No matter how many times you have moved and even if you have lived in other countries before, your upcoming international move will be unique. Each country has its own practices, laws, and regulations; each offers its own pleasures and opportunities. With a spirit of adventure and anmind, you can look forward to a deeper understanding of another culture and the broadening experience of learning to adapt to new attitudes, foods, possibly a different language, and a different perspective on our global community.
Here is information to help you prepare for your international assignment:
Essential Documents
Passports, visas, and work permits are required for entry to virtually all countries. Check with the consulate of your destination country to determine what specific documentation will be required for you and your family.
Your Passport is the definitive identification document, establishing your citizenship. Each member of your family must have a passport. You can apply at your nearest designated Clerk of Court or post office. The U.S. State Department also has application forms and information regarding passports. If you have a valid passport, make sure that it will not expire until at least six months after you expect to leave the destination country.
A Visa grants you permission to enter a particular country for a specified length of time. While a few countries may not require a visa, the majority do. When a visa is required, each family member must have a valid visa for the entire intended length of your stay. If you are moving with your employer, it may be able to help you obtain your visa. Otherwise, you can procure a visa through the consulate of your destination country or contact the U.S. State Department for visa application forms and information.
Work and/or Residence Permits should be arranged prior to your departure, since many countries will not change your resident status from temporary to permanent after your arrival. Your employer should be able to help you procure your work or residence permits. Some countries require this paperwork to be at least in process in order to secure a housing rental contract.
Customs
Your destination country has established customs regulations and procedures governing the possessions you bring with you. The embassy of your destination country should be able to provide detailed information to you and supply guidance on the following:
- Required documents to permit your household goods to enter the country
- Required documents (such as vehicle titles, bills of sale, or insurance certificates) that must be originals or those that may be copies
- Documents that require notarization or other official evidence of review by the embassy or consulate of your destination country
- Licenses needed and the procedures and costs to obtain them
- Serial or model numbers needed for certain electrical items or appliances
- Quantity restrictions on some types of goods
Banking
You will want to make your banking arrangements prior to arrival in your new country. If you currently bank with an international financial institution that has offices in your destination country, meet with a representative to discuss the best way to meet your needs. If your current bank is not equipped to handle your needs, you may want to transfer your banking to a larger institution in your home location that can provide international banking services; or you can find a bank in your destination country.
Toa bank account in your destination country, it is helpful to bring from your home country financial institution a credit report or letter that includes the bank's contact name and telephone number, length of your association with the bank, and your approximate monthly balance.
In some countries, checking accounts are not generally used. Instead, residents use a system similar to postal money orders to pay their bills. Utilities are sometimes paid through a bank rather than directly to a utility company.
Major credit cards are accepted in almost all areas of the world, so you will most likely want to keep your current accounts Inform the issuer of your change of address, and find out its policy as to the currency in which you will be billed or if that is a decision that you may make.
Transportation
Modes of transportation vary widely by location. In some industrialized areas, public transportation and taxis will suffice to meet most of your needs. You may, however, want to complete your host country's requirements for a driver's license if you anticipate driving to outlying areas.
In less urban locations, you will probably need a vehicle for routine transportation. If you will be driving yourself, you will need to secure a driver's license according to the regulations of your host country. Some countries require only an international driving permit. (U.S. citizens can obtain one from any office of the American Automobile Association). Other countries require an extensive examination to qualify for a local license. Many countries will ask for a statement of your driving record over the last three years and confirmation of prior insurability.
In some locations, driving yourself is not advised. In this case, you will need to investigate hiring a driver.
If you will be returning to your home country, make sure your driver's license does not expire or you will have to take the test again upon repatriation.
Security
Establishing security practices should be one of your first priorities as you settle into your new home and neighborhood.
- Are there areas into which you or your family should not venture at all or at particular times?
- Are the locks provided in your home sufficient?
- Should additional entry barriers be installed on windows?
- Is a security system or alarm necessary?
- Is it safe to use local transportation at all hours?
- What precautions, if any, should be taken while driving or parking your own vehicle?
- Is it risky to wear jewelry in public?
- What other precautions are advisable?
The U.S. State Department provides travel warnings, consulate information sheets, and public announcements worldwide.
Other Considerations
- Expect to adopt new shopping habits. You may also need to become familiar with new clothing sizes and units of measurement. Our Conversion Factors and Clothing Guide is a good resource.
- Make sure you and your family have the necessary vaccinations for the destination country. The Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can provide information.
- Confirm that your health plan will provide coverage in your destination country.
- Make sure that your will and other legal documents are in order prior to departure; keep them in a safe-deposit box, and appoint a trustworthy person access to the box in your absence.
