Leaving your country to relocate overseas is a huge decision; it’s not just leaving your home country or starting a new job – it’s moving your life to another place. Our experts in relocations confirm it might be one of the most sensitive and stressfully challenging steps anyone can take. However it can also become a incredibly positive and rewarding experience. Crown Relocations has been helping people relocate around the world for more than 50 years and has gathered a list of five essential tips for a smooth relocation 1. Plan the move in advance Relocating overseas is not easy and you should start planning at least three months before the moving date. Check what things needs to be finished before you relocate – such as visa applications, close bank accounts – and what needs to be completed after you arrive in your new destination, like finding a doctor, vet... 2. Visit the country before the move It’s very useful to organise a visit to your new location before the move it could help you having a better idea on how your new live will be. And you can also check out for living areas and potential schools if you have a family. 3. Working abroad When offered a new job position overseas, consider if your partner, and family, will be able to go with you in the new destination. Will they also be able to find a suitable work there? Will I find the right school for my children? Will your new incomes be enough to keep your lifestyle?. Expat online forums and social media channels can be a good place to find local advice. 4. Visas and immigration process Visas and immigration are vital subjects to consider before the move and even if you are supported by your company approval can be a long process. Make sure your passport is valid before you begin the relocation process. Check the visa requirements for your destination country, as well as medical examinations or even pet restrictions early in advance. 5. Manage your finance Financial matters usually raise as one of the biggest worries for expats moving overseas, whether that’s opening a new local bank account, paying local taxes or managing pensions. Research online can help you with some initial doubts but ideally talk to a qualified expert in person when you arrive, especially if you are relocating yourself and you don’t have support from your work. For those expats who are retired it is important to understand what relocating could mean to their pension income. Check also the impact of currency exchange rates due to it can be also significant. If you need help in order to have a smooth relocation, contact our local experts.