How to manage an international move

Relocating abroad can be an exciting and stressful time but by following a few simple steps and setting realistic goals you can turn your move in to a manageable task.

The best way to manage your move is to list the most important tasks, spend some time carefully researching your new destination and consult experts when needed.

Prepare a list of everything you will be taking with you and throw away anything you will be leaving behind. Make a note of all the final bills you need to pay and notify all utility companies of your moving date as well as your doctor, dentist and children’s schools. If you have pets then consult your vet at least 6 months in advance.

Learning about the new destination will help you to settle in quicker. Visiting online forums and joining expat communities are a great way of getting to know your new area.

Making friends in your new community and speaking to people who have also moved is a great way of gaining information and getting important questions answered.

Spend some time in the area before buying a property and if possible choose a property agent that has been recommended to you by a friend. Research the local laws beforehand and If you have the resources available then hiring a property lawyer is a great way to ensure you are completely covered.

Moving overseas can be an expensive process and unexpected costs will cause huge delays to your move if you don’t have the money available to cover them. The best way to be prepared is to ensure you 12 months’ worth of savings that can be used for emergencies and take in to account exchange rates so that you can get a full picture of all the costs involved.  

The rules for accessing healthcare abroad will be different to those in Sweden. Be sure to take out health care insurance until you are registered under the state system of your country of destination. Don’t wait until you are ill to sort out access to healthcare because you could end up with an unnecessary bill.