The Expat Focus Guide to

MOVING ABROAD
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Essential information for new expats

Thank you for purchasing this Expat Focus guide to moving abroad. The guide is based on years of experience dealing with expat issues and we hope you find it a useful tool for planning your move to another country.
The first part of this guide (sections 1 to 21) explores the main issues which all prospective expats should think about when considering a new life abroad. The old adage about planning to fail if you fail to plan is never more true when applied to those moving abroad, especially if doing so for the first time. No one can guarantee that they will be able to move to another country successfully but with research and careful planning you can give yourself the best possible chance of doing so. While reading these sections, take the time to reflect on your own circumstances and think about how the issues discussed apply to you. Make notes or reminders as you are reading. These notes will become useful when using the checklists later. It is important at this stage to be realistic about your own abilities for example, if you are concerned about your foreign language skills be honest with yourself and make a note to that effect. Having read through the information in section one you should now be in a position to start planning in earnest. Part two of the guide is devoted entirely to checklists, essential when dealing with the complexity of a move abroad. Although the checklists are detailed and wide-ranging, it is important to remember that they are only a starting point there will almost certainly be items applicable to your own circumstances which you should add yourself (it may be helpful at this stage to refer to the notes you made while reading through part one). Also, although the checklists are presented in a sensible chronological order as far as particular tasks are concerned (e.g. starting with research and evaluation and ending with socialising and leisure after you have arrived), every expat is

What you need to know before moving abroad

IN THIS

Guide
13 Pensions 14 Safety 15 Language 16 Education 17 Pets 18 Arrival 19 Culture Shock 20 Expat Women 21 Television Abroad 22 Checklists 23 Additional Resources 24 Expat Focus

Make the right moves when moving overseas

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

The Basics Immigration Getting There Property Employment Health Cost of Living Credit & Debt Currency Transfers 10 Banking 11 Taxation 12 Wills & Inheritance

different and you are encouraged to create your own chronology as far as individual tasks are concerned. Feedback regarding this guide is very welcome and may be sent through the feedback form at http://www.expatfocus.com/contact We appreciate all comments and work hard to improve the guide every year. From everyone at Expat Focus, good luck 1 with your move abroad!

THE BASICS
Research and planning are crucial

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Should you stay or should you go?

Why Move Abroad? People these days leave their home countries to live and work abroad for a wider variety of reasons than ever before. Ease of travel and communications, increased knowledge of foreign destinations and the development of a truly global economy have encouraged people of all ages and backgrounds to become expatriates. The largest single category of expatriates from western countries is almost certainly those who are posted overseas by their existing employer on a temporary basis - the staff of large international organizations or the diplomatic staff of overseas embassies, for example. However, more and more people are now choosing to move independently to another country, for employment or retirement purposes or just to experience a different environment and way of life. The decision to move to a different country might be based on: Better quality of life Warmer climate Lower cost of living Availability of more rewarding employment Interest in a different culture A relationship There are now many different types of expatriates: young single people or married couples, people who work overseas for short periods while their families remain at home, retired couples and families who relocate either on a temporary or permanent basis taking their children with them. There are also many expatriate families who, due to the nature of their work, move from one foreign posting to the next over a period of many years. Despite the vast variation in the circumstances and backgrounds of

the videos or browse travel literature together as a family, and discuss the likely benefits of the new destination as well as any concerns that family members may have. If you are thinking of moving to a distant location, find out how easy and affordable it will be to make trips home, or for family and friends to visit you. Youll need to consider whether there are direct flights or not, and what the overall travelling time is likely to be, as well as the cost. Remember how stressful long-distance travel can be, particularly if you are travelling with young children. If at all possible, visit the country you are planning to live in before making up your mind, but remember that daily life there will be very different from your experiences as a short-term visitor. Talk to other expatriates about their experiences, and ask them about the best and worst aspects of life there. Even if you dont have any existing expat contacts in the country, you will often find that expats tend to congregate in particular areas of town, or in favourite coffee bars or restaurants, where it may be easy to strike up a conversation with them. Lessons learned at this stage, before you commit significant time and money, may be extremely valuable.

to the frustration of many trans-Atlantic settlers! If considering a move to a very different society, such as from a liberal western democracy to a Middle Eastern Islamic society, you will likely face huge cultural differences. For example, women may have less freedom of movement in such societies, and the consumption of alcohol may be prohibited or allowed only in private homes. Similarly, in some eastern countries such as China, the concepts of personal privacy and freedom do not exist as they do in the west. In becoming an expatriate, you will become much more conscious of the need to observe cultural norms and traditions, something that you probably would never thought about when living in your home country. You and your family may be involved in various organisations or activities at home that might not be available in your new country, including particular churches or other religious institutions. You should investigate what options are available in the new destination, and whether it would present any difficulties if you have to adapt your leisure, social or spiritual practices to the new environment. It is important to research the year-round climate of your chosen destination, particularly if you have only ever visited during the summer holiday season. Life may be very different in the middle of winter, particular if the weather conditions are extreme. Take into account any environmental risks such as earthquakes or cyclones, and whether the level of risk would be a concern to you and your family. Try to find out whether there are other health hazards such as high pollution levels or high levels of pesticides in local produce. These may be a particular concern if youre travelling with children, or if family members suffer from respiratory conditions such as asthma. If you are thinking of moving to a northern European country, consider whether the lack of sunshine, and the relatively short daylight hours in winter, would be a problem for you and your family remembering that it is often dark by around 4.30 p.m. On the other hand, summer offers the benefit of long light evenings in these countries, although it may be too cool to want to stay outside for long. If considering a move to a country with a hot climate, find out how high the temperatures

and levels of humidity actually are and consider what it will be like to live and work in such conditions, bearing in mind of course that you will probably have air-conditioning to help cool you down when inside. What about the general environment of your chosen destination? If you are used to wide open spaces, will you be able to adapt to life in a densely populated city such as Singapore or Hong Kong? On the other hand, if you are moving from a city or town to a remote rural area, keep in mind that you will no longer have all the conveniences of supermarkets, corner shops and food delivery services readily available. Consider your family circumstances and how these are likely to change within the next few years. If recently married, for example, do you plan to start a family, and if so, is there likely to be an acceptable standard of medical, educational and social support facilities available in your chosen destination? Will your family (still) be eligible for social security benefits and paid maternity/ paternity leave? Try to find out about the crime rate and personal security situation - in some countries petty crimes such as pick-pocketing and burglaries may be common, while in others there may even be a high risk of violent robbery or terrorist attacks. Consider whether the likely benefits of living in such a country outweigh the risks. At a minimum, wherever you move you will find differences in the food, weather, social and business customs, and when the initial novelty wears off you might miss the familiarity of your own country and culture. Try to plan ahead for just such an eventuality and decide how you will react to feelings of homesickness and isolation. If you are planning to retire abroad, find out as much as you can about what retired life is like in your chosen country, it is often very different from the life experienced by other expats. How will you occupy your time - are there facilities for you to pursue your chosen interests and leisure pursuits? Are there many other retired expatriates living there who you can make friends with? What are the medical facilities like? Will you be eligible for social security benefits? How will your pension be paid to you, and

Weigh up all your options before deciding whether or not to move abroad

todays expats, there are also many things that most expatriates have in common, not least the factors that they will need to consider and deal with when making a move to a different country - both before and after arrival in their destination. This guide outlines these factors and discusses many of the most important issues facing expatriates and their families. It is intended to aid those who are considering an overseas move for the first time, and also provides a comprehensive checklist of things to do for the seasoned expatriate who is approaching their next posting. Research, Evaluation & Planning Whether you are considering a temporary or permanent move to a different country it is important not

to rush the decision making process, especially if you are taking your family with you. Not everyone is suited to expatriate life, although for many it will be a thoroughly enjoyable and life-enriching experience. Find out as much as you can in advance about life in the country you plan to move to, and consider carefully whether it will suit you and your family. Use the Internet to get as much information as you can about your chosen destination. Most countries have expatriate community websites with personal articles, blogs and lots of practical advice and information to help new expatriates settle in. You may also be able to find travel books, videos or CD-ROMs about the country you are thinking of moving to in your local library. Take the time to watch

If your chosen country has few other foreign expatriates, consider whether you might feel isolated, or whether you will enjoy the experience of being the only foreigner(s) in the local community. Life can be very challenging if hardly anyone else speaks your language and the culture is radically different. Remember that if you go to a country with a large expatriate population you will have an almost ready-made social network, there will probably be international schools that your children can attend and you will be able to find familiar imported products. However, those living almost exclusively in large expatriate communities miss out on getting to know the locals and experiencing the native culture, often one of the most rewarding aspects of living in a different country. Consider whether you are likely to fit into the culture of the country you are thinking of moving to, particularly if is very different from your own. However, dont forget that when dealing with the intricacies of daily life, there can be major differences even between countries such as Britain and America

Dont rush into things

A hasty decision to move abroad often leads to problems later. Take the time to research life overseas before making a decision and evaluate both the positive and negative aspects carefully.

will you be taxed on any income from overseas? Most importantly, start preparing for the move as early as possible. Make a checklist of everything you need to do and the documents youll need (see section 2). If you are being posted overseas by your employer, you might be lucky enough to enjoy the services of a relocation agency to assist you with the practicalities of moving, while others will have to deal with everything by themselves. Whether or not you have professional assistance with your move there is no substitute for good planning and organisation on your own part and you will almost certainly benefit from the experience of learning about your new country in the process. Contingency Planning Moving house within the same country is a stressful experience, a move overseas even more so. Complicating factors are a lack of familiarity with everyday customs and procedures, language barriers and mixed emotions about the move. Understand that things may not always go smoothly and that there will likely be unanticipated problems to deal with. Accept that people do things differently in other countries, and that the infuriating delay in processing your work permit, for example, is one aspect of the slow pace of life that might have attracted you to the country in the first place. Patience and a sense of humour will definitely help! In the ancient world, commanders of Greek and Roman armies would often burn their boats or burn their bridges behind them as they advanced on to foreign soil to ensure their troops did not think about home and retreat but instead were forced to concentrate on going forward and being successful. Fortunately, the modern expat is not in the business of fighting battles (except, perhaps, in the boardroom) and although the general wisdom of looking forward rather than backwards still holds true, the new expat may wish to be a little less cavalier about all or nothing approaches at the outset. Primarily this is because nobody can know what the future holds. In spite of large amounts of research and effort, it is always possible for an expat to find that

it is necessary to head back home. This can happen for any number of reasons. Some expats find it difficult to settle into their new country. Others may be driven to go back for financial or family reasons. Whatever the reason, some statistics indicate that around 30% of new expats look to return home after less than 2 years in their new country. In such circumstances, finding that your bridges have been burned behind you will not help make this a smooth process. It may, therefore, be sensible to think about having a contingency plan, an escape route, just in case you need it. What such a plan is will vary from one person to another but here are a few issues to consider: House/Property Retention If you have to leave your new country fairly quickly and all your capital is tied up in your expat home, then delays in selling it could hurt you. It could make it difficult for you to rent or buy a property when you get home. Some expats keep their original houses back home and either mothball them or rent them out until they are sure they are happy in their new country. There are pros and cons to this but it is worth thinking about, at least for an initial period. Do remember though that renting your house out while overseas can mean a fairly constant engagement in sorting things out back home at a time when you would perhaps prefer to be concentrating exclusively on your new life. Contingency Funds When you have just moved to a new country one thing you can be sure of is that your finances will be under pressure. If humanly possible, it is worth putting a little to one side in an emergency exit fund because if you need to move quickly then itll be difficult to do so if the coffers are empty. Home Country Bank Accounts In todays technological world, keeping

a bank account open in your home country whilst living overseas is not usually a problem. In most European countries most banks (though sadly not all) can handle overseas addresses. If you can keep an account open with a little money in it you may find this advantageous if you have to go back. Many people have built a relationship with their bank over many years and as a result they will have a good reputation and credit score recorded against their account that can help to secure loans and other bank facilities. If you close all your accounts when moving overseas you may risk losing this unofficial rating and you would need to rebuild it again from scratch if you go back in the future. Maintaining a bank account also means that you retain an ATM card valid for your home country - useful if you go back at short notice. This also applies to some credit cards. Building Local Relationships If you do have to return home quickly and permanently, there is a good chance you will leave loose ends behind to be tidied up. This can include things such as estate agent liaison, garden maintenance, dealing with post and local bills etc. You can pay property management companies to do all this for you but that can be expensive. If you have built relationships in the local community you are more likely to be able to rely on your neighbours for at least some assistance. Passports When living overseas, particularly in the continental EU, it is easy to forget about passports as one can drive for several thousands kilometres through numerous countries without needing one. It is therefore very easy for them to expire without you having realised it. It can be quite a shock if you cannot then get back into your own country if it has tight passport controls such as the UK, USA or Australia. Although passports originally were a permission to leave a country, today they are more often used as a method of checking someones right to enter a country. If yours has expired and you need to return home quickly,

you may find yourself in for a nasty shock when you reach passport control. Avoid this problem by checking your passports expiry date NOW and setting a reminder for renewal in plenty of time. Solicitors If you need someone to act legally on your behalf in the event that you need to return home quickly, then trying to find a good local solicitor in a hurry is probably both a risk and a hassle you could do without. Protect your interests by getting local recommendations as to a Notaire or solicitor from the time you first arrive. You dont have to do anything but keep their name and address handy just-incase. House Selection If you are returning home permanently, unless you plan to rent out your overseas house, you will probably be looking for a fairly quick sale. Although many people understandably do not like thinking about such things when they are buying, it may be worth trying to stand back, look critically at the property and ask yourself, Could I sell this quickly if I had to? Remember those houses that would appeal both to expat and local buyers will be easier to sell than those targeted exclusively at the expat marketplace. Emergency Escape Routes Sadly, some countries (or areas within them) are politically unstable. Even in Europe there are several countries which now count as major expat destinations that less than 10 years ago were involved in major internal armed conflicts and civil war. If you are planning to move to such a country then taking expert security advice from your own government is essential prior to leaving home. DO NOT just take at face value what the estate agent or locals are telling you regarding the security situation. In any such country, however peaceful things may seem now, it is always prudent to think about how far you

are from major centres and how easily/ quickly you could get to a port, airport, or railway terminus if the situation deteriorated in the future. You may also want to consider how quickly you could reach an international border by road if need be. Although such circumstances are very rare, civil unrest and dangerous international situations can arise suddenly and the consequences for expats can be severe. Thinking about such things in advance and planning your response is the best way of reducing the risk to yourself and your family. A last word... To make a success of your new life abroad you must be positive and determined. Constantly thinking about grim circumstances which may mean you have to go back is no way to start your expat life! Keep everything in context and try not to become preoccupied with things which might go wrong - problems are rare and the majority of expats never need to consider returning home ahead of plan. However, a few basic steps by way of contingency planning may not only come in useful in the rare event that you do need to go back, but should also give you extra confidence and peace of mind even if you dont. Always remember that, although it is important to research your chosen destination carefully, you wont know what it is really like to live there until youve actually made the move. Youll need to give yourself at least a year or more in the destination to decide whether it is right for you and your family. Even if you plan to move there for good, always keep your options whenever possible.

IMMIGRATION

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Visas, residency permits and citizenship

Be prepared for bureaucracy and long delays
Wherever you move to, you are likely to have to deal with a huge amount of paperwork and bureaucracy and no matter how insignificant that old document at the back of the bottom drawer may seem now, the chances are at some stage youll have to show it to someone. Moving countries can be a bureaucratic nightmare at the best of times but will be easier if you come prepared. Immigration and Work Permits Immigration regulations vary enormously between countries and it is absolutely essential to obtain specific information regarding the country that you are planning to move to, finding out well in advance what types of visas or permits, if any, are required for yourself and any family members accompanying you, and what the procedures and timescales are for obtaining these. Ensure that you use a reliable source of information to check the up-todate visa and residency requirements for your chosen destination. Call the consulate in your home country, or check their website. You can also check the website of the countrys immigration department, often part of the Home Affairs Ministry or Ministry of Justice. Make sure that your passport has at least six months validity remaining, otherwise you may be refused entry to the new country. The citizens of EU and EEA member countries are generally allowed to enter other EU/EEA countries freely to live and work, although there are temporary restrictions on freedom of movement between the countries that joined the EU in 2004, and other EU/EEA countries. Even if you do not need permission to live and work in a particular country, there may be legal requirements to register your presence there and to apply

certificates certified, notarized and apostilled while in your home country check the immigration and employment procedures for the country concerned to find out whether this is necessary. You may also have to get the documents translated into the language of the country that you are moving to. Most countries require non-nationals who are not covered by a special arrangement such as the EU/EEA agreement to obtain a work permit before they are allowed to enter the country for the purposes of living and working there. In some cases, however, you are allowed to enter on a short-term visitors visa to look for work check the visa regulations on the countrys embassy website to find out what rules apply to you. Although specific procedures vary, it is normally the responsibility of the employer offering you a job to apply for your work permit to the relevant labour authority in their country, confirming that there are no suitable local applicants for the post. Some countries also operate quota systems for work permits in different employment categories, and applications are not approved once the annual quotas are exceeded. Once a work permit has been obtained, you will have to submit this to the relevant embassy or consulate in your home country to support your application for an employment or residence visa. In most cases, work permits are not transferable to different employers and jobs if you want to change your employment once in the country, you will need to obtain a new permit. Permits may be renewable once their initial period of validity has expired, if you are continuing in the same job, but this will vary between countries and will be subject to approval of the relevant labour authority. Residence and Citizenship Once you arrive in the new country you may be required to apply for a residence permit and/or an identity card. Find out from the immigration department or the countrys consulate in your home country what the rules and procedures are. Some countries require you to register with your local authority shortly after arrival and to re-register if you subsequently move to a different part of

the country. If you plan to apply for citizenship of your new country, you may have to have to wait for a number of years. Most countries have minimum residency requirements unless you are married to a national of the country or have close relatives who are nationals. If the new country does not recognise dual nationality, you will be required to surrender your original nationality on obtaining citizenship. Retirement Some countries, Malta and Malaysia for example, have special programmes aimed at attracting foreign nationals to retire to their countries. These often offer benefits such as preferential tax rates, but they may also prohibit participants in the programme from taking any paid employment in the country, and may require them to deposit a specified minimum sum of money in a bank account as security. In the case of Malaysia, for example, a minimum fixed deposit is required, but a percentage of this can be withdrawn after a year for the purpose of buying property within the country. There may also be minimum age or income requirements for eligibility for such programmes. Check the immigration department website of the country you are interested in moving to in order to find out if they have a retirement programme for foreign nationals and what the eligibility criteria are. If you are planning to retire abroad under one of these schemes, make sure that you check all the relevant terms and conditions and consider how these are likely to affect you. For example, if the programme does not provide the security of permanent residence status, it might be particularly important to retain a base in your home country. If you are not allowed to work under the scheme, you will need to ensure that your assets or overseas-generated income will be sufficient to cover your living expenses for the foreseeable future. For anyone retiring overseas, it is crucial to ensure that adequate arrangements are in place for receipt of pensions or other overseas-generated income in the new country of residence, and to consider the potential impact of future changes in their financial situation.

Useful Links U.S. Department of State Visas Website http://travel.state.gov/visa/visa_1750. html Australian Government Department of Immigration and Citizenship http://www.immi.gov.au/immigration/ Immigration New Zealand (INZ) http://www.immigration.govt.nz/ Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/ index.asp Official British Government website for visa services http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en/

Form filling and other forms of paperwork are unavoidable for the prospective expat

for a residence permit or identity card on arrival. For relocations outside Europe, or from non-European countries into Europe, you will need to check the visa requirements for entry, as well as the residence and work permit requirements. It is often the case that the citizens of one country can visit another for a temporary period of up to three months without needing a visa, but as a temporary visitor you may not be allowed to seek employment during your stay. If applying to live and work in a particular country, check what documents are needed to support your application. Some countries require you to undergo a medical examination and to include the medical certificate in your

visa application. You are also likely to be required to submit bank statements, your work permit or offer of employment or other evidence of sufficient funding to support yourself and your dependents while in the country. The types of documents you will almost certainly be asked for at some stage of your move and settlement in the new country include birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce/custody papers (if applicable), educational certificates, medical certificates (including those for your pets!), tax and social insurance records and drivers licences. You will probably need multiple copies, although it may be cheaper to have the copies made when you arrive in the new country. Some countries will require you to have your important

Do you know the rules?

Rules surrounding visas and permits may have changed since other expats moved abroad so make sure your information is up to date check with the official government website or call the consulate.

GETTING THERE
How to get there safely

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from the USA to Europe, for example, will run into thousands of dollars. If you are not taking a whole container-load of possessions with you, it may be cheaper to ship a part-container load, but it will probably take considerably longer for your items to arrive since shipping will be delayed until a full load is ready to be sent to your destination. Furnished Or Unfurnished? When deciding what to take with you, take into account whether you will be buying or renting accommodation in the new country. If planning to rent, find out whether rented accommodation is normally fully or partly furnished or unfurnished, and whether you are likely to have any choice in the matter. Definitions of furnished and unfurnished vary considerably between countries so check with your contacts or with lettings agents in the country in advance. Some expatriates have arrived in their fully furnished rented home in the middle of the night only to find that the landlord has not provided bedding, or kitchen utensils, while others have found that an unfurnished property may not even have any units or a sink in the kitchen! Details like these are important when deciding whether to take appliances with you from home, or whether you need to arrange for someone to provide bedding, cups and plates in the property in advance of your arrival. Also take into account the likely size and style of your accommodation you might find that your favourite cosy armchairs and sofa are out of place in your new tropical home, or that you cant even get that large dining table through the front door of your new apartment. If you are making a long-term move and considering taking your own furniture, it may be advisable to make do with whatever is provided first, or buy secondhand furniture, until you settle in and get a better feel for the type of furniture that is suitable for your new home. Will It Work? When deciding whether or not to take your own electrical appliances, you will need to find out if they will work in your new country and whether adapters or transformers will be needed. The North American and European

...while making sure everything is handled with care

Once the decision to go has been reached, decide whether it makes sense to book your travel tickets as soon as possible in order to get the best deal or if you should wait to give yourself more flexibility and take advantage of any last minute offers. Expats already living in the destination country often travel back and forth to their country of origin and are familiar with the best deals. Ask for recommendations. Whether or not you decide to own a car abroad may depend on the availability, reliability and cost of public transport. If considering taking your own car, weigh up the cost of transporting the vehicle and paying import duties, compared with the cost of buying or hiring a new car. Also take into account the availability of parts for your car, and the likely cost of servicing and repairs, particularly if the make or model is not widely available there. Some countries allow foreign nationals to drive for a limited period on their own licence or on an international licence, and EU nationals can sometimes use their own licences indefinitely to drive in other EU countries. There may be an international agreement in place allowing you to exchange your own licence for a new one without the need for a test. If not covered by this type of agreement, you may need to take both a written and practical test. Find out what taxes are payable on car ownership and what types of insurance are required. Third Party Liability insurance is a minimum requirement in many countries, but comprehensive insurance is usually preferable. Driving behaviour differs widely between countries and many expats comment on what they see as poor driving skills which make driving in their host country particularly hazardous. If you do decide to drive, be extra careful,

electrical systems in particular are very different, with 220-240 volt outlets being in common use in most of Europe, compared with 110 volt outlets in America and Canada. For any appliances that are not multi-voltage models, you will need a voltage transformer as well as a plug adapter. To complicate matters further, there are at least six different varieties of electrical plug in use in Europe, all of them different from the typical North American-style plug. You might also find that your television set or video player will not work in your new country as there are a variety of different transmission systems in use around the world. The three main television standards, which are incompatible with one another, are NTSC, used in North America and Japan; PAL, used in the UK, Australia and most of Western Europe, and SECAM, used in France and Eastern Europe. This situation is slowly improving but take advice from a suitably qualified technician before shipping your existing TV. In many cases it may make more sense to buy new appliances on arrival. However, it is worth bearing in mind that some items, especially computers, are cheaper in certain countries, so it may be wiser to bring your own or buy before leaving, even if this will entail the use of adapters. Removal Companies Consider if you want (or are able) to transport your belongings yourself or whether you will need the services of a removals company that deals with international moves. Unless you are travelling very light, or making a fairly short move by road, you will probably need professional help to ship your possessions. Ask for quotes from several companies first, ensuring that they visit your home to carry out a survey of your requirements. It may be worth paying extra for the removals firm to pack your possessions for you, particularly if they are going to be transported to a distant country and need special protection for the long journey. Make sure you bring to their attention anything fragile or precious that needs particularly careful wrapping and packing. Before agreeing to a quotation, ensure that you are fully aware of exactly what is covered in the price, and that the service to be provided meets all of your requirements. For example,

does the service include both packing and unpacking of your household effects? What about disassembling and reassembling of furniture? If you are planning to put anything into storage in your destination country while you find accommodation, does the price include final delivery and unpacking at your home, or will you need to arrange collection of the items? Obtain a firm estimate of the likely arrival date of your items and obtain contact details for any agents that will be dealing with the removal in your destination country. Ensure that the removals company is aware in advance of any practical considerations such as the lack of an elevator to your apartment, or likely parking problems. If using a removals company, you may be required to take out their insurance cover for your possessions. Whether or not this is the case, ensure that you have adequate insurance for anything of actual or sentimental value that could get lost or damaged during the move. Take the time to accurately complete or check an inventory of your possessions to be moved, as this will form the basis for any insurance claim for losses or damages. Find out if insurance is included in the price quoted by the removals company, or whether you are required to pay extra for this. The removals company should arrange any customs and importation documents on your behalf, but if you are arranging the move independently you will need to find out what documents are required and what import duties and taxes are payable (and whether you are eligible for exemption from these). Make sure that you set aside the important documents you will need for the journey, such as passports and air tickets, and keep these easily accessible in your hand luggage. Dont forget to book your own travel arrangements, and consider whether you need to take out travel, personal or medical insurance for yourself and your family. If booking travel insurance ensure that the policy covers you as an expatriate rather than a short-term traveller. If you are going to be travelling a lot, as many expatriates do, consider taking out a more cost effective annual travel insurance policy for you and your family but again ensure that you will be eligible for coverage if your main residence is overseas.

A professional removals company can help make your move go smoothly but always compare quotes

especially while you are familiarising yourself with the road system and style of driving. If you feel extra tuition makes sense, book some lessons. Ensure that you are aware of and observe the laws regarding speed limits, the use of seatbelts, drink driving, etc., and find out what you are required to do if involved in an accident, as it may be against the law, for example, to move your car before the police arrive. How Much To Take? Whether you decide to take all your belongings with you will depend partly on your long-term plans and whether or not you sell your house. If you are moving to the new country on a

temporary basis, be aware that time will probably pass more quickly than you think you may find yourself returning home with unopened packing cases of things that you didnt really need. Consider what you are going to need in the short term and the longer term separately. This may be a good time to sort through your belongings and donate to charity anything in good condition that you no longer need. The Cost Of Shipping Many expats posted abroad by their employers will have the cost of shipping their possessions paid for them. Others will have to shoulder the cost themselves, and it doesnt come cheap. The cost of shipping a 40-foot container

Ask for quotes from removal firms

Removal firms charges can vary significantly so get as many quotes as possible before choosing a service provider. To save time look for an online comparison website which will ask for quotes for you.

leisure facilities.

PROPERTY
Your dream home abroad

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...or an expensive nightmare?

Generally speaking, expats fall into one of three groups as far as accommodation is concerned: those who intend to use rented accommodation only (either arranged by themselves or through their employer), those who have already bought a property and intend to move into it on arrival (common amongst retirees) and those who intend to search for a new property to buy once they arrive but stay in rented accommodation while doing so. Whichever group you fall into choosing the right place to live is one of the most important decisions you will make as an expat, do as much research as you can to give yourself the best chance of success. Think carefully about what to do with your current home while you are away. Unless you really need the money to make the move, consider renting out your house to start with rather than selling, just in case you need to return home sooner than expected. If you do decide to rent out your house while you are overseas, you might want to use the services of a property manager. Although these come at a cost, typically up to 10% of the monthly rental income from the property, you will have the peace of mind of knowing that the agent will ensure that the property is looked after, and they should endeavour to ensure that it is continually rented, helping to cover the cost of any mortgage payments you may have to make. As well as finding tenants and collecting rent payments, most property management companies will deal with the general upkeep of the property, carrying out minor repairs and maintenance work such as tending the garden. Alternatively, you can rent out your home yourself by advertising in the local press or on the Internet, but youll need to ensure that arrangements are in place for collecting rent and dealing with any

If you are moving to a country which is culturally very different from your own, or one where personal security is a particular concern, you might wish to consider living in a compound with other expatriates, at least initially. The advantages of compound living include improved security, the ease of making friends with other expatriates and the range of leisure and other facilities often provided on-site. Renting vs Buying If you are staying for more than a very short time in the new country, you will need to decide whether to rent or buy a property there. Renting is considered by some to be dead money, paid out to live in a place that you will never own, but it does offer the advantage of allowing you to live in a particular area first to see if you like it. If you are buying the property primarily as a home rather than an investment this is often a sensible approach. If you are moving abroad to work for either yourself or an employer for a long time, or are moving permanently and you fully intend to remain in one place for a long period, then purchasing property may make more sense, particularly if property prices are currently low in the country you are moving to. If property prices are on the increase, it can be a good financial move to buy a house or apartment, even if you plan to sell it again within a few years. First though, check whether there are any restrictions on the ownership of property by foreign nationals and whether you need a special permit to buy a house. You should also investigate whether there are any legal restrictions on the resale of property within a certain period of time. Buying Property When buying rather than renting a property abroad it is especially important to ensure that the surrounding location is suitable for your needs. Dont rush into a purchase until you have visited the property at various times of the day, including late evening, and ideally at different times

of year. If you are planning to buy property in a popular tourist destination, consider whether late-night noise from tourists during the holiday season will be a problem. If you are thinking of buying in a remote rural area, consider whether transport links will be adequate, especially in winter. Find out about the additional costs of buying property in the new country, such as property registration fees, notary fees and estate agents commission, and take these into account when deciding whether to buy or rent your accommodation. Taxes and fees can add a lot to the price typically around 17% in Belgium for example. However there may be tax advantages to owning a property. If you need finance for a house purchase, you might want to investigate whether or not local banks or other lenders issue mortgages to foreign nationals. Remember that the cost of housing (whether to buy or to rent) will often vary significantly between different areas of the country, and even between different areas of a city or town, so do your research thoroughly when searching for a property to live in. Find out if you will be required to pay capital gains tax if you sell the property within a certain time, and if so, how much. Although buying procedures vary between countries, the following stages are usually involved: Find a suitable property, make an offer and arrange finance if necessary. Apply to the local authority for permission to buy the property if required. Conduct a structural survey, particularly if the property is not new. This may be required by your mortgage lender. Appoint a notary who will conduct legal checks on the property on your behalf and liaise with the sellers notary in dealing with the documentation. Agree the purchase price and exchange contracts or sign an agreement to purchase. At this stage you will usually be asked to pay a deposit

of around 10% of the purchase price. Finalise your mortgage arrangements while legal checks on the property are being carried out. Sign the final contract and take possession of the property. You will need to find out what the property insurance requirements are in the country concerned, and at what stage insurance is needed in some countries the buyer becomes liable for damage to the property following the initial exchange of contracts. Buildings insurance on property is compulsory in many countries and you may also be required to take out personal liability insurance against damage, whether you are buying or renting the accommodation. Although contents insurance is not generally compulsory, it is advisable to ensure that the contents of your home are also covered, either by the landlords insurance or your own. Useful Tips When Buying Abroad Never sign a contract that you do not understand (for example - if it is in a foreign language). Always ensure that you seek specialist advice from independent Solicitors, Architects and Surveyors before considering a purchase overseas. They should be proficient in your chosen countrys laws and processes and also know the specifics involved in buying a property there. Before proceeding with the purchase (and would especially apply to a re-sale property, regardless of age), ensure an Independent Valuation of the property is carried out, which should point out any problems with the property i.e.: subsidence, damp, wiring defects - and could also possibly highlight any boundary disputes etc. Ensure you do not inherit a debt on the property before you purchase - a solicitor should be able to check i.e.: If the developer has borrowed money to build the development and this amount has been allocated against each plot as additional security to the developers bank. Always give yourself a `cooling off` period if you see a `must-have

Renting first before buying is often a wise strategy - dont be rushed into a purchase before youre ready

tenancy problems in your absence. If you dont want to rent your house out, consider asking a friend or relative to check on the house regularly, particularly in adverse weather conditions, and to keep it ventilated and damp-free. If your utilities are still connected, you might consider asking them to set the heating on a low setting in very cold weather to avoid burst pipes. You will also need to arrange for someone to cut the grass and deal with other maintenance in the garden (if you have one). If you dont know anyone in the new country who can help you to find suitable accommodation, consider the services of a relocation agent, or ask fellow expatriates already living there to recommend a local real estate agent.

