If you intend to move for work to another country, the entire process can seem very overwhelming, and you may be thinking about where to even start. To ensure that you make your transition seamless, you will want to also ensure you follow this guide. It can explain everything that you need to organise and who to reach out to.
· Your Business Should Handle Your Work Visa
The good news is that your business should be handling a lot of the initial hassle of getting a work visa for yourself and also for your family if you have a long-term partner or children. If your business is relocating you, then it is their responsibility to handle the work visa. Often times work visas can only be issued if a qualified business applies for your relocation. Not every business can offer this, and it can be a nightmare trying to apply for a work visa by yourself without their support. If they aren’t serious enough about your move to take point on the visa application, then don’t go.
· Ensure You Are Covered Medically
Every country has its own medical insurance. In some cases, this is included with your taxes. In other cases, you have to pay a health surcharge. In others, you will need healthcare insurance privately. Know what you need, and ensure that you, and your family, are covered. Often this can be done through your business, so check before you land.
· Find an Immigration Attorney Once You Land
There are so many reasons to find a talented immigration lawyer and to stay on top of what you need and the timeline it needs to be done. Getting a green card in the United States can be difficult, even if you are currently there on a work visa. You need a team of immigration attorneys who not only know the ins and outs of immigration law but who also stay on top of all changes that you, frankly, would not be privy to.
They can help you understand what qualifications you need, what options and the best path you should take, advice on how to not endanger your status in the country, and who can also represent you on your behalf throughout the entire process.
· Your Passport, Driver’s License, and More Renewed
If it is near the time, you can renew your passport, driver’s license, and other licenses, then do so now. It can make matters more difficult if your passport expires soon, even if you have a year left and not just six months. Getting your driver’s licence renewed as well can ensure you can legally drive internationally, especially if you need to apply for an international licence before you go.
· Packing
There will be things that you will want to pack, but oftentimes it is best to try to get as much a fresh start as possible, particularly if you are moving overseas. If you do have furniture and other large bulky items to ship, then know the cheapest method (via water) is also the slowest, so you will need to be prepared to live without those items for a few weeks.
