QLD Migration Heritage- Invest and Migrate in Brisbane QLD MIGRATION HERITAGE - Things You Should Know Ab | Page 6

3. Visa considerations
Many countries require that you obtain a work permit or visa to work legally. Usually, you would need a
firm job offer before applying for the relevant visa. Employers routinely apply for visas on your behalf,
but this should be clarified before you accept a position. Additionally, countries like Australia and
Canada practice points based system for visa qualification for those wanting to settle permanently.
Check the relevant foreign embassy site for specific information about the country you are thinking of
relocating too. Some countries require a passport that's valid for a stipulated period after the date you
enter - so check if this applies to you.
4. Finance and the local cost of living
Once offered a role, you should be given a clear idea of what your salary and benefits will be. Ensure you
negotiate your salary, in line with the local cost of living. Find out about local property rental costs,
household and living costs that will need to factor in. Local bank accounts may take a while to set up and
may require a visit in person. There are many articles about how to open bank accounts for expats
moving to specific location that also review the best ones, so do this research in advance. In addition,
use your future employer as a source of information.
5. Relocation and associated costs
Clarify with your employer as to whether they will cover any relocation costs. Find out what the budget
is and what it includes (e.g., shipping furniture, travel costs, purchasing white goods on arrival). Ask if
they are able to help you with temporary accommodation when you move, or alternatively refer you to
a recommended agency. If they are keen to get you on board, they will be eager to assist you as much as
possible. Find out the cost of furniture and other goods in your destination country. If they can be
purchased relatively cheaply in your new location, consider whether it warrants the cost of shipping.
Opt to sell goods at home and repurchase them when you arrive, if it makes financial sense.
6. Your future employer and career prospects
It is important to research your future employer fully before relocating. Find out as much as possible
about who you’ll be reporting too. How have those in their team progressed? What are the options for
promotion and do they live up to your expectations? Try to discover more about your employers work
ethic and how it matches yours. Contact fellow coworkers if possible, or ask to speak to someone doing
a similar role in the organization for insights.
7. Renting or selling an existing property
Depending on whether the post you are applying for is temporary or permanent, you will need to look
into options for renting or selling your existing property. Many expats opt for renting, especially if they
may return in the future. This has the added benefits of additional income. If you don’t have friends and
family close to the property, or they don’t want to be involved with tenant matters it is prudent to use
an agency to manage the rental. Bear in mind this will incur extra costs. For example, in the UK, agencies
typically charge 12-15% of rental income for managing a property. Additional costs include inventory