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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.

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What You Should Know About Moving To The Heart Of New York City

Are you planning a small move from one neighborhood or borough to the heart of New York City? Living in Midtown Manhattan can be quite exciting; there’s always something to see and do in the vibrant neighborhood. However, before you start planning your adventures in Midtown, there are a few things you should know to…

Launching A Business On The U.S. West Coast As A European Expat: Navigating The Golden Opportunities

The allure of the American Dream–with its promise of prosperity and boundless potential, beckons countless dreamers from across the globe–and for the discerning European businessperson, the West Coast stands out as a gleaming beacon. This region, with its iconic cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, not only promises sun-kissed landscapes but also…

Renovating Your Property? Here Are Some Ideas For Better Interiors

Are you thinking about renovating your property? Whether it’s a small room in your house or an entire apartment complex, making improvements to the interior of your property is one of the best ways to make it attractive and inviting. However, with so many design options available today, it can take time to figure out…

Illinois Towns Perfect For Expats Seeking Small-Town Charm

. The allure of Illinois extends far beyond its well-known urban centers, making Illinois towns perfect for expats searching for a more intimate community experience. These small cities to live in the USA are not just idyllic retreats but also centers of community and history, offering peaceful living and cultural richness. The towns invite newcomers…

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…

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.