CHECKLIST

A smooth-sailing relocation boils down to doing your homework. Below are some pointers to consider before setting up home in a new country.

Are your documents in order? Ensure that you have a valid passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate if emigrating with your spouse, educational qualifications, police clearance certificates if necessary and a driver’s licence.

Research everything. From custom taxes that some countries charge on shipped goods, by-laws and the weather, to health insurance options and transferring your savings abroad.

Don’t pack up everything. This, in case life in the new country doesn’t work out before being granted a permanent residency, or should you wish to return to your home country at a later stage. Rather store some items in storage.

Know the tax laws! Apply for a tax clearance from SARS, as well as a foreign capital allowance account from the Reserve Bank. Also enquire with your bank about filling out a M.P.336( b) request form. Does the new country have a double taxation treaty with your home country? If that is the case, you will continue paying taxes in your home country. If not, and your new country of residence also taxes residents on worldwide income, then double taxes await you.

Locate your embassy in the new country. Should you have an unpleasant experience such as losing your passport or any home country admin that needs to be carried out, you’ll need to get in touch with your embassy.

Online sources: For more info, visit internationalmoneytransfers.org, expertsforexpats.com, inafricaandbeyond.com.