Be flexible in terms of your ideal type of accommodation in the new country. Although you might prefer to live in a house, for example, an apartment might be the only realistic option if you are going to live in a city. Depending on your location, you might have less space in your accommodation or have to live in closer proximity to your neighbours than you are used to. On the other hand, you might be able to afford a much larger and more luxurious residence than in your home country. Consider the availability and cost of domestic help and gardeners that big property and lush garden might be tempting but could be very hard work to maintain. In hot countries in particular, condominium complexes are often a popular and affordable choice with expatriates due to the ease of maintenance and the availability of swimming pools and other

Beware of property scams and false promises

Buying property abroad can be a daunting experience but dont be tempted to take short cuts. Always check everything carefully and make sure youve taken legal advice before signing anything.

property` and are tempted to put down a deposit there and then. If you are arranging finance on the property, ensure that this is stated in any contract and you have an opt-out clause if the loan is not agreed (which will ensure any deposit paid is refunded). Try to arrange your mortgage finance in principle, before agreeing to purchase the property, or before signing any contracts and paying over a deposit. Arrange your mortgage in the currency that you earn in where possible, unless you are going to receive rental income from that property in the local currency and then this may be a possible alternative option, dependent on the lenders criteria. Think about combining your cash with friends or family: it could bring a villa with pool within your financial reach, rather than simply an apartment. Check with the Estate Agent or vendor that you are aware of the costs charged by the legal and government authorities for purchasing a property in your chosen country. Open a bank account in your chosen country and ensure you get a Certificate of Importation for the money you bring in from your home country. Set up standing orders in a local bank account to meet bills and taxes. Failure to pay your taxes in some countries, such as France, Portugal and Spain, could lead to court action and possible seizure of your property. Remember that bills do not end at the asking price. Lawyers fees, taxes, insurance etc must all be met in your host country and can often be more expensive. Mortgages For those who are not in a position to pay for a new home outright, the usual course of action is to apply for a mortgage. The system is similar across the world, in that you will need to offer collateral usually the property itself before the loan is approved. There are a number of banks which offer mortgages provided the applicant

meets all the requirements on property located in another country. The length of time allowed for repaying the borrowed amount varies. Some countries, particularly those where property prices remain low, prefer a mortgage loan to be paid back in 10 or 15 years, while it is more common in western Europe and the US for mortgages to be paid over 25 or 30 years. If you apply for a mortgage you will usually need to provide proof of income, often in the form of a permanent contract of employment. It may be possible to apply for a mortgage before you leave your country of origin if you are going to be working for the same employer, thus allowing your current salary to count as part of your income when calculating the mortgage. Many large banks operate in a number of countries and prospective expats may find that they are able to apply for a mortgage through their existing bank, an option which may actually speed up the process as a current credit history should be readily available. However, it is not uncommon for expats seeking an overseas mortgage to use the services of a specialist mortgage broker. A good broker will be familiar with the best deals available for expats and should be able to advise you accordingly. Buyers should be aware that other fees are likely to arise when purchasing a house. In some countries it may be necessary to pay a fee to the estate agent, as well as the usual legal fees, property taxes and registration costs. These fees will vary depending upon the country but as a very rough guide a buyer may expect to pay between 5 and 10% of the purchase price. Buyers should also note that in many countries the buyer is committed to the sale much earlier than in the UK or the US. A deposit is often paid early in the process and once this has been handed over the buyer is committed, forfeiting that money if they attempt to pull out later. If a seller pulls out then they are responsible for any monies owed. This procedure is common in many European countries. Finding a Property If you do decide you would like to buy a

property abroad you should first check that you are legally permitted to do so. Some countries do not allow the purchase of property by foreigners, or have strict regulations about the type of property that can be bought, or require a minimum term of residency in the country before purchase. For example, Kuwait now allows expats to purchase property, but they must have lived and worked in the country for a minimum of ten years and if they become unemployed they must still leave the country within a month. However, most countries operate less strict rules and some are actively seeking foreign buyers. Searching for a suitable property is now much easier than it used to be. The internet is filled with the websites of estate agents throughout the world and details of properties can be viewed without the need to leave your own home. However, it is always advisable to spend at least some time in your chosen country before deciding on a property so that you can choose the area you wish to live in, meet with a local estate agent to assess your needs and view any particularly interesting properties in person. Many estate agents now have notification systems available via their websites which allow you to receive an email when new properties are added that meet your requirements. You may need to specify how many bedrooms you would like the property to have, if you would prefer detached or semi detached, a house or apartment, how much outdoor space you require etc. Detailed information on all potentially suitable properties can then be emailed to you as soon as they hit the market. Although there are usually many estate agents to choose from, finding a good one can sometimes be a challenge. Many countries have regulatory bodies which govern the way properties are bought and sold and issue licences to agents but there are some that do not (if an estate agent is a member of a regulatory body it should say so on their website). In either case it is always wise to ask other expats for recommendations. Be aware that some places do not make use of an estate agent system. For example, in some countries in South America there are many properties on the market which are not advertised

through an estate agent. In this situation you may need to rely on local contacts and ask around so that people can inform you if there is a suitable property for sale. Most countries will insist upon a buyer engaging the services of a legal professional to oversee the purchase. Even if not a requirement this is always advisable in order to avoid buying a property that has debt attached to it, left by a previous owner, for which you could become liable. Making Decisions Have you decided what type of property is most suitable for you? An off plan property may still be in the early stages of development when you choose to buy and you will usually have to make regular payments throughout the building process. This is an option popular with expats who are moving abroad to retire to a resort. Alternatively, an existing home may be a better option if you need to move in fairly quickly and prefer a home with history and character. When looking around a property use the same degree of caution you would at home. Look carefully for signs of damp, structural damage and other issues that may cause problems later. Have surveys and other checks carried out to ensure that the property is worth the asking price. Ensuring that the property you buy has good transport links is also essential, especially if you have children who may need to travel to school on public transport. Healthcare facilities are also essential, particularly if there is a member of the family who needs, or may need in the future, regular medical treatment. Ensure you are aware of the locations of the nearest hospitals, doctors surgeries, dentists etc. Finally, consider what the local area and community has to offer you and other family members. Starting a life abroad in a new home, no matter how well appointed, is likely to be difficult if the environment is unsuitable for your social and leisure needs. Dreams vs Reality

Many expats dream of an idyllic rural life in another country and while the dream may be wonderful, the reality can be very different. Although the peace of living in a remote area can be nice for a while, if you are used to having shops and restaurants nearby this honeymoon period can be short-lived. Some people end up feeling isolated and regret their decision after just a few months. The same can apply to those who have their heart set on living in a busy city only to find that the noise and close proximity to other people is just too much. As mentioned previously, it is often a good idea to rent a similar property for a few months before you decide to buy. Another dream that often fails to live up to its promise is that of buying a run-down home to renovate. It is easy to underestimate the time, effort and expense involved and it is not uncommon for expats to become completely disillusioned after several months of wrangling with local planning officers, builders etc. Countries such as France are popular with those who wish to renovate, but some properties being advertised require more than cosmetic work and actually need rebuilding. As always the best advice is to do your research thoroughly and listen to the experiences of others. Property Standards Some Tips For Buyers Throughout the world there are large variations in the quality of properties for sale, and the standards to which they were originally built. This, of course, is often due to the age of the property concerned - nobody expects a medieval town house to have been built to modern standards of fire prevention, or a 16th century rural cottage to have foundations that are anything more than rudimentary! It is also true that geography and climate plays a part, irrespective of age. A property in northern Europe should, almost by definition, have been built originally to be better at dealing with rain, damp and cold than one built in southern Spain.

Although variations such as this are perfectly natural, nobody, expat or local, wants to get saddled with a property that is going to cost a fortune to fix/ maintain or that represents a potential safety risk. Although this concern is shared by both expats and locals alike, expats are more at risk for 3 main reasons: In many countries an independent expert pre-purchase survey is not the norm. Asking for one is always possible but they can be prohibitively expensive and many expats choose to make do without one. Even where surveys are completed, language can be a problem. Even if the report is in English, sometimes specialist local knowledge is required to read between the lines. Expats are far more likely to get lost in the romance of the property and location than they would at home hard-nosed thinking can get swept aside. Whilst acknowledging that assessing a property is a specialist skill and professional help may be needed, there are nevertheless some good basics that the expat should keep in mind from the outset. Quality It is a general truth that throughout history people with money have always tended to own properties that were of high quality. Therefore, if one is looking at a house built for a 19th century merchant or a land-owning gentleman farmer, there is a fair chance that it will have been built to reasonable quality standards of its day. This most certainly does NOT mean it is without its problems, but in general one would expect such properties to have been built originally to more robust standards than a rural workers cottage. It is always worth noting that in many countries, land, timber and/or stone were relatively plentiful. This, coupled with the larger families of the time, means that many rural properties originally built for or by very poor families are surprisingly large. Over time these may have been enhanced externally with plaster, paintwork and window boxes. Internally, they may

also have been re-decorated to a high standard, but it is worth remembering that they were never originally erected as a quality building and underneath the dressings they may remain - in structural terms - a poorly built property that will cause trouble in the future. When looking at larger older properties, even if built originally for wealthy owners, it is worth keeping in mind that in centuries past approaches to areas such as foundations were not always what we might hope for. When one thinks of old, slightly grander buildings, images of the cathedrals and great castles of Europe come to mind as bywords for strength and solidity over time. Even so, cathedrals have collapsed as have many towers of castles! Many buttresses and other architectural features that we now admire as works of art were in fact thrown up in panic to shore up a collapsing building. Even in the past our ancestors had to deal with their equivalent of todays cowboy builder looking to make a fast coin or two by cutting corners. Remember that big, old, impressive houses are not only expensive to run and maintain, but their foundations are possibly way below modern standards for buildings of their size and weight. Safety Most old properties were not originally designed with fire retardation or escape routes in mind. Old timber buildings can be very prone to fire and may not be even remotely compliant with modern regulations (if they exist in your destination country) from which they may also be exempt by virtue of their age. Always look at older properties and think how they could be better fire proofed and how you could get out of them in an emergency. Infrastructure This area may be the greatest cause of heartache for many expats (especially those relocating outside the more popular expat destinations to less developed countries). Many expats tend to buy older

properties outside of major towns or cities. It matters little whether the property was a quality build originally or thrown up cheaply for local workers, the fact is that in many countries, even into the latter 20th century, standards for drainage, sewage and electrical wiring were either routinely ignored or did not exist - especially outside of urban areas. As expats come along and start renovating - adding baths, showers, washing machines and dishwashers - it is common for the drainage, sewage or electrical infrastructure to collapse under the strain of a load it was never designed to handle. Be warned - sorting these sorts of things out can be complicated and expensive: pipes may not be large enough, septic tanks may not be big enough to cope, your connection to the local main drains may not be of the correct type, etc. Also, in the case of electricity, remember that modern light switches and visible cables coming down from the ceiling do NOT necessarily mean that the wiring throughout the house is modern and/ or safe. Cultural Values Many peoples around the world perceive English-speaking countries to be obsessed with property and property maintenance. Other cultures, historically, have bothered less about such things as rotting timbers, the ingress of damp, infestations etc. In many cases this was because materials and labour were relatively cheap - if you discovered woodworm there was no cause for panic, you just waited until the timber was seriously riddled then hired the local artisan to cut it out and replace it. As an example, in several European countries one can see DIY outlets starting to sell pumps and drying equipment every autumn explicitly for pumping and drying out flooded basements and garages. After all, what would one expect from a subterranean cellar each winter other than for it to flood and need pumping/drying out? You might even say it was natural! Attitudes in some countries can be very different from what you are used to at home so be careful when looking around houses and remember that when the agent or vendor tells you everything is

fine they may not be lying - its just that fine to them may include the cellar routinely flooding two or three times per year! Newer Builds So far most of the issues outlined have been in relation to older properties. Surely with newer builds there is much less risk for the unwary expat? Although this may generally be true, there are also several things to keep at the forefront of your mind: Building Codes The building codes in many countries are imprecise and may well not be specified to the same level as in your home country. This can result in properties being built to standards that would not be acceptable back home. Good examples of this include dangerous electrical wiring and sewage/water disposal systems where cost cutting has lead to pipes of too-small diameter being used. It is also not unusual to see properties erected with little if any consideration given to damp-proof courses or cavity wall insulation - particularly in southern climates. Although rain and damp may be less of a problem than it was back home, that is likely to be little consolation if you see rising damp or damp patches on the walls of your home built only 5 years ago and the builders only response is, Well, weve had an unusually wet year Mass Builds In many countries developments have been built that were designed for, and targeted at, expats buyers exclusively. Sometimes these are holiday resort types: small groupings of villas/ apartments around a golf course or perhaps beach/marina developments. Whether or not these developments are alongside the worlds best beach, the most magnificent harbour or a championship standard golf course does not matter - if you can see lots of very similar apartment blocks and villas in the one development then there is a fair chance they were built to high-density

and tight margin specifications. Do not be misled by fixtures and fittings or the garden areas; in reality you may find that the build quality of such properties is poor. Many properties of this type are essentially just concrete blocks covered in rendering with little attention paid to things such as damp protection or internal pointing. Stories of entire sections of wall falling out the first time an expat owner tried to hang a picture are not uncommon. This is, of course, a very crude generalisation and there are large numbers of honourable exceptions, but ultimately your best protection is to go and see another site being built by the same people and look at how they do things there. You may be either reassured or get a nasty shock! If at all possible, try to ask other owners in the development for their views on build quality. Remember, mass developments are often the same the world over with cost/ corner cutting a frequent temptation to keep spend on-track. Sunshine and a glossy brochure does not change that fact. Be careful! Guarantees and Warranties All newer property overseas will normally come with some sort of warranty from the builders or sales agents. Always check this before purchasing, but also be aware that having a guarantee and enforcing it are two very different things. Before purchasing always check with an independent solicitor that the guarantee is legally binding on the person who issued it and that the company that issued it is still in business. A guarantee issued by a company that ceased trading several years ago may not be of much practical value to you. Legalities Finally, remember with new or newer builds that there are sometimes irregularities around the permissions for the property to exist on that site. There have been numerous such cases where authorities several years after a property has been built have suddenly decided that it was built illegally as the

builders did not have the appropriate permissions. Demolition orders have been issued in some cases with catastrophic consequences for the expat owner or owners. Validation of rights and titles is specialist work for a solicitor. The best advice for expats may be to: 1. Get a good local solicitor by recommendation of local people (not just expats) Do NOT accept a local solicitor recommended by the sales agents. 2. As part of the purchase, make sure you ask the solicitor in writing to confirm that all appropriate rights and titles exist for the building to legally exist on that site. Make sure the solicitor responds with a positive confirmation in writing. Do not accept a verbal assurance this would be useless to you should a subsequent dispute arise. If your solicitor is unwilling or unable to confirm this then accept no excuses - be exceptionally sceptical in such circumstances. 3. Do exactly the same for debts and charges against the property (this also applies to older properties). Make sure your solicitor confirms explicitly in writing that nobody else has any rights or interest in the property. 4. Be careful about the role of the Notaire if you are buying in a country that uses this system. The Notaire (or Public Notary) is usually an official responsible to the state for ensuring that certain basic minimum legal processes have taken place in strict accordance with the law. They are there to ensure that no obvious improprieties are taking place and to minimally protect the rights of buyer and seller in making the transfer of property deeds etc. Although their role varies by country, never assume that the Notary exists to serve you as the buyer, is on your side or is the same thing as a solicitor - they are not! They are impartial agents and have no obligation to protect your commercial interests. It is always worth considering the services of an independent solicitor acting exclusively for YOU in checking things. The Notary does have some legal obligations to check rights and titles but these obligations may be more limited than you would wish and you cannot assume that they will have looked at every legal aspect to check for

things that you may not be happy with afterwards. Summary The majority of expat property purchases go through without any problems whatsoever and the proud new owners remain happy with the deal after completion. Expats who experience serious property problems post-sale are relatively few in number. The best advice is simply to look at the property, and enter any purchase, thinking the same way you would in your home country. The processes may be different but there are some very basic, common sense questions and issues you would certainly expect to be clear on in your mind before buying at home, and you should think the same way overseas. Remember, if you are looking at a property and have any concerns whatsoever then always consider a survey before making an offer - never be put off by sales agents telling you that surveys are rare here. If the property is on a large development, check with neighbours and other owners and go and see another similar site being erected elsewhere. Pop into the town hall and ask for details about the infrastructure in the area. Get a good solicitor to help reduce your risks. These tips may be basic common sense but many expats get swept up in the romance of buying a home abroad and fail to apply them. Moving abroad is often an exercise in risk management - never more so than when buying property. A little caution and care initially can make all the difference between dealing with a nightmare property and finding your dream home. Renting Property When renting accommodation, you should try to negotiate a lease to suit your planned length of stay in the country. If you dont know the country or area of residence very well, try to arrange a short lease initially, as this will give the option of moving when you get to know the location better, perhaps to be closer to new friends or amenities. Tenancy agreements and regulations

vary considerably between countries and you should always find out what the standard rules and procedures are in your new country before signing a lease dont allow landlords or agencies to take advantage of your perceived lack of local knowledge. In some countries, such as Germany, very detailed and lengthy tenancy contracts are used, which include a comprehensive set of house rules which must be obeyed. Where less detailed tenancy agreements are used, ensure that the document covers all the important rights and obligations of the tenant and landlord. At a minimum, the following should be included: Length of the rental agreement.

rental contract can be terminated at any time without additional obligation if the tenant is transferred abroad again or otherwise has to leave the country. Utilities and Appliances Remember to inform the utilities companies in your home country of your moving date and make arrangements for final meter readings and bill payments. Find out whether the utilities are already connected in your new home, or what needs to be done to arrange connection. If energy supply markets have been liberalized, you may need to select suppliers for electricity, gas or telephone services. If so, ask the locals or other expatriates for recommendations, or check whether there are any internet sites giving price comparisons. Find out how often bills are issued and how to pay them. If there is no piped gas supply in your new country, find out where to obtain bottled gas. Find out whether the water is safe to drink straight from the tap. If you are moving from North America to Europe, you might be surprised at the relatively small size of the kitchen appliances in your accommodation, especially the refrigerator! Although these may be difficult to get used to at first, the advantage is that they are cheaper to run. You may need to adapt your grocery shopping habits if the storage capacity is less than you are used to. Refuse and Recycling Ask your new neighbours about the refuse collection arrangements and the recycling facilities and requirements. Domestic waste disposal units are far less common in Europe and other parts of the world than they are in North America. Some European countries have strict laws on recycling household refuse. If this is the case, it is likely that different coloured refuse bins will be provided for different types of recyclable products glass, aluminium, paper etc. In some European countries, including Germany for example, you are required by law to

return batteries to retail outlets so that they can be disposed of safely. Buying property when you move abroad is often a good idea if you are planning to live in your new country for more than just a few years. In addition, property is still a good investment in many countries where property prices are low. Renting can often work out to be more expensive than the cost of a mortgage, although this is dependent upon the country you are in and the type of property involved. Renting may be a sensible option if you are planning a stay of less than a few years. THIS PAGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK

How much rent is payable, and the schedule of payments and increases. Details of what the rent includes and excludes (e.g. communal maintenance charges). Period of notice which must be given by the tenant and the landlord. Deposit required and details of the interest it will earn. Redecoration requirements. Any insurance requirements.

If you do not speak the local language, ask for any contracts to be translated into English and arrange for a friend or English-speaking letting agent to negotiate with the landlord on your behalf. Note that in some countries it is normal practice to be asked for several months rent as a deposit, whereas in others you may be required to redecorate the accommodation either when you move in or move out. You may also be required to insure the property you are living in, or to take out personal liability insurance against damage to the property or its contents. It is often the case that you will have to take out a lease for a specified period, sometimes several years. Try to negotiate flexibility, or use an agent that specializes in lettings to expats, otherwise you may forfeit your deposit and may also be required to make other penalty payments if you move out. If you have moved abroad because of your job, see if you can insert a diplomatic clause in the agreement whereby the

EMPLOYMENT
Working abroad can be rewarding

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...but business culture and practices may present challenges

The prospect of international employment attracts vast interest and huge numbers of people - some transferring overseas for their current employer, taking on the challenge to demonstrate their loyalty and commitment, viewing the experience as a means to climb the career ladder, others simply wanting to travel, see new and exotic places and immerse themselves in a different culture. Whatever your own motivation, there are a number of key issues to consider. A common mistake many expats make is to cut all ties with former employers and colleagues. Instead, keep your employment options open by staying in contact with work colleagues or business associates in your home country who can keep you informed about job openings if you decide to return. If applicable, try to keep up with the latest technological and work practice developments in your specialist field back home these can change very quickly within a few years and your experience might quickly become outdated. On the other hand, you may find that working methods and tools in the country that you move to are more advanced than at home, and your experience of working overseas may therefore give you a competitive edge in the job market if you do decide to return. A dilemma faced by many expatriates posted overseas is whether to travel alone, or to take their spouse and children with them. In the majority of cases (but by no means all) it is the husbands job that is relocated. The wife may be a stay-at-home mum or housewife or have her own career which she may not be able to pursue in the new country due to official restrictions on her ability to work or a lack of suitable job opportunities. The so-called trailing spouse will need to decide whether they can afford to leave their job, from both a financial and a career perspective.

purpose of being able to live and work in other countries, but other types of work may also be in demand in your chosen country, which you could train for. If you are prepared to work for a period of time for little or no pay, there are many opportunities for voluntary work overseas with various humanitarian organisations and charities, although jobs are sometimes limited to those with specialist qualifications, such as health professionals. There are several ways to begin the process of finding work abroad. You could sign up with international employment agencies, contact global organisations with offices in various countries to see what vacancies may exist, or study the International Jobs section of quality national newspapers. The classifieds sections of foreign newspapers are also a good source of information on jobs available in another country and some newspapers will publish these in their online versions. In general, vacancies for highly skilled jobs are usually posted in national newspapers and other types of vacancies may be advertised in the local press or registered with recruitment agencies. Your current employer may advertise overseas roles for which you could apply - speak to your human resources department for more information.

It may be the case that jobs in your chosen country are mostly commonly secured through personal contacts and are not advertised formally. If this is the case, it may be better to move there first, if you are allowed to do so, and spread the word around that you are looking for employment. Bear in mind though that if your visa prohibits paid employment, you might be required to leave the country and apply for an employment visa before returning to take up work. One of the most common challenges facing job hunters overseas is the work permit. Obtaining a permit when transferring abroad with your existing employer can be fairly straightforward, whereas the story may be different for the independent jobseeker. If you plan to work on a self-employed basis in the new country you should firstly find out whether you are allowed to do so, and what the specific visa requirements are. EU nationals can generally take up selfemployment within other EU countries, but there are normally restrictions on the entry of self-employed people to other countries and on the entry of self-employed non-EU nationals to the EU. Check with the relevant embassy or consulate in your home country, or the immigration department website of the country in question. Always allow plenty of time to arrange the necessary paperwork. Learn the Lingo You will almost certainly need to be able to speak the local language to be able to work in your new country (unless your mother tongue is commonly used in the business sector you intend to work in). Try to improve your spoken language skills as soon as possible, whether that means revisiting your old school textbooks, signing up for evening classes or an intensive programme at a language school. Having some level of fluency is beneficial on two fronts - work colleagues, superiors and clients will appreciate your efforts to communicate in their language, plus you will feel less isolated in your daily non-work life if you can understand what people are saying and can make yourself understood. The locals will appreciate your efforts to speak their language, and it may be easier for you to deal with officials, for example, or just to understand the road signs and restaurant menus!

Employment Culture and Practice Cultural issues can manifest themselves across many aspects of your life abroad. Doing business in certain Eastern countries may require you to adapt your behaviour to be more deferential, as custom dictates. A much-quoted anecdote is that of a business associate refusing a proffered gift three times before accepting it! Again, there is no substitute for being properly prepared, so learn all you can in advance of commencing employment. You may find that the working culture and employment practices are quite different from those that you are used to, particularly if you are working for a local employer. The terms and conditions of employment, and the extent to which these are standardised, vary considerably between countries. You should investigate these to find out what your employment obligations and entitlements are. For example, in some countries there are detailed regulations covering many aspects of employment such as working hours, salary levels, overtime, sick pay, maternity/paternity benefits and holiday entitlements. If you are moving to a country where this is not the case, ensure that you are provided with an employment contract or letter of appointment which clearly sets out your terms and conditions - it may be difficult to negotiate changes to these once you have signed a contract. Find out if you are required to join a labour union, or whether you have the right to do so if you wish. Investigate how many days of public holiday youll be entitled to these can significantly boost your annual holiday allowance. The normal working week varies between countries in accordance with religious and historical traditions so you might find yourself working from Saturday to Wednesday, as in Saudi Arabia, or going to the office on Saturday mornings in some Asian cultures while a Monday to Friday working week for office workers is the norm in the USA and most European countries. In daily working life you might have to adapt to major cultural differences in working practices. For example, the organisation of the workplace might be

Newspapers, trade magazines and job search websites carry hundreds of employment vacancies abroad

If you plan to work in the new country, but are not moving there with your current employer, you may be required to secure a job first. The main exception to this requirement is that EU nationals can generally enter other EU countries to search for work without restriction (apart from nationals of the new Eastern European EU countries, to which restrictions still apply), and are even eligible to use the state employment services to help them find a job. In general, you are more likely to be successful in securing a job overseas if you have specialist or professional qualifications and experience, particularly those that are in high demand in your chosen destination. IT,

medical, engineering and management professionals are often in demand in many countries, as are qualified English language teachers, but specific labour shortages and demands will vary by country and over time. You should investigate whether your existing qualifications will be recognized in your new country, and whether you will need to undergo any retraining to acquire additional skills or qualifications before working there. You may also want to consider acquiring completely new skills and expertise in order to secure a job abroad. Many people study to become English language teachers for the specific

There is a wealth of information on overseas vacancies on the Internet, including world wide job sites such as Monster.com and more specialised sites covering areas of work such as medical personnel and English language teachers. You might also try looking at the websites of local or international companies based in the country that you are planning to move to, many display details of their vacancies and application procedures online. The European Employment Services website (EURES) at http://ec.europa. eu/eures/ is a very useful source of information on vacancies within EU countries. There may also be recruitment agencies based in your chosen country that advertise posts online, but beware of any advertisements that require you to pay upfront fees to find you a job these may be scams. Some countries also have working holiday visa programmes which enable people under a specified age to work in their country for a limited time period.

Network, network, network

There is more than a little truth in the old adage Its not what you know, its who you know. Consider joining expat groups and professional organisations to make useful employment contacts.

more or less hierarchical than at home, and the style of conducting meetings and negotiations might be considerably more formal or more relaxed. The length or structure of the working day might also be different. For example, people who move to some Asian countries from the USA or Europe are often surprised initially by the longer hours that people work (or, as in Japan, that it is culturally important to stay in the office until after the boss has left for the day). However, they sometimes also discover that more or longer breaks are taken throughout the day. If you are going to manage an organisation overseas, try to be sympathetic to local customs and practices and be flexible in your approach within reason. You are more likely to earn the respect of your staff this way, and to achieve better results in the long run. Investigating the cost of living in the country and specific area you are moving to has to be a priority, as it puts into perspective any salary offer that has been made. Financial reward for the upheaval of international relocation (particularly if you are bringing your spouse and children with you) is expected, but again can depend on individual circumstances. An employee transferred overseas due to their specific skills being in great demand may receive attractive incentives to do so; the independent jobseeker offered a position in, for example, a developing country with lower living costs may be offered a comparatively low salary, yet consider accepting it for the associated benefits of a new challenge, the work experience itself, the chance to learn a new language or experience a different culture and broaden their horizons. What are your working hours and rights, as set out in the contract you are offered? It is worth checking out factors like maternity benefits and employment law in your country of work, so as to avoid misunderstandings or more serious problems such as lack of funds or legal protection. Impact on Family Life If both partners wish to work in the new destination and are taking children with them, there will be a need to consider the availability, quality and cost of

childcare. In many countries, especially in Asia and the Middle East, it is normal practice for domestic maids, often from the Philippines or Indonesia, to care for children when their parents are at work. Many maids build up a close relationship with the families they work for, but since they are not normally qualified childminders you will need to consider whether you will be comfortable with this sort of arrangement. In any case, if you do employ a maid, it is advisable to recruit her via a reputable agency, or at least on the basis of a personal recommendation. You may also need to sponsor her visa and pay for health checks. For some trailing spouses an overseas posting presents a valuable opportunity to take a break from employment, spend more time with the children, take up a special interest or hobby, learn a new language, or study for an educational qualification. Others might get involved in voluntary work in their new home which can also be an excellent way of making new friends in the local and expat community. However, the non-working spouse also faces the risk of feeling isolated in a different culture, particularly as they lack the ready-made network of contacts available in the workplace and will also be without the usual social support afforded by their home environment. Making contact with other people in a similar situation, or just making the effort to make new local or expat friends, will help them to adjust and make the most of their new circumstances. Moving your entire household to distant shores can be traumatic, so make the transition easier by finding out how each family member feels about the move. Older children may initially have greater difficulty adapting to the change than their younger siblings, whether through homesickness, the need to make a new set of friends or learn a new language from scratch. All these factors may appear to detract from the appeal of seeking work abroad, but they shouldnt. With a positive outlook and suitable preparation, the experience can be an uplifting and rewarding one, as the staggering number of expats continuing to occupy posts overseas should illustrate. Try to anticipate the challenges you may face, and discuss them with family, friends

and other expats. If you can talk openly about your concerns, the upheaval may be considerably lessened for everyone involved. Join expat groups and online forums, find answers to those burning questions and be comforted by those that have gone before you, survived and hugely enjoyed the experience that international employment has given them. Useful Links Monster http://www.monsterboard.com Job vacancies in over thirty countries The European Job Mobility Portal (EURES) http://ec.europa.eu/eures/ Job vacancies in 29 European countries, CVs from interested candidates, what you need to know about living and working abroad and more

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HEALTH

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Good coverage - the key to peace of mind

Review insurance benefits and underwriting terms carefully
It is important to investigate the standard and type of healthcare available in your chosen destination, especially if you or a member of your family suffers from a medical condition which requires ongoing treatment or medication. Most countries have at least adequate basic healthcare facilities, but more advanced treatments and procedures might not be available in some less-developed locations. If this is the case, consider whether this might be a problem in the future, and how to cover the cost of travel home or to another country for treatment. In many countries you will have to pay for medical care, although emergency treatment in public hospitals may be free of charge. If you are going to live in a country where healthcare is expensive you should take out private medical insurance, even if this is not a requirement of residence. For short-term trips within the EU/ EEA, there are reciprocal arrangements for free or low-cost healthcare on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). However, it is important to note that you are not covered by this arrangement if you are living outside your home country in this case the countrys own regulations for the provision of healthcare to foreign residents will apply. When taking out health insurance, be sure to check factors such as the annual and lifetime policy limits, whether there are any exclusions which are likely to affect you, whether you are limited to treatment from specific types of healthcare providers, and whether the policy covers emergency evacuation for medical treatment. For more detailed information about choosing expatriate health insurance see the following sections. Before travelling to your destination,

Ask your doctor, optician and other healthcare providers for up-to-date prescriptions and medical notes before you leave home, and make sure you take adequate supplies of any medicines that are needed by you or your family members, especially prescription medicines, as they may not be readily available at your destination. In some countries, such as Germany, you cannot even buy aspirin over the counter. You may find, conversely, that it is possible to buy drugs over the counter in your new country which were only available on prescription at home, such as some antibiotics. It is important to note that different names are used for various drugs and medications in different countries, so take extra care to ensure that you obtain the right medication. The range and types of health service providers varies a greatly between different countries, including the relative availability of public and private health care services. You may find that you are able to consult any doctor or specialist without referral, or alternatively that there is a more restrictive system in place whereby you have to register with a family practitioner, cannot switch doctors without good reason and may have to obtain a referral to see a specialist. Systems of dental care, and the cost and quality of this service, also vary considerably between countries. Country Differences The United States of America does not require mandatory insurance cover for its residents, although it is wise to have private medical insurance in place as healthcare costs can be significant. Expats who go to work in America may have the option of a company healthcare scheme that would usually cover themselves and their families. If this has not been specifically stipulated as part of a relocation package then the situation should be clarified before leaving and alternative arrangements made if necessary. In contrast, the Netherlands operates with a requirement that all residents have health insurance. This must be purchased within 4 months of arriving in the country (as an official resident) otherwise residency status may be at risk. Spain, on the other hand, offers retired, unemployed or registered self-

employed expats the same treatment as Spanish citizens. However, there can be lengthy waiting lists for treatment so private medical insurance is often obtained in order to receive treatment more quickly. The system in France is again slightly different; one must be registered with a GP in order to access the healthcare system. An expat who is not working or is below retirement age cannot get free healthcare from the state. The state system in France pays 70% of healthcare bills; the rest of the bill is the responsibility of the individual. If the status of permanent resident is required then proof of healthcare insurance is a necessity. Those travelling to some areas within the Middle East may find that their destination operates a No Insurance- No Visa policy (expats in the United Arab Emirates, for example, may be unable to open a bank account, register their children at a school, rent a house or get a work permit without proof of medical insurance). Choosing Insurance Following the rapid rise in globally based companies over the past decade, coupled to vast improvements in telecommunications and the expansion of Internet services world-wide, the availability of private healthcare insurance services to the expatriate community has never been better. However, of the 30-40 million estimated expats living or working globally, less than half of these individuals and families hold valid healthcare insurance plans. As this market for expat cover is growing at over 10% annually, globally, several new plan providers and new insurers have launched new plans over recent years, offering clients increased choices. For new expatriates leaving the USA or western Europe to be based in a developing country, perhaps for some years, it is often a shock to discover that medical treatment of a reasonable quality is either not available, or very expensive, in their new location. Conditions can differ vastly from Baku to Beijing to the Bahamas. Many documented case histories sadly indicate the devastating experience (mentally, physically and financially) which falling

seriously ill when overseas can become. The medical insurance plans you may need are readily available through a worldwide network of specialist brokers and Independent Financial Advisors (IFAs) or via the Plan Insurers themselves. Several specialist independent brokers now have their own websites, offering multiple choices of health insurance plans. Taking independent advice is always recommended, in order that you not only buy the right plan, but also pay premiums appropriate to your new country area. Do not buy a plan without studying the policy wording carefully, particularly underwriting conditions, benefits, etc. If in doubt, ask, and only when completely satisfied complete all application forms fully, to the best of your ability. Too frequently, potential buyers of health insurance look only for the lowest cost of premiums before really considering the specific benefits and areas of cover they may actually need. The expatriate client should carefully review the benefits of cover offered, check out any limits to that cover and note any exclusions made by the insurer. Some plans are cheaper for a reason. Often they include large voluntary deductibles on any claim you might make in the future and may severely cap the benefits received under the plan. Cover limits can vary from 50,000 total cover to as much as 5,000,000 total cover. Any major operation in the USA or perhaps an organ transplant can soon eat up a capped cover plan. Exclusions to the policy should also be read carefully and advice taken from an independent advisor. Clients should define their needs first, establish the particular area of cover they need, then determine their annual healthcare insurance budget. Only then should they look to premium comparisons, last of all. Underwriting Terms of Plans For the individual expatriate or family there are usually only two ways to take out international medical insurance. By means of a moratorium application or a full underwriting application. It is important to understand these rather jargonised phrases as claims can be rejected if you have inappropriate underwriting. A moratorium plan means that any pre existing condition, for which you have had treatment, advice

Finding a good doctor is essential - ask for recommendations from friends or colleagues

make sure you find out which inoculations or health certificates are needed for entry. Soon after arrival, find out about the local vaccination programme and make sure that all members of your family are up to date with the local requirements. Bear in mind, for example, that the BCG immunisation is given to children at an earlier age in some countries than in others. Enquire about any specific health risks in the country you are planning to move to, especially those which might affect children. Diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, tuberculosis, Hepatitis A and B, various forms of encephalitis, typhoid and cholera are common in many countries, but the risk of being infected may vary considerably between different areas

of the country, and between urban and rural areas. Although it is important to be aware of the risks and take sensible precautions, try not to let exaggerated concerns about health risks worry you unnecessarily. The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (www.fco.gov.uk) and the U.S. Department of State (www.travel. state.gov) both provide up-to-date information on the health and other risks associated with travel to countries around the world. On specific local health issues, it may be more helpful to seek advice from doctors or other health professionals in the destination country rather than in your home country, as the former will be more familiar with specific health problems, levels of risks and the most effective treatments or preventative measures.

