Preparing Essential Documents for an International Move: A Complete Guide

Changing countries is more than just a vacation and it is a stage in one’s life that is bound to change. as such preparing for this stage calling for a lot of effort especially in the area of packing and organizing somatic paperwork and filing of vivacious bills. Well prepared documents can do the opposite and save you and other interested parties needless time, anxiety and even legal complications in the course of or at after the relocation. The present article will explain the most important documents that have to be arranged before moving overseas and more tips on how to keep the order among them.

1. Passport and Visas

  • Passport: Be aware that, in some countries, you will not be allowed to enter or transit them if your passport is less than six (6) months to its expiry. Hence ensure that the passport you are using to travel into a new country will last you six months beyond the intended stay.
  • Visa: Check what visas are needed for the country that you are going to. Same, it depends upon the purpose of the trip: if it’s for jobs, schools or simply living there. Other countries might also ask for additional papers for example, stating that one has a job waiting for him there, or that he has certain amount of money, so be ready with these documents as well.
  • Doubles: Take some regular and electronic pictures of your passport and your visa, and keep them in other place away from the originals as a protection in case of loss theft.

2. Birth certificate and Marriage certificate

  • Certified Copies: These documents are often required in some countries for registration purposes especially moving with families or resident applications.
  • Translation: Consider employing the services of a certified translator as English or the language in the new country might not be the case for a birth certificate or even marriage certificate.

3. Medical Records and Health Insurance

  • Medical History: One should request a complete history of their health records and any available vaccination or medical health prescriptions. A number of countries will require that a birthed child has been vaccinated, so make sure the records are current and will be required of you. 
  • Health Insurance: Health insurance is likely to be requested in some countries as well. Check if your current policy covers you internationally or if you need to obtain coverage in your new location.

4. Financial Institutions’ Records

  • Bank Statements: If you with to open a new bank account probably more recent bank statements will be supportive. Also, proof of stability of your finances may be included in your application for a visa.
  • Credit Record: Some states will require evidence corroborating credit history. A global credit report can be obtained through the branch you bank with and can assist in securing rental and loan facilities in foreign countries.
  • Tax Returns: Seek out copies of your tax returns from several years ago. In certain instances, tax papers may be requested by the country you are traveling to in order to provide supporting evidence of your financial status.

5. Status of Employment Records

  • Employment Contracts and Pay Stubs: These are essential if you’re moving for work. Immigration will also require employment contracts in support of the position, salary and terms.
  • Recommendation Letters: Past employers’ letters are essential in providing employment or housing opportunities as they support as character references.
  • Work Permits: If any, obtain the relevant work permits or evidence of the right to work in the country of relocation.

6. Housing Documents

  • Lease or Mortgage Agreement: In case you are to reside in a rental apartment or have bought a house, obtain a copy of the lease or the mortgage deed.
  •  Utility Records: Previous utility bills should be carried, as some countries or landlords will demand proof of payment of utility bills as a measure of reliability.
  • Inventory of Valuables: If valuables are brought along, provide the customs officer with an inventory which include a description, pictures and receipts in case of misplacement of the articles or customs declarations.

7. Academic Records and Transcripts 

  • Diplomas and Certificates: In case you or any of your family member is planning to study, then bring in some original and certified copies of degrees, certificates or even transcripts. 
  • Evaluation of Credentials: To validate their equivalence, certain nations call for the evaluation of one’s education documents by the authorized institution. Check with the embassy seeking the study or work visa if this is necessary.
  • Translation: Like other formal documents where needed, non-native language certificates shall be translated into the language of the country you are going to.

8. Legal Documents

  • Power of Attorney: In case you are leaving behind any properties or investments, then designating someone as a power of attorney will allow the person manage the investments from a far place.
  • Wills: Confirm that you possess a current will that is compliant with the laws of your native country and of the country you are moving to.
  • Guardianship Documents: If you are relocating with kids ensure suitable custody or guardianship papers are obtained, more so if only one parent is relocating.

9. Customs and Shipping Documentation 

Import Permits: Find out what can be imported or what restrictions or permits are applicable in the country you are travelling to, when carrying certain items like electronics or vehicles or anything that may be subjected to inspection.

Inventory List: Whenever you are moving household goods or objects, there may also be a requirement for an exhaustive measurement of goods, their worth included for customs purposes. 

Shipping Insurance: Get a cover for valuable items that you want to send abroad. Make sure you have this cover and also documents such as receipts and proof of purchase for the expensive items. 

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