Moving Internationally: The Ultimate Guide

Moving Internationally: The Ultimate Guide

Shadow image of a plane moving abroad

Whether you’re moving across the border or the ocean, international moving is a big step that requires extensive planning.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, an estimated 3 million-10 million people have made international moves outside of the United States. Another wide range is the reasons why people move internationally. Many do so for work, but many people just want to travel or get a fresh start.

The number of students studying abroad in 2019-2020 dropped 53% from previous years due to the impacts of COVID-19. As we come to what seems to be the end of the pandemic, the number of people who decide to move out of the country will likely grow as travel has been restricted for the past 2-3 years.

Wherever you plan to go and whatever your reasons may be, moving internationally is complicated. Luckily there are plenty of experts and moving companies who specialize in moving internationally.

Here is your guide to making an international move, along with some helpful tips.

What To Do Before You Move

Couple comparing moving estimates

Do research on your new country

When moving internationally you must do your research on the new country you plan to move to. Doing your research will help you understand the culture of the country, requirements, monetary systems, and other new changes.

Safety Information

Safety information is very important for a big move like this. Make sure you review entry and exit requirements, visa requirements, local laws, customs and culture, road safety, etc. It is a good idea to have the contact information of the nearest U.S. Embassy to you in case of an emergency while traveling.

Health Precautions

Make sure you check for recommendations for vaccines and medications. Keep your vaccinations up to date for ease traveling abroad!

Money Considerations

Many different countries have their unique forms of currency and monetary systems, it is important to know your countries well. Notify your banks and credit card companies of your plans to travel so that everyone is fully accommodated.

Getting Required Documents

One of the most difficult parts of planning for an international move is getting the proper documentation in order. This is because there are so many different types of visas required for different reasons for your move. Some reasons you may be choosing to move are:

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Moving for School

If you are a student who has chosen to study abroad you’ll need to check through the school you’ll be attending to find out what documents are required for enrollment and living purposes.

You will need to acquire a student visa, which every country has different requirements for, but the bottom line is that you’ll need a valid passport and proof of enrollment at your school.

If you’re studying abroad through an American University program it will be easy to get assistance with your visa applications because your school will most likely assist you.

Moving for Work

When applying for a job in another country, you’ll most likely have to answer questions about your visa status. Once you’ve got a job in your new country you can ask your new company to sponsor your work permit.

If you’re being transferred overseas with your current company be sure to get in touch with your representatives to make sure you have all the proper documentation.

Making a Healthcare Plan

Having a healthcare plan may be a little more tedious when moving overseas, but it is very important. Many over-the-counter medications are not available in other countries or are of lower strength.

You can check what prescriptions carry over or check for alternative medications with The International Narcotics Control Board. You should also take care of making sure you have enough of your prescription medication on hand until you will be able to get more abroad. Also, make sure your prescription drug is legal to have in whatever country you are moving to.

You will need to check with your insurance provider too as some American insurance companies and programs don’t travel with you such as Medicaid and Medicare.

Drivers License

Many countries don’t recognize a U.S. driver’s license as valid in their countries, but you’ll need to check with your new country’s embassy directly. Most countries will accept an International Driver’s Permit (IDP), which won’t be valid your entire stay but can be used until you get a local license.

To find out more on how to get an IDP check out:

Moving abroad checklist graphic

Notify Government Agencies

When moving abroad from the U.S., you’ll need to notify some American government agencies that you plan to move abroad. This is because of matters like pensions, taxes, benefits, the IRS, etc. You’ll need to notify the following agencies:

  • Your current DMV
  • The United States Postal Service
  • The Social Security Administration
  • The IRS
  • The Federal Voting Assistance Program

Homes and Budgeting

Finding a Home

Finding your new home overseas is a similar process to finding a home in the U.S. Your best bet is to consult Google.

You can look on sites like Airbnb or Vrbo for short-term rentals until you find a more permanent residence. Once you’re in your new country you can find local realtors or explore the city to find homes for sale or rent.

It’s a good idea to make a list of things you’re looking for in a home so that when you go on tours and talk to agents, the process won’t seem so overwhelming.

Budgeting

Of course, your new home will be a large part of your budget for your move, but it will not be the only factor. This is especially important if your stay will be long-term.

If your current company is sending you and your family overseas they will most likely give you a relocation budget that will take the majority of the financial matters off of your plate.

