Are you preparing to relocate?
How exciting is it to move abroad? To go from the place you’ve always known to places new – that’s an adventure! The problem with adventure is that it cannot always be spontaneous. Some adventures require a little more planning than that and moving abroad? That’s a big adventure that requires a lot of planning on your behalf!
The one thing that you need the most – after you know where you’re heading and you have your visas, of course – is a list to tell you what to do when you land in your new home. Below, we’ve put together a list of six things that you need to remember to do once you relocate. Let’s take a look!
Healthcare
It’s one of the first jobs when you land: you need to register with your local government for healthcare. Some countries ask for a private health system registration, either way, you need to set it up. Accidents can and do happen at any time, so ensuring that you are covered for healthcare if you need it is smart!
Driving
Of course, you’ll need a way to get around when you emigrate. You need to ensure that you can exchange your current driving license over to the licensing of the local area. If you’re in Singapore, it could be worth checking out Presto Expat Motoring for a car that you can rent while you are exploring. You need to get to know the local area and you should ensure you are legally able to get around!
Money
You can open a bank account in the country of choice before you arrive, finalising the details on arrival for most places. Always choose a bank account that is specially designed for the movement of money from overseas. Do some research about overseas bank accounts before you start thinking about opening one!
Utilities
It’s all admin, but before you land, research the local utilities companies that you will be paying. You’ll still have to pay for gas, electric and water when you move abroad, so you should get yourself up to speed on what you need to do and when so you can get set up. You should also let your previous utilities provider know you are leaving.
Post
Redirecting your mail is a good decision. You can switch your mail to the address of a friend and they can forward it to you, or you could simply redirect it to your new address overseas. Some of that mail may be important, but the mail office will mostly redirect post for up to 12 months.
A New Home
When you land, it’s likely you’ll stay in an Airbnb or a hotel for a while so that you can give yourself time to find a new place. Whether you plan to rent or buy a home doesn’t matter; you need to find something permanent and long-term.
Your new adventure is about to begin. Get everything written down in a checklist so that you can tick things off as you go!