Choosing suitable medical cover

When buying health insurance cover make a list of your own needs first and then look for a suitable policy - not the other way round. Remember to check policy limits and exclusions carefully.

or consultation upon during the last 2, 3 or even 5 years in some cases, will be EXCLUDED from cover. Should you then not have any treatment, advice or consultations for such conditions for a further two years, your insurer may add that condition to your policy. Full underwriting applications mean that all medical history questions have to be completed (not needed on a moratorium plan) and that most insurers may then exclude any particular stated condition which they feel will lead to claims upon them. Full underwriting schemes are a little more complex as sometimes confirmation and clarification letters may be needed from your Doctor in order to have a specific condition covered under your new plan, or for that insurer to offer cover at all (e.g.; HIV or AIDS conditions cover or other long-term endemic/ chronic conditions.) Questions to ask the Insurance Provider: 1. Does the plan allow for cooling off periods, cancellation and then repayment of premium in full? 2. Does the plan offer Moratorium or is it Full underwriting and do I need to have a medical examination before joining? 3. Does the new insurer offer a 24 hour help line, 7 days a week, available from anywhere in the world (freephone)? Most insurers now offer this facility 4. Are my pre-existing conditions excluded when joining and if so, for how long are such conditions excluded? 5. Are all and any nationalities accepted or are there restrictions which apply to local nationals? Some insurers will only take expatriates abroad and not local nationals into an overseas plan. 6. Does the plan allow you to continue cover unbroken through your lifetime? In most cases insurers will continue to offer existing clients cover year on year, irrespective of age or claims history, although premium rates charged can increase dramatically with age. 7. Does the insurer allow for any doctor or consultant or hospital within the plan? Are there any restrictions in this respect? Most international plans do not place restrictions on either hospitals

or doctors, but almost all demand that their help lines are called first, prior to approval of any inpatient care. 8. Does the insurer provide for the direct settlement of bills presented by hospitals worldwide, regardless of location (or do you have to pay first)? 9. What are the insurers procedures for outpatient claims? Do these require any pre-authorization or if stated in the plan can you just pay and claim? How long before you get money back from the insurer? 14 days? 28 days? The vast majority of expatriate health plans DO NOT exclude certain occupations as do many UK based insurance plans. Expatriate plans do however involve increased premiums for activities such as winter sports or diving holidays. Nomenclature, Names and Plan Titles Product providers and insurers delight in launching new plan names with exclusive qualities mentioned in their brand names. However, international medical insurance plans broadly have three key components: in-patient or daycare treatment, outpatient treatment and finally add-on options. A basic or standard plan usually includes in-patient and daycare treatment, but no outpatient or other cover. Comprehensive plans mostly cover outpatient in addition to the inpatient costs, often with a capped limit, whilst deluxe, platinum or Premier Plus plans offer a full cover range of inpatient, daycare and outpatient with routine dental care (possibly maternity, evacuation, personal accident cover and even chronic conditions cover in certain cases). When comparing plans it is important to have a clear idea of benefits, specifically capping, area of cover and any exclusions. For example a USA passport holder living in Paris, who never needs cover in the USA apart from the occasional holiday trip, could take Area 1 European cover, which is often half the price of full world wide cover including the USA. Area 2 is usually described as world wide cover excluding the USA or Canada with Area 3 being the most expensive, offering global cover including the USA, all year round

A small travel add-on option can often help with up to 30 days emergency cover in the USA or Canada should it be needed. Elective care in the USA can also be added for just thirty days a year too, at a substantial discount to full Area 3 cover premiums. Some insurers now offer modular benefit packages where clients can pick and choose benefits and work out their own premiums. Emergency, Evacuation and Repatriation questions to ask 1. Does the plan include evacuation and repatriation and mortal remains repatriation or are these benefits classed as add-on extras? 2. What costs are included in the evacuation or repatriation cover? Some plans only cover travel costs, not accommodation; some plans only give cover one way. 3. Does the plan cover both your outward journey and pay for you to return from where you started? 4. Does the plan cater for one person or can a business colleague or a family member accompany the plan holder when travelling for treatment after evacuation? Emergency treatment when abroad can be very stressful at the best of times and being accompanied can be a huge comfort. Outpatient Costs and General Practitioner Costs Expatriates with families and small children will know that outpatient costs and visits to the local doctor are usually the main cost area at home and this is even more likely to be the case whilst abroad. Expats in developing countries are more prone to ill health and most will have at least one or more visits to a GP (general practitioner doctor) during a tour of duty. You need to know if GP costs will be fully reimbursed or if not, the level of deductible which will be made from any and all outpatient claims. Read your plan carefully. 1. Many insurers limit outpatient benefits and these issues should be carefully studied in the new plan. Note any restrictions. 2. Check the wording of how drugs and

dressings are covered to note whether Full Cover or financial limits are set in the plan. 3. Few plans offer Elective or Well Woman/Well Man checks. Most international plans cater for healthcare only once the patient has symptoms or is ill, they do not offer preventative checks or health checks at the request of the client. Some larger company plans do offer such checks, however, so if this is an important area for you it is worth asking for clarification. Outpatient Cover, Complementary Medicine, Dental Plans and Routine Maternity Plans If you are able to afford the premiums, outpatient cover added to in-patient/ daycare cover makes sense. In-patient care gives catastrophic cover or hospital cost cover, but gives no cost cover if you are walking wounded. A medium range comprehensive plan may well limit the amount you may claim on the outpatient costs, but a deluxe or fully comprehensive plan will give full cover for this benefit. Many plans do offer benefit for accidental damage to teeth, but not routine elective dental healthcare. Routine dental treatment is mostly quoted as an optional extra, as is any option to take out cover for routine maternity treatment. Thus, if you break a tooth you will be covered but if you visit the dentist for a crown, beware - you may have to pay. Routine maternity care cover can be a valuable part of overseas family planning, yet many women and families overseas, unfortunately, only contact their broker or insurer when already pregnant. Few insurers will allow routine maternity costs reimbursement if a woman is pregnant when actually taking out the plan. Almost all insurers will consider an existing pregnancy as a pre-existing condition, but will cover an emergency in pregnancy. If a couple have held medical insurance for one year, the insurer may offer an option for routine maternity costs up to a budget limit. Talk this over with a specialist advisor in expatriate health insurance if necessary. More insurers are now taking a more enlightened approach to the subject of complementary care and the costs of chiropractioners, osteopaths,

homeopaths, acupuncturists and the like. These benefits are usually severely budget capped by the insurers, however. Other Cost Considerations and Options With the growing range of plans available world wide, across a vast premium spectrum, several new benefit cost areas are available which are not always available from all insurers, but can be quoted selectively in certain plans. These include: Well child care, well man and well woman checks - all can be quoted Prosthetic appliances - can be quoted but are capped Eyeglasses and tests - quoted on many deluxe and top plans Crowns, dentures and bridges, routine dental - quoted on top plans Death of close relative - round trip costs covered on many plans Treatment in USA, elective or emergency - usually can be quoted Vaccinations - quoted on some plans Annual health checks - quoted on some top plans Organ transplants, AIDS and chronic cover - some top plans Hazardous sports - quoted on some plans. Legal costs after accidents abroad quoted in some plans Complaints All insurer plans should clearly stipulate the complaints and disputes procedures they follow together with details of any regulator. If your claim is fair and you have proper records, the insurers will pay up. Expat Health Insurance - Summary If you purchase a comprehensive plan from a reputable insurer via an independent broker, you will usually not be disappointed. However, if you buy what is clearly a cheap plan, without advice, beware when trying to make a claim there may well be pages and pages of exclusions in the small print. It is also important to choose the correct geographical area of cover. Routine travel options can be taken at much

less cost than full-blown USA cover, for example, if you do not really need elective USA cover. Voluntary excesses on claims can substantially reduce premiums, as can co-insurance payments (sharing risk costs with the insurer.) In the final analysis, international expat medical insurance is as much about being able to sleep peacefully at night, secure in the knowledge that you are covered should something happen, as it is about making a claim. If both parties fully understand the contract and deal in good faith, insurers very much want to keep clients for the long term. It is always better however, to compare and study at least three packs of brochures from different insurers, or have a review carried out by an independent broker specialising in the healthcare insurance field. A well known brand name alone does not necessarily indicate good service, many lesser-known expatriate specialist insurers offer excellent premiums, wide benefits, good claims records and fast efficient electronic client services. Professional support teams are vital in overseas emergencies. Your helpline card is the key to medical help and assistance 24 hours a day whilst overseas. Make sure that you have it to hand and that you know how to use it. With most insurers now offering toll-free global numbers 24 hours a day, these vital helplines are the first port of call prior to any treatment being arranged, with the exception of emergencies.

Need Help?
http://expatfocus.com/insurance Expat Focus is pleased to offer the services of a fully independent international medical and health insurance broker offering a free quote service with advice to expatriates. Quotes are available for: - individual and families - groups and companies - students and teachers - international schools - yacht crews and more http://expatfocus.com/insurance

COST OF LIVING
A crucial factor when budgeting

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in advance when you first arrive. If the accommodation is not furnished then you will need to purchase new furniture and appliances which can be costly in a country which has to import these items (the alternative is shipping your own items from home, although this can be very expensive). If your accommodation is close to your place of work then budgeting for transport costs may not be necessary although a car will give you the freedom to travel around. If importing your own car is not a cost effective option then it may be better to buy a vehicle locally. Take into account the cost of insurance and fuel and investigate whether you need to pay for a local driving licence. Provision for education costs is also essential if your children are accompanying you abroad. In many countries using local schools is either free or only incurs a small cost, but if you need or prefer to choose private education then find out about school fees as early as possible - they are likely to be significant. Several organisations publish rankings based on the following (or similar) cost of living categories. Consider the different categories below and their cost implications for your own circumstances: 1. Alcohol and Tobacco In the Middle East, where alcohol is forbidden in many areas, the overall spend is almost nil so countries such as Saudi Arabia appear fairly low down in cost of living rankings. However, other countries that may be trying to discourage the use of alcohol and cigarettes may have forced the prices up, putting them towards the top of a cost of living index. 2. Clothing Clothing costs will also vary depending upon the part of the world you are in. Some countries have a VAT type tax which is added to clothing and other countries may have to import a great deal from manufacturers abroad which also adds to the cost. 3. Communication This takes into consideration the cost of renting a landline telephone and the calls made, connection charges

for the internet and the cost of using a mobile phone. In some developing countries where communications are not as advanced as the UK and the US, landline costs may be higher due to the lower demand for services. However, a worldwide preference for mobile phones often means that costs are quite reasonable wherever you are. 4. Education This category covers all school fees ranging from kindergarten to university and is particularly important if you are considering private education for your children (sometimes a necessity due to the quality or availability of places at local schools). The cost of private education can be expensive so budgeting is imperative. 5. Furniture and Applicances This covers the basics such as a cooker or fridge freezer or extras such as a DVD player or iron. For some expats this category may not need to be taken into consideration if renting a furnished home. If not, you will need to choose between buying new appliances in your new country or importing existing appliances from home. 6. Groceries This covers all foods and non alcoholic drinks, as well as cleaning products. In some countries the branded foods which you may already be familiar with have to be imported into the country, which adds considerably to the cost. It is tempting to purchase brands that you recognise, but often locally produced items are just as good and are far cheaper. 7. Healthcare In some countries basic healthcare is free but private healthcare insurance is popular with many expats. Those moving abroad for work may find that medical insurance is provided by their employer. 8. Housing This category includes rents, mortgages, utility bills and local property taxes. These costs tend to be much lower in developing countries than in countries such as the US or the UK, and it is often one of the reasons people choose to

move, particularly retirees. Utility bills are also a fluctuating cost across the world and depend on various factors, such as whether or not the provider is privately or publicly owned, if the utilities are managed locally, and the general quality of the supply. 9. Miscellaneous Includes items such as the cost of linen and dry cleaning, the cost of hiring domestic help, newspapers or office supplies. As these are small items which are not always necessary to buy, the costs are often quite low but there are countries where expats will find themselves paying over the odds for them. 10. Personal care For example baby care items, cosmetics and toiletries. If you prefer branded items you may find that these are expensive if they have to be imported into the country although as with most items, locally produced versions will be available which are more reasonably priced. 11. Recreation This covers leisure items such as the cost of purchasing a DVD or cinema ticket, a book, theatre tickets or items for sporting activities. Costs do vary, and some countries may have a relatively low cost of a night out at the cinema but charge a lot to purchase a DVD. 12. Restaurants and Hotels Both standard restaurants and fast food restaurants. Most cities in the world will have establishments at both ends of the price range so even if the average cost of a meal out is fairly high in your chosen destination, it should still be possible to have a reasonably priced night out if you go off the beaten track a little. 13. Transport Includes the cost of public transport, hiring a car, buying a car, maintenance of the vehicle and fuel costs. Transport is an important issue unless you are living within walking distance of work, school etc.

Beware of high prices and unexpected expenses

As unglamorous as it sounds, good budgeting for the cost of living in your destination country could be what makes the difference between your relocations success or failure. Make sure you have enough money to support yourself and your family for the first few months, especially if you dont already have a job lined up. It might take longer than you think to find employment and somewhere to live, and unless you have temporary accommodation or can stay with friends, you might find yourself paying for hotel accommodation for longer than expected. As far as possible, try to work out what everything is going to cost during those crucial first months when you are trying to find your feet in a foreign land. Consider what additional expenses you will be likely to incur that you may not have had in your home country, such as school fees for your children, or the cost of private medical treatment. When you have arrived at a total, double it to allow for unexpected expenses. Remember to take into account the impact of any change in your personal circumstances which might affect your income, such as a reduction from two household incomes to one.

Small but regular expenses can quickly add up - take everything into account before you move

luxury of the domestic help which is available at a low cost in many countries, especially those in Asia. Be prepared for unexpected expenses though for example, dont assume that fuel bills will necessarily be low in hot countries - yearround air-conditioning comes at a cost.

belongings, regular visits home for you and your family, childrens school fees, a housing allowance and an allowance for domestic staff or a driver. When assessing a salary offer you will need to take several things into consideration, not least of which is the cost of living in the country you will be working in. What may be a low salary in your home country could be much higher in the country you are considering moving to if that country has a low cost of living. There is also the question of income tax. Some countries require workers to pay little or no income tax, which gives them more disposable income.

If you are moving to take up a job abroad find out what benefits (if any) you are entitled to in order to help with your relocation expenses and living expenses in the new country - some Even if you are moving to a country expats whose companies have initiated with a low cost of living, you might find their move may find they are eligible for that you spend more than expected. a significant relocation package. If this Many expatriates buy familiar imported applies to you, find out exactly what groceries, for example, which are more is included in your relocation package expensive than local goods, and there as soon as possible and, if appropriate, is often a temptation to eat out and Accommodation costs vary and in consider negotiating for more benefits. to socialize more than usual to take some countries you may have to pay Some relocation packages include the advantage of the variety of new types of as much as six or twelve months rent cost of flights, importation of personal food and other experiences available. All of this will put pressure on your budget. However, the higher cost of some items, such as imported alcohol in parts of Asia, Thinking about moving abroad can conjur up exotic images of is often offset by savings in other areas, luxurious living but make sure to keep your feet on the ground - be such as cheaper restaurant food.

Can you really afford the lifestyle you want?

Many western expatriates enjoy the

realistic when comparing your income with expected outgoings.

CREDIT AND DEBT

they are more likely to lend you funds in the future.

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Credit ratings and debt management

Develop a sound strategy for dealing with both
Establishing a credit rating when moving to another country is important if you wish to apply for a credit card, loan, mortgage or other form of credit. Your credit rating determines how much you can borrow and the rates of interest that you will have to pay. Managing debt is another important issue, whether your debt is from your country of origin or in your new country. Ignoring debt is never wise - take expert advice and deal with the situation. Establishing a Credit Rating Every country has their own procedure to follow in order to establish a credit rating and it may even that credit facilities such as loans, mortgages and credit cards are not actually available to expats in your destination country. Always check in advance if you think you might need any of these facilities when you arrive.

There are a number of advantages in addition to building a credit rating to having a local credit card when you are an expat, even if you would prefer to use a card from your home country. Should you wish to order something over the internet, for example. if you are using a credit card issued in your home country, even if the billing address has been changed to your new home, the transaction may be declined. A credit card is also a good source of emergency funds so it may be worthwhile applying for a card even if you do not intend to use it on a regular basis. Managing Debt at Home Some expats believe that they can escape debt problems by moving abroad. However, steps are being taken to prevent people from just abandoning their debts and disappearing. Countries are establishing reciprocal agreements with each other in order to be able to pursue those who have left their debts behind. This means that if a court judgement is issued against a person with debts in one country, when they move to another their creditors can use the legal system of the new country to enforce the judgment and try to recover the funds. If there is no agreement with the new country of residence then the creditor is entitled to try to sell the debt to a collection agency in the new country which can then use local legislation to pursue those that owe. Some people believe that they cannot be traced when they move abroad. This is not true, although in some countries it may be more difficult than in others. There are a number of options open to the creditor including visiting last known addresses and questioning acquaintances. Creditors may also have offices or contacts in the new country to help them track a person down. However, it must be said that some people do actually move overseas and escape their debts. Under UK law a creditor has just six years from the last time the debt was acknowledged by the person concerned to recover the monies. Acknowledgement can be in the form of a payment, a record of a telephone

call or letter and the six years begins at that point. However, if the creditor has taken some form of legal action in the form of a court judgement, then the debt exists forever and the person who owes the money could be made to pay at any time. This means that even if you have been living your new life abroad for many years somebody could still come along at a later date and attempt to recover the debt. It is better to deal with the issue of debt instead of ignoring it. There are a number of debt advice agencies in most countries that can help you to manage debt and arrange suitable repayments. It may be tempting to use a company which advertise that they can reduce your debt to almost nothing, but these companies do charge fees and you can achieve similar results with the help of a free debt advisory service. Options for repaying debt include offering the creditor a small, fixed amount each month. Many will allow you to do this as it is better for them to receive a little money than nothing at all and if you are using the services of a debt advisory agency then they may be more inclined to allow you to do this. Filing for bankruptcy should be a last resort as this will affect your ability to obtain future credit, even if you choose to move abroad, as you may have to provide proof from your home country that you have a good credit rating in order to obtain credit elsewhere. You should also be aware that if you have debts that are unpaid in your home country and then choose to return then you will find it very difficult to obtain credit again and this will have an effect if you try to apply for a mortgage or credit card. Managing Debt Abroad If you do obtain credit facilities in your new country, it is not advisable to use them to run up significant levels of debt. As an expat it can take several years to establish a good credit rating abroad and this can then be ruined by non-payments. If you do need to use a credit card try to use it for relatively small amounts which can be paid off each month. Paying the full balance should mean that little or no interest is charged to your account. Making only minimum payments, on the other hand, is likely to

greatly increase the time taken to pay of the debt and substantially increase the amount repaid due to interest charges. There is a growing trend in some countries with high numbers of expat workers for them to return home not having paid their bills. This is increasingly common in some Middle Eastern countries due to sudden changes within workforces and regulations requiring workers who lose their jobs to leave the country within a certain time period. It may be that some people just do not have the chance to pay what they owe, but abandoning debt often causes more problems than it solves. For example, if you decide that you would like to return one day you may find that visas are refused due to the unpaid debt. If you do find yourself in a country without work and have to leave it is better to negotiate a repayment plan rather than ignoring the debt. When applying for a large loan such as a mortgage it is often best not to stretch yourself too far. The mortgage lender will advise how much you can borrow based on income and outgoings, but expats moving to take up the offer of a new job are in an inherently risky situation. Buying a smaller, cheaper property gives you some room to manouver should the job fall through and you are forced to look for alternative employment in a hurry, possibly with a lower salary. As soon as debt becomes unmanageable it is a good idea to get help. Ignoring the problem wont make it go away., in fact it just makes things worse as interest charges and late payment fees can add up very quickly. Getting help in the beginning means that there is less chance of creditors filing bad debt claims against you, so even if you struggle to make payments your credit rating will not be adversely affected. Simple and careful planning will help you through the pitfalls of the credit and debt cycle, but the main thing to remember is to not borrow unnecessarily, and never more than you can afford to repay.

Credit cards are great for covering short term expenses but keep an eye on your balance and credit limit

measure to filter out those people who only want the account to cash or write a bad cheque.

Other countries will have their own bank account security measures; some You will need to register with the local may make you wait a month or more authorities when you arrive to pay any taxes or social security contributions that before clearing a foreign cheque for you may be liable for. All countries have example. This means those receiving an income (like a pension cheque) from a system of giving out a social security number or its equivalent and this is often their country of origin will not be able to access their funds until after the required the first step in establishing a credit waiting period. Opening a bank account rating. A person who is not officially may also mean that you have to make a a resident in the country or who does minimum deposit. not work will not be able to obtain any credit. Some banks may require you to open a savings account and deposit the same Once you have your social security amount of money into it as the level of number you should then be able to credit that you are applying for. This open a bank account - the next step account can then be blocked for a set in establishing a credit rating. A solid period of time, usually a year, while you history with the bank will make it easier to apply for a credit card from them. When you first open a bank account the transactions you can carry out at first may be limited. For example, in the United States for the first 90 days of having a bank account it is blocked with a red flag. This is normal and is a security

prove that you are trustworthy. At the end of this period you can have the savings account unblocked and the funds released. It may be that when you arrive you will only be able to obtain a credit card with a higher rate of interest than you would like but this may just be a temporary measure. If you use your credit card for small purchases and pay off the balance each month your credit rating will grow and applying for further credit should be easier, though using more than 50% of the credit balance each month may have you classed as over extended. Consider asking for a card with a low limit so you will not be tempted to overspend. Following tips like these will ensure that you build a good reputation with banks and other credit lending institutions and

Get help if you need it

Tempting as it might seem to try to leave your debt problems behind you, the reality is often less straightforward. Speak to a reputable debt advice agency to discuss your options if necessary.

CURRENCY TRANSFERS

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Getting help with foreign exchange rates

Your bank or a currency broker - which is best?
Fluctuations in exchange rates can make a big difference to your income as an expat, especially where large sums of money are involved. For example, in 2007 the pound to euro rate was approximately 1.40, making 100,000 worth 140,000, whereas in 2009 the rate was approximately 1.08, making the same 100,000 worth only 108,000. Those working or retiring abroad may be receiving smaller but regular payments through either wages/salary or their pension. These differences will fluctuate each month as the exchange rate is changing all the time - something that must be taken into account before accepting a job or considering a move. One solution is to ensure payment is made in the currency of the country where one will be living and working, although this is only ideal as long as those with families actually have their families with them. Those whose families will not be making the move, for example those with short term contracts where it is not financially viable for a company to relocate a whole family for a short period, may find that they hit the same problems transferring a portion of their wages back home. Ensuring that wages are paid in the currency of the country one is currently living in means that a fair salary can be negotiated taking into account cost of living. This also means that there will be no transfer charges when moving from one currency to the next, although many will find that it is compulsory to have a bank account in the new home country in order to make payments. This of course will not help those receiving a state or private pension, as the money will be paid only in the home currency. This means that each month the amount of money received will vary, and therefore trying to budget will be difficult. Of course, if moving to a
Currency rates fluctuate constantly - specialist advice can help you time things perfectly

who do not work in their chosen country and may find they receive few or no benefits when times are hard, as they have never worked or paid income taxes to the state. If they must rely solely on their private income from pensions or other sources, when times are hard and the exchange rate is not in their favour some people find that their pensions are just not enough to cover all of their living expenses and decide to give up their new life abroad. Careful planning for the future can help to prevent this situation. For example, when exchange rates are favourable, one option is to try to save a little of the money for the future, when times may be hard. Of course, expats who have decided not to return to their home country - such as those who have gained residency status and are working and paying taxes to the government of their new country - may find that fluctuating exchange rates do not affect them at all. They are already being paid each month into a local bank account, in the currency of their new country, with no need to make expensive transfers and withdrawals. Transferring Money Overseas There are many ways of sending money from one country to another. As always, expats can save themselves a lot of trouble and expense if they do a little research and shop around for the best deal. International Bank Transfers For most expats, currency transfer involves transferring small to medium sized amounts regularly from an existing bank account back home into a new overseas bank account in the local currency. These may be pension payments, benefits, or any other form of income. Your home bank will usually be glad to oblige. You can set up facilities with them on demand whereby you fax or call them on the phone, provide a secret code or two, tell them the amount in question, and theyll transfer it to your new bank, automatically converting it into the relevant local currency. Some banks also allow you to make international payments online. Whatever method you choose, transfers normally

take between 3-7 days although 1-2 day transfers are often available but be prepared to pay more for these. You can also set up regular transactions that are processed automatically on a fixed day of each month. Many state pensions and benefits can be paid directly into your new bank abroad without going through your home bank at all. Some private pension organisations may also offer the same facility. When you first set up a transfer of funds abroad, the sending bank or institution will ask you for various codes that identify the destination bank. Often they will ask for IBAN (International Bank Account Number), BIC (Bank Identifier Code) or SWIFT codes but dont panic your new bank will give these to you and they may even already be listed in your new chequebook or bank statements. As far as charges are concerned, you will probably be required to pay a flat fee per transaction. Additionally a percentage fee is often charged for the currency conversion itself. You may also find that your receiving bank charges you for receiving the transfer. Charges vary by bank but can quickly add up - ask your bank(s) for an indication of the fees involved. As a general rule, transferring larger sums less frequently usually works out cheaper than transferring smaller amounts more often. However, if you need to transfer regular amounts of at least a few hundred pounds/dollars or need to make a larger one-off payment (e.g. for a house purchase) you should consider the services of a currency broker. Cash Machine/ATM Withdrawals Thanks to modern technology, most people abroad can go to a cash machine/ATM and withdraw local currency funds directly from their home bank account. This is a useful option to have for expats but exercise caution - many banks make hefty charges for using this type of facility. You may also find that withdrawal limits are in place (as a security measure) even if you significant funds in your account back home. You can also use VISA or Mastercard

credit cards to obtain cash in this fashion and if you pay the amount off quickly and avoid interest charges then fine but once again credit card charges for cash withdrawals can be high. Check the rates carefully. Currency Brokers Currency brokers (also called foreign exchange brokers) offer significant advantages over traditional banks. Firstly, brokers will often be able to offer you a better rate than your bank. Secondly, the entire process is more transparent - many banks require you to accept the exchange rate available on the day they process your transaction, whatever and whenever that may be, but a specialist broker will offer greater flexibility, even allowing you to specify the rate you want in advance. Currency brokers are smaller companies than major banks so always check their background carefully. Ask existing expats for their own experiences and recommendations before choosing a firm to handle your own foreign exchange requirements. A good broker will discuss all the options with you and enable you to make the best decision for your circumstances. Using a broker will typically off the following advantages: 1) Currency brokers generally provide superior exchange rates to the high street banks. The currency brokers have access to the interbank rate and do not have the high costs that the banks have. This means that they can usually offer better exchange rates. 2) Use of a free Market Watch/Order Service: This allows you to tell your currency broker your target or budget exchange rate and they will ring you if that exchange rate level is reached. As the rate moves every few seconds, currency brokers can act as your eyes and ears on the market. 3) Ability to fix the exchange rate in advance using a Forward Contract. If you know you need to convert/move funds in the future but dont yet have the money you can reserve a rate in advance using a Forward Contract. During this period, you are exposed to exchange rate movements and therefore, a forward contract is ideal if, for example, you have

country whose cost of living is extremely low then even low income expats such as pensioners may find that their money stretches further even if the exchange rate is weak and they should still have a comfortable standard of living. However, the cost of living in a country depend on many factors including the countrys national debt. Some people living abroad have found that the effect of tax rises in response to burgeoning national debt has had the effect of greatly increasing their typical shopping bills and some expats trying to live on a pension may find that they are now struggling if exchange rates are low and cost of living is high. The currency exchange rate also affects tourism which may in turn affect expats living in the local area. Countries that

rely heavily on tourism - often those countries popular with expats - may find that holiday makers choose to go elsewhere where their money is worth more., again causing the cost of living to rise. Withdrawing money from a foreign bank account can be costly for many expats, and the value received one day may not be the same the next. If it is essential to withdraw money this way, it is advantageous to take out larger sums less often as banks usually charge per transaction. The currency exchange rate is one of the potential pitfalls of living and working abroad, and a slump in a currencys value can last for several years. This is often the breaking point for many people who choose to live abroad, especially retirees