If you are moving on your own your budget will need to be more detailed based on what you are sending and bringing with you when you move. Due to different monetary systems in many countries, some essentials will be cheaper there than in the U.S. so do your research on these items before you leave to save money.

Your budget will also include exchanging cash and other monetary items once you arrive in your new home.

Applying For Schools

If you are moving with children, looking for schools to send your kids to is important. Make sure you register your children as soon as possible and be aware of deadlines to ensure their entry.

The two main options for enrolling children in schools abroad are to enroll them in a local school or an international one. Both of these options come with their own pros and cons.

Local schools may present some larger learning curves for your children, such as language and cultural barriers, but this is a better option for younger children so that they can adapt while they are still able to.

If you have older children an International school is a better choice, so that they can be around others who speak their native language and have the same culture. At an international school, your child will still have the chance to be around other cultures too as children from all over the world are accepted at international institutions.

How To Ship Your Belongings Overseas

When moving to a new country it can be difficult to know what items you should pack with you versus what items you should ship overseas. This will be unique to you and your needs and no one mover will be the same.

Evergreen cargo ship

What to Ship and What to Pack?

When moving internationally, the easiest way to know what to ship and what to pack is to split your belongings up. Determine what you can live without for a least a month, as this is the usual time frame it takes to ship items overseas.

Another way to reduce the stress of packing is to do some spring cleaning. Hold a garage sale, post items on Craigslist or eBay, and get rid of items that aren’t necessities. This will reduce your stress levels and your shipping costs.

Consider the amount of time you will spend in your new home once you arrive. This will help you sort out items that you will need in the house and what ones you can buy when you get there.

If you plan on being in the home a lot you will need more than someone who will be out exploring every day.

Choosing a Moving Company

There are many U.S. companies that will also assist you with your international move. Make sure you check reviews, get multiple quotes, and ask lots of questions.

This will ensure you the safest move and allow you to make the most financially smart decision. Moving internationally can be very expensive, but don’t hop on the cheapest deal as sometimes this is not the best quality.

Some of America’s top international moving companies according to Forbes include:

  • International Van Lines
  • American Van Lines
  • Moving APT
  • Nationwide Moving Services

However, you may be able to DIY a lot of your move and just need assistance with moving boxes and packing up your trailer.

What To Do After Your Move

Although moving to your new home is the hardest part, don’t let all of the excitement blur your memory for getting settled in just yet. There are still some things we haven’t covered yet that you will need to do once you arrive in the new country.

Happy couple unloading automobile while moving apartments on summer day.

Opening a New Bank Account

You’ll most likely use an American Visa or Credit Card but many countries apply fees for international spending which can add up over time. To avoid this, open a new bank account in your new country, especially if you are staying long-term.

Subscriptions

If you have subscriptions to delivery services or streaming services like Amazon, Netflix, Hulu, Disney Plus, and so on you’ll need to update your address.

You should check if your new country provides these services before you move. If they do not, cancel these services before you move to avoid paying unnecessary fees.

Conclusion

Moving abroad from the U.S. can be both scary and hectic, but don’t let this sway you away. Traveling the world is an opportunity much hope to achieve and if you have the means to do so you should take advantage.

Experiencing new cultures, languages, foods, and places is not only enticing, but it will give you a worldly mind that you can use throughout life. Seeing new countries can change your life no matter how long your stay is.

If you don’t seize the opportunity you may never get the chance again and you may come to regret that. Live your dreams and see the world while you can, take the opportunity and move abroad!

FAQ’s

What items should I ship overseas?

The best items to ship overseas are items that you can go for at least a month, or maybe more, without having with you.

What’s the easiest way to find a new house when moving abroad?

Your best bet for finding a home abroad would be to do some research on Google about housing markets and relators. You can schedule tours from the U.S. and check out sites like Airbnb or Vrbo.

What do I do when I move internationally?

You’ll need to alert government agencies, and your banks, do research, make a healthcare plan, apply for schools and jobs, set a budget, and find a new home.

What do I do after I move?

After you move, open a new bank account and update your subscriptions, then you can get settled into your new home!

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Reese Ledford comes from Fort Mill, South Carolina, right outside Charlotte, North Carolina. She is currently studying English and Political Science at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina. In her free time, she loves to travel, draw, write, exercise, and spend time with friends and family.