Are you a young professional, skilled worker, or artist searching for a new home in a foreign country? That is amazing because moving is supposed to be a new chapter in your life! You can find a lot of inspiration and motivation when you move. Also, it should be a fun, thrilling, and exciting process. However, unless you do it properly, moving can turn out to be a real nightmare. It can get hectic, exhausting, and most importantly time-consuming, and we are sure you’d like to avoid that. Not to mention that moving is considered to be one of the most challenging and stressful things for an individual. It can even add up if you are moving to another country! So, in order to avoid that, we are going to make an expat’s to-do list for moving abroad!

You have to make the plan in the first place!

This is one of the most important things when it comes to moving to another country. Some people tend to overlook this step either because they think it’s waste of time or that it’s way too trivial. Just the opposite, making a plan will save you plenty of time! Don’t be afraid to invest as much time as you need to think through everything. It will keep you focused on all important things during the move. Also, making a to-do list is a great idea since you’ll be able to see the progress you’re making. It’s really important because it will give you a motivational boost! On the other hand, if you don’t think you’re capable of doing this or simply don’t have enough time, contact professional movers! For example, Kokusai Express Japan movers are experts with many years of experience who are going to make it look easy!

The next step is to apply for the right visa

After you’re done planning, the very next step should be applying for the new visa! Depending on the country you’re moving to, you need to check the visa process for it. It differs from country to country so make sure to check it out before you start doing anything. This is especially important because there are many visas you can apply for. It’s already a lengthy process, so make sure to apply for the right one. Unless you do so, it’s going to take even longer and you don’t want to experience that. For example, if you are moving to Japan, make sure to study the visa application process!

Renew your passport and inform about COVID-19

After you’ve applied for the right Visa for the new country, it’s time to see whether your passport is valid. If it has expired, make sure to renew it as soon as possible. Don’t leave it for the last moment because if something goes sideways, you’ll probably have to pay some more money for it. This is one of the most often hidden costs that people don’t know about. Also, since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world, everything has changed. Make sure to inform yourself about traveling restrictions and quarantine time. Also, if you are vaccinated, don’t forget to prepare your certificate.

What about your driver’s license?

If you are a driver, you know how much a car means for everyday life. It makes it so much easier. Although, the thing is that your current driver’s license is probably not going to be valid in a foreign country. Make sure to renew it and get an international one. Also, don’t leave it for the last moment, especially if you’re moving in a hurry since this process can get pretty lengthy.

Insurance policies and international health insurance

We can’t forget to mention this one if we’re talking about expat’s to-do list for moving abroad. This is one of the most important things because, you want to be prepared for unwanted, but realistic scenarios. It’s an absolute necessity and should be your top priority. You and your family should be under comprehensive medical cover when moving to a foreign country. Also, don’t forget to verify health insurance. Another thing we want to mention is that expat financial offer a variety of expatriate health insurance that are precisely tailored for expatriates no matter the nationality.

Contact your bank about global accounts

The next thing you should think about is the bank and your accounts. You should pay a visit to your bank and explain that you are moving and that you’ll need a global account. Ask your bank to offer you one because you will be able to use it outside the country and you won’t have to pay high fees, which can save you some money. Also, don’t forget about mortgages or loans in your home country. If you have some, make sure to set up an account with which you’ll be able to cover it while you’re away.

Think of where you will live once you move

You should start searching for an apartment or house as soon as possible. This way, you will have enough time to go through all the ads and find the perfect place for you and your family. Thankfully, we have internet nowadays so it’s much easier. Just go online, and you will find plenty of websites with housing options. Also, it’s great since you can see the reviews and comments of other people.

Pack properly and hire the reliable movers

The last thing when talking about expat’s to-do list for moving abroad is packing properly and hiring reliable and trustworthy movers. Gather all the essential packing and moving supplies. Also, finding the right movers is very important because you want this experience to be smooth, pleasant, and most importantly – stress-free. You will have peace of mind by hiring experienced movers who are going to take care of everything for you.