Moving to another country is a big personal and logistical change. Apart from packing and organising transport, an international move involves managing various legal formalities that vary depending on the destination. Understanding these procedures is essential in order to avoid setbacks and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
Moving abroad? Here’s the first thing you need to know
Taking the leap to live in another country is an exciting decision, but it also requires careful planning. Every country has its own rules for entry, residence and transport of belongings, which means dealing with regulations, permits, visas and customs controls that can be complex if not managed properly.
Knowing these requirements in advance not only eases the process, but also avoids penalties, delays and unexpected costs. If you also want a better understanding of moving options, approximate prices and useful tips for getting organised, we recommend you read our comprehensive guide to international removals.
What is an international move and why does it require specific procedures?
Before going into depth on the paperwork, it is useful to understand what makes an international move different than a domestic move. Unlike moving within the same country, moving to another country involves crossing borders, which automatically brings into play customs controls, immigration requirements and import regulations.
This involves matters ranging from declaring your personal belongings to complying with the tax and health laws of the destination country. Whether you are moving for work, study or personal reasons, the formalities are mandatory and should not be taken lightly.
Personal documentation you need for your international move
Having all personal documentation up to date is the first step to a smooth international move. These are the basic documents you should have ready:
- A current passport and, in most cases, a valid visa in accordance with your purpose of stay, whether it is for work, study, residence and so on.
- Residence permit or work permit, if required by the country of destination.
- Translated and apostilled official certificates, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates or academic degrees, especially if you plan to register with institutions or seek employment.
- Consular clearance and registration, in case your home country requires it as an official exit procedure.
Paperwork needed to move your belongings
You’re not the only one moving: your personal belongings must also be compliant with certain rules to enter another country legally. These are some of the most frequent procedures:
- A detailed inventory of your belongings, including descriptions, quantities and estimated value.
- Purchase invoices or receipts, especially for electronic or high-value products.
- Affidavits, which are required by some customs to validate that items are for personal use and not for trade.
- Special permits for moving restricted items such as alcoholic beverages, foodstuffs, weapons, medicines or art.
Customs and tax formalities by country
One of the most important aspects of any international move is customs clearance. These vary depending on the country you are moving to. So it is crucial to do your research ahead of time:
- If you’re moving within the European Union, the process is more streamlined and no duties apply for personal property.
- For countries outside the EU such as the United States, United Kingdom, Switzerland or Latin American countries, you will need to present specific documents and perhaps pay import duties.
- In many destinations, if you can prove you are a new resident or returnee, you may be able to avail yourself of tax exemptions for your personal belongings, provided they are used and not intended for sale.
Moving vehicles: what to consider
If you’re planning to take your car or motorbike with you, there are further requirements that you cannot overlook:
- Technical approval of the vehicle pursuant to the rules of the country of destination.
- Payment of import duties or taxes, unless you qualify for special exemptions.
- Processing of temporary or permanent registration, depending on whether the vehicle will be used for a limited time or on a permanent basis.
How an international removals company can help you
When faced with an international move, the paperwork, legal requirements and logistics of relocating can quickly become overwhelming. Arranging personal documents, customs clearance, safe transportation of your belongings and complying with the regulations of another country is no easy task. This is where relying on a specialist company like Metrecubic makes a real difference.
At Metrecubic we don’t just move your property: we manage the entire legal and logistical process in a way that is suitable for your personal situation and the destination country. This is what we can do for you:
Personalised legal advice
Each country has its own entry rules, customs and requirements for the transport of personal property. At Metrecubic, we offer you tailor-made legal advice, helping you to collect and prepare the proper documentation: passports, visas, inventories, customs forms and official certificates. Our team makes sure that everything is in order before the move starts, thereby avoiding mistakes that could cost you time and money.
Door-to-door service, including customs arrangements
We know that an international move does not end with the packing. That’s why we offer a complete door-to-door service that includes collection from your current home, professional packing, international transport and delivery to your new residence, without you having to worry about the paperwork in between. In addition, we manage the entire customs process, ensuring compliance with the rules and regulations of the destination country.
Experience, confidence and planning
Our extensive track record in international moves allows us to anticipate problems before they occur, anything from incomplete documentation to customs restrictions. This experience allows us to offer you a much more secure, transparent and organised process. Our aim is to allow you to focus on your new life. We’ll take care of the rest.
In short, relying on Metrecubic for your international move is not only a matter of convenience, but also of efficiency, safety and peace of mind. We handle everything, so that all you have to worry about is getting off to a good start in your new life abroad.
Deal with the paperwork early and gain peace of mind for your international move.
Moving to another country is about more than just moving property: it is essential to have all the legal formalities in order to avoid complications. Whether its your personal documentation or the inventory of your belongings, every step counts.
Getting an early start, doing your research and seeking the support of experts will make your experience much easier. At Metrecubic, we are here to help you throughout the process in both legal and logistical matters. Contact us today for free advice and an estimate for your international move.
