Some large scale moving companies who specialize in international moves have a relocation agent within their company or they have connections to find a relocation agent for your move.
A relocation agent or agency isn’t always necessary for an international move but, in my opinion it’s a smart resource to invest in. If you decide to make that investment, here’s six things you can expect from your foreign relocation agent:
- Your agent or agency should instruct you on what documents are necessary for entrance into the country you are moving to. While not every country requires a visa for American citizens, some do. You’ll need to know what to do to acquire one, if you must.
- Your agent or agency will be able to let you know the requirements for obtaining a driver’s license in your new country of residence. Some countries accept an International Driving Permit. Other countries require country-specific driving licenses.
- Your agency should also instruct you on any laws that may be out of the ordinary for Americans to observe. For example, in the Netherlands, using your cell phone without a hands-free headset while driving is against the law.
- Your agent will be able to finding suitable living arrangements and prepare all of the forms as well as negotiate with landlords to make sure you aren’t overcharged for your residence.
- If you’re moving to a country whose spoken language isn’t English, your relocation agent can arrange for an interpreter, an in-home tutor or even language classes for you and your family.
- A relocation agent or their agency will also help you find which schools your children will be attending and advise you of the documentation you will need to enroll them.
Moving to a different country, with a different culture and different customs can be highly stressful. Finding the right relocation agent or agency can minimize those stresses and make your move feel more like a vacation than a relocation!
