Every country is different. They each have their own laws and customs. To help you avoid any inadvertent problems after you've relocated, we suggest that you contact that country's consulate to study the etiquette and rules of the country prior to your move.

The U.S. embassy of your new country can provide vital information as well. They will have lists of many helpful items, including such lists of schools that follow the traditional U.S. curriculum and provide all instruction in English. The consulate can also explain the different health care policies and how they affect foreign nationals in the country to which you are moving.

In international travel, it is especially important to make sure you have covered all legal issues carefully. We advise you to definitely contact the consulate of the country you're moving to, in order to obtain all of the legal documents and permits that are required for immigration to the new country.

Your local post office can supply you with passport applications. You'll need two (2) specially-sized photos. These can be obtained at most photography studios. You will also need a copy of your birth certificate. Do not forget to allow at least one (1) month for processing and delivery of your passport.

If you're not sure if a visa is required or how to obtain a visa for the country you're moving to, it is best to contact the consular representative.

In addition, depending on your country of destination, you may also be required to obtain a work permit. If that is the case, you must get one before leaving the United States.

If you are moving to a foreign country, you will need comprehensive documentation. You should obtain all personal records, for everyone in your family and carry these with you when you move. These records should include such items as: prescriptions, medical records, school transcripts, marriage and birth certificates and vehicle registrations. Do not ship these with the rest of your belongings!!

Please note: It is essential that everyone in your family should get complete medical and dental check-ups prior to moving, so that all the records are up-to-date. It may take some time to establish medical contacts after you relocate.
In addition, any valuables from safe deposit boxes and jewelry should be carried with you as well, and not shipped.

In order to be on the safe side, you should close any charge accounts that you won't be using overseas, in addition to your savings and checking accounts.

The overseas representative at your local bank can provide you with assistance, regarding information about currency exchange rates, letters of credit, the transfer of funds or other financial matters.

In addition, it is a good idea to look into specialized overseas planning for your financial and tax needs. Most large, international accounting and consulting firms will be able to show you how to deal with both U.S. and foreign tax obligations.

Some countries have restrictions on what you can and cannot take across the host country's borders. You should discuss any items that you have questions about with our international relocation consultants.

Occasionally, you will find that some of your appliances and other electrical items may not work in your new home. This is due to differences in power service between countries. In some cases, you may need special adapters; in others, you may need to purchase new equipment altogether.

If you are bringing your pet with you for a move overseas, you must be sure to bring copies of your pet's health and rabies vaccination records, and to update identification tags.

In addition, we suggest that you talk to your pet's veterinarian about making sure your pet is comfortable during the trip overseas. They may suggest a tranquilizer or some other kind of measure. If you will be shipping your pet by air, talk to the airline well in advance to check the regulations and services, and to make reservations. Try to take a flight during slack periods when there's more room in the cargo area. It would also be better to book a direct flight, if possible, to reduce the amount of time your pet will be confined.

You'll need a portable air-transport kennel that's large enough for your pet to stand and move around. Give your pet a chance to get used to the container long before you take the trip. Mark the container "Live Animal," and attach a label that includes your pet's name, your name, new address and phone number, and any other special handling instructions you may have.