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Preparing to pick up and move an entire household to
another country can be an overwhelming task. But with the right attitude, some
careful planning and as much time as you can give it, but it is not without its
bright side. This may be the best opportunity you've ever had to completely
clean house, from the basement to the attic and the garage! Take a critical
look at what you have, and decide whether you really want to take it all with
you.
Give yourself plenty of time to get your travel documents
together before you relocate to another country. It’s going to be a stressful
time even if everything goes smoothly, so you don’t want to add to it with time
pressure. Three to four months is preferable, especially if you need to get a
passport.
For some countries, you may need more documentation to
enter the country, like birth certificates or immunization records. It’s a good
idea to contact the consulate for the country you’re going to be working in as
soon as possible to find out if you do to give you plenty of time to get
everything together.
If you are considering an overseas move, it is highly
recommended that you make a visit, especially if you are not familiar with the
country. Most corporations include at least one pre-move visit in their
relocation package to allow you time to survey the country to which you are
moving. It's important to have some idea what you are getting into before making
such a commitment.
Chances are you will have to locate a place to live on your
own, so allow at least two to three days in your schedule to tour available
accommodations. Also, have a few days of your trip to learn about the area
because this may be your only chance to become familiar with it before you move.
Drive or walk around the city or village looking for services that you will need
(hospitals, banks, newsstands, a post office, gas stations, restaurants and
supermarkets).
Be sure to visit our relocation blog for more information
or to submit a question.
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