Moving to a new country is a huge step for every expat, and the whole process can be quite intimidating. It can take months or even years of preparation to be fully ready to make a move. You have to plan well to ensure that the transition is smooth and hassle-free. That’s why having a final checklist before moving to a new country is important.
As you are all excited to kick start your expatriate life overseas, don’t forget to go through the checklist before you board your flight. A little guidance to be on the right planning track can be a bonus.
Checklist before moving overseas:
Apply for Visa on Time
Applying for a visa should be at the top of your must-do list if you want to start your expatriate life in your chosen destination. Of course, by now, you must have decided where you want to move. Probably, you have an international job assignment, becoming a digital nomad, or moving abroad for higher studies. Whatever may be the reason behind your move, applying for a visa on time is vital. It can be a lengthy and tedious process, so give yourself adequate time.
Book Your Flight Tickets
The next item that should be present in your checklist is purchasing flight tickets. Booking your tickets well in advance will help you grab a good discount or deal. Go through various portals online at least a couple of months before your planned departure. It will assist you in keeping track of periodical offers and deals. Keep your dates flexible to get the lowest possible price for your tickets.
Choose Your City
Depending on your finances and job assignment, you will have to choose a city to start your expatriate life. If you are a bit flexible, the town where you would initially live won’t matter much. For instance, if you have the provision for working from home, you can decide to stay in a place which is far away from the hustle-bustle of city life. However, please do thorough research on your potential new home city and know all the pros and cons before finalizing it.
Start Packing Your Necessary Luggage Early
Depending on your stay abroad’s tenure, you should plan well on what to bring with you. This step can be a bit cumbersome for you as you are not sure about what you should actually carry and what you can leave behind. Ideally, it would help if you pack only those things that you would need the most.
You can keep your old living room as if you have plans to return home within a couple of years. Either way, it would be ideal if you trash or sell as much unwanted stuff as possible and start packing as little as you can. Once you arrive at your expat destination, you would be amazed that you don’t need many things to start living comfortably.
Opt for Adequate Insurance Coverage
No matter where you intend to spend your expatriate days, obtaining adequate insurance coverage is a must. It is essential if the country where you are moving to doesn’t have a robust public healthcare system. If you are moving overseas with your family, you should opt for a comprehensive international health insurance plan offered by one of the most trusted insurance companies in the world.
Check Out Your Housing Options
Finding the right accommodation is an important part of international living. Ideally, it would help if you visited the destination at least once before moving permanently or for a long duration. It will help you in figuring out the best possible accommodation facilities available. You can also search for your dream home online and finalize one that suits your style and budget.
