Every four years, the world comes together to watch and participate in the Olympics. It is a time of excitement and stress, anxiety and anticipation. Of course, what one sees happening at the Olympics is only the culmination of years of hard work, determination and skill…
Nothing there was accomplished overnight, but is a result of much preparation, planning and careful thought. Find a good notebook and begin to write down the things you must accomplish before moving. Any time you have a thought, write it down in the notebook. As you complete tasks, check them off. Keep track of all phone numbers and names of those you contact, including the dates and times you contacted them. If you run into any problems, you will know exactly who you talked to and you won’t have to start that process over again.
In much the same way, moving to a new country can be compared to participating in the Olympics. The more time you spend preparing for your overseas relocation, the better chances you will have in having a successful, well-planned move. There are some important things to consider when relocating overseas that can help make the relocation easier. Although this may take more time, consider that just like the competitors in the Olympics spend untold hours in preparation and planning in order to win, you will want to take the time to be as prepared as possible.
First of all, you will want to spend some time researching your new country. There will be so many differences that you need to visit your library, search the internet, and talk to as many people as possible to learn as much as possible about you new country. Of course, along with this, there may be a new language to learn as well. Many libraries have computer programs and DVD’s to help you learn a new language. Even though you will not be able to master the language, the earlier you start studying basic words and hearing it spoken, the quicker you will be able to converse with those in your new surroundings.
Next, remember that there are going to be specific laws and regulations in your new country regarding passports, visas, permits, vaccinations, taxes, and even your pets. You can find out what you need by calling the embassy or consulate of the country to ask what restrictions and regulations apply to foreigners moving into the country. You will want to file for your passports, permits and visas as soon as possible, as they can take a while to process. Also, be sure and check the expiration dates on all current passports, to make sure they are still valid. Leave nothing to chance, as you will not want any surprises as you are moving.
You will also want to take important documents with you as you move into your new country. Right after you learn that you will be relocating, take the time to see what you have on hand and what you may need to get copies of. This could include birth certificates, social security cards, medical and dental records, and employment records. Other important paperwork is academic records and diplomas, employment records, proof of residency and a living will and testament. Copies can be obtained for any of these items, but it may take months to receive them all. Take the time to contact the right people, keep good records.
Other important things to keep track of are prescription drugs, international driving permits, and the tax system in your new country. These are all things that require keeping good records that all need to be recorded in your notebook. Calling the right people, asking the right questions and following through on the required tasks will make the transition so much easier.
Your belongings, of course, are one of the most important aspects of moving. Rather you are moving to New Zealand or moving to France, you will want to get the very best of care for your belongings. Research this and find the best way to transport your items. Ocean freight shipping is considerably cheaper, but takes at least two months. This is true also if you are shipping car overseas.
Although this all may sound like a lot of hard work, it’s worth remembering that the better you prepare and keep good records, the better the entire experience will be. As with the Olympics, the day will finally arrive when you can finish the task, sit down and take a deep breath. It is then that you will be so thankful that you took the time to do things the right way.