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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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Do Australians Need A Visa To Visit The USA?

Australians wishing to vacation in the US? While it’s tempting to start booking hotels and flights without thinking about visas, this isn’t usually the best idea. Visas can be a tricky topic, especially when you’re dealing with international travel. Depending on your departure and arrival locations, visa requirements may vary. To guide you, we’ll discuss…

The 10 Best Small Cities To Live In The USA

Where should you choose to live in the USA as an expats. Here International Citizens Group look at the option of small city charm, culture and opportunity and rate the best small cities to live in the USA as an expat for 2023. Written by International Citizens Insurance For much of its history, the United States of America…

10 Best Places To Live In The USA

The United States is the third-largest country in the world and is host to the largest number of immigrants in the world. There are 50 states spread across 6 time zones; every climate zone is represented. It can be difficult to determine the best places in the United States for foreigners due to the wide…

6 Most Lucrative Countries For Doctors & Nurses In 2023

If you’re a doctor or nurse considering working abroad, your decision might not simply rest on the quality of life in potential host countries. You’ll likely also consider how much these countries pay their healthcare professionals. So let’s embark on a global tour to explore six lucrative destinations for medical practitioners! Securing Substantial Compensation in…

Researching Life Abroad: Why Reviews From Local Expats Can Help

Moving abroad is an exciting adventure that captures the imagination. The lure of exotic new lands, fascinating cultures and a life less ordinary is tempting. Who hasn’t daydreamed about leaving routine behind for something new? However, transforming a dream into reality requires some careful research beforehand. Diving into life in a new country without truly…

How To Handle A Prescription Medication Misdiagnosis

Discovering that you have been misdiagnosed and prescribed the wrong medication can be a distressing and challenging situation. Misdiagnoses are unfortunate but not uncommon in the realm of healthcare, and addressing this issue promptly is crucial to safeguard your health and well-being. In situations like these, consulting with healthcare professionals who can provide accurate and…

The Expat Identity: Finding Your Own Path

Venturing into new lands, embracing unfamiliar cultures, and adapting to diverse work and lifestyles – the life of an expat is an intriguing blend of challenge and excitement. But while this unique journey brings immense personal growth and global perspectives, it also beckons to a question of identity. Who are you in this new space,…

Master The Art Of Safe Vehicle Shipping: 8 Insider Tips For A Stress-Free Journey

Are you looking to ship a car, truck, motorcycle, or other vehicle? It’s an exciting time that can be filled with stress and worry. After all, it’s not every day you entrust your prized possession to the care of strangers. But don’t worry – with some helpful tips and tricks from experts in the field….

Why Hiking And Fishing Are Must-Try Activities For Every Expat

The experience of living in a foreign country can be exhilarating yet daunting for expatriates. It offers a unique chance to immerse oneself in a new culture and way of life. However, it also comes with challenges like homesickness, language barriers, and cultural adjustments. One of the best ways to sooth these feelings and embrace…

Relocating: Moving To The US Checklist

Moving to a new country is daunting. You need to consider so many variables that it becomes overwhelming if you do not plan correctly. When relocating to America, there are several things you have to consider. You must look at visa requirements, find the correct accommodation, and set up essential services such as water and…

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.