Essential Information for Expats: Relocating Abroad
Are you ready for an adventure? Moving abroad can be exciting, but there are also some hurdles to overcome. Don’t worry. We are here to help you! With our comprehensive overview, planning and executing your relocation will be a breeze. Let’s get started and tackle this together! We will explain all the essential information in this article.
Before Planning Your Relocation Abroad
As the saying goes: The early bird catches the worm! This certainly applies to a successful international relocation. Early planning helps you avoid stress. It ensures that nothing is forgotten. Take some time to thoroughly research your destination country and gather all necessary documents, such as your birth certificate. You will be surprised how much easier your move will be with well-thought-out planning. Get ready and look forward to your new adventure as an expatriate! There are many reasons to move.
International Relocation: Smart Planning for Stress-Free Emigration
Stress and misunderstandings during your relocation? It doesn’t have to be that way! Careful planning is your best friend to avoid such situations. Create a detailed to-do list and note down all tasks that need to be completed. Set realistic deadlines for each. This way, you maintain an overview and can easily track progress. Doesn’t that sound like a stress-free solution? Approach the process step by step, and you will see how smoothly your international relocation can proceed.
Meinhard Bundschuh's Experience Report: “We Emigrated to Cyprus by the Sea.”
Meinhard Bundschuh took the plunge and emigrated to Cyprus to start a new life by the sea. His experiences are a valuable resource for anyone considering the same path. Bundschuh recounts: “I always imagined what it would be like to live by the sea. When I had the opportunity to move to Cyprus, I seized it. Who doesn’t dream of an apartment or a villa by the sea? It was a big step, but it was worth it. I enjoy the view and the tranquility every day.” Furthermore, Bundschuh also founded a company in Cyprus.
“Founding a Cyprus Limited was a challenge without insider knowledge,” he admits, “but I received a lot of support from the local authorities and the business community. That greatly facilitated the process.” After seven years on the island, he draws a positive conclusion: “Undoubtedly there were challenges, but the support I found in Cyprus after emigrating was crucial for my success. I do not regret my decision. On the contrary, it was the best decision of my life.”
However, so that other people can organize their residency in Cyprus more relaxed and without confusion, today I help future island residents with their emigration and offer consultation.”
Get to Know Your Destination Country Before Considering Relocation Abroad
So you are moving to a new country, which might even be a tax haven? That’s exciting! But, as you know, preparation is everything. Have you considered familiarizing yourself with the culture, language, and way of life of your destination country? It might sound like a lot of work. But believe us: it’s worth it. If you take the time to research these aspects, you will not only settle in faster but also be able to avoid potential culture shocks. Imagine, you arrive in your new home, such as an apartment in Cyprus, and already feel like a local. Doesn’t that sound great?
Spend some time learning more about the culture, people, language, and way of life of your destination country. This way, you will settle in faster. We are happy to assist you if you are looking for a house or an apartment.
Regulations and Fees – Considering Country Differences When Relocating Abroad
Familiarize yourself with the specific relocation regulations and fees of your destination country. This way, you avoid unexpected costs and ensure that your new life in a foreign country runs smoothly. Relocating abroad is not an everyday occurrence. One of the most important preparations is knowing the specific relocation regulations and fees of your destination country. These can vary greatly depending on the country and cause significant costs if not observed. For example, international relocation costs are between €1,000 and €10,000 (gross). Furthermore, customs regulations can lead to delays and penalties if not handled properly.
We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the requirements and costs. Therefore, inform yourself when relocating abroad and ensure you have the correct information. We are happy to help you if you wish to emigrate to Cyprus. With our services, you can have your contracts reviewed and avoid bureaucracy. We are also happy to answer any further questions you may have! By the way: Here you can find the Cyprus vs. Malta comparison.
Ready to Go? What You Should Consider When Relocating Abroad
Are you planning a move abroad? That’s exciting! But have you thought of everything? There is a lot to consider. Two topics are particularly relevant: mail forwarding and health insurance.
Apply for Mail Forwarding
Have you planned your relocation and thought of everything? What about your mail? You certainly don’t want important letters or packages to end up at your old address. Therefore, it is essential to apply for a mail forwarding service with the post office. This small but important step ensures that your mail reaches you at your new home. It’s easy to overlook such details. We therefore recommend that you add this item to your to-do list and complete it as soon as you know your new address.
Secure Your Health with Health Insurance: When is International Insurance Advisable?
Moving abroad is an exciting adventure. However, your healthcare should always be a top priority. Let’s take Cyprus as an example: Here, there is the General Healthcare System (Gesy), which offers support for the sick. But be careful, as a foreign citizen, you might not be entitled to these social benefits. Therefore, it is important to inform yourself in advance about healthcare in your new home country. Check whether additional international insurance is necessary. When moving to Cyprus, an experienced partner like BS Holding can be helpful. We assist you in finding the ideal health insurance that meets your individual needs. This way, you are well covered in case of illness or an accident. We are also happy to advise you if you would like to know more about German pension insurance abroad.