Always get the best rate available

Whether you need to make a one-off payment or regular transfers, getting the best exchange rate is crucial. Ask for recommendations from other expats and speak to a currency broker you can trust.

agreed to buy a house and want to fix the rate now but will not be making payment for a couple of months. A forward contract is when you fix an exchange rate for a pre-agreed date in the future. You can fix a forward exchange rate for any period from 1 week up to 1 year in advance. Theres no cost for a forward contract and no payment is made until the settlement date, except for a small deposit of 2% to 10% depending on how far ahead you would like to fix the rate. A forward contract is fixed at the forward rate which usually differs slightly from the spot rate (the rate for immediate transfer). The difference between the 2 rates is the forward points. The Sterling Euro forward points, for example, are a straight arithmetic calculation of the difference in the interest rates between the UK and the Euro-zone. When UK interest rates are higher than Euro rates, the rate will go down slightly as you reserve further into the future. If UK rates were to fall below Euro rates, the rate would go up for a forward contract. This is most easily explained with 2 examples. 1) At the end of June 2005, UK interest rates were 4.75% and European rates were 2%. i.e. a difference of 2.75%. You could have fixed an immediate deal with a currency broker at 1.50. If you wanted to book a 1-year forward contract, i.e. fix the exchange rate for 24th June 2006, they would have reduced the exchange rate by approximately 2.75% (i.e. around 1.4588). Although the exchange rate appears worse, you can keep your pounds on deposit in the UK at 4.75% for a year whereas if you had transferred them to Europe immediately you would only receive 2% interest (or less). If you factor back in the extra interest you would be receiving in the UK, you are still converting at an effective rate of 1.50. 2) If you were buying in France, had signed the Compromis at the end of June 2005 and were due to pay the notaire a month later, you could have fixed a rate with a currency broker for the end of July at 1.4950. Although the rate could have gone up from here and you would still have converted at 1.4950, you would have been protected from the rate falling. In fact by the end of July 2005, the rate had fallen

to 1.4350. On a 295,000 property the forward contract would have meant you paid 197,324.41. If you had waited and converted at the end of July, you would have paid 206,293.71 - almost 9,000 more! Timing your currency exchange correctly Fluctuations in the exchange rate can make a tremendous difference to the value of your funds when moving your money overseas. Therefore, it is vital to time your currency exchange correctly so that you can get the most for your sterling. Leaving the exchange until the last minute could cost you hundreds, or even thousands, if the exchange rates move against you or money is converted at a poor rate. Economic data releases, such as interest rate announcements, and house price and unemployment information, can have a huge impact on exchange rates. For example, when a countrys government announces it is going to raise interest rates, this typically increases the value of the currency and can therefore have a positive impact on the exchange rate. Likewise, if a country announces that its economic output is falling or that it is going to drop its interest rates, this can have a negative effect. The global recession has resulted in the currency markets being even more volatile than before and rates can move by several percentage points over the course of a single day. Specialist foreign exchange brokers follow the markets closely and provide a bespoke service to their clients to help them achieve the best exchange rate for their transfers, and offer a number of different products to achieve this. Currency brokers can give you a valuable insight into how the rates are moving and the outlook for the coming days, weeks or months. If you do not need to make an exchange immediately it may be beneficial to hold off for a few days if there is a chance that the exchange rate may improve. Some foreign exchange brokerages have a team of in-house economists who publish daily economic updates about the market and upcoming data which may impact

the rate. The main benefit to exchanging money through a FX specialist rather than a bank, though, is cost. Foreign exchange firms keep their clients fully informed of movements in the markets and offer far superior exchange rates than they would normally get from high street banks. Savings can vary from between 1 and 4 per cent on the exchange rate alone, and specialists do not typically charge any fees for transmitting the funds abroad, unlike the banks which can levy as much as 40 in fees or charges. Therefore, if you are emigrating and transferring a large sum of money such as the proceeds of a property a foreign exchange company could potentially save you thousands. There are a number of different FX options available to emigrants and a qualified broker can explain these to you and advise on the most suitable hedging strategy, based on your circumstances. THIS PAGE LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK

Need Help?
http://expatfocus.com/currency Our award winning foreign exchange partner guarantees to find their clients the best exchange rate available. They also offer same day payments, zero commission and a free market update/rate watch to manage exposure to exchange rate fluctuations. With offices throughout the globe they have transacted with over 22,000 private clients and 5,000 companies and have a yearly currency exchange transaction volume of over $2 billion. http://expatfocus.com/currency

BANKING
A range of options to consider

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Existing, local and offshore bank accounts

Expats have a number of banking options open to them - from opening a local or offshore bank account to just maintaining an existing bank account in their country of origin. Some people assume that they will be able to use their existing bank account abroad without issue or that opening a local account will be a straightforward process. However it is always wise to consider your future requirements in advance and plan accordingly in order to save not only time and effort but in many cases money too. Remember to tell your bank and credit card companies that you are moving overseas and find out if they allow you to have an overseas address for your account and are prepared to send your statements there. If you close your account, remember to inform anyone that you have standing order or direct debit arrangements with. If you do keep an account with a bank in your home country, consider using one which offers internet banking facilities to make it easier to manage from abroad. Most countries now have ATM networks which allow you to withdraw cash from your home country using debit or credit cards, although there may be a per transaction charge for this service. However, you will probably also find it convenient to open a bank account in your new country, and this may even be required by your employer. You will probably need to show your passport and employment details in order to open an account, and may be asked to make an initial minimum deposit. Find out whether there are restrictions on how much you can withdraw from your account each month. Generally speaking you should be able to use internationally-recognized credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard in larger shops, restaurants and hotels

is for a fixed amount of time. It is not normally a good idea, however, to use it for day to day transactions while you are away. Having money paid in from abroad and using cash machines while you are in another country often incurs high charges. There are some banks which do not charge for cash machine (ATM) withdrawals in a foreign country, however, so it is always worth checking your own banks policy. If you intend to become a permanent resident in your destination country also check whether or not you still qualify for free banking or special rates (if applicable). It can be advantageous to keep your existing bank account if you receive funds from an institution in your home country such as a private or state pension or some form of benefit payment. If you are moving to a country which has a reciprocal agreement with your home country, these can usually be paid directly to you there, but if not then an existing bank account at home will be required. You can then arrange for the funds to be transferred to your new bank account abroad, although this will incur charges and possibly currency conversion fees. Keeping your existing bank account is also a good idea if you have gone abroad to earn money to send home, as this can just be transferred directly to the country of origin by your local bank. Expats should familiarise themselves with the exchange rates, as these change daily, and even if you transfer the same amount in the local currency, the amount that arrives in your home bank account is likely to fluctuate. Having a bank account in your home country will also help to keep your credit facilities open while you are away. Provided you have maintained a healthy relationship with the bank and any credit card companies you should still be able to obtain credit if you return home. Local Banking Opening a local bank account is usually a good idea if you are moving to your new country to work. The regulations for opening a bank account vary from country to country but most will allow expats who are employed to open a basic current account that does not have debit card or credit facilities. Extra items such as employer references or bank references from your home country may

be required if you want to have debit card facilities. Opening a basic current account is usually straightforward although you may need to make a small deposit. Some countries will also require you to have a local social security number or equivalent before you can open an account. A local bank account has a number of benefits, not least of which is that it is usually easier for making payments such as rent, mortgage, utility or phone bills. Furthermore some organisations may insist on direct debit style payments from a local bank so such an account could be a necessity. In short, trying to manage without a local bank account for any length of time is often impractical and can prove costly. Opening a local bank account and keeping to agreed account limits will also help to build a credit rating, a necessity should you wish to apply for a credit card, loan or mortgage at a later date. When you open a local bank account you will need to have proof of identification and for some countries with strict immigration regulations, proof of approved residency status. The official notification of your social security number may be enough proof of identification in some cases. Other documentation that may be required includes a passport, driving licence or rent book. The procedure for opening an account varies. Some banks may expect you to complete numerous forms, particularly if you want to apply for a debit card or credit facilities. In other cases it may just be a case of presenting your identification and giving your contact details. You should also be aware of the length of time it might take to open the account, in some countries the procedure can take no more than 15 minutes, while in others you may have to wait a few hours or even days while your details are processed. If your existing bank account is with a bank that operates internationally then it may be possible to set up a local bank account prior to your move. This will also make transferring funds between the two countries much easier. Using the same bank may also make it easier if you decide to apply for a mortgage at a later date.

Also, be aware that although most foreign banks will accept a cheque in the currency of your home country, these can take several weeks to clear. If you do not speak the language of the country that you are in, or if English is not widely spoken, opening a new bank account may be a challenging process. Most banks will have someone on the staff who speaks English, particularly in areas where there are large numbers of English speaking expats, but if you are in doubt consider taking along a friend or colleague who speaks the local language, especially of your banking needs are complex. Fortunately, most cash machines (ATMs) will allow you to carry out your transactions in English, offering you the option to choose the language when you insert your card. Current Accounts v Savings Accounts It may be advisable for an expat to have both a current and savings account, particularly if they have moved abroad for work. A current account abroad can be used in the same way as your existing current account for daily expenses such as travel, groceries, household bills etc. though consumers should be aware that current accounts pay very little interest, if any, while the interest rates on savings accounts vary. A savings account is useful if you have moved abroad in order to earn money to save, as is often the case with expats who have moved to countries where there is little or no income tax. Savings accounts are also fairly easy to open as they generally do not offer credit facilities such as overdrafts and as a result there are no credit checks to wait for. If you are planning to stay long term in your new country then you may wish to save to buy a house and a savings account can help you to organise your finances accordingly. Having a current and savings account that are in credit should also help your credit rating, making the mortgage application process easier. Both types of account should give you the option of transferring funds back to an existing account in your country of origin.

Some banks offer specialist services for expats which can make transitioning abroad much easier

around the world. However, practices do vary, and even in some western European countries, such as Germany, credit card payments are not usually accepted in stores, even large ones. Debit cards from your home country may not be recognized for payment overseas, but the Eurocard, a combined bank guarantee card and credit card, is generally accepted throughout Europe and can usually be obtained once you have established a good credit record with a European bank. Outside cities and large towns, you will often find that cash is needed for most bills and purchases. However, there are a few countries where cash is hardly used even for small daily transactions, and debit cards are the norm do your research before you go and avoid any embarrassing situations.

One major difference in banking practices is that while it is normal procedure to use personal cheques (checks) in the UK, USA and many non-European countries, which are generally made out to an individual or a company name, in northern European countries the standard method of payment is the Giro, which is made out to an account number rather than name, and submitted to the bank for payment rather than sent to the payee. Giros are in common use in Germany and the Scandinavian countries for bill payments. Keeping Your Existing Bank Account It is usually a good idea to maintain your existing bank account in your country of origin, particularly if your move abroad

Good service is still important

When looking for a new bank overseas ask existing expats for their own experiences. Does the bank offer specialist expatriate banking? Do all their support staff speak English? Can you bank online?

Offshore Banking What Does Offshore Mean? Offshore refers to financial centres which specialise in investing funds for non-residents - either individual finances or corporate finances in offshore companies. These are often called offshore financial centres or financial jurisdictions and may sometimes be referred to as OFCs. Despite the name, they are not limited to islands and many countries have what can be considered to be offshore financial facilities. The International Monetary Fund defines an offshore jurisdiction as an economy that has a financial sector which is out of proportion to the population living there. In effect this includes a number of countries, including the UK and the United Kingdom although most people will opt for an OFC which offers tax breaks or specialist investments that cannot be found onshore. Offshore jurisdictions are also often called tax havens, but there are some differences between the two. The concept of a tax haven is very general and tax havens are used as a place of residence in order for a person to pay less tax than they would in their country of origin. It is not necessary to live in an offshore jurisdiction in order to make investments that way. Many offshore jurisdictions now have procedures to allow various governments to have access to information if they suspect a person may be attempting to avoid paying tax and there are moves to take action against those jurisdictions which refuse to cooperate. The Main Offshore Financial Centres There are several OFCs which are very popular and these are mostly based in the Caribbean, though they can be found all over the world. Bermuda is known for insurance holdings and the registration of aircraft, while the British Virgin Islands have a large number of offshore companies. The Cayman Islands is popular with American investors. Other OFCs include Jersey, in the Channel Islands, which is popular as a tax haven and has many lawyers and other

professional advisors working in the offshore finance industry. Luxembourg is another European OFC which deals mainly in Eurobonds. Singapore is a popular OFC in the Far East and is known for hedge funds and the private banking sector. Offshore Banks Offshore banks often offer the user greater privacy and security and for this reason banks in countries like Switzerland are particularly popular, especially with wealthy individuals who live in countries where the political situation is not stable and need to keep their money safe from any attempt to appropriate it. Some banks with offshore holdings can offer a higher rate of interest to the user as they have lower running costs. Government interference in onshore banking helps to keep interest rates lower, which means that there is less of a return for the consumer. Offshore banking also offers some nations the opportunity to compete with other countries on an international level, particularly if there is limited industry. Financial sectors grow well and some small developing nations are taking advantage of this, allowing them to develop a strong footing in the industry. Offshore banks will generally make interest payments without deducting tax, leaving it up to the consumer to declare the interest as earnings and so organise their own tax payments. Some countries do not have a system of income tax, but this can be beneficial for those who do have to pay, although there are moves to stamp out the use of OFCs for tax evasion purposes. There are some offshore banks that offer anonymous accounts and risk opportunities that may not be available through an onshore financial institution. They can also be linked to offshore companies and trusts which allow a greater degree of investment and more tax breaks for an individual. There are those who believe that offshore banking creates competition within the industry where tax is concerned, though some say this does put pressure on smaller financial institutions to compete when it is not practical. Small countries that do not

have large, well-established financial sectors may find it very difficult to offer similar benefits to an OFC. However, there are a number of disadvantages to using an offshore bank. They are less secure from a financial point of view. For example, in recent years banks have collapsed in Iceland and many people who lost money were residents of other countries. Some were able to get their money back but there are some still waiting and the Icelandic authorities are giving priority to those of their own country. Many offshore banks offer compensation schemes which should cover investors in the event of a collapse so before using such an institution it is advisable to check that you are covered first. Compensation schemes are usually capped at a specific amount so canny investors are often advised to split their investments if the amount exceeds the compensation limit. There is an ongoing association between offshore banking and the proceeds of illegal activities. This includes tax evasion and money laundering, although steps are being taken to limit this and monitor banking activity. Offshore investors also have a geographical disadvantage as some OFCs are remote and not easily visited, so all transactions are carried out at a distance. A person does not have to visit the bank themselves though in order to open as an account as many banks now allow this to be done online. Offshore banking also has an image of being reserved for the wealthier members of society. A simple savings account can be opened by anyone and there is no minimum income limit to do so. Most banks are working hard to assure consumers that their services are open to anyone. Overseas Banking Cultures - Some Dos and Donts for Expats For expats, having a local bank account will make your life a lot easier in terms of settling in and integrating. The good news is that generally speaking its easy to establish a good relationship with an overseas bank. Naturally though, many new expats initially find overseas banks a little baffling. Forms and documents in a foreign language, staff that understandably do not speak English,

misunderstandings, strange processes and odd opening hours - all generate a sense of insecurity and uncertainty. For the vast majority of expatriates these issues are minor and quickly overcome with experience. Once one knows the ropes these early glitches and confusions become amusing stories to be shared with friends and laughed at over a glass of wine. Yet for a small minority of expats, these initial hiccups can set the tone for all future dealings with their local banks, and the situation can deteriorate rapidly into one of mutual irritation, frustration and mistrust. So what can be done to get the best service and support from your bank overseas and avoid headaches? Of course its possible for any bank branch in any country to be just a little difficult or more rarely, plainly incompetent. Yet many of the difficulties that arise between expats and local banks come about simply because the expats concerned have not grasped at the outset just how different overseas banking cultures can be. As a result, they fail to develop a suitable approach to dealing with their local bank and trouble can start from the very first meeting. One has to recognise that there are basically two banking cultures in the world today. Much of the Englishspeaking world has undergone a vast revolution in banking culture and technology over the past 30 years, with the result that many consumers now regard banking and its products as commodities. In other words, many people in the UK or USA dont see going to the bank as much different to going to a supermarket. One goes in, looks around, chooses something, pays for it and takes it away. Yet any English speaker much over 40 or 45 will remember when the bank was the central pillar of a local community and anything other than a routine visit was a serious business. The branch manager was a figure of power, respect, or even fear. Customers looking for loans or new accounts had to be deferential to the manager because they were as likely to be assessed on perception of their character and history with the bank as on how much they earned or what they wanted the loan for. The first critical point to note is that this

revolution did not happen in much of the rest of the world. The technology overseas may have changed but attitudes did not! Traditional banking culture has largely vanished today from countries such as the UK or USA, but in many other foreign countries it persists. New expats need to understand that, and develop tactics for dealing with it. The second critical point to understand is that overseas banking is largely personal relationship based. Build a good face-to-face relationship with your bank and youll do well. Try and operate based on demands of rights to products and services and youll struggle. So, here are a few basic common sense expat dos and donts to try and help in starting and managing the very early stages of these international relationships. Do: Ask local people for their recommendations as to a bank dont just ask fellow expats or assume that because a bank has an English speaker it is therefore the best bank. Remember that the culture of overseas personal banking is still predominantly savings rather than loan based. Opening that tiny monthly savings account will significantly enhance their image of you. Consider committing at the outset to getting at least some income from your old country paid into your new bank. Check exchange rates and security carefully but remember nothing shows better commitment to your new life and new bank than having income credited regularly into your new account. If you cannot speak the language to a reasonable extent, take someone with you who can. Remember that this is just a start - you need to build and maintain a relationship. Overseas banks want your business but not at any price. They are assessing you at the outset in terms of whether they want to do business with you, just as much as you are assessing them. Keep that in mind! Dont: Go overdrawn EVER without clearing it with them first. In many countries

this is illegal and even where it is not, it suggests to them that you are not capable of managing your day-today affairs and are therefore either incompetent or untrustworthy. Start telling local banks that their services, products or charges compare unfavourably with back home. Ask them to do things the same way theyre done back home they cant change their methods just because you ask them to. Treat them as supermarkets. Most overseas banks expect to know you and have a relationship before they start lending money. Demand grovelling apologies, explanations and compensations if they make a simple mistake. Keep in mind that the convention in many countries is that to save face the apportioning of blame is avoided where possible, even if its the banks fault.

agreement is in place.

TAXATION
Expat taxation can be complicated

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Advice from an expert can help

Taxation is a hugely important factor to consider when moving abroad. In most cases it is worth taking professional advice on tax matters, especially in countries where taxation is complicated or where there is little guidance available in English. Without the right advice, you may find yourself paying more sometimes much more - than you need to. Some people who move abroad do so for tax reasons. These range from wealthy people who find that much of their income is being taken up by various taxes in their home country, to those who have a much lower income but who are looking to find a better quality of life for what they can afford. For example, some expats find that a low income in their home country is not enough for them to be able to afford a home of their own so they look to property markets abroad instead. You may wish to begin by taking the income tax rate into account when considering a move to a particular country, or when working out your monthly income if you have alreeady decided to make the move. Find out if you will be liable for income tax in your new country and at what rate. In most cases, you have to pay tax if you are living and working in the country for a specified minimum number of days in a tax year. Conversely, you will usually only have to pay tax in your country of origin if you reside in that country for a minimum number of days in the tax year. Make sure that you keep a record of all your relocation expenses, as some of these may be deductible against tax. Some countries, such as Belgium, have very high tax rates which can amount to almost 50% of monthly salaries. On the other hand, some expatriates benefit considerably from living in a tax-free country or specified zone, or one where the foreign workers of overseas-owned

A double taxation agreement will protect, for example, a person in receipt of a state pension from their country of origin. The country that issues the pension has the right to tax it but the country that you are living in has the right to tax you on any income that you receive while you are there. The agreement is put in place to confirm which state you will pay tax to while you are receiving the money in question. Some employees may be subject to a double contribution agreement which allows a company to send a worker to another country for a period of time but continue to pay the taxes and social security contributions of the home country. In order to find out if your country has similar agreements in place with the country you plan to move the best course of action is usually to contact your local tax office or professional tax adviser. Expat Tax Breaks Popular expat destinations such as some countries in the Middle East provide options for paying less or even no tax. In fact, many workers who go to the Middle East do so because of the tax breaks. They often enjoy a good standard of living while earning a salary equal to or higher than the one they earned in their home country while being able to save more of their disposable income. Hong Kong is another example of a country attractive to those who wish to pay less tax, as those with families actually take home around 91% of their salary due to the countrys special allowances for those who are married and have children. Those who wish to live in Europe will find that Ireland has similar tax breaks for families and those who are married. In France, the more children you have, the less tax you pay (though the limit is capped at six and the general level of taxation in France is high). Of course there are a number of countries which have very high income tax rates, examples being Belgium, Finland and Germany to name but a few. As always, the key is to take taxation into

account whichever country you wish to live in to ensure you can afford the standard of living you desire. A word of caution - there have always been some who believe that by moving abroad and using an offshore bank they can hide money from tax authorities. However, expats should be aware that most offshore banks now have procedures (put in place to combat money laundering and tax evasion) for sharing information with governmental departments. Capital Gains Tax Capital Gains Tax is variable between countries and if you have only been away from your country of origin for a short time and then decide to sell a property that you purchased there before you moved, you may find that you are still liable for taxes on that sale. Speak to a professional tax adviser to clarify the situation. Inheritance Tax Inheritance tax can be complicated if you own assets in more than one country when you die and without a will your beneficiaries may find that inheritance tax is payable in more than one country. A properly drawn up will can determine which countrys regulations will be used when determining inheritance tax. Most countries will apply the law of the country of domicile, which is usually where you were born (the actual laws regarding domicile are more complicated but this is normally true for most people). Even if you are a long term resident of another country it may be considered that you have retained the domicile of your country of origin and therefore should you inherit you would be bound by the regulations of that country. For example, a UK national living in Spain is likely to be bound by UK regulations when it comes to inheritance tax. You can take on domicile of another country and how you go about this depends where you are coming from and going to. For example, a UK resident moving to another country needs to be away for a minimum of three years before they can apply to have their domicile status removed, but will also

need to be able to prove that they have no intention of moving back. They would then need to apply for domicile status in their new country. Once you have domicile status of another country you are then bound by the regulations of that country and any inheritance taxes that you have to pay are usually determined by the amount that you have inherited. UK Taxation Notes Case Study: Staying non-UK resident I am British and I have been living in Nigeria for the last 4 years and have returned temporarily to UK. I am due to take up a new post in Angola, but on rotation. My home base is the UK, can I claim UK non-residence so the company can pay me without deducting PAYE if I intend to spend less than 90 days per year? 4 or 5 years ago this expat would have been fine, provided that they met the 90 day rule and the other normal conditions of UK non-residence. However the rules have been slowly tightened by the courts in recent years. Relevant extracts from the main HMRC manual HMRC6 published 2010 to consider: 1.5.13 Non-resident If you do not meet the requirements to be resident in the UK for Income and Capital Gains Tax purposes, you will be non-resident. If you are not resident in the UK you might not have to pay UK tax on some of your income and gains. If your normal home is outside the UK and you are in the UK for fewer than 183 days in the tax year you may be nonresident. But you might still be resident even if you spend fewer than 183 days in a tax year in the UK (see 1.5.22). Being resident in the UK is not simply a question of the number of days you spend in the country. 8.1 If you have been resident and ordinarily resident in the UK, the act of leaving the UK to go abroad does not mean that you will automatically become non-resident and/or not ordinarily resident. After you leave the country, your UK residence and ordinary

Handling your tax affairs with the advice of a professional could save you money

companies are exempt from tax, such as Saudi Arabia. If you fall into this category you should still check your liability for tax in your home country. Find out if you are required to file an annual tax return in your home country while living abroad. US nationals, for example, have to file a tax return in April every year, regardless of their employment status or geographical location, unless specific arrangements have been made for an extension. Most countries have some form of progressive tax system after a tax free allowance, but there are often special rules and rates which apply to the income of foreign nationals. Check the website of the Inland Revenue Department in your new country for specific information on the current rules. It is important to establish whether you will be taxed on all of your income, or just the income earned locally. Find out whether your employer will be dealing with your tax return or whether you have to submit it yourself, and if so what the deadline and paperwork requirements are.

If there is a double taxation agreement between your home country and host country you will only be taxed once on your income, but you will need to notify the relevant tax departments and deal with the necessary paperwork. Investigate what other taxes and charges are imposed on residents in your destination country, such as property taxes and Value Added Tax. Be aware that some countries add service charges and government taxes to restaurant and hotel bills; these may increase the price by as much as 20%. Double Taxation Agreements Double taxation agreements are designed to protect people or businesses from paying tax in two different countries on the same income. Double taxation treaties are drawn up to protect the rights of the governments involved and allow for information to be exchanged between the two countries involved if a tax information exchange

Take advantage of tax breaks for expats

Some countries actively encourage expats to relocate by offering tax breaks. Speak to a specialist tax adviser to see if you could qualify.

residence position will be affected by a number of factors which include: the reason you have left the UK (for example to work or live abroad permanently) what visits you make to the UK after you have left what connections you keep in the UK such as family, property, business and social connections. If you normally live in the UK and go abroad for short periods for example on holidays and business trips you will continue to be resident here. Case Study: Ceasing to pay UK income tax I am UK resident and thinking about taking a job in Manila. I am worried about having to pay UK tax as the contract is only for 2 years. If someone goes to work abroad full time for more than a complete tax year, they can cease to be UK resident. The Manila employment income in this case should avoid UK income tax, provided that the tax year test and a few other tests are met. It is important to investigate the possibility of a departure UK tax refund (the split year tax return) in cases like this - it is often worth hundreds of pounds US Taxation Notes Many people who move overseas for a new job or to retire may be under the impression that they are no longer responsible for filing American income taxes. Its a (somewhat) reasonable assumption. There are 194 countries in the world, but only two of them require that their citizens declare income from anywhere world-wide (citizenship-based taxation), rather than just paying taxes on income where it is earned. And, you guessed it, the United States is one (Libya is the other, but even that could change with their political situation). Simply put, Americans must continue to file tax forms no matter where they reside in the world. The main exception to this would be if their income is below the statutory amounts required to file, which is basically the standard

deduction amount plus one exemption, $9,350 for 2010. Even this income level could require filing a return if the taxpayer has stock sales (even at a loss, since the gross amount received would all be considered profit until filing a Schedule D); has self-employment income (self-employment taxes required for a profit of $400 or more), or some other circumstances. Also, the IRS has in recent years added more forms that are required by residents overseas, many of which most expats may not be aware of. In some cases, these include forms that have been on the books for years, but have only recently been enforced by the IRS. So here is a list of requirements to keep in mind: 1. Not a form per se, but one requirement is that US tax laws apply to US citizens, but also to dual citizens and to green-card holders. In the case of dual citizens, there may be cases where they were born to one American parent and one foreign parent, may have never obtained a US passport or even set foot in the US, but their citizenship does require them to file US tax forms. [This is not the same thing as saying they will have to pay US taxes, but it does create a duty to file the forms.] 2. You do have to file a 1040 tax return, and include Form 2555, to exclude income earned overseas. There are certain requirements to be met, and limitations of amounts that can be excluded, but this exclusion is not automatic just because you are working overseas. This may mean filing many back returns, which could end up owing no taxes, but the IRS does reserve the right to deny the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion if it is not filed on a timely basis. Basically, you have to comply with the rules before they come looking for you, and it is better to file back returns to keep yourself in compliance. If you are self-employed, you will still owe self-employment taxes on your net profit, just not regular income taxes to the US, again calculated through the Form 2555. 3. Americans with financial accounts overseas may have to file the Foreign Bank Account Report (Form TDF 90-22.1) if they have any account (bank, securities, annuities, currency accounts,

etc.) valued at $10,000 in the aggregate of all accounts, using highest value at any time during the year. This is for any account over which you have signatory power, including a corporate account, signing as an officer of a charity, joint accounts even with a non-US citizen, plus all personal accounts. This is a form separate from the tax return, is due by June 30th each year with no extensions for time, and is sent to a Detroit address. There is also a box on Schedule B, Interest and Dividends, which should be checked, and the country for the account(s) listed. If you have an account under $10,000, you are only required to check the box but not file the FBAR. 4. Do you have an interest in a foreign business, such as a partnership or foreign corporation? There is Form 5471, Information Return of U.S. Persons With Respect to Certain Foreign Corporations, that is required to be filed with your tax return. This is a complicated form, taking a foreign entity, often with a different currency and a different set of accounting rules, and putting it into American corporate return requirements. There is a possible $10,000 fine for not submitting these forms. 5. If you hold property in the form of a trust, Form 3520 is for reporting activities related to the trust. 6. The IRS has added a new form this year, Form 8938, Statement of Specified Foreign Financial Assets. A total value of foreign assets as low as $50,000 can trigger the requirement to file this form, if not already covered by other forms mentioned above. As you can see, there may be more requirements than just a Form 1040 Tax Return. If you have recently moved overseas, you may owe a state tax return to your former home for the part of the year you lived there. Living outside the U.S. does allow you an automatic extension until June 15th to file your tax forms, but only if you do not owe any money. A formal extension (lasting until October 15th) and any money owed must be submitted by April 15th, or the clock will start running on interest charges. Complying with American tax requirements as an expatriate can be a complicated business, and it is highly recommended that you seek

professional help to make sure you are submitting all forms required by those living overseas. Social Security If your destination country has a social security system you may be required to contribute to this if you are employed or self-employed. Some countries will also require you to hold a private medical insurance policy as a condition of entry, so allow for the cost of the insurance premiums. If you are going to be working and paying taxes in a country that has a social security system, you may be eligible to receive state benefits such as free medical care, unemployment benefits or child allowances. In general, EU nationals moving to another EU country are eligible for benefits in the new country if they have paid sufficient contributions in their country of origin (although there are currently restrictions applying to the new Eastern European EU countries and their nationals), and there are also many bi-lateral social security agreements between countries which mean that social security contributions made in one can count towards pensions or other benefits in the other. In many countries that have social security schemes, employers deduct their employees social security contributions directly from their salaries, while the self-employed are required to pay their contributions to an organisation that operates the scheme. In some countries, however, you may be excluded from the social security system as a foreign national and will need to consider taking out personal insurance against risks to your livelihood while also ensuring that you have sufficient savings for the future.

Need Help?
UK Tax http://expatfocus.com/uktax Our highly experienced UK tax specialist works with British expats, foreign nationals in the UK and companies who need UK tax advice. US Tax http://expatfocus.com/ustax Our American tax partner is an Enrolled Agent specialising in the preparation and filing of US tax returns for expats. There is no charge or obligation for submitting an initial request for advice using the above services.

WILLS & INHERITANCE

Putting your affairs in order

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Always be aware of local legislation

When moving abroad it is important to ensure that your loved ones will be protected in the event of your death. Making a will is the best way to guarantee the fair distribution of your assets following your death although if you have an existing will in your country of origin it may not be valid in your new country and a new document may be necessary. Consulting a local solicitor when you arrive is the best way to clarify the legal requirements. When you become a resident in another country you may acquire assets as you would in your home country. You may choose to purchase property or keep savings in a bank account, for example, and these assets which will also need to be protected and distributed after your death according to your wishes. If you do not make a will and you have assets in your home country then the laws of that country apply to the distribution. Some countries will automatically pass these assets on to the spouse or dependent children. Some countries will allow all relatives to make a claim to the estate and divide it accordingly. It is for this reason that a will is important, ensuring as it does that the person(s) you wish to inherit will do so. Some countries do not allow a persons debts to die with them and in this situation a family will have to continue paying bills even if the division of an estate has not been resolved. Making a will also reduces the chances of family members arguing about who should inherit. It is also important to ensure that you are aware of the inheritance laws in your home country. For example, for residents in the UK there may be inheritance taxes to pay, depending upon the size of the estate.

