Best way to relocate overseas 

It is extremely exciting to move to some faraway country. You get to meet the new culture, people and its tradition. However, since you will be moving to a foreign country to live there for a longer period of time, you need to prepare accordingly. Moving locally is complicated, and should be planned well. This becomes even more difficult when you are going to the other continent. For this reason, here is a moving guide about the best way to relocate overseas just for you. 

Find a good moving company 

Just like with any relocation, you should find a good moving company, or in this case international movers. You can do this by searching the companies online or ask your friends and family. When you find several companies, make sure to check reviews and ratings from previous customers. This will help you in making your final decision. In addition to this, you should contact a couple of companies to talk to them in person and see what they offer. Do not hesitate to ask any questions related to your move and their services.  

Best way to relocate overseas – save as much money as you can  

Moving even locally is not cheap, then you can imagine how much it will cost you when you move overseas. Some of the cost you will have to pay include the following, 

• Plane tickets 
• Visa application 
• International expenses 
• Housing 
• Emergencies 

The minimum amount you should have depends on where you are going. However, it should be at least six months’ worth of savings. In addition to this, it would be wise to do research about the monthly average living expenses of the country of your choice. Then you can plan your monthly and moving budget. Just make sure to add unanticipated costs since anything can happen for the first couple of months. 

Renew your passport 

You need to have a valid passport before you go to apply for a visa. Keep in mind that some countries require that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your final date of travels. For this reason, make sure to check the date on your passport. In addition to this, since you are moving for a longer period of time, you probably do not have a set return date. It is highly likely that your passport will expire in the meantime. However, there is no need to panic, since you can also renew your passport at the local U.S. Embassy. 

Apply for a visa 

Before you apply for a visa, you need to check what documents you need for the application. The documentation varies according to the country and the type of visa you need. It is not the same if you are applying for a student visa or a working one. For example, for a student visa, you will need to submit a copy of your invitation letter from the university and a proof of your scholarship. In addition to this, you might need to set up an appointment at a U.S. Department of Homeland Security application support center to give your fingerprints, photograph, and so on. 

Best way to relocate overseas – plan in advance for health care 

Since you are moving overseas, you need to make sure you have adequate medical insurance. You can easily get sick when you are trying to adapt to a new climate. For this reason, see how the health care system functions in your new country. You can even ask your current health care provider if they cover the expenses of the medical treatments. If not, you can always check the U.S. Embassy website since they have the lists of doctors and hospitals of almost every country. In addition to this, they also provide all the important information about medical insurance in foreign countries. Lastly, if you are taking any medication, see if it is available in your new country. If not, then you can make a deal with your doctor to send your necessary dose. 

Do your research 

Best way to relocate overseas is to do the necessary research. It would be extremely unwise to just pack your bags and move. You need to know a little bit more about your European city.  

• Culture – learn more about the history and culture of your new country. See what is acceptable and what is not in your new country so you will not offend anyone there. 
• Transportation – you should see if you will use public transportation or drive a car. If you are planning to get a car, make sure to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) as well. 
• Shipping vs. Buying – you should check how much it will cost you to buy new or used furniture, bedding, appliances, and utensils. Maybe it would be cheaper to ship them to your new address.  

Make a copy of your documents and register with STEP 

It is extremely important to make a copy of your documents. These include your passport, birth certificate, driver’s license, and immunization records. You never know when you might need them, so it is better to have them close. In addition to this, apply for the U.S. Embassy’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. Here you can get all the newest information about your country’s safety. The U.S. Embassy can quickly notify you in case of an emergency as well. 

Contact your bank  

Lastly, you should notify your bank about your impending move overseas. You can make a plan on how to pay your ongoing bills or loans. In addition to this, you can also get an international credit card so you can avoid transaction fees. You should find a bank in the foreign country as well and see what you will need to set up an account. 

Best way to relocate overseas – conclusion  

As you can see, the best way to relocate overseas is to prepare well in advance. For this reason, start slowly planning your move.