I’m moving abroad! Now what? Here are 5 things you should know.
Moving abroad is a life-changing journey and having your ducks in a row will make it smoother sailing! Getting set up can be daunting, so plan ahead to ensure you are ready for take off. Before the big move, think about securing health insurance coverage and bank accounts. Being proactive could result in quicker success once you’re in a new country!
We Got You!
Fragomen has been there, and we get it! That is why we have put together this list of 5 things to consider before moving abroad.
Understanding visa and work permit requirements
As you plan your journey abroad, it’s essential to consider the type of documentation required for entry. Your nationality, length of stay and purpose in country may call for work permits or visas – so be sure to talk with both HR at your organization and an immigration provider about timelines & necessary documents!
Many governments, require applicants to apply for a work permit approval before entering the country to work and live. Some governments require newly procured diplomas or birth certificates before applying for a work permit. Understanding timelines are key when moving abroad.
Immigration professionals, such as Fragomen, can support in visa and work permit applications, help prepare documents, and provide advice throughout the application process.
As you plan your journey abroad, it’s essential to consider the type of documentation required for entry. Your nationality, length of stay and purpose in country may call for work permits or visas – so be sure to talk with both HR at your organization and an immigration provider about timelines & necessary documents!
Many governments, require applicants to apply for a work permit approval before entering the country to work and live. Some governments require newly procured diplomas or birth certificates before applying for a work permit. Understanding timelines are key when moving abroad.
Immigration professionals, such as Fragomen, can support in visa and work permit applications, help prepare documents, and provide advice throughout the application process.
Find out if you’re eligible to work
Once you understand that you may need a work permit to work and live in the country, it does not mean you will automatically qualify.
If you are planning to work in Germany, Austria or Switzerland, your skill set, salary level and even nationality can all be important factors when it comes time to apply for a work permit.
It’s best practice to have an immigration lawyer assess your individual situation and provide tailored advice on your eligibility requirements and the right type of visa that suits you perfectly.
Choose a bank and open an account
Before moving to a new country, you should have some money in savings. In some cases and depending on your visa type and the country you are moving to, you might be required to show proof of savings with your visa and work permit application. Many governments offer cost of living calculators online, which can be a great resource for new immigrants.
When you arrive, you will also need to open a bank account. This can often be done online, however, in Germany some banks even have accounts specifically designed for newcomers and offer credit cards to help build credit history.
Review the options as it can take over 3 weeks to open a bank account and get the card and PIN number needed to receive money. An ideal Bank option for English-speaking expats in Revolut.
Before moving to a new country, you should have some money in savings. In some cases and depending on your visa type and the country you are moving to, you might be required to show proof of savings with your visa and work permit application. Many governments offer cost of living calculators online, which can be a great resource for new immigrants.
When you arrive, you will also need to open a bank account. This can often be done online, however, in Germany some banks even have accounts specifically designed for newcomers and offer credit cards to help build credit history.
Review the options as it can take over 3 weeks to open a bank account and get the card and PIN number needed to receive money. An ideal Bank option for English-speaking expats in Revolut.
Apply for healthcare or insurance
You might not be automatically eligible for health coverage in your destination country, even if it offers universal healthcare to citizens. Always check with the local government in your destination country to see what your rights are regarding healthcare.
Germany and Austria may require you to have health insurance before obtaining a work permit. If you are not eligible, due to your work permit status or application process – make sure you have valid traveller’s insurance to cover the time-period you are in the country and fully insured by the countries health care system. Your immigration team can provide you with the advice needed to ensure you are insured.
MW Expat Solution Services can help you compare insurances and help you find the best service provider.
Don’t forget about the little things
When moving abroad, we tend to focus on the big things – like housing, work, and healthcare. But there are lots of little things to think about, too! Remember to:
- Make appointments for your utility accounts, such as internet and electricity, before leaving home.
- Unlock your mobile phone so you’ll be able to use a local SIM card and get a power plug adapter for your charger if you need one.
- Check the COVID-19 requirements, as travel regulations change quickly. Keep up to date on what you need to do before and after arriving in the destination country.
And most importantly, this goes without saying. Bring a few things that remind you of home and that you will not be able to buy abroad. Bringing your favourite face wash or snack food can also make a big difference when you’re just starting out.
When moving abroad, we tend to focus on the big things – like housing, work, and healthcare. But there are lots of little things to think about, too! Remember to:
- Make appointments for your utility accounts, such as internet and electricity, before leaving home.
- Unlock your mobile phone so you’ll be able to use a local SIM card and get a power plug adapter for your charger if you need one.
- Check the COVID-19 requirements, as travel regulations change quickly. Keep up to date on what you need to do before and after arriving in the destination country.
And most importantly, this goes without saying. Bring a few things that remind you of home and that you will not be able to buy abroad. Bringing your favourite face wash or snack food can also make a big difference when you’re just starting out.
Overall, getting a head-start on your travel preparations and understanding the timelines will help you. Speaking with an immigration legal professional will help reduce stress and ensure a smooth transition when moving to a new country. Fragomen is here to be your trusted immigration advisor!
Fragomen offers English-speaking Immigration Law services. They are the largest exclusive immigration and visa service provider in the world. With a team of German and English-speaking experts, as well as an additional 19 language capabilities, they are ready to serve clients from all backgrounds and nationalities. Whether you are driven by lifestyle reasons or looking for new opportunities, Fragomen is here to provide comprehensive solutions and a smooth immigration experience for you and your family throughout the world’s 170 countries.