Finding a local solicitor familiar with expat issues is essential once youve moved abroad

There are firms which specialise in drawing up wills which cover assets held in all countries, removing the need for a will in each one. These firms can ensure that the wills are compliant with the regulations of each country so that in the event of your death the process of probate runs smoothly. Some countries will accept a hand written will as a legally binding document although many will not. In any event, having a will drawn up professionally is always the best option and no matter where you are in the world, there will be a law firm nearby which can help - ask friends or colleagues for a recommendation. The cost of having a properly drawn up will is preferable to the costs incurred by lengthy probate proceedings that can occur if a person is considered to have

died intestate. One final word of caution. Recently, a number of will writing service providers have come under scrutiny due to their sales tactics and fee structures, including charging a percentage of an estate when assets are distributed. Always check the small print carefully if using such a service but In most cases the services of a legal professional (e.g. a solicitor) remain the preferred choice when drawing up a will.

Is your existing will still valid?

An existing will from your country of origin is not always valid once you have moved abroad. Take professional advice from an experienced solicitor and make sure everything is in order.

PENSIONS
Can you afford to retire abroad?

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Early planning is key to a successful retirement

A growing number of expats are retirees those who have finished working and are now looking forward to a new life abroad. However, for some people retirement can be difficult, especially those who have no private pension(s) and must rely solely on a state pension to get by. Planning for a retirement income involves taking a number of things into consideration. Firstly, your family commitments will you still have dependents when you retire? What level of support will they require? The income tax rate of the country you choose to move to will also have an impact on the amount of income you require to maintain your desired standard of living. Retirement planning also needs to take into account your property situation - will you already own a home in the country you want to move to when you retire or will you need to use a lump sum to fund a purchase?

from the country that they have been working in unless they have permanent residency status and have been there for many years, making the necessary contributions into the social security system. There are some countries that will allow this, although a growing number are limiting the access that expats have to their social security systems. The Gulf States in the Middle East, for example, will not allow a worker to remain if they are not actually working so that foreign nationals do not become a burden on the state. Private Pensions Some people who work have a private pension scheme, usually arranged via their employer and where both the employee and the employer make contributions to the scheme. If a worker leaves a job these schemes can be frozen or the individual can continue to pay money in and build up the pension fund further. When a worker chooses to move abroad, making payments to one of these schemes may no longer be possible, often depending on whether or not the employee is still working for an employer from their country of origin. As with state pensions, claiming your money directly when you have retired abroad can be difficult if the private pension scheme does not make payments to people outside of their country of origin. As a result, it is a good idea to keep your existing bank account at home so that pension payments can be paid in and then transferred abroad when you need them. How the money is paid is usually up to the recipient. Most providers will allow recipients to take the money as a lump sum or a monthly or annual payment (sometimes a combination of the two is possible). When deciding which option is best you will need to take into consideration tax implications and your liefstyle requirements of your lifestyle. Once again, the advice of a trusted financial professional with specific expertise in this area is recommended. New regulations are now in effect in the European Union which ensure that EU citizens who move countries are still allowed to make contributions and receive payments if they are in one of the other EU member states, the idea being to make it easier for workers to change

jobs and move abroad if they wish. If you choose to leave your home country to go work for an international corporation you may be offered the chance to join their pension scheme. This is less often the case now than previously, particularly with younger employees, as most companies no longer consider it cost effective. If that is the case the employee will need to find their own pension scheme to act as an add-on to any state pension to which they are entitled. UK Pensions - Top 10 Tips & Facts If you are receiving, or planning to receive, a UK pension then these quick facts may prove useful. It is, though, aimed only at those who have pension fund savings in a UK based scheme. - You should be able to receive your state and/or private pension payments directly into your expat bank account overseas without penalty. - At the age of 55 you may be able to take up to 25% of your private pension savings out as a tax-free sum. - Currently under UK laws, you cannot freely access your pension in total without severe taxation penalties. - When working you can make additional payments into both the state and your private or occupational pensions. - You can, under 2006 QROPS legislation, move your pension funds overseas to your new country of residence or a third country (see following section for further details). - Under most UK pension schemes, even if taking a 25% early withdrawal at age 55, a male will need to live to around 75 or older before they will have recovered in regular pension income what they have paid in over the years. - Your ability to pass on to your family any surplus amounts in your scheme after your death may be very limited check with your schemes administrators for details. - Getting pension income in one currency while living in a different country can sometimes be advantageous but equally can also be

problematic if currency exchange rates are unfavourable.. - Pension funds in any country can at times prove vulnerable to market forces or illegal activities as some UK and other international cases have shown. Be careful before you choose your scheme and always see what state or association guarantees are in place to cover any unforeseen eventualities. UK Pension Transfers and the Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) QROPS was introduced under UK legislation and practice changes in 2006. It means that people are now able to transfer their non-state (i.e. private or occupational) pension funds to an approved overseas scheme. Potential benefits include immediate withdrawal of transferred funds to the extent permitted by HMRC and local pension regulations, the ability to take a lumpsum distribution greater than the 25% limit mandated by UK rules and no withholding tax on distributions. Any overseas scheme that you wish to transfer your pension to must be approved by Her Majestys Revenue & Customs (HMRC). Approved means that the scheme is legally registered and approved as a pensions scheme in the country concerned, and that it is able to comply with the mandatory reporting requirements of HMRC. A full list of qualifying schemes and companies, listed by country, is available on the HMRC website at http://www. hmrc.gov.uk Withdrawals and Taxation Individuals who leave their pension schemes invested in the UK are likely to only be able to access 25% of their fund as a tax free cash lump sum, at the earliest, from the age of 50 rising to age 55 from 2010. The resulting 75% of the fund cannot be taken as a cash lump sum, but must instead provide an income which is subject to processing delays as well as international banking charges and exchange rate fluctuations - but more importantly, INCOME TAX. The compounding effect of these reductions

If you want your retirement to be comfortable, start exploring your pension options as soon as possible

contributions that you have made over the years.

Most countries have a minimum level What is clear is that the sooner you plan of contributions that need to be made before a state pension can be claimed. for your retirement the easier it will be and the more funds you will have at your It may be possible for you to make disposal. Planning your retirement when contributions to your state pension at home even if you are working abroad, you reach the age of 45 is unlikely to be practical if you would like to retire when so you can still add to your pension fund although you are not in the country. The you are 55. The earlier you start saving amount and the period for which you and the later you retire should ensure that you have a more substantial fund to can make these extra contributions may be limited, so it is a good idea to seek fall back on when you finish working. advice from your local pensions office. This can also cause problems if you are planning to work abroad for a long time State Pensions prior to your retirement, as it means that the amount you can pay in will be Making social security contributions in your country of origin you should ensure limited and you may only be able to It is unlikely that any expat worker that you are entitled to some form of old expect a fairly small pension in return. will be entitled to a state pension age pension when you retire from work. However, note that if you move abroad, you will not be able to claim this money until you reach the retirement age of Regardless of your age its never too soon to start planning for your the country where the contributions retirement - and the sooner you have a suitable pension scheme in were paid. The amount to which you are entitled will also vary according to place the easier it is to make the required payments. your personal circumstances and the

The pensions department of your government will be able to advise if a state pension can be paid directly to you while you are living abroad. In some countries there are agreements in place which allow pensions to be paid directly to the retiree, or a cheque can be sent directly from the country of origin to the recipient. Retirees who choose this method should be aware that cheques issued in a foreign country can take up to several weeks to clear. If your home country is unable to pay your pension to you abroad directly you may still be able to have it paid into a bank account back home so that you can arrange for the funds to be transferred overseas yourself, although you are likely to incur bank charges for doing so.

Dont delay your pension planning!

means that an individual is likely to have to survive a minimum of at least a further 20 years to get the 75% back in their pocket from the point when they start to receive income! Furthermore, anybody trying to make withdrawals outside of these limits is likely to face penalties, in the form of a tax charge imposed by HMRC, of up to 55% of their pension fund. QROPS In Detail The new rules and changes have given rise to the Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS), which is an investment vehicle that allows existing UK registered pension schemes to be transferred, not only within the UK, but more importantly overseas for those individuals residing elsewhere. To qualify as a QROPS, a pension scheme must be officially recognised by HMRC (as it is not possible to register an overseas scheme with HMRC) and satisfy strict reporting duties, otherwise the status is lost. A QROPS must be registered as a pension scheme and recognised for tax purposes in the country or territory where it is established, which must be outside of the UK. An individual can transfer their UK registered pension scheme(s) to a QROPS which is registered anywhere else in the world regardless of where they actually reside. If the individual stays in the UK, the QROPS is able to pay benefits in line with and that do not exceed those which could be paid if funds were still held in the UK scheme. However, on migrating and ceasing to be a UK tax resident for five full UK tax years there are no longer any reporting requirements or restrictions on the QROPS to the HMRC and only the rules pertaining to the QROPS and its place of origin / registration apply. Basically, the five year period is a time of transition over which the rules of a UK scheme continue to apply; after this period, the rules of the QROPS prevail. Example 1 - An individual with a UK Personal Pension, aged 35, goes to live and work in Australia, ceasing to be UK tax resident on 15th October 2008. They commence the process of transferring their UK pension scheme to an Australian QROPS, which finally concludes in May 2009. On 6th April 2014 the scheme

effectively loses all obligations to HMRC and falls entirely under Australian pension legislation - i.e. all proceeds can be taken as cash lump sums, entirely tax free, albeit not until age 60 (Australian schemes are locked in until age 60). Example 2 - An individual with a UK Personal Pension, any age, goes to live and work in the USA, ceasing to be UK tax resident on 15th October 2008. The Internal Revenue Service in the USA will not permit a transfer to a US registered QROPS even though they exist and thus benefits will have to be taken in line with UK legislation and will therefore be taxable and involve receiving an income stream over many years before the total funds are utilised. Example 3 - An individual with a UK Personal Pension, aged 35, goes to live and work in Spain, ceasing to be UK tax resident on 15th October 2008. They commence the process of transferring their UK pension scheme to a Spanish QROPS, which finally concludes in May 2009. On 6th April 2014 the scheme effectively loses all obligations to HMRC and falls entirely under Spanish pension legislation - i.e. likely to involve the locking in of funds for many years depending on the particular Spanish QROPS scheme selected. Note: for all the above examples, the client could transfer their UK pension scheme to a suitable QROPS where all proceeds can be taken as cash lump sums, on or after 6th April 2014, entirely free of UK and overseas tax. Example 4 - An individual with a UK Personal Pension, aged 49 and living in the UK, commences the process of transferring their UK pension scheme to a Spanish QROPS, which finally concludes in May 2009. Then at the age of 50, the individual goes to live and work in Australia, ceasing to be UK tax resident on 15th March 2010. The individual can immediately withdraw up to 25% of the fund as a tax free lump sum as UK rules prevail, but on 6th April 2015 the scheme effectively loses all obligations to HMRC and falls entirely under Australian pension legislation -i.e. all remaining proceeds can be taken as cash lump sums, entirely tax free, albeit not until age 60 (Australian schemes are locked in until age 60). Note: the individual could transfer their UK pension scheme to a suitable QROPS

where the 25% tax free lump sum could still be taken immediately and then the remaining balance can be taken as a cash lump sum, on or after 6th April 2015, entirely free of UK and overseas tax. The Process First lets identify the parties that may be involved in the transfer process: At a minimum your UK pension provider and the QROPS administrator must be involved. In the case of an occupational scheme, your pension might be administered by a financial services firm on behalf of your company; so your corporate pension administrator as well as the pension company representative might be involved. There may also be an intermediary or facilitator. Many firms that advertise UK pension transfer services do not actually administer a particular QROPS; rather, what they do is gather the necessary client information and advise the client as to the pension transfer process. The intermediary may work with a number of QROPS located in various jurisdictions, and therefore may be able to advise the client as to the best jurisdiction for his/her purposes. Once your pension has been transferred to the QROPS, you may wish to invest your money and at this point an investment advisor may be involved. Now lets summarize the costs you may face when undertaking to transfer a UK pension to a QROPS: On the UK side there may be an administration fee from your pension provider. There may also be fees for withdrawing from certain types of investments or for cancelling your investment account. Intermediaries typically charge an up front fee for the pension transfer and may also (or instead) receive ongoing fees from the investments into which your transferred funds are placed once they are transferred to the QROPS. The QROPS administrator may also charge a transfer fee and/or may receive an ongoing administration fee either from you or from the investments into which you place your money within the QROPS. Investment advisors typically charge ongoing investment

management fees and may also charge a one-time fee when each investment is purchased. So if you plan to invest your money within the QROPS then you will have these fees as well (but of course you would have similar fees in the UK pension plan). Often the ongoing fees are not spelled out - rather they are taken from your invested amounts over the course of time. In addition to these direct costs, you should consider opportunity cost. There are many good reasons to transfer your pension scheme to a QROPS: Typically there is no need to annuitize the pension, you can leave the residual amount to your heirs, you may be able to withdraw a greater lump sum than under UK regulations, and so on. However, you should also consider what you will be giving up, especially in the case of a final salary pension plan. This type of plan (also known as a defined benefit plan) typically gives you payments for life after you retire based upon the amount you were making when you left your employer. This could be a substantial amount and may be more than you could realize by transferring your pension and investing your money - thus leaving your pension savings open to the vagaries of investment markets. One final potential cost to consider is that of taxation. You may be able to move your UK pension to a QROPS in a jurisdiction where you will benefit from a lower tax rate on the pension funds you withdraw, but tax issues can be complex. The tax treatment of your pension may depend upon the provisions of a tax treaty involving your country of residency and the UK (or your country of residency and the QROPS jurisdiction). By moving your pension from the UK to a QROPS in another jurisdiction you may be jeopardizing benefits available to you under a UK/country of residency tax treaty. This is the case, for example, for US residents who can benefit from tax treaty provisions in the UK/US treaty but who may lose these benefits by transferring to a QROPS in a country with which the US has no treaty. Whether you are dealing directly with a QROPS administrator or with an intermediary, you will be asked to complete a letter of authority that allows the agent to contact your UK pension administrator on your behalf to obtain information regarding your benefits. The agent will inquire regarding the transfer

value of your benefits, whether you have any protected rights to transfer, and as to the paperwork the scheme requires to be completed in order to facilitate a QROPS transfer. If an LOA is requested in advance of transfer then, once the QROPS agent obtains information regarding your pension scheme, he will contact you again to discuss whether to proceed with the transfer. You may need to provide the following information for the LOA: Full name as it is on the pension documents Date of birth National Insurance number Type of pension scheme Name of UK pension scheme and policy number Alternatively, if you already have much of the information regarding your UK benefits on hand, perhaps because you receive regular pension statements or perhaps because your UK pension administrator has contacted you regarding your options with respect to the pension, then you may have already decided that a transfer to a QROPS is the way to go. In this case the QROPS agent may ask you to complete a generic set of transfer forms that request your UK pension scheme to transfer your benefits to the QROPS and that include the LOA. Some pension schemes will act on the QROPS generic forms, in which case your transfer should then proceed, but some will insist that their own transfer forms be used, in which case these will be sent to your QROPS administrator for you to complete. In addition to the above-mentioned information, the following forms/ information generally is required for the transfer to proceed: Proof of residency and proof of identity: These may need to be certified or notarized and could be copies of documents such as your passport and a utility bill showing name and address. A statement regarding when you gave up UK residency. A statement regarding your expected or actual retirement age. A Lifetime Allowance Declaration: A QROPS transfer is what is known as a benefit crystallization event; as such, the transferred amount must be tested against the HMRC lifetime pension withdrawal allowance

limits. If these limits are exceeded then HMRC assesses a special tax. Forms required to establish a QROPS pension account or an account within the QROPS. Some QROPS providers will establish a separate trust account for each client and obtain QROPS approval for each client separately, whereas in other cases there is a master trust structure that has been approved for QROPS status and clients have sub-accounts within the master trust. The former arrangement is generally more expensive but also more flexible in terms of what investments can be held and administrative issues. You will also likely be asked to acknowledge your understanding of certain HMRC regulations concerning QROPS issues, pension-sharing agreements, and pension options. If you are transferring protected rights then you will also have to complete HMRC form CA1881 or CA1890 depending upon the type of pension you have. Considerable paperwork is necessary in order to complete a pension transfer to a QROPS but there is plenty of help available from intermediaries who facilitate such transfers.

Need Help?
http://expatfocus.com/qrops Expat Focus is pleased to offer the services of a QROPS (Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Schemes) administrator specialising in UK pension transfers abroad. The QROPS team is highly experienced and has facilitated 10,000+ UK pension transfers from 3,000+ pension providers over the last 12 years. http://expatfocus.com/qrops

EXPERT VIEW - MONEY

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advise that you keep an amount of liquid cash that you might expect to last you at least 6 months in the event that you lose your job or otherwise had to repatriate due to some form of emergency. Even though you have no pension scheme offshore do not rush into an offshore pension scheme with any fixed payment period. These tend to have very high costs, are inflexible, have dreadful early surrender penalties and if you stop one early you carry on paying for it just as if you were still paying it, or pay all the outstanding fees if you stop early. Cast your mind back say, 5 years, and could you have foreseen your circumstances now? My point is that none or few of us these days knows exactly where well be or what our circumstances will be that far in the future. If that is the case why would you tie yourself to an obligation to make a specific payment for many years into the future? I have seen many people commit themselves to sums like 500 a month or even thousands of pounds per month but if they were back in their home country in a conventional taxed environment where they have a mortgage, and more tax efficient options, then they would not be able to carry on with this type of contracted payment. It is possible and much cheaper and more flexible to save straight into investment funds. These are available with no penalties and no ongoing obligation should you wish to stop and can also be much more tax efficient. These are the exact same type of funds that the insurance companies use via their savings products but without the costs and restrictions. It may be convenient but it is not necessary to have to set up a direct debit to save on a monthly basis. Many expats save up lump sums and when they feel they have accumulated sufficient cash to have some to invest and still maintain their savings cushion, they invest a lump sum and then save up another. I do this myself and have many clients who save in this manner. Saving in this way means that you can save what you want when you want so it takes into account months when you have higher or lower degrees of expenditure or savings. Look to build a wide range in the variety of your assets. A 100% savings

Taking care of your money overseas

Top tips for managing your finances wisely
The following points were compiled on behalf of Expat Focus by Geoff Birch of online discount broker www.offshorerebates.com (some tips are directed specifically at UK expats but many of the principles can be applied to expats of any nationality): When leaving the UK, assuming you have been gainfully employed or at least paying tax, you will almost certainly be due a tax rebate. This is because your personal allowances are divided by the PAYE system into equal instalments (usually 12 instalments over the course of a year) for each salary payment. Therefore, assuming you are not leaving after the 12th payment for the year has been paid, you will have a rebate due equal to the unused 12ths of your personal allowances. If you leave the UK in, for example, May or June, your rebate will be quite large but if you leave at the end of February then it will be relatively small as only 1/12th is unused. Keep your UK bank account. It is extremely difficult to set up an onshore account when you no longer have a UK address. If you are moving outside of the EU ask your bank before you leave for a form to allow you to have your interest paid gross. You will also set up a local account but the above is for when you travel, paying bills back home, accumulating cash, etc. You may wish to bank offshore and to be fair most expat banking problems I have encountered have been caused by onshore banks who are not really geared up for expatriates needs. However, recent (2009) problems with the banking system and banks themselves have highlighted the statutory compensation, or lack thereof, when banking offshore. The Isle of Man offers 50k compensation for individuals and 20k for companies but it has become apparent in the recent Icelandic debacle that the scheme is not funded and it

into shares either directly or via a fund is not the only option and has in the present conditions been exposed as dangerous. But dont shares always rise in the long run? The answer to that is how long is your long run? As James Maynard Keynes said, In the long run we are all dead! Index levels are presently at the time of writing (2009) about 30% lower than they were 10 years ago. Most people would consider 10 years quite a long time. Therefore the use of bonds, both government and corporate, and alternatives such as hedge funds will be available to you offshore when some such investments are less available in the UK due to legislation. UK regulators tend to tar all hedge funds with the same brush and portray them as high risk. However there are plenty that do a very good job and have long histories which show them to have lower volatility than traditional UK equities. Get yourself a decent medical insurance policy. Preferably one that offers emergency repatriation and cover when you are outside your new home country so that it covers business travel and holidays. Get one with high limits. Do not scrimp on medical insurance because the day you need it will be the day youll regret not buying a good one. Look carefully at all schemes that are offered to you and be aware that not everyone who rushes to help you with your savings or insurance needs is actually out to help you. Even products from household name insurers and from High Street name banks are not automatically good products. They are there to make the companies long term profits and their needs are not always the same needs as your needs. Ask what is tying your adviser to a particular company and how long the company has been established etc. Many offshore IFAs move on to other things and you can be left with an unsuitable and long term product with no one to service it for you on an ongoing basis. Weigh up exactly what you are being offered and if you dont understand it dont invest in it OR find someone else to deal with who can help you understand things better. Even if an IFA called you because your work colleague or friend recommended you to him/her, always pay attention to the points raised above. I have seen many sales made on the basis of well,

the IFA seemed a good bloke, and when the sale is made or the policy is delivered the IFA asks for referrals. However the client making the referral has yet to discover what he has bought or to see any long term service or performance. Ask how long the IFA has been doing business with that friend or colleague and it is usually better to ask around to find a decent IFA and approach him/her than to deal with one that approaches you. Highly successful IFAs are too busy dealing with their clients and new people referred by their clients to be cold calling and constantly looking for new ones. Be aware that regulation is not the same offshore as it is onshore despite EU attempts to harmonise things. From experience I can tell you that on the one hand being regulated can and often does mean nothing and on the other hand not being regulated can mean nothing too. It is much more important what you are investing your money into than who is arranging it for you and the current financial crisis demonstrates a massive failure of watchdogs who failed to bark. Regulatory bodies proved they were more interested in fine details and pages of bureaucracy than they were in the bigger picture of what was occurring around them. The crooks will always drive a coach and horses through the most stringent of regulations whereas you may find an honest person who operates where there is little or no official regulation so use your judgment. Most onshore UK advisers have little or no experience of expat lives or offshore products and opportunities. Most offshore advisers cannot deal with UK onshore products that you already have so you may need both. Do not mix life assurance and investment. Keep products separate. If you want to insure something use an insurer but if you want to invest use a specialist investment firm. They dont mix well. Life assurance is best bought as term assurance and is best bought in the UK before you leave the UK. It is competitively priced in the UK and expensive offshore as there are few companies that offer it. Take it out for as long as you are likely to need it and when you dont need it just stop paying it.

Do your research before making any investment and dont be afraid to look for a better deal elsewhere

might take time to get repaid. As far as the Channel Islands are concerned, there are no compensation schemes at all. In the UK the compensation limit is 50k but has effectively been extended by the government to be unlimited at the present time. HOWEVER questions still persist about if there was a really large default such as one of the big four banks or more than one of them, would the government actually be able to bail everyone out anyway? I consider it best to not put all your eggs in one basket. If you are likely to want to deal in shares and use a share platform like, for example, TD Waterhouse, then again it is easier to set this up before you leave the UK. In my opinion it is usually worthwhile to keep paying your National Insurance

Contributions in order to keep your entitlement to your old age pension going. As an expat you can pay class 2 or class 3 contributions and additional information and advice on this is available from the Inland Revenue NI Contributions Office, International Services, Longbenton, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE98 1ZZ. Tel +44 191 225 4811. Use your National Insurance number as a reference. When you go abroad you may well have no pension scheme any more. Be aware that there are no tax incentives for saving in a specific vehicle badged pension offshore and any form of accumulating your cash is good. However, some are better than others. When you first arrive overseas start saving in a bank account. I would further

Dont be pressured into making a decision

If you do not understand anything and have not personally checked costs, penalties or restrictions then you are not yet ready to invest. There will always be another investment - there is no need to rush.

SAFETY

Home Safety

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Manage the risks with proper planning

Prepare for the worst but stay positive
Personal security is a significant concern in todays world, although ironically many surveys indicate that we are living in a safer world now than at any other time. Rather it is the nature of current security challenges that make them unique and require us to adopt new ways of dealing with them. Today, security challenges run the gamut from indiscriminate terrorist threats and bombings to robberies, abductions and other crimes against the individual. Preparation Preparing for various contingencies often helps to ensure that they do not reach crisis proportions and even if they do, we are better able to deal with them. Start your preparation before leaving home by making sure that relevant people know how to contact you and you know how to contact them during emergencies. Secondly, make duplicate copies of important documents such as passports, important certificates (birth, marriage, etc.), bank account details, insurance documents, asset records and so on. Finally, ensure that your spouse, dependant or legal representative has access to all important information should the need arise.

Although it might sound excessive, a little reconnaissance conducted at and near your main living area will alert you to potential dangers and help you deal with a crisis situation should one arise. This advice applies whether you are living in a hotel, apartment building, condominium, house, or any other dwelling. Become familiar with your surroundings. Talking to your neighbours, local shopkeepers, postman (mailman), concierge, landlord etc. is an effective way of getting to know about potential dangers. Make sure people know you (and like you!) but keep a fairly low profile outside your comfort zone. Avoid exaggerated displays of wealth or of security (e.g. personal bodyguards unless mandated by severe security threats). Discretion and caution are probably your most important tools. Try to blend in and stay relatively inconspicuous. Domestic help is considered in some expat circles to be a potential risk; always ensure that personnel working for you are legally allowed to do so and keep photographs/ID information about them on file.

Make sure that children know their new address, home phone number (or other number to phone in an emergency) and in case of language differences, make sure that they know key phrases, such as how to ask for help. Protection The security situation in some countries may be so serious that the use of some form of protection is worth considering. This may include anything from selfdefence classes, mace sprays or other security systems to firearms or round the clock security personnel. It is essential to take advice from a trustworthy, credible source when considering appropriate protection and to be aware of the legal situation surrounding such measures. Emergency Planning Armed with all of the above information, draw up plans on what to do in emergency situations. When discussing your plan avoid alarming family members, especially if there are young children involved, but ensure that everyone understands what they should do if the need arises to put the plan into action. Update and revise the plan at regular intervals.

No move abroad is entirely without risk - however, the reward is often worth it.

Look around you before getting in and out of a car, taxi or bus. Just the fact that While travelling be cautious discussing you appear alert is a deterrent in itself to the specifics of your itinerary when you might be overheard. Be wary of would-be thieves and carjackers as their Travel Safety main element of attack is surprise. Lock divulging personal information to car doors while travelling in an unknown strangers, even if they appear friendly. Read travel advisories and stay abreast of environment and stay in populated Always be alert to your environment and the news pertaining to your destination areas, on busy streets and well-lit roads be suspicious of unattended packages in country. Before migrating conduct a whenever possible. Make sure someone your vicinity. When on board an aircraft, thorough safety and security analysis of knows where you are if you are about to know the exit routes and pass on that your destination country. This analysis drive into a new or isolated area. knowledge to any children travelling should include information about the with you. local crime rate, the effectiveness of law and order, and the general political and economic stability of the nation. Sometimes there are certain parts of a Assessing risk is difficult, whether it be the broader risks involved country that are considered high risk in moving to a particular country or something more specific. while the rest of the country is relatively safe. However, assessment and planning shifts the odds in your favour.

Before you travel, ensure that your luggage, including hand luggage, meets current security requirements. Most airlines have very strict policies and are unwilling to compromise. There are new rules regarding carrying liquids in hand luggage and many airlines inspect or prohibit liquids and gels altogether. Check with your carrier for specific baggage requirements.

When you arrive at your destination, do not let jet lag, stress and culture shock affect your ability to stay alert and watchful. Many unsuspecting travellers are duped or exploited at this stage. Have someone you trust meet you and escort you to your place of stay if possible.

It is imperative to familiarize yourself with emergency phone numbers, such as those for police, ambulance, fire service etc. If you still retain citizenship rights to your country of origin then keep a note of the phone number and address of the nearest consulate and embassy (note: make sure you understand exactly what the role of consular staff is there are many things they can help with but there are also many situations they do not cover). Write down all the important numbers and put the list up somewhere where other family members can see it. Child Safety Explain to children the importance of being wary of strangers and how to keep themselves safe. Children should be taught never to divulge that they are alone at home, even to someone on the phone. Make sure your children understand that they must never go anywhere with a stranger, must report any improper advances made towards them, and must keep parents abreast of their destination, routes and times.

Risk assessment - a real challenge, but worth it

LANGUAGE
Communication is key

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Whether you are renting or buying, usually the estate or letting agency will wheel in an English-speaking salesperson to smooth the deal. Many solicitors or notaries will also speak some English particularly if they regularly conduct house sales with English speaking expat buyers. All this can lull one into a false sense of security, because on day-1 of your arrival these people will vanish and you will be on your own! This need not be a big problem in some situations. Going in to a local shop to buy a kilo of potatoes can seem like a major obstacle but with pointing and plenty of smiles, youll get through. Smiling and playing the helpless foreigner are universally understood behaviours and usually generate friendly and helpful responses from local people. Unfortunately, these communication problems become less amusing when dealing with officialdom or bureaucracy. Expats trying to get their utilities connected in some countries, for example, are often shown little sympathy by tired and overworked call centre employees when their first question is do you speak English? There are many situations where a lack of local language skills can cause trouble. Perhaps youve gone to see your doctor for an appointment only to realise you have no way of describing whats wrong with you. Possibly your local school has just telephoned with what you presume is an urgent message about your child but you cant understand what theyre saying. That caller at your front door you sent packing with the message not today thanks may in fact have been a meter reader with a legal right of entry. The first you know about the gigantic new electric pylon going up outside your front door is the day it is erected because you couldnt read the request for objections announcement in the local press/town hall. As these examples indicate, expats need to think seriously about learning the local language! This should not only be thought about in the content of problem solving but more positively in the context of opportunity. If you have moved overseas to fully experience another country, it will be difficult to achieve this goal if you cannot

speak the local language, watch local TV, read the local newspapers or even have a conversation with your immediate neighbours. It is true that not everyone has the same ability when it comes to learning a language. Some are naturally gifted while others have to work harder at it. It is also true that age can play a part children and younger adults usually find it easier to become proficient in another language than older adults. Whatever your situation, there is rarely an excuse for not even trying to learn the local language. Many expats, particularly those that are slightly older, are put off by their recollections of school-based language teaching. This is unnecessary as both methods and media have changed over recent years. There is now more emphasis on conversation than the learning of strict grammatical rules and this helps almost anyone pick up some useful language skills very quickly. If possible, it is usually a good idea to start studying before you leave for your new country. Through conventional tapes, CDs and now interactive PC programs, there is a vast amount of choice available in home-study courses for just about every language. Doing some evening classes may yield even better results as conversing with others is highly effective in terms of both learning and building confidence. You may also find language chat room sections on many expat websites that give you the chance to practice your new language. It is also worth checking out the embassy of the country you are moving to. It probably has its own web site which will often have information on language courses that are local to you in your country of origin. The ultimate objective is to arrive in your new country with at least a few basic phrases and words as well as the ability to understand a few things that may be said to you. Once you arrive, this effort must be continued and expanded upon. Visit your local town hall who will normally have information on local courses or people who provide private language training for expats. Some government sponsored courses may even be free or if not, are usually very reasonably priced.

Learning the local language is always worth the effort

Over a period of roughly the last 200 years, English has become the global international language in just about every domain of human endeavour. It is also a fact that prior to moving overseas most expats will have had little experience of foreign life other than through taking holidays abroad. Apart, perhaps, from some specialist breaks or adventure excursions, the vast majority of such holidaymakers inevitably spend the bulk of their time in hotels and locations that exist to service the tourist market. It is therefore quite natural to find that many of the local people in these tourist locations speak passable English or at least have some basic understanding of it. These two facts together lead to problematic assumptions for some expats and the creation of some common myths, namely: - Everybody overseas speaks (some) English. - Everybody overseas understands (some) English. - Everyone overseas wants to speak/ understand English. If one believes the above three things to be true, then the natural conclusion is that learning the local language is a luxury one can afford to ignore. Nothing could be further from the truth! Except for some Mediterranean destinations in Spain and Portugal, comparatively few expats settle in tourist locations. Upon arrival they can therefore be unpleasantly surprised to find that the local people do NOT speak or understand English. If the local area and economy exists to serve a local population as opposed to holidaymakers or an expat enclave, then people that speak English to any extent may be hard to find.

