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Moving to America – What You Need to Know

So, you are moving to America!

Whether you are emigrating, taking a short term assignment or joining family in America we have put together the information you will need to make your move to the USA a smooth one.

Get our FREE Destination Guide to America!

6 Expat Job Hunting Tips To Get Your Dream Job

Almost all of us have been taught by our parents to continue our education so that we can have the perfect job that impacts both our own lives and the rest of society. As we get older, we really want to find our dream job, even if that dream job leads us to a…

How To Claim The UK State Pension Abroad

You can continue to claim your State Pension when you decide to retire abroad, provided you have paid enough UK National Insurance contributions to qualify. If you have not yet started receiving your pension you can get a State Pension statement to tell you how much State Pension you may get In order to claim…

Building Credit As An Expat: What You Need To Know

There are a few things you need to know about building credit as an expat. For one, the process is different in every country. And for another, your credit score may not even be applicable in the country you’re living in. So what do you need to do to build good credit? Read on…

Most Popular US States For European Expats

In the United States, there are many beautiful and diverse states and cities to live in. Obviously, people coming from abroad are going to have favorites. Some of the most popular US states for European expats include unexpected places where expats feel at home. When you need to decide where to live in the US,…

How To Become A Real Estate Agent In The U.S.: Tips From The Experts

If you’re interested in becoming a real estate agent in the U.S., there are several resources available to aid with your beginning. In this article we will talk to some experts in the field and get their tips on how to become a successful real estate agent. So whether you’re just starting out or…

UK Inheritance Tax And Domicile – What You Need To Know Today

UK inheritance tax follows you around the world since it’s based on domicile, not residence. You could live abroad long term and still be liable for this legacy tax. Here, Blevins Franks look at key facts about UK inheritance tax and domicile and how it could affect your intended heirs. Written…

7 Useful Ways To Finance Your Studies Abroad

Studying abroad can be an amazing experience, but it can also be expensive. If you are not careful, the cost of tuition, room and board, and other associated expenses can add up quickly. That’s why it is important to explore all of your options to finance your studies abroad. In…

When Moving Into New Property Make Sure These 6 Things Are Right For You

You’ve finally saved up enough money for a down payment on your first home, and you’re about to embark on the homeownership journey. But before you start packing boxes and scheduling movers, there are a few things you need to do to make sure your new property is right for you. It’s better to do…

5 Tips to Help Your Dog Settle In After Relocating Abroad

Moving to another country or simply to another home can put some stress on the whole family. This includes your pets as well, as they understand the concept of moving less than us. You need to basically explain everything to them and hope they will not find the whole move too stressful. And, luckily, there…

7 Tips for Coping With Expat Depression

It is widespread for expats to lack the proper mental health care coverage abroad. Some locations even lack access to mental health professionals and institutions for everyone, not just expats. And even if you end up in a place where counseling is available, like a school in case you are studying abroad, it’s most likely only going…

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.