There is no such thing as a small international move. Even if you are moving to New Zealand from Australia – a rather short trip compared to other overseas moves – there is still so much to organise and prepare for before the big day comes around. Relocating to a whole new country is a big decision, and one that should be given the appropriate level of respect and attention prior to committing to such a significant moment in your life.
Thankfully, with the help of the seasoned international removalists at Overseas Packers & Shippers, you can let go of some of the stress of your international move. But while our international packers and shippers will help you transport your belongings to your new country, there is still a lot of preparation that you are responsible for to ensure your relocation goes as smoothly as possible. Let’s take a look at some of the main things that need to be considered and/or completed for your big international move.
Check if the Destination is Safe
Moving to a new country is always exciting, but there are some risks involved that you should be aware of. According to the Australian Government’s foreign travel platform Smart Traveller, certain countries have higher risk levels than others.
Before you move to a new country, you should definitely do some research into your chosen destination’s risks.
Here are some of the main things to check before you move:
- Laws and customs: each country has their own laws and cultural customs that you need to abide by while living there as a resident.
- Legal drinking age: while it is 18 years old in Australia, the age is different for certain countries.
- Penalties: certain consequences for crimes in Australia may be harsher in other countries.
- Natural disasters: it’s important to research how prevalent earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, floods, wildfires, cyclones, droughts, and other natural disasters are in your new country.
Every country has its own risks associated with living there, so it’s important you understand any that are relevant to where you are relocating. This way, you can prepare appropriately to give yourself the best chance of settling in safely to your new country.
Marriage and Relationships Overseas
Different countries around the world hold different views and attitudes towards marriage and relationships that are important to be aware of before you move there. Marriage, divorce, relationships outside of marriage, cross-cultural relationships, and same-sex relationships may be viewed through a different cultural lens than how they are perceived in Australia.
It’s important you research your new country’s attitudes and laws relating to the relationships most relevant to you. SmartTraveller has a series of resources to help you through this process, including a page dedicated to overseas advice for LGBTI people.
Planning to Move Overseas
Moving to a country is not something you can achieve overnight. Whether you are moving for work, study, or family, you need to give yourself enough time to get everything in order to ensure relocating is as stress free as possible. Here are some of the key things to consider organising before your big international move.
Passport and Visas
You can’t travel overseas without a valid passport, and the majority of countries won’t let you live and work there without the necessary visa and residency permit. The application process for these essential documents can take months, so give yourself plenty of time to get them ready prior to your move.
International Driving Permit (IDP)
If you’re going abroad, you might need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your Australian driver’s licence, which you can get issued by state or territory authorities. For long stays, check with local officials about obtaining their licence.
Other Essential Documents
When moving abroad, besides your passport and any necessary visas or work permits, there are several other key documents you need to keep handy. This list includes birth, name change, and marriage certificates, citizenship papers, divorce and custody documents, police checks, and educational qualifications.
Always carry the originals and leave copies with someone you trust back in Australia for safety. Be aware that certain countries might need your documents translated or authenticated. Make sure to check these requirements and complete any needed legislation in Australia before your departure.
For more information on how you should prepare for your international move, read our article on minor details to remember before you move overseas.
Choosing A Trusted Overseas Removalist
Perhaps the most important thing to prepare for to help with your big international move is hiring experienced overseas removalists who can take care of transporting your belongings to your new country. Such an important job should be left to the experts, and at Overseas Packers & Shippers, we have the experience, accreditation and expertise to take on this monumental task.
If you need help with your international move, contact the friendly team at Overseas Packers & Shippers today.