Once settled in, try to make the effort to watch at least one hour of local TV every day the news, current affairs programmes, soap operas or even childrens TV are all good candidates. Buy the local newspaper and armed with a dictionary, make the effort to read at least 1-2 pages of it per day initially, building up to the whole paper over time. Make the effort to get out to local establishments such as bars, shops and social events so that your can practice and improve your knowledge of the language. The good news is that most expats admit to being surprised how quickly they pick up at least some of the local language and with a bit of hard work, this can be expanded over a year or two into a basic but effective conversational level familiarity. Frequent humiliations will be inevitable but will almost always be something that you and the locals can laugh about together! If you work hard at it, you will find that as your familiarity grows you will start to feel a little more like a local and are able to enjoy your new life, country and culture just that bit more. Speaking the local language will help you to integrate and feel more comfortable when out-and-about and the sense of achievement experienced when you start communicating with local people in their own language can be remarkable. If nothing else, think of it as a courtesy to your new local neighbours and friends. Most people everywhere, to some degree, are proud of their culture and its heritage. Remember that constantly refusing to make a serious effort to learn the language may be seen as an insult to them and their culture. What they may find acceptable from a twoweek holidaymaker is one thing; what they believe is appropriate from people that move to their country is entirely different. Of all the hints and tips in this book, the suggestion to learn and use the local language is perhaps the most important. This one thing alone may make all the difference between a successful expat experience and one characterised by isolation and loneliness. Make the effort and enjoy yourself in the process!

Listening to and speaking the local language will quickly make you feel part of the community

This does, of course, vary somewhat by destination. In Scandinavia and the more northern European destinations, English has been extensively taught in schools for many generations and a large number of people can speak at least some English. In central and Eastern Europe the position is different. Historically, many countries here used German or Russian as their second language and although English is rapidly replacing them as the cross-border tongue, the expat may nevertheless find that it is not widely spoken outside of professional circles. In Western Europe, in countries such as France, Spain, Italy and Portugal, in non-tourist areas, it may well be difficult to find anyone who knows more than Good Morning or Thank You in English. This also applies in south Eastern

Europe, the Balkan countries and Greece. In many countries in north and central Africa, French is still the most widely spoken second language. Once again this is changing but in vast areas English is largely unknown. From the Middle East through to the sub-continent, South East Asia and China, the legacy of old colonialism, imperialism and the more recent phenomenon of tourism means that English is more widely understood but again this may be only by professional or commercial people. The main fact for the expat to grasp is that in very large areas of the world, and particularly outside of major centres or professional environments, English is not going to help you much. Initially this may not be apparent.

Get over your embarrassment

Learning to speak a foreign language takes a number of qualities, not the least of which is accepting youre occasionally going to make a fool of yourself!

EDUCATION
A range of options to consider

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for children on the basis of religion or language. Private schools may not make the same distinctions, unless they are located in a country where it is deemed culturally necessary to segregate, and this is something to investigate if you are moving to an area that has a strong mix of languages and religions. Types of Schools In deciding where to send your children to school, you will need to weigh up a range of factors including language, cost, location, the age of your children, places available and programmes of study offered. Although there are alternatives such as home schooling and overseas boarding schools, for most expatriates the main choice will be between an international or local school. International Schools Many countries have international schools based in their capital cities (or other popular areas) where the education system is designed for the children of expats who want them to follow a curriculum that is accepted internationally or similar to that found in their country of origin. Classes in international schools are usually taught in English and academic results are generally very good. The curriculum is most often British or American in style with the use of International GCSEs or high school grades and SAT scores at age 15/16 and A Levels or the International Baccalaureate at 17/18, the latter being recognised by universities worldwide. Subjects taught are also similar to those taught in the UK or US. Some schools provide boarding facilities, while others operate only as day-schools. Many have pre-school educational programmes or nursery facilities attached to the school. International schools are a popular option for many expatriate families, particularly those on short-term assignments. Almost all international schools are fee paying (grants and scholarships may be available) and fees can be considerable, although some expatriates on overseas postings are fortunate to have these paid as part of their employment contract. Average

Local and international schools have much to offer

Just like adults, children often face a mix of emotions about moving to a different country often excitement combined with anxiety and sadness at leaving a familiar environment and their friends and other relatives. Although youll be busy preparing for the move, take the time to discuss any concerns that your children might have about moving to an unfamiliar environment, and do whatever you can to ease the move for them. Consider involving your children as much as possible in the actual planning and preparation. You could ask them to make lists of things to do, research their new home and pack their own possessions so that they feel more in control of the situation. If possible, let Education should be fun - what type of school would your children enjoy most? them take special possessions or pets that they will find comforting. Encourage systems of different countries so this may not only how the system works in the them to keep in touch with their own be a consideration if you are planning country you are moving to but also how friends back home, and help them to to return home or move elsewhere effective it is in practice. make friends in the new country when while your children are at this stage of you arrive. When looking for a nanny, nursery or their schooling. For example, in many daycare centre always ask around for European countries such as Germany Research has shown that there are recommendations from other expats (if and Denmark, students are separated tremendous benefits for children who possible) and ask for testimonials from into three different types of schools at grow up in different countries and service providers. secondary level depending on academic cultures so there is no need to be overly ability, teacher recommendation and concerned about taking your children parental preference. One type of school to live overseas, even if you are likely Education Systems usually focuses on academic study and to move regularly. Studies have found preparation for university, another on that so-called Third Culture Kids of Be aware that the age from which vocational training leading to higher expatriate parents generally achieve education becomes compulsory varies qualifications and a third, also vocational, high educational attainment levels and quite a lot between countries, being 6 prepares students for early entry to the a valuable understanding of different years of age in many European countries workforce. In contrast, the secondary cultural assumptions and values. but as early as 4 in other parts of the school systems in the UK and USA are Although they may have difficulty in world. more comprehensive in style. establishing long-term friendships with children in similar situations due to the mobility of expatriate families, the overall benefits of expatriate life for children are believed by many to outweigh the disadvantages. At secondary school level there are big differences between the educational The education system in countries abroad may also offer separate schools

fees for a day school are around EUR 10,000 per year but it should be borne in mind that fees generally increase as the pupil grows older. For example, the average fees for children aged 12 or over may be around EUR 20,000 per year. Furthermore, fees for boarding (as opposed to day) schools are much higher. In addition to yearly fees it may also be wise to consider the other expenses which are likely to be incurred when sending a child to an international school. These expenses might include a registration fee, purchase of a uniform, insurance, activity fees and transport. Given the prohibitive cost, why do some expats choose international schools for their childrens education? Sometimes they are the only choice if foreigners are not permitted to attend local state schools or if the state schools are full. Many parents are also concerned about the effect learning a new language and adapting to a new culture are likely to have on both their childs education and happiness (typically young children take these challenges in their stride but older children may struggle or feel alienated). International schools usually offer smaller classes and much better facilities than a local school which does not charge fees. Typically international schools offer better libraries, computer facilities and some will have better sports facilities such as swimming pools and gymnasiums. The fees will reflect this as well as the higher teacher salaries as teachers are often recruited from abroad. Another benefit of attending an international school is that it gives the parents a chance to meet other expats! International schools offer many advantages for expatriate children, including minimising the disruption to their education, providing a relatively familiar educational environment with overseas-recruited teachers, having low student-staff ratios and providing them with the opportunity to mix with students from many different countries and cultures. Generally speaking, international schools provide a high standard of education but it is important to investigate all the options in your chosen destination, especially if there are a number of international schools to choose from. Talk to the parents of existing students and find out what they see as the best and worst things about a school. Ask the school about their examination record, and find out what extra-curricular activities are on offer.

Keep in mind that many international schools actually have a high percentage of local students enrolled and usually employ a number of local teachers and teaching assistants so you might also want to enquire about the student profile, as well as the background and experience of teaching staff. Most international schools are privately run, and are often administered either by an appointed individual or by a board of management elected from the parent body. You might wish to investigate the arrangements for management of the school, how the views of parents are represented, and how any grievances are dealt with. Many international schools have waiting lists so it is always a good idea to enrol as soon as possible, a process which may involve entrance exams (most commonly in English and Maths). If possible try to choose a school affiliated with a respected international school association as they are more likely to meet minimum requirements as far as teaching or facilities are concerned. It is interesting to note that several well-known British public schools (note: public schools in the UK are often referred to as private schools elsewhere) are opening branches in different locations across the world to cater for the expat market. They offer boarding and day school options and are ideal for those families who would normally continue to educate their children at a boarding school in their country of origin. Harrow, for example, has announced that they are opening a branch in Hong Kong and already has schools in Bangkok and Beijing. The Sherbourne School has a branch in Qatar, Dulwich College has several schools already established in China and several others have branches in the Middle East and Far East. In some countries where there are large numbers of expatriates of different nationalities, there are also foreigncurriculum schools catering to the educational and language requirements of different groups. These may include French, German, Italian and Indian schools, for example. Not all expats choose international schools and the state school option may in fact be preferable in some cases. Apart from the obvious cost savings a local state school is a superb place for

Is your child a Third Culture Kid?

Standards, licensing and certification procedures for childcare professionals may be very different to those you are used to. Take some time to investigate

Third Culture Kid (or TCK) is a term first used in the 1960s to describe children who grow up in a foreign country. Debate continues to this day about issues of identity and belonging.

a child to learn the new language and many expats find that their children are often fluent in the local lingo within a very short period of time. Speaking the language and adapting to a new culture are not only of immediate benefit but may also be useful in the longer term if the family decides to stay in the new country. Local Schools For those making a permanent or longterm move to a new country, it may be better to enrol children in a local school if there are no restrictions on doing so (some countries have strict regulations about expat children attending local schools which do not charge fees, so you may have no other option than a private school). Even if they do not speak the local language to start with, this immersion method will be an excellent way to learn the language and they will be well-placed to make longterm friends. You will also probably find that it is a very effective way of getting the family involved in the local community. However, be prepared for a difficult time at first as your children adjust to what may be a very different educational environment, learning a new language, and being regarded as foreigners. It may also be the case that religious education in the predominant local religion or denomination may be a compulsory part of the curriculum and you will need to consider whether this is acceptable for your children. Another advantage of placing your children in local schools is that they are likely to be free of charge, if state run, and even if privately run they may be cheaper than international schools. In most countries the children of foreign nationals are allowed to attend state schools if their parents are living and working in the country, although there may be entrance requirements, including a language test, so some initial language tuition may be needed. In some countries, there are bilingual schools which are either state or privately run and offer instruction in English as well as the local language. These can be a useful option if your children have no knowledge of the language to start off with but you want them to learn the language and be immersed in the local culture. It is essential, however, to look into

the standard of education offered by local schools, as in some developing countries local schools will offer only a basic standard of education. Much will depend upon the area you are based in as in some countries the education available in larger towns and cities is much better than that in rural areas. Boarding Schools and Home Schooling Before finalising plans for your move, you may need to consider whether you would be prepared to send your children to a boarding school back home if there were no suitable schools available locally, either at the time of the move or when they reach secondary school age. If you decide to send your children to boarding school, you must check whether they offer seven-day boarding, as some schools expect their students to go home or be cared for elsewhere at the weekends. You might prefer to find a school that has a large number of foreign students, or students whose parents work abroad, which may offer better welfare and social facilities for your children. Parents should take into account the additional travelling expenses involved and the fact that school fees in their home country may be substantial. Finally, you may also wish to consider whether home-schooling would be a suitable - and legal - option for your children. Financial Planning for Education It is difficult to make financial plans in advance without a firm idea of which school your child will be attending. Tuition fees vary in different regions of the world, though most private schools will charge the equivalent of several thousand British pounds each year. Occasionally this will also include the cost of travelling to and from school and meals. Fees will also be higher if the child is a boarder rather than a day pupil. Parents should also take into consideration the usual costs for items such as books and school uniform. If a child requires extra support for special needs then this may also incur additional charges.

Expats who move abroad for work may be able to obtain help for educating children from their employer, especially if they are being asked to move to a developing country or one in which expat children are unable to attend local schools. If this applies to you and your employer is prepared to contribute then you should ensure that this is appears in writing in your contract of employment before you move. Some private schools (both at home and abroad) make a small number of bursaries and scholarships available but these are typically reserved for children who achieve excellent grades or who excel in one particular subject area. The child will have to take examinations to apply and parents should be aware that not all of the costs of tuition and extra items may be covered. The school may also have funds to help those who would otherwise find it difficult to meet the fees, although parents may find that these funds only cover part of the fees and the bulk of the money still has to be provided. Negotiation of reduced fees may be possible when more than one child from the same family attends the same school although this is not always the case. Lastly, keep in mind that obtaining a university degree in some countries can be extremely expensive. and in some areas where higher education establishments are not adequate, attending university in another country becomes the only option. In this case you will also need to take into account a different cost of living and travel costs for your child as well as the university fees. Useful Links COBISEC http://www.cobisec.org Council of International Schools http://www.cois.org European Council of International Schools (ECIS) http://www.ecis.org The International Schools Association http://www.isaschools.org International Schools, The Database

(ISTD) http://www.international-schools.com International Schools Services (ISS) http://www.iss.edu International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) http://www.ibo.org The National Association of British Schools in Spain (NABSS) http://www.nabss.org

EXPERT VIEW - PARENTING

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adjust to their new environments more quickly and in a healthier manner. Those TCKs who do not easily make friendships or new social connections seem to face more obstacles in their adjustments. I have also found that children or teens with unmet exceptional learning needs whether they are highly gifted or dealing with a learning disability also struggle more than others. Furthermore, kids with emotional or behavioral difficulties who are already having difficulty in their home country environment rarely do better when moved overseas. Meeting all the different learning needs of expat children would be the subject of another article, but it must at least be a footnote in this one. What role does the family play in TCK resilience? The family is the bedrock of emotional support for kids living in a highly transient world. Children of all ages depend on their families for stability, love, acceptance, structure, and support even if the kids sometimes act like they dont care. According to Ruth Van Reken, co-author of The Third Culture Kid Experience: Growing Up Among Worlds, the family is where the child learns who he is no matter where he is. The family is also the place where the child/teen needs to feel safe to express the sense of loss that comes with moving and leaving behind all that was loved. Though not a complete list for building resilience in TCKs, here are a few other tips parents can use to help meet their childrens emotional needs as well as help them to form healthy relationships and new social connections when facing an international relocation: Kids need to have their feelings acknowledged. If they are reluctant to share how they feel, encourage them to put into words or appropriately demonstrate their feelings. An excellent book to help younger children talk about their feelings is Emotional Resilience and the Expat Child by Julia Simens. Help your children to say goodbye to their friends, teachers, domestic help, etc. so that they can bring that chapter of their lives to closure before departure. Encourage your kids to maintain their relationships from their last home and facilitate that as best you can. In the

old days, that was through letters and phone calls. Today that can be through e-mails, Skype calls, Facebook (age appropriate, of course), etc. Give your children some (age appropriate) sense of control over their lives, even when it seems like there isnt much in their lives that can be controlled. This can be something as simple as deciding how to arrange or decorate their bedroom, or what to make for family dinners. Maintain routine and structure in family life as much as possible. This is difficult when life is chaotic during a move, but its when stability is needed the most. Try to spend more time together as a family, not less, during a move. Again, thats hard to do with so many competing demands, but reassurance of the family bedrock is crucial for the feeling of safety and stability. Remember to have fun together, too. International moves are stressful events, so making time for fun and relaxation is a great stress reliever. Help your children to develop a portable skill or interest so that they have a vehicle to help them connect to their new environments and peers. Help your children to research their new home, country and school. See if they can get connected to someone who is already there, or involved in an activity they might want to join. This might help them to look forward to the change. So while I have hoped to partially answer the questions of why some globally nomadic children thrive while others dont, and how parents can help to foster resiliency in their children, I havent addressed my other burning question. Is it worth it? My own family has had its share of challenges stemming from our international lifestyle. As parents, we dont always do everything right and sometimes wish we would have done some things differently. But for our family, the faded pictures in the album probably answer the question for us. Our children had experiences and adventures they never could have had otherwise. They experienced life and

other cultures in a way that opened them up to the world. Today, they can move between cultural worlds with ease and grace. Despite the hardships, for our family, yes, it was worth it.

What are we doing to our children?

The impact of global mobility on third culture kids
by Rebecca Grappo, M.Ed The other day I was looking through an old family photo album with my oldest 20-something daughter. Page after page was filled with memorable moments of her and her two siblings from our years living abroad. There were pictures of family events at home, the kids on camels, rocks and ruins (as our kids referred to visits to ancient sites), famous cathedrals and alpine meadows. Perhaps the most touching for me was a picture of our three children happily splayed in the sand at the base of an enormous desert sand dune after they had rolled all the way down. Knowing the good, the bad and the ugly elements of globally nomadic family life, I turned to my daughter and asked, Was it worth it? - it being, of course, growing up as a Third Culture Kid. Most conscientious parents have asked themselves if they are doing the right thing by moving their kids around the world, or raising them in a culture outside of their own home culture. I am no exception to this self-examination. In my 25+years of experience as an expat parent, international educator and educational consultant, I am always examining the impact of global mobility on our kids. Therefore, I have always had three questions in the back of my mind. Is it all worth it?

About the Author

Rebecca (Becky) Grappo, M.Ed., is a Certified Educational Planner and founder of RNG International Educational Consultants, LLC. Rebecca specializes in Third Culture Kids and transition issues, and has helped hundreds of students find the right boarding school or university for them. Rebecca has also worked with many students who have struggled in school due to learning disabilities or emotional or behavioral issues. She has given numerous presentations on TCKs and education issues for groups around the United States and abroad, as well as written articles for print publications and online sites. Contact information: Email: rebecca@rebeccagrappo.com Website: http://www. rebeccagrappo.com Blog: http://www.rebeccagrappo. com/blog

Deciding whats best for your children when moving abroad can be the toughest decision you face

thrive in this lifestyle. They love the adventure and excitement of going new places, meeting new people, and immersing themselves in new cultures. These young people become more empathetic, resilient, adaptable, interesting, and intellectually curious individuals. They see the world with the understanding that comes from interacting with other points of view and typically will seek diversity of thought and experiences in their friendships and life experiences. They exemplify all the best traits that come with being a TCK. However, life as an expat child or teen is not always easy. The frequent moves and adjustments that a TCK must make can be hard on a kid. Kids who move often

may struggle to define where home is, feel rootless, and can experience a sense of loss that comes from leaving behind a place and people they have loved. Furthermore, even if the child or teen does not move, chances are that he will be left behind by friends who relocate. So in this highly mobile world, these kids may face many interrupted friendships and important relationships. Based on my observations of all kinds of expat children and teens from those who are superstars to those who are struggling one key to resilience appears to be having healthy relationships and social connections. Those TCKs who can more easily make new friends and keep the old seem to

Why do some kids seem to thrive in this lifestyle while others seem to struggle with it? And what can parents do to foster their childrens resilience? Over the years, I have witnessed that there are many children and teens that

The role of the family is key

Big or small, the family is crucial to the wellbeing of expat children everywhere. Kids rely on them for stability, love, acceptance, structure and support - even if they dont always appreciate it!

PETS

Toy Spaniel * Shih Tzu * Lhasa Apso * Japanese Chin * Japanese Pug

as airlines will not allow wire crates or collapsible travel crates. Once you have selected your pets crate, you will then need to help your pet become better prepared for travel. The best way to do this is to make sure your pet is comfortable with their new crate. Start by putting treats in the crate and then progress to leaving your pet in the crate for short periods of time while you are out. Your pet will soon become comfortable in the crate and this, in turn, will help avoid separation anxiety and ensure a relaxed travel experience for both you and your pet.

pet supply supermarkets, for example. On the subject of animals, it can be distressing for many western pet-lovers who move abroad to discover that starving and diseased cats and dogs or animal corpses on the roads are a common sight in many less developed countries. You might need to prepare your children in particular for this, and perhaps resist the temptation to provide a home for every stray. You should also endeavour to find out in advance if there are any cultural taboos or sensitivities associated with different types of animals in your destination country. For example, Muslims do not like to touch dogs, and this could be a relevant factor when choosing a maid who might be required to bathe a dog. Useful Links Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/ pets/travel/pets/index.htm Pet Travel Scheme information from the UKs Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)

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Cats Himalayan * Persian As sad as it may seem, you should also consider the age of your pet. Some elderly pets might be better off staying with friends or family than attempting to endure international travel. Your vet will be able to help you in determining whether or not your pet is healthy enough to travel. There are three ways for your pet to travel: In the Cabin: This is limited to small pets, such as small birds and dogs, that can fit into a carrier under the passenger seat and which comply with very specific airline guidelines. Riding in the cabin however is limited to just a few pets per flight. As a Ticketed Passenger: Your pet travels on the same flight as you, although it travels in the cargo area. As an Unaccompanied Pet: Your pet travels by itself or with pet siblings in the cargo area. Purchasing your pets travel crate will be the most important purchase you make during your pets relocation process. Choosing the right crate is essential for a safe and comfortable travel experience for your pet. Pet air travel legislation has defined rules governing the size of a pets shipping crate. The interior travel crate measurement must be greater than the length of the pet by at least 2 to 3 inches, therefore allowing plenty of space for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie back down again comfortably with legs stretched out. How To Measure Your Pet A) Measure the length of your pet when it is standing, from the base of its tail to the tip of its nose. B) Measure the height of your pet when it is standing, from the floor to the top of its head or ear, whichever is highest off the ground. Remember to use a crate that has been specifically declared as airline-approved,

Those other members of the family!

Some things to consider before they travel
Pets play an integral part within todays family structure and when faced with the possibility of overseas relocation pet owners the world over rarely hesitate to include their pets in their travel plans. However, there are a few things to consider before flying off into the sunset with your pet by your side. First, you must find out if your destination country allows the importation of your pet as some countries do have limits on the types of species that they will allow in. You can do this by simply calling your Consulate in the destination country or checking an authoritative (e.g. government) website online. You will also need to find out whether a period of quarantine is necessary and what other documentation your pet will need. You will probably also have to obtain the relevant import and export licenses, health records and vaccinations, proof of ownership etc. Fortunately there are specialist pet relocation services available in many western countries that will deal with all the paperwork on your behalf and transport your pet to the airport if required. Most EU countries and many countries outside the EU, including Australia, Canada, the USA and Hong Kong are now members of the Pet Travel Scheme under which dogs and cats from any of the countries covered by the scheme are able to enter the country without quarantine provided they meet specified anti-rabies, blood sampling and antiworm/anti-tick hygiene requirements and are fitted with a microchip. For those countries not covered by the PETS scheme, you will need to find out what the quarantine requirements are for your pet check the relevant government website and/or speak to your local vet for further information. Whether or not a period of quarantine is necessary, you will normally have to provide a current health certificate and proof of a current

Pets come in all shapes and sizes - make sure their travelling environment is suitable for their needs

rabies vaccination for your pet. You should check carefully the specific rabies vaccination requirements of the country you are taking your pet to since the 3-year rabies vaccine commonly used in the United States, for example, is not recognised in some European countries. When making travel arrangements for your pet, you need to take into account the quarantine requirements in effect in any country that the flight lands in since your pet may be subject to these even if it is just in transit through that country. You should also investigate the policies of different airlines regarding carrying various types of animals, as these vary considerably and the rules can be quite stringent. The next thing to consider is the season in which you are planning to travel

with your pet. Almost all airlines have embargos on pet transport during extreme summer or winter months. You will need to check with your airline to determine what they consider extreme. There are, however, a few breeds of dogs and cats that most airlines will place travel restrictions on, called AtRisk Breeds. These are certain breeds of cats and dogs that are susceptible to increased risk of heat stroke and breathing problems when they are exposed to stress or extreme heat, a condition that puts them at risk for travel. The following lists examples of such breeds: Dogs Boston Terrier * English Bulldog * French Bulldog * Boxer * Dutch Pug * Pekinese * Brussels Griffin * Bull Terrier * English

Although it is best to keep your pet calm before, during and after a flight, it is not a good idea to sedate your pet for travel. Sedatives suppress the respiratory system of pets and can often cause disorientation. Several airlines will not even accept your pet if they have been sedated. Rather, use an herbal relaxant instead and include a towel or t-shirt inside the crate so that your pet will feel safe by smelling your scent. Remember to find out if you need to obtain a license for the animal on arrival in the new country and whether there are any particular laws regarding pet ownership, such as a legal requirement to keep dogs on a leash in public, or to poop scoop. If you are moving to a very different climate, the environment may not be suitable for your pet and you may need to make arrangements for it to be cared for while you are away. Other factors that you might wish to take into account when deciding whether or not to take your pet are the availability of good veterinary care and pet supplies in the country that you are moving to. Expatriates moving from the USA to Europe are often surprised at the lack of

Different countries, different values

Some expats are shocked on arrival in a new country when they discover that animals are treated very differently than back home. Coming to terms with that difference can be difficult for many.

ARRIVAL
What to do when you get there

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consider redirecting it to the home of a close friend or relative, and leave them with a stack of large ready-stamped envelopes for use in forwarding anything important. Find out how reliable postal deliveries are in your new country, and use special mail or courier services if necessary. You should take into account likely delivery times it may take several weeks for airmail to reach you if you are going somewhere remote, and you should allow at least a week for delivery between continents. Check whether your new country has a mail delivery service to your door; if this is not the case (common in remote areas) you will need to open a post office box or use your employers address if permitted to do so. Make New Friends Dont forget to inform friends and family of your new address as soon as you know it (unless you dont want them to find you, of course!) In the near chaos which accompanies most expat departures it is all too easy to forget those outside your immediate social circle who you are leaving behind. Too many friendships are lost in the transition to another country which might have remained strong with a simple email or phone call. And dont forget, you might be returning sooner than expected if things dont work out abroad so keep those ties with the home country strong for your own sake. On arrival in your new country introduce yourself to other expats, neighbours and colleagues as soon as possible. A good social network of friends will be an invaluable source of advice and support. The extent to which expats and locals mix socially varies between different countries and areas, but in general you are likely to benefit more fully from the experience of living in a different country if you get to know the locals. Making friends with the locals can provide you with information and support which expats are unable to offer, no matter how long they have been resident in the country. Being able to see things from a local perspective will also help you to better appreciate and integrate into your new homeland. In the majority of cases you will find the locals friendly and welcoming if you make the effort to fit in

with their culture. When considering ways to meet people think about the activities and hobbies you enjoyed in your home country and look for opportunities to continue them abroad. In addition, think about what new activities you might like to try - perhaps something which was not available in your home country or something you always fancied but never did anything about. Starting a new life abroad is the perfect time to try new things! Try to go to local exhibitions and meetings or join a local club or two. Even if the prospect of watching old silent films in a foreign language once a fortnight doesnt quite get your pulse racing, make an effort anyway - youll meet local people and get relationships underway. Try giving a little of your business to local shops and services from timeto-time. Thats not to say you should ignore bargains elsewhere or the large supermarket in the next town, but a few groceries or other items purchased locally on a regular basis wont break the bank and may yield relationshipbuilding benefits. If you feel comfortable and safe doing so, try the local bar periodically as a drink or two can really get communication going! In smaller villages and towns there are usually a few notable locals. Typically these are the mayor, perhaps a councillor or two, the doctor, the bank manager, one or two larger landowners, a head teacher etc. It would be a mistake to underestimate the influence these people have in smaller communities and they frequently pass on to each other their perceptions of newcomers. Make the effort to introduce yourself and try to arrange the odd social event such as a drink at your home. Such events are not only fun but they will help you become known and part of a local relationship network that you may well need in due course. If you are moving to a closely knit community the locals will naturally be curious about the new arrivals - get to know just a few people and it wont be long before everyone knows who you are. Remember that a lot of good work in building local relationships can be destroyed in seconds by an ill-judged remark. Many societies are far less mobile than those in the Englishspeaking world. To put it simply, people

tend not to move about as much and may stay in the same area for long periods. This is particularly true in rural areas where many people know each other and their families may have been friends for several generations. Remember that before rubbishing the local shop in the next town - you may well be talking to the owners sister or cousin! Many nationalities form expat groups, clubs or associations abroad and meet on a regular basis. These organisations are a valuable source of practical information for the new expat (existing members will probably have encountered similar challenges to those you will face) but membership can also help to counter feelings of loneliness and isolation. Deal With Homesickness When the novelty of moving has worn off, dont be surprised if you or family members start to feel homesick or experience aspects of culture shock shortly after arrival. This is part of the normal process of adjusting to life overseas which most expatriates experience at some stage, particularly children and non-working spouses. Focus on the positive aspects of life in the new country, and accept that the feelings will (hopefully) pass. It is normal to go through a honeymoon stage on arrival in a new country in which the foreign-ness is exciting and exotic. However, this is often followed by a period of time during which expatriates experience negative feelings such as frustration and irritation with the way things are done in their new society, homesickness, depression and an acute awareness of being different. Over time, a process of adaptation and integration into the new society usually occurs and the negative feelings disappear, but the time that this takes varies considerably between individuals. To minimise the effects of culture shock, it helps to find out as much as possible about life in your new country in advance, and to learn at least some of the language so that you can communicate with the locals. Maintain an open mind about different lifestyles, and try to stay focused on the positive aspects of life in your new country.

Have a plan before you arrive - then put it into action

Register Familiarise yourself with the immigration procedure for the country in question. Are you required to register with an immigration department shortly after arrival? If so, where do you need to go, what do you need to take with you and how much time are you allowed? Always register with your own countrys consulate on arrival at your destination and keep their contact details readily to hand. The consulate will be an important contact point in the event of a national disaster or other incident affecting foreign nationals in the country. More generally, you may need their help to renew your passport, replace a stolen or lost passport, or in the event that you are arrested or run into other major problems while living abroad. Get Connected The fact that there are different types of mobile phone networks means that your current phone may not necessarily work in your new country (even within the same country, there are often several incompatible phone networks). Even if your existing phone does work in your new country, roaming charges may be expensive, and it will probably be cheaper to subscribe to a local mobile phone provider as soon as you can after arrival. When arranging a landline, note that telephone calls to local numbers are free in some countries but not in others, and that you may have to request a special line to make international calls. It is possible to make international calls very cheaply these days from many countries using pre-paid cards or dial-around/callback plans which by-pass your regular telephone service provider and connect your calls via a third country, usually the United States, where call charges are

Arriving in your new country for the first time can be an overwhelming experience - plan ahead

very cheap. If you are moving a long distance, time zone differences can make it quite difficult to have telephone or instant messenger conversations, and you may have to rely more heavily on email Broadband internet service is available in most countries now, although connection speeds vary. Cable packages are also widely available, including TV, telephone and internet services. If you wont be able to use your current email address, consider opening a free web-based email account that you can access anywhere, such as a Hotmail, GMail or Yahoo! Mail account. You might also wish to consider investing in an inexpensive webcam and microphone to have live video conversations with friends and relatives back home. Having your mail redirected after you leave can prevent you from missing something important. You will generally find that the postal service in your home country offers a fairly inexpensive service for redirecting mail within the same country, but if an overseas redirection service is available this may cost considerably more so you may need to decide whether it is worth the expense. Ensure that important correspondence such as bank statements, tax letters etc. is sent to you at your new address or to an alternative address for forwarding, and cancel any regular mail you no longer want to receive. If it is too expensive or impractical to have all your post delivered to your new location,

Staying in touch

If youre not already a user of internet communication applications like Skype or MSN Messenger try them out before moving abroad theyre simple to set up and much cheaper than international calls.

