Moving Abroad
Moving abroad is an exciting adventure, but it also requires careful planning. The Haemophilia Society’s area of expertise is within the UK. We do not have specifics on other countries, but there are resources to help you plan your move abroad with a bleeding disorder.
Here’s a breakdown of some key things to consider if you’re deciding to leave the UK:
- Research your chosen country: This goes beyond beautiful travel brochures. Understand the cost of living, culture, healthcare system, and job market.
- Visas and permits: Every country has different requirements. You’ll need the right visa to live and work there legally. Research what type you need and start the application process well in advance.
- Finances: Moving and settling abroad can be expensive. Factor in living costs, healthcare costs, shipping belongings, and potential visa fees. Make sure you have sufficient savings or a job lined up.
- Planning your move includes sorting out your belongings and deciding what to ship, sell, or store. Research international movers and get quotes.
- Practicalities: Inform HMRC about your move, address any healthcare needs (vaccinations, prescriptions), and consider how you’ll handle things like banking and phone plans in your new country.
Here’s what else you can do:
- Contact the World Federation of Hemophilia (WFH): The WFH has a network of member organisations worldwide. They can provide you with contact details for the haemophilia society in your destination country. This will allow you to connect directly with them and get information about bleeding disorders care in that country.
- Research the healthcare system in your new country: Understand how healthcare is funded, if you need an expat medical plan or other type of insurance, and if there are any specific requirements for accessing treatment. Advice for UK nationals living abroad, including residency, health and benefits, and specific advice, can be found on the government website.
Who do you need to inform?
Once you have made your decision to move abroad, you must inform:
- HM Revenue & Customs (national insurance, self-assessment tax return)
- Local authority (council tax bill, etc.)
- Mortgage provider
- Utility providers (gas, electricity, water and broadband)
- Post Office (mail redirection)
- Medical services (your GP and dentist)
- Childcare
- Student Loans Company (Student Loans Company)
Documentation required
- Passport
- Visa (if you’re moving for work, your employer might be able to help you with this)
- Birth certificate
- National Insurance Number
- Medical records
- Driving licence
- Qualifications for job/work permit
Get your document legalised
You can get certain official UK documents ‘legalised’ by asking the Legalisation Office to confirm that the signature, stamp or seal is from a UK public official. You might need to do this if an official in another country has asked you to provide a UK document and they’ve said it must be legalised.
Create a checklist of things you need to do
- Check your passport is valid
- Apply for work permits and visas
- Set a budget for settling costs
- Tax planning
- Complete a health check
- Organise storage and/or shipping
- Set up your banking
- Gather key documents
- Pay all your bills
- Consider travel insurance
Helping British people overseas: travelling and living abroad.