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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!

Expat Entrepreneurship In Virginia: Starting And Growing Your Business

Virginia, known for its historical significance and natural beauty, has also emerged as a hotspot for entrepreneurs, including expats worldwide. The state’s diverse economy, business-friendly policies, and global market access make it very attractive to those seeking to start and expand their businesses. This article will describe the opportunities and challenges of expat entrepreneurship in…

8 Things To Consider When Finding The Right School For Your Kids

Choosing the right school for your kids is not just a decision; it’s an adventure into their future. This journey involves peeking into various facets like curriculum, location, and the learning environment, among others. It’s an exploration that determines what kind of foundation your child will receive. It will set the stage for lifelong learning…

Young Expats Struggling The Most With Mental Health – Is Social Media The Cause?

Research by AXA has revealed that as many as two in five (41%) young expats aged 18-24 are negatively impacted mentally by social media and tech addiction. AXA – Global Healthcare has reviewed the Mind Health Index, looking at how young expats are affected by social media. The research found that those who report a negative…

Top 6 Strategies To Balance Motherhood While Living Abroad As An Expat

Being a mother is a beautiful journey that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. Now, imagine adding the adventure and excitement of living abroad as an expat to the mix. It can be a thrilling experience, but it also comes with unique considerations for balancing motherhood and the expat lifestyle. In this…

What Are Your Parental Rights If You Need To Move Abroad For Work And Your Ex Wants The Kids To Stay Put?

Moving abroad for a job can be an exciting experience for both you and your children, but if your ex-spouse stops you, it can complicate matters. In this article, we’ll take a look at your parental rights when moving abroad with children, and what you can do if your ex-spouse says “no.” Why Permission is…

How To Handle Buying A Car When You’re Relocating To The USA

Living in a new country can be overwhelming, and tackling something as significant as purchasing a car may seem especially daunting in this context. To reduce the trepidation you feel approaching this as an expat in the US, here are some ways to secure your ideal set of wheels, and some must-know facts about auto…

Most Affordable Cities For Expats In California

California is renowned for its cultural diversity, scenic beauty, and favorable climate, making it a sought-after destination for expatriates. Many are drawn to the idea of living and working in the US as an expat, with California often topping the list of preferred locations. However, prominent cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles present high…

Retirement Planning For Britons In The United States: Sipping Tea And Saving Dollars

Retirement planning is a topic that can be as perplexing as deciphering Cockney rhyming slang. However, for Britons making their home in the United States, it’s essential to demystify the American retirement landscape.. Moving from the United Kingdom to the United States is a significant life change that comes with a host of financial considerations….

Foreign Property Investors: Guide To U.S. Real Estate Financing

U.S. real estate financing is one of the more difficult tasks for foreign investors interested in the residential U.S. real estate market. While the U.S. has a culture that is acclimated to personal debt – in 2018, the average amount of personal debt for Americans (not including mortgages) was $38,000 – it can be tricky…

6 Essential Tips For Developing A Personal Website As An Expat Living Abroad

Living abroad as an expat is an exhilarating adventure. You’re navigating new cultures, embracing diverse perspectives, and expanding your horizons. But amidst the excitement, it’s important not to overlook the value of establishing and maintaining a strong digital presence. Having a personal website can be a game-changer, helping you showcase your skills, connect with a…

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.