Moving into a new country is an exciting prospect. The thrill of settling into a new place, understanding a new culture, and making new friends cannot be put into words. But, behind the realm of this romanticized concept lies the reality. Moving abroad is a big move, and hence, needs a lot of preparation. You need to get many things into place even before you book your ticket.
Whether you are moving to get higher education or for work, these are the five things you need to sort before you board that plane.
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1. Get Your Visa
Before anything, you need a visa to stay abroad. The type of visa you will need will depend on the purpose of your relocation, whether you are moving temporarily, for work, for business, or for a vacation.
As this is going to be a very long process, spare enough time for it. You will need to fill lots of forms and bear bureaucratic red tape.
Get your paperwork ready. Keep photocopies of all the necessary documents handy for a smooth exit.
2. Get Your Documents Translated
Several countries require translated documents even if you are visiting there for a vacation, let alone for studies or work.
Countries like the United States of America oblige you to present important documents with a notarized translation before granting your visa request. So before you move to a country, find out their requirement in this respect and get your documents translated as required.
Reach out to a reputed translation service, which can help you with medical, academic certificate, marriage certificate, and birth certificate translation.
3. Learn About Federal As Well As State Taxes
Once you start making income in a foreign country, you will have to pay the taxes too. So, before moving to the country, educate yourself about their tax system.
Generally, taxes for expats aren’t very stringent, still, find out the “whats”, “whens”, and “hows” of taxes to ensure a stress-free and safe stay.
4. Find A Good House
If you are traveling for education or work, it’s going to be a long stay. Places like Airbnb allow you to rent a well-furnished space for a long period, but this prospect may fall heavy on your wallet. Hence, finding a budget-friendly place beforehand is a better idea. Although it won’t be easy, it will prevent you from all the hassle and stress later.
As you can’t find a home in a foreign country yourself, reach out to a good real estate agent. Keep in mind that you may have to pay the first (maybe second) month of rent and security deposit to sign your lease.
5. Don’t Forget Your Health Coverage
Depending on where you are moving, the country may want you to undergo several medical tests and check-ups, along with getting vaccinated before shifting your base. Use your health coverage insurance and get all the health check-ups done to ensure that you are fit to leave. Carry enough prescribed medications to not run out of them in a foreign land.
Also, several countries require you to have a health insurance plan for that particular country in place before you move there. You may be denied entry if you don’t provide them with proof of your plan.
So, take time to research the viable options and put things in place before you move.
The Bottom Line
Moving abroad can be real fun only if you have already made the required arrangements. In the absence of these, you may have to face several challenges in a foreign country. So, make sure you have sorted out all the above-listed things before moving your base.
If you are interested in even more lifestyle-related articles and information from us here at Bit Rebels, then we have a lot to choose from.
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