Did you know that an estimated six million people have relocated to Australia since 1945? For that matter, overseas immigration now accounts for almost 50% of Australia’s recent population increase.
Maybe if you have a telecommuting job, or even a job requiring special skill sets, you could be one of 100,000 people to relocate too. Sure, it’s exciting…
But you should also know the adventure can be a little unnerving, since you have to consider things like citizenship visas, local customs and the general stress of moving that far a distance.
In this article, we’ll consider six important steps to take before you start your new life.
1. Figure out your visa type and work permit
There are many visa types to choose from, so make sure to sort out with your employer which one you should choose to work in Australia.
You may also schedule a phone appointment with Australian immigration experts who can walk you through the process. You will have to make sure you meet any special requirements for whichever visa you are eligible for.
2. Make sure you’re sorted out with transport and car insurance
If you’re looking for a place to find all of your car, health, and renter’s insurance needs, you could look into iSelect Australia | Compare & Save on Car, Travel, Life, Home Loans & More
to compare and save on car, travel, life, home loans and more!
If you own a vehicle and wish to ship it to your new location, you’ll want to make plans for this in advance of your move.
You’ll have to make sure that your transport permit, paperwork, shipping method, estimation costs, marine insurance (to cover cost of potential shipping damage), quarantine requirements, and registration requirements are all in check.
3. Make sure you are up to date with vaccine regulations in Australia
The first thing to keep in mind about moving anywhere outside of the country are the vaccine regulations and requirements. Due to epidemiological differences between global areas, you may need to have more immunization than is typically required for things in the U.S. such as schooling and certain jobs.
Routine vaccinations might include shots for yellow fever, measles, diphtheria, tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio and the yearly flu shot. Make sure you have your shots planned in advance and stay healthy.
4. Secure housing and utilities
The unfortunate bit of news is that the housing economy is competitive in Australia, with high rents starting at 600 AUD (430 USD) in the beginning of 2020. Because of this, most expats with a modest salary and savings for moving might consider securing themselves a roommate before moving.
Visit RealEstate.com for more price quotes in various Australian states.
5. Make sure you are covered with Australia’s Medicare system
Australia’s Medicare system is a hybrid system of both public and private sectors. Health insurance in general is part of the private sector.
More than half the population there typically purchase private health insurance, due to the Medicare system not always covering everything. Be sure to ask your employer if they will be providing insurance through the company because that will help you tremendously.
6. If you’re moving with pets, find out which group they fall under
During import to Australia, pets will be labeled into groups based on where they came from: 1, 2, or 3. Cats and dogs in group 1 come from Cocos Islands, New Zealand, and Norfolk Island, and won’t need an import permit upon relocating.
However, dogs and cats that fall under group 2 or 3, designated as coming from rabies-free countries, will require an import permit. Just like with your own vaccines, make sure your pets are properly vaccinated before taking the big trip.
Follow Your Heart, Mate
It’s just as fun a journey as it is a work-related one, especially if you plan on doing some sightseeing. Our website published a list of touristy and picturesque places to visit for first-timers.
If you remember a hand step you should be able to relocate with less worry and fit right in with the local culture and lifestyle. Now it’s time to stop worrying and get your wanderlust going!
