If you’re planning to move abroad and start a new life overseas, you’re on the cusp of an exciting new adventure. Whatever your circumstances — the lure of sunnier skies, a slower pace of life, or new career opportunities — taking the leap to live in a different country marks the beginning of a bold new chapter.
Of course, while there’s the promise of discovery, challenge, and the thrill of the unknown, it also comes with important decisions and practical considerations to make. From navigating visa requirements to selling your home and planning your finances, there’s a lot to think about. To turn your dream of living abroad into a confident, well-prepared reality, here are the key steps to think about.
Prepare for Big Changes
Before moving abroad, one of the most important things you can do is research the culture of your new home. Moving to a different country is a big lifestyle change, and understanding the local customs, traditions, and social norms, as well as learning the language, can help ease the transition.
Alongside cultural preparation, it’s essential to get a firm grip on your finances. Start by researching the cost of living in your chosen destination — including housing, groceries, healthcare, utilities, and transportation — and compare it to what you’re used to in the UK. While some costs may be lower, others, such as using a car shipping calculator to estimate the cost of moving your vehicle, or private schooling, may be significantly higher.
Be prepared for your life overseas. It’s advisable to have a six-month emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses or delays in employment. You’ll also need to account for the cost of relocating — from shipping belongings to securing temporary accommodation if there’s a gap before your permanent home is ready. At the same time, begin looking at properties and signing up with local estate agents to get a realistic picture of what you can afford. Whether you plan to rent or buy, knowing what’s available will help you make informed decisions when you arrive.
Photo by Leah Newhouse
Getting Ready for the Move
First, let HMRC know you’re leaving the UK. It’s a common misconception that moving abroad means you no longer need to deal with UK tax, but that’s not always true. If you’re earning, renting out your UK home, or have assets in the UK, you may still have tax responsibilities. Fill out a P85 form, include parts of your P45 if relevant, and consider speaking to a financial adviser who understands international tax.
Then you’ve got your UK home to think about. If you’re an owner, you can rent out your property or sell it. If you decide to go down the rental route, you’ll need to tell your mortgage provider, join the Non-Resident Landlord Scheme, and possibly hire a letting agent.
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If you want to sell your home ahead of your new life overseas, it’s worth getting it on the market as soon as possible to allow time to attract buyers. The quickest way to a sale is through online estate agents, who can offer an instant valuation and are 38 days faster to completion than the average estate agent. For example, 75% of properties listed by Sold found a buyer within 30 days.
Other things on your to-do list included notifying your local council to settle your council tax bill and updating your utility providers, banks, insurance companies, and pension schemes. It’s also wise to redirect your mail via the Post Office and update your details with the Student Loans Company if you have an outstanding loan.
Healthcare is another big one. Most countries require you to register with the local authority, and you may need private health insurance. If you’re of pension age and receipt of a UK state pension, you could be eligible for healthcare paid by the UK through an S1 form.
Don’t forget about banking, too. You might want to open an account in your new country to avoid international fees. Also, research visa requirements, driving licence rules, and what’s needed to take your pet with you. Lastly, you can still vote in UK elections, just make sure you’re registered within the 15-year limit.
Preparation is Key
Moving abroad is a thrilling opportunity to start fresh, experience new cultures, and embrace a different way of life. But preparation is key to making the most of it. With careful planning and the right support, your move can be the start of a happy, successful new chapter, without the stress of the unexpected.
