How to Move Overseas Permanently
Though moving abroad permanently may sound appealing, starting over in a brand-new place takes time and you must take the appropriate steps to make the move legally. From downsizing your belongings to applying for your passport and preparing required documents, you must cover all bases before you gain permanent residence in your new country.
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Instructions
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Take stock of the belongings you plan to take. Before you can ship your belongings to your new home, you must take inventory and write down all items you need to ship. List each item on a blank piece of paper. Next to the item, write down the quantity and value. Consult appraisers for antiques.
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Contact a moving company that deals with overseas moves. Make an appointment for a company employee to look over your belongings and determine what size shipping container you need. Ask the employee about customs clearance and insurance for your belongings.
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Prepare and save all your tax information, insurance and medical records in organized folders. Keep these folders in a safe place. Certain documents require certification before you can enter a country. Keep your papers handy for these situations. Contact your new city or country, and discuss the papers you need for each family member to enter the country.
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Apply for your passport and visas. Have your passport picture taken at the post office, and mail off the appropriate documents for your passport.
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Reroute your mail, and contact your bank to set up global banking. Ask your bank for recommendations for global banks if it does not offer global access. Opt for online banking or have your bank statements sent to a family members house until you find a new bank and transfer your money. Switch over your cell phone service and all continuing bills to your new home and country.
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Obtain the appropriate vaccinations for your new country. Contact the U.S. Foreign Affairs Office and speak with someone who can give you the exact vaccination information for your country.
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Apply for a work visa in your new country. Have your birth certificate, social security number, passport and other documents ready for your application process.
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Apply for permanent residency in your new country when your initial period of residency expires. Every country has different permanent residency requirements. Tests, proof of employment and marriage licenses may be required. Study for any tests you must take, and keep your employment and marriage license handy. You must apply for permanent residency as soon as your initial residency period expires. Contact your new city's local government to confirm how long you have before you can apply for permanent residency.
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Tips & Warnings
Consult officials in your new city and government employees about your move abroad. Ask detailed questions so you cover everything you need.
Take language classes if you plan on moving to an area where citizens speak a different language from your own.
Do not wait to apply for your work visa or your permanent residency. Failing to apply for the appropriate documents will cause you a great deal of unnecessary trouble.
References
Resources
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