Are you dreaming of a new adventure overseas? Moving away from Australia can bring both excitement and challenges. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the idea might feel overwhelming. But, with the correct advice, your move can be smooth and fulfilling.
Consider the possibility of moving during the pandemic. Each country has its own set of rules. It’s vital to keep up to date and be ready to adapt. Using a professional removalist can greatly simplify the moving process. They ensure you have a hassle-free experience.
Key Takeaways
- Careful planning and preparation are crucial when moving overseas from Australia
- The COVID-19 pandemic has added an extra layer of complexity, so it’s essential to stay informed about destination-specific rules and regulations
- Hiring a professional overseas removalist can make the moving process more manageable and stress-free
- Researching the safety, local laws and customs, job market, and cost of living in your destination country is vital
- Obtaining the right insurance, documentation, and tax advice can help ensure a successful and hassle-free move
Deciding Whether to Live or Work Overseas
Before you decide to move overseas long-term, think about important things. Look at how safe the place is. Also, learn about the local laws and customs. Check the job offers are real and you can afford the move if you’re from Australia.
Is the Destination Safe?
Check the Australian Government’s Smartraveller website for travel advice. They rate destinations based on risks. High-risk areas might have terrorist threats or serious violence. Know these things well before you plan to move overseas.
Local Laws and Customs
Know the local laws and customs of where you’re going. In some places, you can’t live together before marriage. Or, same-sex relationships are against the law, with severe penalties. Understanding these can help you make a wise choice about moving from Australia.
Is the Job Offer Genuine?
If you’re looking at a job overseas, do your homework. Make sure the job is what it seems and follows local laws. Be wary of “too good to be true” offers. Read your contract carefully and check the employer’s background to avoid problems.
Can You Support Yourself Financially?
Moving is costly, with many expenses like visas and shipping goods. Make sure you have enough money. Jobs might not be easy to find right away. Also, think about social security payments that may not be available when you move. Plan your finances well for a smooth overseas move.
What to Do Before You Go
Before you leave Australia, it’s critical to check your insurance. Most travel insurance won’t cover you for moving overseas. So, you need specialized insurance that includes things like kidnapping and death risks. If you’re headed abroad for work, also check if your job’s insurance is enough.
Check and Make Copies of Important Documents
To get ready for moving abroad, you’ll need to be super organized. Collect important documents like your Australian passport and visa. Also, make copies of your driver’s license, birth certificate, and any legal stuff for your new country. Keep these copies safe but separate from the originals for easy access.
Notify Relevant Authorities
Don’t forget to tell the right people before leaving Australia. Let the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) know about your new address. Update your info with Centrelink if you get benefits. Also, it’s a good idea to share your travel plans with the Smartraveller website. This site helps keep Australians safe and informed while travelling overseas.
How to Move Overseas From Australia
Moving from Australia to another country is a big step. It involves many things like budgeting, understanding living costs, and dealing with visa requirements. This is especially important because around one million Australians live and work overseas. It’s key to know the help the Australian Government can offer if Australians get into trouble abroad.
Your safety and the laws of your new home are vital. Some countries punish drug offences severely, even with death. The Australian Government shares travel advice, marking some places as highly risky. Considering this advice is vital, especially for work or volunteering plans.
Before moving, think about the job market and financial security abroad. Jobs might be different to what you expect, and the employment conditions can vary. The Australian Government might not be able to help much if things go wrong. Make sure you can afford the move and shipping personal items.
Each country has its own rules on pregnancy, family, relationships, and marriage. These can be very different from Australia. It’s important to research these before you decide to move. Adelaide residents, like those in other cities, often think about moving to the UK, USA, Europe, South Africa, or New Zealand.
Start planning your move at least six months ahead. Get quotes from removal companies about 2-3 months before your move. Make sure you have all important documents such as a passport, visa, and work permit. Also, carry driver’s licenses and school records with you. Being organized will help your move go smoothly.
Immigration Requirements and Visas
When leaving Australia, knowing your new country’s visa rules is key. These rules change based on where you’re from, why you’re going, and how long you’ll stay. All visitors need a visa for Australia before they arrive. It’s smart not to spend money you can’t get back until you know you can go.
Visa and Entry Requirements
The Australian government now uses a global system for visas. You might need to give them a digital photo and fingerprints for security reasons. You can find out how long getting a visa takes on their website. They offer different visas, including for working holidays.
If you’re Australian, it’s best to travel with an Australian passport. Anyone else should have a passport that’s valid for six more months when they arrive. Right now, Australia doesn’t ask for a COVID-19 test before you travel.
Immigration Consultants
The Home Affairs website has a lot of help for people wanting to visit or live in Australia. Airlines and other countries have rules, too, so make sure you know them all. You can get more help with visas by calling the service center.
If you need language help, you can get it. But remember, Australian laws say you must follow the rules to visit or stay. People may be sent back if they can’t come in. If this happens, you’ll be taken care of until you leave.
Budgeting and Cost of Living
Moving overseas from Australia is a big step financially. The online travel community suggests having $5,000 to $8,000 USD per person to cover moving costs. This includes visa fees, medical checks, flights, and shipping your stuff.
Moving Costs
Don’t forget about the living costs in your new country. Depending on where you’re going, you might need to show you have a certain income. For example, in Hungary, you need around $2,200 a month for a visa. But in Iceland, it’s over $7,500 USD monthly. Health insurance is also a must for digital nomads or those on work visas, increasing your living expenses.
Cost of Living in Destination Country
When planning your move, try to keep your monthly living costs under $1,250. This way, you can pay for things like utilities, food, and fun outings. It’s smart to have an emergency stash equal to 2x your monthly living expenses. This can cover any unexpected costs.
Financial Planning
Planning your finances well is key when moving from Australia. Budget for flights, travel insurance, and maybe pet moving costs. Keeping a budget spreadsheet can help track and manage your expenses. This planning will make your international move smoother and less stressful.