CULTURE SHOCK

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is the need to find out whether such practices as tipping and haggling over prices are in common use in your new society. Managing Stress

Plan ahead but when the best laid plans go awry - as they inevitably will at some stage - dont panic. Have contingency plans in place so when the first one fails you can always revert to Plan B (or C or D!) Say your goodbyes but dont drag things out longer than necessary, it is important for your emotional wellbeing to have closure. Understand that you are ending one chapter in your life so that you can be ready for the next one to begin. Banish fear of the unknown by thoroughly researching your new destination with every information source available. Establish routines for everyday life. Routines add predictability and help stabilize emotions. Put up a schedule on the fridge or tack it up on a wall if that helps the whole family to have a focal point for the weeks activities. Identify your (and your familys) goals. Goals give you a sense of purpose, and when accomplished, a sense of achievement. Setting realistic goals is paramount to fulfilling them and feeling relatively stress-free. Ask yourself what relocation will achieve and whether it is really worth it. Consider the financial and emotional costs of moving versus the benefits. If enriching your lives with diverse cultural experiences is a goal, then relocation may make good sense. If you are a rigid person or family who typically does not deal well with change then you might have a harder time adjusting emotionally to the move. Relocation can be a challenge for the accompanying family, especially when their primary needs or desires are not being met. For example, a spouses career goals might have to be put on hold which may lead to a build up of resentment in the marriage. In such cases the accompanying spouse may decide (or be encouraged) to look for alternative opportunities such as freelancing, volunteering, taking language courses, indulging hobbies, forming support groups, etc. Help children identify new goals such as learning a new language.

Dealing with the stress of expat life

Expect challenges ahead but dont panic!
Cultural Differences Most expats inadvertently break some cultural taboos when they first go to live in a different country, even those countries which are on the surface very similar to their own. For example, the price of someones house is a sensitive topic in some parts of America, while this is a topic of normal everyday conversation in the UK. In most cases, you are likely to find that the locals will understand your lack of familiarity with their customs and will brush off your question good-naturedly, or explain their discomfort. In some countries, however, especially those where there are strong religious or cultural taboos, it may be easy to cause offence or to upset someone with a culturally insensitive remark or action. If you are going to live in a Muslim country it is important to remember that Muslims do not eat pork or drink alcohol, that they only consume food considered to be halal (prepared in the manner prescribed by Islamic law), and that they fast during daylight hours during the month of Ramadan, a period when it might be insensitive to eat in front of Muslim friends or co-workers. In Asian countries such as China, the concept of guanxi is very important in both social and business interactions. This refers to a relationship established over time in which there are mutual obligations and owed favours between the parties concerned. Respect is also very important in China and it is considered particularly important to show respect for seniors, guests and people with whom you have a guanxi relationship. Respect is often demonstrated as extreme politeness, which can be seen as overly formal by westerners. Losing face is a source of shame in many Asian societies so it is very important that you do not cause someone to lose face when dealing with
Locals may say and do things which you find surprising, if not shocking. Try to take things in your stride.

The stress and anxiety associated with relocating can often be so profound and long-lasting that there is even a term for it: Relocation Stress Syndrome (RSS). RSS refers to the negative effect on someones body and mind as a result of changing environmental factors. In some severe cases it may even be considered as traumatic as bereavement. Moving to another country is always a major upheaval and should be recognised as such at an early stage. Factors that cause relocation stress then need to be identified so that they can be addressed as and when they arise. It is also important to remember that relocation stress can occur not just in people who are against the move or inherently unhappy with it but also in people who welcome the move and may, in fact, have been its initiators. For most people though, relocating is an opportunity which leads to many positive and life-enriching experiences if they embrace it. Some signs of relocation stress are tension headaches, depression, insomnia, a weakened immune system, backaches, high blood pressure and panic attacks (needless to say these may also be symptoms of other conditions and should they persist the advice of a medical professional is advised). Here are some suggestions for reducing relocation stress during your move abroad: Make prioritized lists. Making todo lists will help you get your thoughts in order but making haphazard lists will not work - your lists must be organized in terms of relevance and importance. Set tasks into manageable chunks. Divide and delegate as many activities as possible so that the onus of the move is not all on you. Give people tasks to accomplish suited to their expertise and temperament. For example, give your children a chance to pack their own music collection and divide up selling, packing and researching tasks with your spouse and other family members.

Identify whether your move will be a short-term or a long-term one. Will you be burning your boats back home or keeping old ties? Will you relinquish citizenship or opt for dual nationality? Knowing the answers will help you understand your long term goals and objectives. Meditation. Meditation need not be a complex undertaking. It can be as simple as tuning out the world for a few minutes and concentrating on something that evokes feelings of happiness or contentment in you. Exercise. In addition to the long term health benefits, sometimes you just need to get rid of all that excess energy and frustration building up inside you and a good workout provides just that. Exercise also releases endorphins into your body which can help you feel more positive and cheerful. Relaxation. Find other ways to relax during this stressful time by indulging in a favourite hobby, socialising with new friends, booking a massage or spa treatment, treating yourself to a gift, going for a long walk in the country, catching up on sleep, spending more (or less!) time with your family or any other activity that will help to relieve some of the stress that tends to accumulate when relocating. Cut yourself some slack. Its OK to feel lost, disappointed, homesick, scared and lonely. Acknowledging these feelings (instead of feeling guilty about them) will help you to start focusing on the positives that much sooner. Stop comparing and move on. If youre forever thinking that your old house was so much more spacious or that your old neighborhood had so many more trees, youll never realize the positives of your new destination and there may be many positives, you just have to stop and look for them. Encourage children to talk about their feelings. Children often have similar tensions and anxieties regarding a move and one of the best things you can do is to encourage them to discuss their fears; only then can fears and misunderstandings be addressed and optimism given a chance to take root.

them in business or personal life. Western expatriates are sometimes disconcerted by some habits and customs which are prevalent in China and some other Asian countries such as spitting, openly staring at a foreigner, and failing to observe the usual western courtesy of queuing. The concept of personal space is also virtually unheard of in some eastern societies, with people moving closer to others than would be normal in western society. More generally, the meanings of different types of body language and particularly methods of signalling with the hands also vary considerably between cultures, and it is wise to seek advice from local or expat friends about the most

important differences so that you do not inadvertently cause offence, for example, by using what is considered to be a rude gesture. In Islamic societies, particularly those of the Middle East, it is very important to observe religious sensitivities about dress. Depending on the country concerned, women may be required to cover up most of their bodies, while men should also dress modestly. In particularly strict Islamic countries such as Saudi Arabia, women are expected to wear a black abaya and to cover their hair when in public. They may also not be allowed to drive or travel alone. Less sensitive but nonetheless important

Keeping things in perspective

Feelings of bewilderment and isolation are perfectly natural responses when moving to a new country for the first time. Give yourself time to settle in and adjust to the new culture around you.

EXPAT WOMEN
Tips for women living abroad

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of foreigners rather than correct them, Toma created her exclusive, antique shopping tour business that now runs in four countries. Too many expats, seem to limit their ideas or work abroad by what they knew before. If you cannot work locally in your field of choice, work virtually (see sites like www.elance.com), volunteer, study, learn a new area of work or start a business locally doing something fun. You never know how the pieces of the puzzle will work out later. Brit Jo Parfitt, author of the definitive A Career in Your Suitcase and a popular keynote speaker at international conferences on this topic, is another example of how being flexible in your work concept abroad can pay off: I have reinvented myself countless times. I taught computers, French and writing in Dubai and worked as a journalist, yet wrote a Date cookbook and sold date chutney in Oman. In Norway I developed my career in your suitcase program and started a publishing company. Back in England I was a journalist and editor of a magazine and metamorphosised into a book cook, who helps people to write their books. Now, in Holland, I focus on writing and running workshops. Build Your Identity Everybody needs to be somebody. If your move abroad has stripped you of a lot of the identity you took for granted at home, it is critical that you re-build your identity abroad. If you do not own business cards, get some made. They may simply state your name and contact details, or they may portray you as a freelancer or consultant of some sort. For example, if you were, or would like to be, an editor, then your card should confidently display Editorial Advisor. If you would like to get into photography, pronounce yourself as a Photographic Consultant. If you are proud to be a stay-at-home mother, write Maternal Empress, Chief Arbitrator, 24/7 Educator or anything else that gives you your own sense of identity, boosts your selfesteem plus gives people a reason to remember you. Another key thing to check is transport. Can you easily get from point A to point

B, without feeling dependent on your partner or an unreliable taxi system? In cities without good public transport infrastructure, buying a car for yourself can boost your freedom and sense of identity dramatically. Network Expats need networks and they need them fast. Expat executives need to network to facilitate business and gain local credibility. Non-working expats, such as trailing partners and free-spirited solo expats, need to network because they do not enjoy the luxury of walking into an employers ready-made office support network, so they need to take responsibility for finding people to count on at 2am when they (or their children) are rushed to the local emergency room and need moral support and/or language translation. If you are an expat who does not already have a strong support network abroad, do your research to find groups or associations that interest you, then start contacting people and introducing yourself. Find Mentors In addition to friends, seek mentors. These are people that can offer priceless experience, wisdom and guidance. For the expat executive, mentors might be the heads of local business associations, colleagues, local or locally-based business owners, expat executive coaches and so on. For the non-worker, mentors might consist of the presidents of local expat clubs, Community Liaison Officers (CLOs) in your organization, independent entrepreneurs who might provide the necessary inspiration for you to start a business abroad, and/or expat life coaches who are typically longer-term, very well-connected expats who have also become experts on the local culture, expectations and challenges. Mentors should be people who can provide you with advice and usually they have plenty plus help you to think about the bigger picture, connecting you and guiding you in a way that truly benefits you. Expat life is the ultimate rollercoaster

full of ups and downs, successes and challenges. If you find yourself as an expat woman abroad, looking for ideas and direction whether you are working or not remember that above all else it is important to stay positive and keep motivated: give new ideas a go; get inspired by expat women before you; and get out there and enjoy yourself!

Staying positive and building your new life

The following tips are supplied by Andrea Martins, the Director and Co-Founder of ExpatWomen.com a comprehensive, global website helping expatriate women living overseas. Women move abroad every day, for many different reasons. Sometimes it is for work, business or investments abroad. Other times it is for love, adventure or the chance to start a new life. However, whilst more and more women (typically organise their own employment and) move abroad independently, there are still thousands of expat women who arrive in a new location, looking for something to do, and after the initial excitement of their transition fades, wondering how they can rebuild their lives abroad. This is partly because companysponsored expat employees are still mostly men (80/20 split), and, of the company-sponsored, trailing partners who were employed before they left home, only 25 percent of them will become employed abroad. (Source: Global Relocation Trends 2008 Survey Report, GMAC Global Relocation Services) So what tips can I offer you as an expat woman abroad? Stay Positive and Keep Motivated Whatever the reason that you moved abroad, the most important piece of advice is to stay positive and keep motivated. Do whatever it takes to keep a smile on your face when times get tough exercise, socialise with new people, travel and explore, attend motivational conferences and if you are not working, find a way to keep your brain active.
Moving to a new country has been the inspiration for many female authors and bloggers

Think Creatively About Work If you do not have a job abroad but think that you would like one, think creatively about what you can do. I had some wild business ideas (like creating a board game, starting an eBay store, developing kids bath toys and even sourcing products to sell on home shopping network channels) before I started ExpatWomen.com. Those business ideas never came to fruition, but they kept my brain moving and I am sure they made me ready to run with ExpatWomen.com when the time came. Toma Haines of The Antiques Diva agrees. Toma is an American who has

lived abroad in France, The Netherlands and now Germany. Rather than looking at the loss of her traditional career as a sacrifice to her husbands career, she looked at her time abroad as the perfect opportunity to pursue her ideas and passions even if it took her a while to decipher what these really were. To illustrate, before starting The Antiques Diva, Toma thought about teaching gourmet cooking lessons, becoming a certified picture framer and teaching English as a second language. But, when she realised that her recipes never came out the same more than once, she hated measuring things (a disaster for a professional picture framer) and that she would pick up the grammatical habits

Be creative and reinvent yourself if necessary

Starting a new life in a foreign country is the perfect time to reassess your priorities. What do you want to do? Who do you want to be? Its never too late to reinvent yourself!

more about the technology involved.

TELEVISION ABROAD

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Explore new frontiers in entertainment

...or make sure your old favourites are still available!
Much as we may hate to admit it, few expats are willing to give up their favourite TV programmes! Surveys show that large numbers of expats place significant priority on being able to maintain continuity of viewing in their new country. Only a few short decades ago this would have been difficult or next to impossible, but the advent of satellite TV, cable TV and the Internet have now made it much more feasible for many expats. Satellite TV Most people are now familiar with the sight of satellite TV dishes on buildings, but how does the system work? Conventional TV signals start to become harder and harder to receive the further away from the terrestrial transmitter one is. This is due to a reduction in signal strength over distance coupled with the curvature of the earth meaning that the signals, even if strong, start to pass overhead. Satellite TV overcomes this by having the original signal beamed up to a satellite, then re-broadcast back down over a much wider area than possible from a single terrestrial source. The area the satellites broadcast can reach back on Earth is described as its footprint. The strength of the satellites broadcast signal will vary within this footprint depending upon where you are, and this in turn will affect some of the equipment youll need to receive your favourite channels. If one thinks of the satellites signal as a cone coming down from space, the signal strength and equipment needed to receive will vary by distance from its center. Before you start to do the work to allow

A WORD OF WARNING: INSTALLATION OF SATELLITE TV EQUIPMENT IS A TASK NORMALLY CARRIED OUT BY TRAINED ENGINEERS. THERE ARE INHERENT RISKS INVOLVED WITH INSTALLING SUCH EQUIPMENT SUCH AS DEALING WITH HIGH VOLTAGE ELECTRICITY AND WORKING ABOVE THE GROUND (E.G. ON LADDERS OR ROOFS). IF IN ANY DOUBT, ALWAYS USE THE SERVICES OF A PROFESSIONAL INSTALLER. If you do decide to do it yourself, though, the good news is that it is not particularly complicated. You will, however, need a few basic pieces of kit and knowledge of how they connect together. This information is summarised in the table at the end of this section but remember there are many satellite TV suppliers with excellent web sites offering items which are orderable online and with full explanations as to their function. Satellite TV Channels, legalities & costs Once you have installed all your equipment, found the satellite with your dish, then tuned in the decoder box, you would hope to finally see something worth watching on your TV screen! Sadly, this isnt quite the end of it because having cracked the technology you now have to address the commercial and legal aspects of satellite TV. TV companies broadcast through satellites in different ways. Some of their premium channels are for paying customers only and you will need a special card (about the same size as a credit card) that inserts into your decoder box and allows the box to unscramble the incoming signal so you can view it on your TV. There are various ways of paying for and updating your subscription to paid channels and for specific details you should check with the company you purchased your equipment from. Some satellite channels are described as being Free To Air (FTA) which essentially means that the signal is broadcast completely unencrypted and from the moment you connect up your equipment you will find that the service is viewable without a card.

Good examples of these types of channels, of which there are hundreds throughout the world, are the flagship news channels of many countries and nature or information programmes. FTA satellite channels, however, are unlikely to carry premium modern entertainment or sports shows. Another variable is Free To View (FTV). This format is beginning to wane but still exists and in this case you have to acquire a card for your decoder box to unscramble the signal but the card is either free or available for a very low fee. With this system you do not have to pay for upgrades to the card and you can carry on watching for ever (in theory) although channels may change from time to time and a station that is FTV can shift to FTA status (which would make no real difference as it would still be viewable) or to chargeable status in which case you would need to pay to upgrade your card/subscription. Again, though, many of the most popular entertainment and sports channels are unlikely to be available via FTV. The legality of watching satellite TV abroad is a frequent source of confusion. There are two basic points the expat needs to be aware of: In some countries (the UK is a good example) copyright and commercial rights laws prohibit the broadcasting of some programmes to some other countries where other parties have been sold the rights to broadcast those same programmes. In practice it is impossible to stop the satellite footprint falling across large parts of Europe and even North Africa and as a result, companies tend to try to restrict viewing of the signal by only supplying decoder boxes and cards to people with UK addresses. Some expats decide to ignore the legal issues involved and either take their existing equipment with them from the UK or, if purchasing new equipment, simply arrange for it to be sent to a UK address belonging to a friend or relative from which it is then sent on or collected at a later date (in fact, the situation is slightly more complicated than that as a subscription may be required, the box may need to be connected to a phone line and the card activated before it starts working). Although the legislation may prohibit use of the decoder and subscription card outside the specified area, in practice it does not appear to be

strongly enforced as far as home users are concerned. Perhaps more seriously, expats would do well to remember that local laws and customs could mean that watching some channels is illegal. Some adult channels may be considered tame in Europe or the USA but can be seen as pornography in other countries and severe penalties can be levied for watching them. In other countries it can be an offence to watch programmes of a type that is deemed to be inflammatory or critical of the government, local religion etc. Although such laws are rarely enforced, caution and discretion are highly advisable. As a special note to British expats, the BBC has a number of global stations that are broadcast and syndicated all over the world through satellite TV, cable and, increasingly, the Internet. These are described in detail on two BBC web sites: http://www.bbcworldwide.com and http://www.bbc.co.uk/info/channels/ bbcworldservice.shtml If you are a fan of BBC TV and planning to move to the USA or Canada then you should be able to get easy access to BBC America or BBC Canada. These are channels that carry a number of wellknown UK programmes and are available on satellite and cable systems. Similarly, those settling in Australia can check local TV suppliers for UKTV (http://www.uktv.com.au), a subscription service that provides a wide range of modern BBC programmes via satellite or cable. For those homesick Brits in other locations, you should be able to pick up from satellite or cable at least some other services including BBC Knowledge, BBC Lifestyle, BBC HD, BBC Prime and (not forgetting the younger expats) CBEEBIES! Check via the Internet or your local TV supplier on arrival for details of how to get these channels in your new country if they are available. If you are primarily interested in BBC news there is a good chance your local TV service provider will carry one of the BBC news channels but dont forget the BBC news web site at http://news.bbc. co.uk. The site has a wide range of UK and global news organised by continent, many items with video coverage too

Television broadcasting in some countries may not be what you are used to back home!

you to pick up your favourite channels and programmes via satellite, you need to know two things. What satellite your favourite channels and programmes are broadcast from. The broadcast footprint of that satellite. There are a lot of variables to consider depending upon what country you are leaving, where you are going to and what your interests are. However, you should be able to answer the above questions using an Internet search engine such as Google (www.google. com). Search phrases such as UK TV abroad or US TV in Western Europe will most likely get you started in the right direction. If you find that your channels are on a satellite not easily received at

your destination, dont panic (yet) we will cover other options later. It is usually better to carry out initial research prior to departure when you may have easy access to local experts who can clarify anything that is unclear. In many countries you will find Englishspeaking SAT TV dealers who can help you but in others you may struggle to find local expertise or to find it in your language. Once you have these two basic facts (satellite and footprint) at your disposal, you need to make a decision. Are you going to purchase and install the necessary equipment yourself or pay someone else to do it for you? As always, the chances are that it will be cheaper to do it yourself but it will also be more time consuming and involve learning

A fast moving industry

Television broadcasting has changed a lot over the years and with the advent of programming being delivered over the internet that trend is set to continue - good news for expats everywhere.

 though once again a fair proportion of the video will not play outside the UK. You can also try http://www. bbcworldnews.com, the web site of BBC World News, the BBCs commercially funded, international news channel, broadcast in English in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. Satellite TV Out Of Range? Much of the above may seem academic if right at the outset you discover that your destination is outside the relevant satellites footprint. The solution may be simple you might be able to buy your service from a local satellite TV provider using similar equipment to that described above. Many of these relay channels from other parts of the globe and although you would be pointing your dish at a different satellite (details from your local supplier) you may still be able to pick up your favourite channels. The best course of action in this case is to go to the local satellite TV dealer and ask. Cable TV In some countries, usually in the major conurbations, it is possible to pay to connect to local TV and entertainment channels via underground cables (i.e. cable TV). Some of these services include access to foreign channels perhaps including your old favourites. Check out your local providers offerings on their web site (you may also want to consider phone and internet services from the same provider, if available). TV Via The Internet The technology behind streaming TV over the Internet is moving fast and some argue that it will eventually make other forms of delivery such as satellite obsolete. At the time of writing, however, this option remains somewhat experimental and immature in nature although it certainly does work and you may be surprised the first time you try it. To receive TV over the Internet you will need a broadband (i.e. high speed) connection from an Internet Service Provider (ISP). Although now standard in many developed nations, broadband can be hard to find in some countries or

in remote areas outside of major centres. You will also need a reasonably powerful PC or laptop, although anything purchased within the last few years, even budget models, should be more than capable. With your hardware in place, the next step is to find the channels or programmes you want. You may have seen advertising from your favourite broadcaster stating that popular shows can now be watched online, either live or at a later date from their archives. Unfortunately, due to the restrictions discussed above you may find that some of these programmes are unavailable to you because you now happen to live outside the countrys boundaries (typically the web site in question will use some form of IP address checking to determine your location). In practice, other companies, groups or individuals may record and rebroadcast these programmes, or even an entire channels output, over the Internet, sometimes for free, sometimes for a charge. The legalities of this are highly dubious but it does happen and has so far proven to be difficult or even impossible to stop. Related to this is peer-to-peer (P2P) technology which you may be aware of or already use for file sharing. Some expats use this technology to download favourite programmes but there have been reports that the entertainment industry is taking a firmer stance against those who download and share copyrighted material.

SATELLITE TV EQUIPMENT EQUIPMENT Satellite dish WHAT IT DOES WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TIPS A small dish will be surprisingly effective in many countries but as per the sample diagram, you may need a larger one if located towards the edge of the footprint. There are many web sites and maps that show the dish size needed for the footprint of any given satellite just key in your satellite and youll see its footprint on the globe and dish size recommendations. Not as complex as it sounds. Some LNBs drive multiple decoder boxes for multiple TVs. Search for LNBs for sale on the web and youll see various types for sale and their functions are usually well described.

Focuses the signal from the How big it needs satellite onto the LNB/LNC to be (see below)

LNB/LNC (Low Picks up the dishs focussed What type and how powerful Noise Block signal and sends it to the it needs to be or Low Noise satellite decoder box in Converter) your home. An LNB is the little block on the end of the metal spur attached to your dish. Coaxial cable Carries the signal from the LNB to your satellite decoder box. How much cable (in metres) youll need to get from your LNB to the decoder box How many you need

Measure it or estimate and allow some surplus. There are different qualities of cable so do a little web-based research to see how much you extra want to pay for slightly better quality.

Connectors

These are little plug-like devices that fit over the bare wire ends of the coaxial cable. They allow to you screw it into the decoder box.

Order them (including spares) at the same time you buy your cable.

A decoder box

This takes the cable that runs What type you into your house from the need LNB and converts it into a series of channels and programmes that your TV set can display. These work by connecting to The location of your LNB and sometimes your satellite give a whistling noise that gets louder as you make fine movements of the dish to focus it better on your selected satellite. In essence they are signal strength detectors. This is a bracket that fixes your satellite dish to the wall, roof, etc. Where you plan to place your dish, whether you need to gain permission to mount a dish.

Different satellites can use different signals and encryption schemes to broadcast their signals. A little web research or dealer advice will tell you everything you need.

A satellite signal detector (useful, but not essential)

Satellite TV web sites publish the location of given satellites (e.g. ASTRA 2D is 28.2 East). In theory just pointing the dish there may get the signal but in practice a detector box at the dish end for fine-tuning can save hours of hard work trying to find the satellite.

Mounting kit

A larger dish can act like a giant sail in a windy location. The larger dishes can be heavy and need to be well secured. Once again use the web or ask a supplier for advice.

Waterproof insulation tape

Covers the cable connections N/A to the LNB and stops rain water seeping through.

Purchasable with the other items of equipment.

All the above items can be purchased on-line from satellite TV equipment providers. Costs will vary depending upon your specifications but you may be surprised at how relatively cheap most of these items are (and dont forget you can also buy second hand equipment through eBay).

CHECKLISTS
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YOUR BELONGINGS - Will you be taking everything with you or leaving some items in storage (or even getting rid of them completely)? How will you move your belongings? Can you transport them yourself or do you need the services of a moving company? Set aside those things you need to take with you in person so they dont get packed accidentally (passports, tickets, etc.) INSURANCE - Once youve decided what youre taking with you, insure it. If you havent already arranged appropriate insurance (health/life/travel, etc.) for yourself and your family as well...DO SO! BANKING - You may need to open a new bank account in your new country - look for information on which one suits you best. Do you need to close your current bank account? At the very least youll need to tell your current bank that youre moving. CREDIT CARDS - Credit card companies need to be informed youre moving. Also, will the credit cards youre taking with you be widely accepted? DRIVING - Depending on where youre going and how long youre going to be there you may need to apply for a new driving license or even take a driving test. Will you take your car with you or buy/rent/lease one when you get to your destination country? UTILITIES - Gas, electricity, cable companies and so on will need to be informed of your departure and contracts terminated where appropriate. Make arrangements for final meter readings and bill payments. POST REDIRECTION - Having your mail redirected after you leave can prevent you from missing something important. ELECTRIC DEVICES AND MOBILE PHONES - Check whether or not your TV, video, hair dryer, alarm clock etc. will work in the new country. You may need to take out a new network subscription for a mobile phone (or buy a new one with a subscription) - watch out for roaming charges with your current phone if you use it. EMAIL - If moving means you cant keep your current email address, consider a free web based email account you can access from anywhere.

And a couple of important tips for when you get to your new country... MAKE FRIENDS - Whether locals or fellow expats, nothing will help you more than being able to rely on the assistance of your friends when you need it. Dont think that socialising is time wasted, its what makes a new country feel like home. DONT BE TOO HARD ON YOURSELF Moving to a new country is difficult. Even when everything goes according to plan its still difficult. There will be times when youre physically and emotionally exhausted but try not to let things get on top of you. Dont be shy about posting a message to our forums to ask for help or support, weve all been there before. Make The Most Of It! However long you stay in the new country, make the most of your time there - it is likely to be a unique experience for you and your family. Immerse yourself in the culture; try the local cuisine; visit festivals and other cultural events. Take advantage of the leisure, entertainment and educational facilities that the country offers, and take the opportunity to visit other parts of the country and neighbouring countries at relatively low cost. Enjoy the experience of living and working with other expatriates, and use the opportunity to develop a world wide network of friends and associates. Finally, be aware that if and when you do decide to return to your home country, you may find the transition almost as difficult as your move overseas - many expatriates report experiencing reverse culture shock when they go home. With proper preparation, though, you can make the most of every move, no matter what the destination.

Comprehensive checklists can help to keep things in order

This section of the guide contains important checklists for anyone moving abroad. They are detailed, comprehensive and based on years of experience dealing with expat issues. If you decide not to use them, though, at the very least make sure you cover the following points when planning your move: BE SURE - Moving can be extremely stressful, be as certain as you can be that its the right move for you before you go. If possible visit the country before you make up your mind, dont rely on other peoples impressions. Ask yourself if the new culture will really suit you (and your family). BE PREPARED - ...For anything and everything to go wrong. Dont assume that youll be able to find the perfect job or house immediately. If possible make sure youve got enough money to see you through the first couple of months at the very least (preferably longer). And to do that youll need to... BUDGET - As unglamorous as it sounds, good budgeting could be what makes the difference between a successful relocation and a disaster. Before you go, work out what everything is going to cost during those crucial first months when youre trying to find your feet in a foreign land. DONT DELAY - Start preparing as early as possible, just getting all the necessary paperwork in order can take a long time. Make a checklist of everything you need to do! CHECK YOUR BENEFITS - If your company has initiated your move you may be eligible for relocation benefits. Make sure you ask if they havent told you already! HEALTH - Make sure that the country you are moving to has adequate healthcare facilities and infrastructure to support
Make sure you list all the important things like passports and medicines - and a can opener!

you (and your family), especially if you suffer from a medical condition which requires treatment or medication. YOUR HOME - Think about what you want to do with your current home (e.g. sell it, lease it, leave it empty) and what kind of accommodation will be most suitable in your new country. If you dont know anyone in the new country who can help find accommodation, consider the services of a relocation agent. EMPLOYMENT - Will you be looking for work in your new country? If so, consider starting your job hunt before you go. Will you be able to use your existing qualifications or will a period of retraining be necessary? If youre moving somewhere where they dont speak the same language as you then you should...

LEARN THE LANGUAGE - Few skills will have such a positive impact on your relocation experience as being able to speak, or at least understand, the local language. Getting to grips with the local lingo before you go is a great idea. PAPERWORK - Moving countries can be a bureaucratic nightmare at the best of times but if you come prepared with the necessary paperwork you stand the best chance of a stress free relocation. Things to think about include birth certificates, wedding certificates, educational certificates, medical certificates, etc. FRIENDS & FAMILY - Dont forget to inform everyone of your new address and when youre going. Be prepared for an emotional scenes as the day of departure draws near.

Feeling overwhelmed?

Its easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of things which need to be considered or done before moving abroad. Using checklists is a simple but effective method of staying in control.

Research
ACTION ITEM

Goal: To learn as much as possible about your intended destination

NOTES

Budgeting
ACTION ITEM

Goal: To estimate the costs of moving to and living in the destination country
NOTES Estimate costs associated with the following - travel, shipping of belongings, house purchase/rental costs (including deposits), purchase of house furnishings, car rental/ purchase, schooling, professional help (e.g. relocators) Assess cost of living abroad. How do typical monthly costs (food, travel, leisure etc.) compare with your current circumstances? Evaluate how much money you will have available. If selling your house or searching for a new job abroad, keep in mind things may take longer than expected and make sure you have enough funds to see you through.

Locate as many guide books, web sites, TV programs etc. as possible about your destination country. Arrange suitable times with the rest of your family to go through the material together and discuss your findings. Use a notebook or computer to keep track of information gathered. Learn about the countrys history, culture and values. Are immigrants welcome? How are members of minority groups treated? Learn about the climate and weather throughout the year (not only in the holiday season). How comfortable will you feel? Evaluate the government and any legislation which is likely to affect you, e.g. the right to buy property, taxation levels etc. Assess the level of fluency you will need to reach in a foreign language in order to live and work abroad. Find out about the crime rate, not only in the country as a whole but also any particular area you are considering moving to. Do existing residents feel safe? How would you and your family feel? Join online forums/email groups and speak to expats who are already there about their own experiences. If possible, visit the country at least once. Try to get a feel for what life is like for residents rather than tourists. Watch how the local equivalents of your own family members live and are treated, e.g. How do children behave? Make a note of the time difference (including any adjustment for daylight saving time) and dates of public holidays. Consider the benefits of paying for a professional cross-cultural program or attending a seminar.

Evaluation
ACTION ITEM

Goal: To decide if moving is right for you (and your family)

NOTES

Review information gathered during research phase. Consider potential benefits, e.g. career advancement, financial rewards, less crime, better education, adventure and excitement. Consider potential drawbacks, e.g. cost of moving, difficulty finding work, disruption to education, homesickness, lack of support network. Evaluate yourself and your family as honestly as possible. How will you/they cope with the challenges ahead? Make a rough estimate of costs involved (see Budgeting section for help). Make an informed decision as to whether moving is right for you at this time. If necessary, carry out further research before making a final decision.

Planning
Goal: To create a detailed and realistic plan to help you move
ACTION ITEM Use a notebook or computer to draw up your plan and keep track of your progress. Dont forget to backup regularly. Before making your plan, remember to always plan for the worst case scenario. Include some element of contigency planning at each stage just in case things go wrong. Familiarise yourself with emergency contact numbers and procedures at home and abroad. Begin by prioritising the tasks ahead. Use the following sections of this checklist as suggestions for likely tasks. Recognise that things will go wrong and you will need to be flexible. The plan is there to serve you, not vice versadont be afraid to change it whenever necessary. How will you deal with homesickness? Plan for it now. NOTES

ACTION ITEM If a visa is required, speak to others (e.g. in online forums or email groups) who have recently gone through the application procedure and ask about any problems encountered. Next, contact the countrys consulate in your own country and enquire about the visa application procedure, making sure to clarify any points raised by the expats spoken to previously. If intending to work abroad, check if a work permit is required (a work permit is a legal authorisation allowing a foreigner to work in the country in question). If so, contact an official source to talk you through the application requirements and procedure. A residence permit is usually required if you intend to live in a country for longer than a specifed length of time. Check with the relevant official body of your intended destination as to the requirements and procedures for application. Waiting times are typically lengthy in many countries so always plan well in advance to avoid being in the country illegally. The application procedure for any of the above is likely to require you to produce certain documents. In addition it is always useful to bring as many personal documents with you as possible when you move abroad as you never know when they might be required. In no particular order, consider taking the following with you:Passport (check dates for validity) and passport photos, driving licence, birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce papers, death certificate (if you are a widow or widower), education certificates, certificates of professional qualifications, employer references, resume/ CV, personal references, medical records (including dental), banking and credit card records (and any other records showing your financial position), credit references (from bank, credit card or credit reference agencies), an accountants reference, a solicitors reference, certificate of good conduct (sometimes available from your local police or local council office), insurance policies, school records and reports, student records and ID card, important receipts

NOTES

Visas, Permits & Important Documents

ACTION ITEM Determine if you and members of your family need to apply for a visa (a visa is an official endorsement in a passport authorising entry into and travel within a foreign country). Remember that it can take time for a visa application to be processed and that it will usually be necessary for the visa to have been issued before you move. If you intend to stay for more than a short period of time be aware that you may need to apply for a residence permit (see below). NOTES

Goal: To familiarise yourself with the procedure for obtaining a visa or permit and ensure that important documents are brought with you

ACTION ITEM If you plan to apply for citizenship of the country to which you are moving, check what is involved as soon as possible. What requirements will you need to fulfill? Will you be able to maintain citizenship of your home country as well (giving you dual citizenship) or will you be required to renounce it?