Packing and Transportation: How to Move Your Household?
Whether you are moving to a new city or relocating to a new country, there is always a lot to consider. Let us help you check off one of the major items on your list: How do you get your household from A to B? Start with thorough planning. Review your belongings. Consider what you truly need and what you might not need to bring. This will not only save you space but also relocation costs. Now, regarding transportation. There are many options for moving your household goods – from professional moving companies and truck rentals to air freight. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, take the time to determine which one is best suited for your needs.
And do not forget: Proper packing can make all the difference! Invest in quality packing materials and organize your belongings by room – this will facilitate unpacking at your destination. Does it sound like a lot of effort? Consider the satisfaction of being in your new home with everything unpacked and settled. It is worth it!
Visa and Work Permit: What is Required When Moving Abroad?
Moving to a new country, such as Cyprus, sounds like an exciting adventure, does it not? However, there are several points to consider. One of the most important things before your move is obtaining all necessary visas and work permits. It is essential that you inform yourself about the requirements and deadlines in advance. This is the only way to ensure you have all the required documents for working in another EU country. In Cyprus, for example, you will need a so-called Yellow Slip – a residence permit for EU citizens. And if you plan to operate as an entrepreneur, you should consider forming a company such as a Cyprus Ltd. We are happy to assist you and help you with these steps!
Concise Checklist for Moving Abroad
Are you planning to move from Germany to another country? When relocating abroad, there are many things to consider. But do not worry, we are here to help you! Here is a checklist with tips to guide you through the process:
- Visas and Work Permits: Have you already arranged these? Different countries have varying requirements, and you will need these documents, for instance, for employment. Therefore, inform yourself well in advance before relocating abroad.
- Employment: How will you support yourself after relocating abroad? Do you wish to work in a salaried position or, for example, open a Cyprus company and save taxes as an entrepreneur?
- Accommodation Search: Do you already know where you will reside? If not, it is time to commence your search for accommodation. In Cyprus, for instance, you primarily require a minimum 12-month rental agreement and a utility bill to apply for the Yellow Slip.
- Moving Household Goods: How do you intend to transport your belongings for your relocation? There are numerous options. However, select the one that best suits your needs. This way, you can bring your furniture and moving boxes and begin a new life on the Mediterranean island.
- Banking: Have you considered how you will manage your finances in your new country? A local bank account can be highly beneficial. We will assist you with opening one in Cyprus.
- Healthcare: Are you adequately insured? Inquire about healthcare provisions in your new country and ensure you have appropriate coverage.
- Driver's License and Vehicle: Is your driver's license valid in your new country? Inform yourself about the applicable rules and regulations.
- Language: Do you speak the language of your new country? If not, it might be beneficial to enroll in a language course.
Have you checked off all these points? Then you are ready for your new life! If not, do not worry. Take the time you need to organize everything.
International Relocation: EU or Non-EU?
Are you planning to relocate and wondering if it makes a difference whether you move within the EU or to a non-EU country? That is a good question! There are indeed some differences you should consider. Within the EU, you benefit from several advantages thanks to the single market and the free movement of workers. For instance, no work visa is required, and the movement of goods is generally handled more simply. However, when relocating to a non-EU country, you must anticipate stricter immigration regulations and may need to apply for a visa or work permit. Furthermore, customs regulations might apply to the movement of your personal belongings.
Inform yourself well in advance about the specific requirements and regulations of your destination country. This will ensure that your relocation proceeds as smoothly as possible, and you will know which applications to expect. Here is an overview:
Criteria | EU Country | Non-EU Country |
Free Movement | As an EU citizen, you are permitted to move freely within the countries of the European Union. German citizens can relocate to another EU country at any time and without special permission. | Permission for entry and employment should be applied for at least three months in advance. |
Work Permit | You can live and work in any EU country without significant effort. | Subject to the regulations of the respective country. |
Customs Duties and Taxes | If you move from Germany to another European country, no customs duties or taxes will be levied on your household goods. | Regulations vary by country. Customs duties and taxes may be required. |
Social Security | EU regulations on the coordination of national social security systems ensure that your rights are maintained even when moving within Europe. | This is dependent on the regulations of the respective country. |
Due to its numerous advantages, Cyprus is therefore a truly attractive option as an EU member! Please feel free to contact us when you are ready for your relocation, whether with or without a moving company. We are here to support you!
Deregistration in Germany
Before you pack your bags and depart abroad, we have another important task for you: Do not forget to deregister in Germany! Generally, you should deregister your residence with your competent registration office. This is particularly important to ensure that you have no further obligations in Germany – or would you, for example, like to continue paying broadcasting fees or taxes in your former home country? And remember to also inform your insurance providers, banks, and other important institutions about your relocation. Speaking of taxes: You might also need to have a tax return after the move prepared. That is all. With a bit of organization and a partner like BS Holding, your relocation will be seamless.
