Portuguese customs require that the owner of goods be present in Portugal before your the shipment arrives for inspection, and that the shipment arrive no later than 90 days from the date of the owner’s arrival. All household effects and furniture belonging to those relocating to Portugal are admitted duty-free, if proof can be presented...

Although the Spanish property market and mortgage process may be different from what you are used to at home, it is possible for foreigners and expats to buy and get a mortgage in Spain. However not all banks – and certainly not all mortgage brokers – follow the procedures of the recently regulated mortgage market...

When taking a pet from an EU country or from non-EU countries into Portugal the EU rules apply. This requires vaccination against rabies to be documented in the pet passport or the animal health certificate. This is the sole requirement for dogs, cats and ferrets to travel across EU borders, with certain exceptions. Pets...

If you are moving to Spain from another Member State you can move goods freely within the EU, without import duties, commercial restrictions, or customs requirements. However, if you are moving from outside the EU the requirements are more extensive. Documents Required For Entry When moving to Spain, you will need: Prohibited Items In Spain,...

In the USA driving is an essential part of the culture. This is partly driven by the practicality of getting around in a country so large and partly a function of the lifestyle. In some of the major cities there is an extensive public transport system, but the cities are all served by extensive multi-lane...

There is a lot to consider when taking your pet to America. In the US, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is responsible for the regulations that govern the importation of animals and animal products that might cause human disease. The CDC does not require certificates of health for pets that enter America. However, they may...

Retirement abroad is increasingly popular, with over one million British expats having their pension paid overseas. It is less common for citizens of the US to retire abroad, but there are around 550,000 Americans who receive their social security benefits abroad. Non-EU citizens can obtain a long-stay visa for retirement in France, which allows you...

Visitors taking up residence in Spain may import household goods and furnishings and personal effects free from duty and VAT if the items have been used for at least sixmonths for a citizen of a non-EU country. They must have a certificate of change of residence issued by the shipper’s Embassy/Consulate at origin, stating that...

Pets entering Spain must be fitted with an ISO microchip for identification. Citizens of EU countries should bring their pets’ passports. What are the rules for British pets now that we are no longer members of the EU? If you have a pet passport issued by Spain or another EU member state, you can use...

When buying a new build in the UK a deposit is often required and if problems arise in funding the purchase this deposit can be at risk, especially for expats. UK expats looking to invest in new build homes in the UK are increasingly at risk of losing their deposits, thinks expat mortgage specialist,...

When you move to New Zealand there are household items concessions available that mean you will not have to pay GST and duties on most of your items. You cannot claim household concessions for: new and unused items cars scooters motorbikes boats aircraft commercial items. Other types of motor vehicle or craft. Clearing your items...

If you are considering visiting, working in or moving to New Zealand there are a range of options for visas depending on your citizenship, the purpose of your move and how long you want to spend there. Visitor Visa You can apply for a Visitor Visa if you want to go to New Zealand as...