NOTES

ACTION ITEM Foreign currency exchange and sending money abroad - compare available options, consider the services of a good exchange specialist (especially for large amounts), make sure you take a small amount of currency with you.

NOTES

Banking & Currency

Goal: To ensure appropriate banking facilities are available to you abroad
ACTION ITEM Unless you are confident of being able to accurately assess the pros and cons of the different banking options available consider speaking to a suitably qualified and experienced independent financial adviser. Consider the best banking solution for your circumstances. Options include maintaining your existing account at home, opening a local account in your new country, an international account from your existing bank (if available) and an offshore bank account (or some combination of the above). If working, or planning to work, keep in mind that your salary may need to be paid into a local bank account. Find out if this is the case. Find out how local residents pay for goods and services. Do they use cash or a card? Are credit cards commonly used or is a debit card from a local bank required? Will you be able to apply for a store card? If required, review the procedure for opening a bank account in the destination country, paying attention to any paperwork which needs to be completed or documents presented. Consider how you will pay any future bills back home. If bills are not currently being paid automatically consider this option so that bills are paid efficiently and on time. Familiarize yourself with the local currency. What notes and coins are available? What do they look like? How much are they worth in your own currency? NOTES

Credit & Loans

ACTION ITEM

Goal: To investigate the requirements and procedures for obtaining credit

NOTES

Keep in mind that no matter how good your current credit rating, transferring it abroad may be difficult and time consuming. Speak to current expats about their experiences. Decide what forms of credit you may require. Will you need to take out a loan? Will you require a credit card? An overdraft? A mortgage? Search for independent comparisons of different credit providers. Speak to current expats about their experiences, especially if much of the available comparisons are in a language you are not yet familiar with.

Taxation
ACTION ITEM

Goal: To familiarise yourself with the tax system in your new country and plan your finances accordingly
NOTES Consider speaking to a suitably qualified and experienced independent taxation adviser. Check if you are eligible for a tax refund in your home country before you leave. Ascertain your position with regard to all applicable types of taxation, e.g. income tax, capital gains tax (especially if you are selling your house), wealth tax, inheritance tax, gift tax, etc.

Insurance
Goal: To obtain adequate insurance cover for you and your family
ACTION ITEM Consider speaking to a suitably qualified and experienced independent insurance broker. Check if you are eligible for a refund on any existing policies before you leave. Consider your requirements with regard to the following types of insurance: health (including dental), life, travel, car/auto, household, possessions, third party liability, critical illness, holiday (if visiting). Request a no claims certificate from your existing policy provider before you leave (if appropriate). NOTES

Mortgages
Goal: To assess the options open to you as a foreign buyer and choose the right mortgage provider
ACTION ITEM Consider speaking to a suitably qualified and experienced independent overseas mortgage adviser. Ask for recommendations from people you trust. Ask the adviser to show you their professional qualifications. Ask for testimonials from previous/current clients. Consider the services of a good foreign exchange specialist if transferring money abroad (e.g. a deposit). NOTES

Pensions & Investments

Goal: To ensure your pension and investment needs are properly addressed with any offshore opportunities being explored
ACTION ITEM Consider speaking to a suitably qualified and experienced independent financial adviser. Ask for recommendations from people you trust. Ask the adviser to show you their professional qualifications. Ask for testimonials from previous/current clients. Assess if you can/should continue paying into any existing state or company pension schemes. If not, check if you are eligible for a refund on your contributions. NOTES

Legal
Goal: To ensure your pension and investment needs are properly addressed with any offshore opportunities being explored
ACTION ITEM Familiarise yourself with the most important aspects of your destinations legal system by buying a legal guide book in your own language before you depart. You dont need to read it cover to cover but a few hours browsing through it reading sections which are relevant to your circumstances may save you a lot of time and money later. If you already have a will, or want to draw one up for the first time, how will your residence in a foreign country affect its status? Seek professional advice from a lawyer. NOTES

Social Security/Welfare
Goal: To ensure that any social security/welfare benefits to which you are entitled are claimed and any for which you are no longer eligible are cancelled
ACTION ITEM Contact your local social security/ welfare office to discuss your situation. Ask them for any overseas benefit information or advice they can provide. Contact the local social security/ welfare office abroad to discuss your situation. Find out what benefits you are entitled to. NOTES

ACTION ITEM Find out how to register with a doctor, dentist and optician (and any other relevant healthcare providers). Speak to existing expats about any problems they may have encountered in doing so. Consider scheduling a check-up with your own doctor/dentist/optician before you leave. If you or any family members are currently taking prescription medecine ask the healthcare provider to renew your prescription before you leave. Check the location of your nearest pharmacy abroad. Speak to your own doctor/dentist/ optician about transferring your medical records. What is the procedure? Ensure that adequate health insurance cover is in place. Dont underestimate the stress of moving abroad. Might you benefit from or require professional help in the form of counselling or coaching? If you or a family member smoke, find out what smoking laws, if any, are in place. If a family member is seriously or terminally ill, find out what to do when someone dies in your destination country. It is always best to be prepared.

NOTES

Health
Goal: To safeguard your health and that of your family during the move and throughout your time abroad
ACTION ITEM Find out what to do in an emergency. How do you call the emergency services? Make sure that all family members know the procedure. Check with an authoritative source (government web site, doctor, etc.) if any vaccinations are required before travelling. If so, schedule them appropriately - some may need to be administered weeks before you leave. Check the latest health advice and warnings for the destination, are there any particular risks you should be aware of? Research thoroughly how healthcare is delivered in the country. How is the national health system structured and what do you need to do to ensure that you can use it? Are there relevant healthcare providers (doctor, midwife, hospital, dentist, counsellor, etc.) located near your intended place of residence? If not, what implications might that have? NOTES

Safety
Goal: To manage the risks associated with moving to and living in a foreign country
ACTION ITEM Find out what to do in an emergency. How do you call the emergency services? Make sure that all family members know the procedure. Check the latest travel advice and safety warnings for the destination, are there any particular risks you should be aware of? Find out about the crime rate, not only in the country as a whole but also any particular area you are considering moving to. Do existing residents feel safe? How would you and your family feel? Where are the areas to avoid? NOTES

Travel & Transport

Goal: To put in place travel arrangements for you and your family and plan transport for your arrival and subsequent stay abroad
ACTION ITEM Once the decision to go has been reached, decide whether it makes sense to book your travel tickets as soon as possible in order to get the best deal or if you should wait to give yourself more flexibility and take advantage of any last minute offers. Expats already living in the destination country often travel back and forth to their country of origin and are familiar with the best deals. Ask for recommendations. If flying, decide what form of transport you will use when you arrive at the destination airport. Will you use public transport or need to hire a car? If the latter, make a reservation as soon as possible. Buy or print out a suitable road map of your destination. If unable to do so before you travel make it a priority purchase as soon as you arrive. Even if you are importing or renting a car it is often useful to familiarise yourself with the public transport options available. Where are the nearest bus, tram or train routes? What number should you call for timetable information or to book a taxi? If you are considering taking a car with you, ask yourself the following questions - how easy/affordable will servicing and maintenance be abroad? Will there be any kind of import tax to pay? What is the import procedure and what paperwork is required? What is the registration procedure once your vehicle is in the destination country? When do you need to change plates? What are the rules regarding regular inspection for vehicle safety? What about road tax? Where will you park it (some urban areas have very long waiting lists for parking permits)? NOTES

ACTION ITEM Find out if you will be required to obtain a driving license issued by the country you are moving to. If so, will you need to take a test or can you simply exchange your existing license? If you need to hand over your existing license remember to keep a photocopy of it for your records. If you currently drive a vehicle, check if you are eligible for a refund on your road tax and/or insurance. If you qualify for a no claims discount ask your insurance company to provide you with a written statement or certificate which you can present to an insurance company abroad. Make sure you are familiar with the rules of the road and any relevant driving legislation in your new country before you move. In particular ensure that you know which side of the road to drive on, what equipment you are legally required to carry and are familiar with road signs, speed limits, alcohol limits and what to do in the event of an accident. Do some research on the condition of the roads and the habits of other road users. Think about how things will compare with what you are used to and if you feel extra tuition makes sense (either at home or abroad) book some lessons. If you want to buy a car after you have moved, ask other expats for dealership recommendations. Compare offers from various rental companies if you need to hire a car in the meantime. Research and ask for recommendations for insurance and breakdown cover. If taking your own car, check what level of cover (if any) is provided by your current policies. Even if you do not intend to drive it is always wise to familiarise yourself with the road system and any rules for pedestrians, your safety may depend on it.

NOTES

Moving Your Belongings

Goal: To decide what you want to take with you and arrange for its transport to your new home
ACTION ITEM If you own your home decide if you are going to sell it, rent it out or leave it vacant when you leave. Once that decision has been made it will be easier to what you want to do with larger household items. Start thinking about what items you want to take with you, what items you want to leave behind and what items you no longer need. Dont forget fixtures and fittings like carpets, curtains and kitchen appliances. Find out if there any import taxes to pay on the items you want to bring with you and what documents you may be asked to produce. Items you no longer need can be sold, given away or thrown out. Consider using an online auction service like eBay if you want to sell. If you want to get rid of items but would rather not just throw them out consider donating them to a local charity. Return items which have been borrowed, including library books. Ask for items which you have loaned to be returned. Once unwanted or borrowed items have been identified draw up a list of all goods and possessions which you want to take with you to your new home. An effective way to do this is to visit each room and, standing in the middle, sweep in a circle from one side of the door all the way round to the other side noting the items you want to take. Remember to include attics, basements, garages, outhouses, your place of work and any other locations where your belongings can be found. Check whether electrical items will need to use adapters and/ or transformers to work safely in your new home. If you are unable to purchase a suitable adapter before you leave, make it a priority purchase on arrival. Check whether your TV will work or if it needs to be modified (and if so, decide if it makes more sense to buy a new TV locally after your move). NOTES

ACTION ITEM If you decide to use a moving company, contact more than one and ask for estimates and testimonials. Remember to compare not only prices but services offered. Check for independent evaluations on the Internet. Ask the moving company the following: How long will delivery take? How will your goods be transported? Who will you be dealing with at the other end? Will they dismantle and/or reassemble your furniture? What paperwork do you need to provide for customs officials? Will you need to arrange extra insurance cover? (If applicable) what service can they provide for transporting your pet(s) and what paperwork will you need to provide? What extra services or equipment might be necessary (e.g. the hiring of a lift to move heavy items or reach areas with poor accessibility - either at home or abroad)? If you have very expensive or unusual items what experience do they have of moving them? Once the above, and any other, details have been discussed, ask for a final quote. Decide on a date for packing and loading the removals van. If you have children, arrange for them to be cared for by someone else so that they are safely out of the way. Confirm the date for packing and your address with the moving company 7-10 days beforehand. Make sure that they will have all necessary equipment and personnel for the day in question. Before starting to pack, put aside important items and documents which you will want to carry yourself so that they are not packed or lost, e.g. passports, tickets, wallet or purse, keys, medicines, contact lens accessories, laptop computer or PDA, mobile phone, destination address and phone number, etc. Think in advance about what clothes you will want to wear when travelling and make sure they are kept aside. Keep in mind the likely weather conditions on arrival.

NOTES

ACTION ITEM Some items may need to be prepared for shipping. For example you may wish to clean and dry certain items of furniture or appliances to avoid mildew forming in transit. Also, large items of furniture may need to be dismantled. Plan in advance so that these tasks do not delay loading if using a moving company. Buy some drinks and snacks for those doing the packing. It never does any harm to generate some goodwill with people packing your precious belongings! Try to keep a parking space free for the removals van as near as possible to the house. When the movers arrive make sure that the person in charge is informed of any important information or special requests as soon as possible. You may wish to point out very fragile items or request that some items be packed first/last, for example. Once you have packed a box, mark it in some way so that you know what is in it. This will make it much easier to find things quickly later. Always go through every room (including the garage, garden shed etc.) before the moving van leaves to ensure that nothing has been left behind.

NOTES

ACTION ITEM If you are already a home owner, decide what you want to do with your current property when you move. Will you sell it, rent it out or just leave it empty? If the property is to be left empty for some time dont arrange for any utilities to be disconnected until at least 24 hours after you are due to leave in case your departure is delayed. If you decide to rent out your property you will need to decide if you want to handle the process yourself or employ a letting agent to manage it for you. If you decide to let the property yourself you will need to decide what to charge and how to advertise. Before tenants move in make sure that someone local is in charge of handing over/ receiving keys. Consider creating an information sheet for incoming tenants. If you are currently renting, check the notice period in your contract. Make sure you are able to comply with any requirements in order to have your security deposit returned (if applicable). Draw up a contigency plan for temporary accommodation should your departure be delayed after your belongings are packed or have been shipped, or if you need to vacate the property. Decide what you want to do with your current furnishings, fixtures and fittings. Your decision will help you narrow down which properties to look at abroad if you intend to rent. Make a list of things which are absolutely essential in your new home, e.g. suitable number of bedrooms, parking space, low crime rate in local neighbourhood, proximity to work, schools, local amenities etc. Whether renting or buying, establish a realistic budget and stick to it when viewing properties. Remember to take into account any professionals fees. Be wary of overstretching yourself, many expats experience unexpected expenses during the first year and money is often tight. Unless you are able to move into your new home immediately on arrival you will need to arrange temporary accommodation. Factor the cost of this into any budget calculations you need to make.

NOTES

Accommodation
ACTION ITEM If intending to purchase property, make absolutely sure you are familiar with all relevant legislation concerning property purchasing by foreigners. Some countries only allow properties to be bought by companies rather than foreign individuals, some do not allow property to be purchased by foreigners at all.

Goal: To arrange suitable temporary and/or permanent accommodation

NOTES

ACTION ITEM Use the Internet to establish typical property prices or rental rates. Keep in mind that prices on expat sites can be higher than available locally as some advertisers try to take advantage of the perceived greater spending power of expats. If possible, check sites aimed at the local population too. If buying, consider the full range of options available to you: new builds, off-plan, resale through estate agents or private sellers, selfbuild. Whichever option you choose make sure that you are aware of the risks involved by reviewing the experiences of others e.g. by talking to expats in web forums. If you intend to buy before you leave, what mortgage options are open to you? If you plan to move first and then search for a property, will you be able to qualify for a mortgage in your new country? Consider the services of an overseas mortgage provider. If renting, consider whether you require the property to be fully, part or non-furnished. Ask yourself whether or not you want to live in an area already popular with expats. Given your requirements, your budget and your knowledge of local prices, start shortlisting properties to view. If at all possible visit the area you are considering moving to and look at the types of property available. Time and money spent seeing the local area yourself could save you from making a very expensive mistake. If renting, make sure to check and get signed an inventory of any furnishings and fittings, together with a note of their condition and any damage. If buying, familiarise yourself with all aspects of the procedure for purchasing property in the country, e.g. applying for a mortgage, making an offer, exchanging contracts, paying the deposit, transferring the funds, conveyancing, completion. Find a good lawyer to handle the conveyancing and any other legal issues. Ask for recommendations from expats in the local area if possible.

NOTES

ACTION ITEM A good real estate agent can be an invaluable source of useful local information. Try to find an estate agent with a good reputation and ask them any questions you might have about the area. Take photos or videos when viewing properties to review later. If the property is in a remote location consider making a note of its GPS coordinates so you can find your way back yourself later. Schedule a survey of any property you are seriously considering buying. Treat a survey as an essential part of the house buying process. Find out if you have any choice as far as utility companies are concerned. If so, search for recommendations or independent comparisons to help you decide which providers to choose. Once youve made your decisions enquire about the procedure for service connection. When scheduling your move into a new property, arrange for the utilities (electricity, gas, water, phone) to be connected 24 hours before you are due to arrive in case there are any last minute problems or delays. Based on your earlier research, take any home security precautions necessary. Dont leave it until its too late - expat homes can be a prime target for thieves in some areas. Make sure you know the procedure for rubbish/garbage collection. Are there any recycling rules you should obey? If you require household help (cook, maid, gardener, etc) ask for recommendations from neighbours, friends or work colleagues with local knowledge.

NOTES

Employment
Goal: To find suitable work abroad or negotiate an acceptable relocation package with a current employer
ACTION ITEM Decide if you really need/want to work abroad. Finding employment in a foreign land, especially one where you may not yet speak the language, can be difficult. Unless you already know for certain that your particular skills are in high demand dont assume that you will be able to find a job easily (one of the most common mistakes new expats make). It is essential to investigate the job market thoroughly before you leave. How will your qualifications and experience be viewed abroad? Will you need to retrain and/or acquire new qualifications? Will you be able to do so in a foreign language? Check the cost of living in the country you are planning to move to. What is the minimum salary you will need to earn in order to support yourself/ your family. Find out if you need a work permit and if so, how to apply for one. Working illegally is a serious offence in many countries. Find out what the work culture is like. Is it similar to what you are used to? How are immigrants/women/ minority groups treated in the workplace? If you will be looking for a job abroad ask for recommendations for recruitment agencies. Also consider government employment agencies. If youre planning to be self-employed or want to start your own business, always seek appropriate legal and professional advice. Legislation abroad may be very different from what you are used to. Also, dont ignore liability insurance if appropriate. When examining an employment contract pay close attention to working hours, overtime agreements, benefits, holidays and leave - all of which may be very different from what you are used to. NOTES

ACTION ITEM Ask potential employers what training is available, especially that which is aimed at familiarising you with local work practices. Check how union membership is viewed. Will you be required to join a union? Will you be criticised if you decide to join a union? Check retirement ages and pension schemes. Consider speaking to a suitably qualified and experienced independent financial adviser for pension advice. If applicable, plan negotiations with your current employer to get the best relocation package possible. Speak to other employees who negotiated their own packages. What allowances and benefits were they offered? Consider voluntary work, as well as allowing you to contribute to your new country it is an excellent way of making new friends and widening your social network.

NOTES

Childcare
ACTION ITEM

Goal: To arrange suitable childcare for your children abroad

NOTES

Standards, licensing and certification procedures for childcare professionals may be very different to those you are used to. Take some time to investigate not only how the system works in the country you are moving to but also how effective it is in practice. When looking for a nanny, nursery or daycare centre always ask around for recommendations from other expats (if possible) and ask for testimonials from service providers.

Education
ACTION ITEM

ACTION ITEM If your child will need to speak a new language at school consider language tuition before term starts. Consider further education for yourself at a local college or night school its an excellent way to meet new friends and contacts as well as improving your skills. Want to study but no suitable campus nearby? Many educational institutions offer distance learning courses by mail or over the Internet. Investigate what options are available.

NOTES

Goal: To arrange appropriate schooling for your children and/or meet any higher education needs
NOTES Decide which type of school is most appropriate for your child/children. Each has benefits and disadvantages as outlined below. State schools - For: lower cost, local so less travel, new language often learnt very quickly, qualifications accepted in local country, exposure to local culture, contact with local families. Against: initial language difficulties, culture shock, potentially more difficult for child to settle in, possible concerns over standard of education, different curriculum to that studied in country of origin, qualifications may not be accepted if/when you return home or move to another country. International schools - For: high educational standards, English spoken, less culture shock, internationally recognised qualifications Against: cost, less choice, more travel, lack of integration into local community, local language skills less likely to develop. Private/public schools - For: usually high educational standards, new language often learnt very quickly, qualifications accepted in local country, exposure to local culture. Against: cost, more travel, initial language difficulties, culture shock, potentially more difficult for child to settle in, lack of contact with local families, different curriculum to that studied in country of origin, qualifications may not be accepted if/when you return home or move to another country. Before deciding which option is the best for your child/children visit as many schools as possible. Ask how the school can help with your childs transition from one educational system to another. What experience do they have of this type of situation? What challenges did they face and how did they overcome them? Ask your childs existing school to provide reports, records and any other documentation which might be required by a new school abroad.

Taking Your Pets

Goal: To move your pets safely and securely to your new home in accordance with local legislation
ACTION ITEM Check that you are permitted to keep your pet in the country you are moving to (some countries may restrict ownership of certain animals). Check which vaccinations your pet will require and schedule them as necessary. Keep all documents. Check the quarantine rules with an official source (e.g. government website or consulate). Check to see what importation and exportation licenses are required. Check that you have the correct pet crate. Check to make sure all documentation has been gathered, i.e. Vaccination Record, Health Record, Proof of Owernship/Bill of Sale, Licences etc. Check the requirements of the airline for pet travel. Check if your pet requires a licence and if so, what the application process involves. NOTES

Arrival
ACTION ITEM

ACTION ITEM If you are moving with other family members consider providing them with mobile phones too. Once you have settled into your new country you may wish to purchase a phone or SIM card from a local provider to take advantage of lower rates. Make a list of individuals and organisations who should be informed of your move and provide them with a means of contacting you abroad (address, phone number, email address etc.). Remember to give any temporary or intermediate addresses if necessary. Some examples of those to inform of your departure: family and friends (make clear when its OK/not OK to call due to time differences), health practitioners (ask about transferring your records), employer (check notice period), school, local council, lawyer, clients (if you run a business), bank, credit/store card companies, accountant, stockbroker, utility companies, insurance companies (car, health, home etc.), rental companies (car, TV etc.), cable/satellite TV provider, Internet Service Provider (ISP), newsagent, magazine subscription companies, milk delivery company, clubs and societies, police (if required). If you are using a moving company make sure that they have multiple means of contacting you if possible (e.g. more than one phone number, email address etc.) Before leaving, set up a redirect at the post office or ask someone to pick up your mail and forward it to you. If you dont have a mobile phone check how public phones work in the destination country. Do they take coins or cards? If cards, what type (phone cards, credit cards)? Arrange a landline phone for your new home as soon as possible, calls should be cheaper than from a mobile. Check if your service provider can offer you a cheaper rate for international calls to friends and family. Voice over IP (VOIP) services such as Skype which allow you to phone from your computer can save you a lot of money on international calling (calls to phones are usually fairly cheap, calls to other service users are free).

NOTES

Goal: To prepare for the important tasks which need to be carried out on or shortly after arrival in the destination country
NOTES Familiarise yourself with the immigration procedure for the country in question. Are you required to register shortly after arrival? If so, where do you need to go, what do you need to take with you and how much time are you allowed? Familiarise yourself with the customs procedure for the country in question. Dont throw away any tickets before you get through customs, you may be required to produce them. Consider registering with your own embassy shortly after arrival. If moving into a new neighbourhood, on arrival you might want to consider introducing yourself to your neighbours (a practice perhaps more recommended for rural areas rather than in the city).

Keeping in Touch/Communications

Goal: To ensure that you are able to communicate during and after your move and that others are kept informed so that they can contact you
ACTION ITEM A mobile phone is an indispensable tool when moving to another country. If you already have one check with your service provider whether or not it will work in your destination country. If you do not already have one, remember to check that it will work abroad when you make a purchase. Using a mobile phone when abroad (called roaming) can be expensive, but it is important to have the ability to communicate in the busy, sometimes chaotic, period shortly after arrival, even if only for safety reasons (tip: save emergency phone numbers into the phone before you depart). NOTES

ACTION ITEM Email is a very useful medium not only for keeping in touch but also for sending and receiving documents quickly, a common requirement when getting started in a new country. Ideally you will want to use a computer at home but if you are unable to do so immediately you may want to look for a local Internet cafe (be aware of security though). Enter the directory enquiries number for your new country into your mobile as soon as possible, you never know when you might need it! Check where your nearest post office is after you move. If you live in a very remote area with no mail delivery service you may need to set up a PO Box. Find out in advance. If you intend to use a television in your new home find out if a license if required (as in the UK).

NOTES

ACTION ITEM When considering ways to meet people think about the activities and hobbies you enjoyed in your home country and look for opportunities to continue them abroad. In addition, think about what new activities you might like to try - perhaps something which was not available in your home country or something you always fancied but never did anything about. Starting a new life abroad is the perfect time to try new things. Joining a gym or a sports club is not only good for your health but also a great way to meet people. In addition regular exercise is often seen as a good way of fighting the high stress levels which accompany a move abroad. Always shop around for the best deal and remember to read the small print of any membership agreement closely especially with regard to cancelling. If you are a member of a religious faith or are interested in learning more about your local faith communities look for groups and meetings in your area. The friendship and support offered may be invaluable when you are trying to settle in. Consider volunteering, its a great way of getting to meet people with similar values. Many nationalities form expat groups, clubs or associations abroad and meet on a regular basis. These organisations are a valuable source of practical information for the new expat (existing members will probably have encountered similar challenges to those you will face) but membership can also help to counter feelings of loneliness and isolation. Check the Internet for groups in your area. The Internet is one of the best sources of information when looking for groups and meetings near you but a lot of information can also be found in local libraries. While youre there, why not get a library card too? Tourist information offices are another good resource (for local events) which are often overlooked by expats. When socialising, remember that local customs and manners may differ from those back home. Try to get a feel for what the locals view as acceptable/unacceptable behaviour (e.g. alcohol use) and conversation.

NOTES

Social Life & Leisure

Goal: To develop a support network and enjoy the leisure/ entertainment options offered in your new country
ACTION ITEM One of the most important factors in any successful relocation abroad is the network of friends you make in the foreign country yet most expats are content to leave this aspect of their lives to chance. Dont! Be proactive and plan your social and leisure activities for the first few months. Dont fall into the trap of only meeting and socialising with other expats. Making friends with the locals can provide you with information and support which expats are unable to offer, no matter how long they have been resident in the country. Being able to see things from a local perspective will also help you to better appreciate and integrate into your new homeland. NOTES

ACTION ITEM If youre a smoker, check the legislation in place as it applies to smoking in bars, restaurants and other public places. Make sure you know the local signs for the Gents and Ladies restrooms to avoid any embarrassment! Also, in some countries it is customary to pay a toilet attendant on each visit - keep some small change handy if this is the case. If eating out, find out if you are expected to leave a tip (and if so, how much).

NOTES

Getting Help
Goal: To identify areas where you may need help and find appropriate assistance
ACTION ITEM If youre using a removals firm take some time to find one you can trust, dont just pick one at random (theyre going to be looking after your prized possessions, after all). Consider the services of a professional relocator. A good relocator can help you settle in to your new life quickly, especially important if you need to be productive in the workplace shortly after arrival. Some companies will pay for relocation services for their employees - it may be worth suggesting if its not something youve already discussed. The Internet and especially Google (www.google.com) are your friends. Before hiring any professional help, find out what others have to say about the companies involved. NOTES

Consumer Issues
Goal: To make the most of purchasing opportunities abroad and know your rights as a consumer
ACTION ITEM Wherever you go, eventually you will need to visit the local shops (whether youre looking for a pint of milk or a new sofa). A little bit of research before you go can help you avoid common pitfalls. Find out the local opening hours, they may be very different from what you are used to. Check what payment methods are commonly accepted. Will you need to pay in cash or can you use a debit or credit card? Ask other expats for recommendations. How do the quality and prices of everyday items compare with back home? Find out where the local markets and supermarkets are. If planning to visit a market, check which day(s) it is open. If you have special dietary requirements try to find out in advance which shops can supply what you need. If none are able to do so, start thinking now about how you can arrange for delivery. Check what your rights are as a consumer. What kind of statutory rights do you have? What kinds of guarantees or warranties are commonly offered? If looking for second hand items dont forget about online auction web sites such as eBay. NOTES

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Useful websites and organisations

About Expat Focus www.ExpatFocus.com www.ExpatFocus.com

Expat Focus aims to make life easier for anyone moving or living abroad by being the most comprehensive information and support resource for expatriates on the Web today. We believe that there are two types of information which expats find most useful, namely: 1. Impartial information about intended destinations. 2. Opinions and advice from expats with relevant first hand experience. We also believe that of equal importance to expats is the ability to make friends and establish some form of support network in their new home country. As a result, we provide the following: - Country and city guides written with the expat, not the tourist, in mind. - Useful articles written for an expat audience covering a wide range of subjects. (its quick and free) and join us in the forums - youll be made very welcome. If you have a question about any aspect of life abroad theres usually someone who can help so dont be shy! We also have a podcast (radio show) available at http://www.expatfocus.com/ podcast - feel free to listen online or download the latest episodes. If you would like to suggest any additions or improvements to either this guide or the website please use our feedback form at http://expatfocus.com/ contact - we look forward to hearing from you! Theres a lot of information at Expat Focus, here are some links to help you get started: Forums http://expatfocus.com/forums Country Guides http://expatfocus.com/countries City Guides http://expatfocus.com/cities Financial Advice http://expatfocus.com/finance Moving Guide http://expatfocus.com/moving Property Listings http://expatfocus.com/property Country Groups http://expatfocus.com/groups Blog http://expatfocus.com/blog Twitter http://twitter.com/ExpatFocus Podcast http://expatfocus.com/podcast IMPORTANT NOTICE Copyright 2010 by Expat Focus. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means (electronic or otherwise), other than printing for personal use, without the prior written permission of Expat Focus. We actively monitor forums and P2P networks for any violation of this copyright notice and our policy is always to take legal action against offenders.

Other sources of information for expats

Expat websites Expat Focus - www.expatfocus.com Expatriate news, information and community Expatica - www.expatica.com News and information for expats in Europe ACA (American Citizens Abroad) - www. aca.ch A nonprofit nonpartisan association dedicated to serving and defending the interests of individual US citizens living worldwide Australians Abroad - www. australiansabroad.com Information for Australian expatriates BritishExpat - www.britishexpat.com News, humour and information for Brits worldwide BritishExpats www.britishexpats.com Another website for British expats ExpatExchange - www.expatexchange. com Articles, information and a weekly newsletter Tales from a Small Planet - www. talesmag.com Articles, information and message boards for expats Expat Expert - www.expatexpert.com The website of expat author Robin Pascoe, well written articles and a blog Family Life Abroad - www. familylifeabroad.com Articles about expat life from freelance writer Stephanie Olsen Foreign Wives Club - www. foreignwivesclub.com An online community by and for women in bicultural marriages US Department of State - www.state. gov/travelandbusiness/ Information and advice for US citizens travelling abroad Australian Government Travel Advisory and Consular Assistance Service - www. smartraveller.gov.au Foreign Affairs and Internation Trade Canada - www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca Canadian government website for Canadians travelling abroad SafeTravel.govt.nz - www.safetravel.govt. nz New Zealand government website for New Zealanders travelling abroad World Health Organization - www.who. int The United Nations specialized agency for health, website contains detailed health information for countries worldwide

Disclaimer No liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information contained within this guide. Although every precaution has been taken, Expat Focus assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information contained herein. Nothing in this guide should be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Visitors are strongly urged to consult with a qualified financial or legal advisor before making any decisions. Neither Expat Focus nor any person involved with the running of the website can be held responsible for any decisions made by readers of this guide.

Southern Cross Group - www.southerncross-group.org An international volunteer-run and independently funded advocacy and support organisation for Australian expats Embassies and consulates UK embassies - http://www.fco.gov.uk/ en/travel-and-living-abroad/find-anembassy/ U.S. embassies, consulates, and diplomatic missions - http://usembassy. state.gov/ Travel information UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office www.fco.gov.uk Travel advice and security updates for British citizens

- Friendly, lively forums and an email discussion list where members are made welcome and encouraged to become part of our community. - A monthly email newsletter full of useful information and interesting articles. - Financial advice provided by a range of expert, independent financial advisers ready to answer visitors enquiries. If youd like to write about your experiences as an expat or have expert advice which youd like to share with our visitors were always interested in receiving articles for publication. Equally, if theres something youd like to see at the site which isnt already there please let us know. We hope youll take the time to register at http://www.expatfocus.com/register

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