any important communications after your move!
7. Where Your Health Insurance Will Come From
If you’re moving overseas for work, your employer may pick up the tab for your health insurance, especially if your U.S.-based co-workers have health insurance, too.
If you’re moving internationally just because you want to, you’ll need to figure out where you’ll get your health insurance and how healthcare works in your destination country.
For more information on getting health coverage that’ll work in another country, check out the U.S. Department of State’s overview on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
Looking for an International Moving Company Near Seattle?
If you’re planning an international move, our Ed’s Moving & Storage team in Tacoma, Washington, would love to help you! We’ve facilitated countless overseas relocations since 1965 and will work diligently to help make your move as simple and smooth as possible.
To learn more or get a quote, give us a call today at 253-581-2446 or request a fast estimate online, and we’ll reach out with more information!