Moving or retiring overseas can seem like a dream come true—but there are some practical considerations to take into account when planning to build the dream lifestyle. So, International Living Australia has put together a 7-point checklist to contemplate before you go.
Source: International Living Australia
#1 Visit Properly Before You Move
Try to experience as much of the area as possible. If possible, visit in different seasons so you know what it would be like to live there year-round, not just in the most pleasant seasons.
What you think you want may be very different than what you discover in this new phase of your life, so explore different areas and different types of houses—you may discover you prefer the convenience of city living to more rural spots…or you may find a private beachside villa is more your style.
#2 Check Out Shopping, Services and Costs of Living
Research with your preferred lifestyle in mind—you want to be comfortable and not dependent on having things sent from home. Can you find the shampoo, laundry powder and medicines you regularly use? What about towels, appliances and tools?
Walk through the grocery stores and see what’s available—don’t assume a grocery store in Vietnam or Italy has the same items one would find in Australia. What’s the public transport like? What do internet, electric and car/house insurance cost?
#3 Learn the Healthcare Situation
For most, this is a biggie. You’ll want to explore thoroughly what medical service infrastructures exist in the town or area where you’re going. How many doctors and dentists are there? Do they speak English, take insurance, work with a local hospital? Is there an ambulance service?
Take the time to visit hospitals and clinics, doctors and dentists and check out prices and available services. In this case, asking on local forums can be helpful to set you in the right direction.
#4. Get Your Personal Papers in Order
When you’re an expat, birth, marriage and divorce certificates are required for many, many things. Update or renew your passport and driver’s license, then make copies to keep in a safe place and also to leave with a relative or trusted friend in your home country.
Bringing a pet? Find out what they’ll need to make the move and any necessary vaccinations for the destination you’re moving to.
#5 Investigate Money Matters
Figure out how and where you’ll do your banking. If you’re retired, you may be able to take care of your banking needs online and with your ATM card.
But if you’re thinking of opening a bank account in your new home, find out before you go if that’s even possible—or necessary—and what the requirements are.
#6 Purge, Purge, Purge!
Get rid of clothes and shoes you never wear (or that don’t fit), all those extra dishes and glasses, old pots or small appliances you never use.
Go through the closets—and then go through them again six months later.
But, having said that…
#7 Keep Some Sentimental Items
When you’re thousands of miles away from them, things your kids made when they were little take on an even more special meaning. Or that scarf your mother gave you… Or photos of old friends… Put them all in a box and take them with you. Allow yourself this small luxury—you’ll be glad you did.
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