There is a lot of planning involved if you are moving abroad for work, a new beginning, or retirement. You might be moving completely, or you might be keeping a house in the UK. In either case, making sure you have the necessary paperwork and that everything is legally in order is the most crucial step in arranging your relocation abroad. While paperwork is required for moves inside the UK, moving abroad is a little more involved.
You can get an idea of the documents you might need by looking at the government website, but if you feel overwhelmed and unsure where to start, we have a helpful list. Here, we look at a list of the documents you will need to compile, approve, and use while moving overseas to ensure the smooth start of your new life in your chosen country.
Document Checklist
Each situation and move will differ slightly, so you should research the specific documents needed for you. However, it is advisable to look for and gather the following papers:
Passport – The most crucial and apparent one is a passport, but you’d be astonished at how many people don’t have one or have one that is no longer valid. Verify if your passport complies with the nation’s passport standards.
Visa – Without a visa and/or work permit, you may face entry restrictions and be unable to find employment, depending on your circumstances and the nation you are travelling to.
Birth certificates – Certificates for yourself and everyone relocating with you. Copies of these are available, but you must order them well in advance.
Work references – If possible, request one from each of your two most recent jobs.
Degrees and qualifications – You can pay the examining body a fee to receive the information if you don’t have the original documents.
Medical information – You should request medical and dental data as soon as you can to give yourself enough time. Make sure you have all the necessary vaccines for the country you are relocating to, as well as a record of your immunisation history.
Driving licence – Verify that you are legally permitted to drive in your chosen country; some locations demand an international driving permit.
For help with Spanish probate issues, contact Spanish Probate Matters on 0208 150 2010.
