Visa and residence permit when moving abroad

When moving internationally, arranging a visa and residence permit is one of the first and most important steps. Without the correct documents, you often cannot legally live, work, or stay long-term in the destination country. The requirements and procedures vary greatly by country and depend on your purpose of stay — for example, work, study, family reunification, or emigration.

What is the difference between a visa and a residence permit?

• Visa: a temporary entry document that grants access to the country. This is often required for initial entry.

• Residence permit: grants permission to reside in the country long-term and potentially work. It is usually applied for after arrival or converted from a visa.

Types of visas and residence permits

1. Work visa / Work permit

   • Required when moving for a job abroad.

   • Often linked to an employment contract or employer.

2. Student visa

   • For studying at an accredited educational institution.

   • Proof of enrollment and financial means required.

3. Family or partner permit

   • For those moving to a partner or family member already living abroad.

4. Investment or entrepreneur visa

   • For entrepreneurs who want to establish themselves or invest in a foreign company.

5. Permanent residence permit

   • For those who are settling permanently; often only possible after several years of legal residence.

Important documents for the application

• Valid passport (valid for at least 6–12 months).

• Passport photos according to local requirements.

• Employment contract or proof of income.

• Medical certificate or insurance.

• Proof of housing in the new country.

• Legalized birth, marriage, and/or diploma certificates.

• In some cases: proof of good conduct (VOG).

Cost indication

• Short-term visa: €50 – €200.

• Work visa: €200 – €1,000, depending on country and length of stay.

• Residence permit: €300 – €1,500.

• Legalization and translation costs for documents: €20 – €100 per document.

Countries outside the EU, such as the USA, Canada, Australia, and the UK, have higher visa costs than European countries.

Example Situations

• Moving to the USA
  A family applies for an immigration visa through a work contract. The total processing time is 5 months and the costs are over €1,200 including translations.

• Moving to Spain (within the EU)
  For EU citizens, registration with the municipality and application for a NIE number are sufficient. No visa required, costs only a few tens of euros.

• Moving to Australia
  An expat obtains a ‘Skilled Worker Visa’ through their employer. Application costs €700, processing time 8 weeks.

Practical tips

• Start collecting documents 6 to 12 months before departure.

• Check the validity of your passport — many countries require at least 6 months of remaining validity.

• Allow for legalization and translation of documents: this takes time.

• Check if family members also need a separate visa or residence permit.

• Request moving companies through jeofferte.nl that cooperate with visa and emigration advisors.

Jeofferte.nl and help with visa applications

Through jeofferte.nl you can compare moving companies that have experience with international moves, including assistance with visa and residence procedures. Some companies work with specialized immigration agencies, ensuring your moving process is faster and legally correct.

Conclusion

A visa and residence permit form the administrative basis of an international move. Without the correct documents, you cannot legally live or work in your new country. By starting well in advance, gathering the right paperwork, and choosing moving companies with experience in international regulations through jeofferte.nl, you save time, stress, and unnecessary costs.

Administrative deregistration in the Netherlands upon emigration

Anyone moving abroad must administratively deregister from the Netherlands. This is not just a formality but a legal obligation. Deregistration affects your taxes, health insurance, pension, and voting rights. Correct handling prevents problems with authorities and double obligations.

Why deregistration is mandatory

According to the Personal Records Database Act (Wet basisregistratie personen - BRP), anyone staying abroad for more than 8 months per year must deregister with their municipality. The municipality will then remove you from the Personal Records Database and automatically notify authorities such as the Tax Administration (Belastingdienst), the Social Security Bank (SVB), and health insurers.

When should you deregister?

• Deregistration is possible from 5 days before departure.
• The date of deregistration is the day after your departure from the Netherlands.
• You must appear in person at the municipality or send an authorized representative (sometimes this can be done digitally).

What happens after deregistration?

1. Your personal data will be deleted from the BRP.
   This means you are officially no longer a resident of the Netherlands.
2. You will receive proof of deregistration.
   This document may be needed when registering in your new country of residence or with international organisations.
3. The Dutch Tax and Customs Administration and the SVB will be informed automatically.
   They will determine your tax status (domestic or foreign taxpayer) based on your departure date.

Consequences of registration cancellation

Documents you need

• Valid identification.
• Departure address abroad (for registration).
• If applicable: proof of registration in the new country.
• If moving together: details of family members moving with you.

Example situations

• Emigration to Germany
  A couple deregisters with the municipality of Enschede 3 days before departure. They immediately receive proof of deregistration, which they can use to register in Germany.
• Moving to Australia
  An expat forgot to deregister on time. Consequence: double tax assessment and six months of unjustified health insurance premiums.
• Temporary assignment to the USA (1 year)
  Because the assignment lasted longer than 8 months, an official deregistration was also required in this case.

Practical Tips

• Arrange deregistration at least one week before departure.
• Always ask for a certificate of deregistration (international model); some foreign authorities require this.
• After deregistration, check that your address in the Netherlands is no longer active anywhere (e.g. with your bank, health insurer, pension fund).
• Also report the move to the Tax Administration via m-biljet or DigiD.
• Ask moving companies via jeofferte.nl for support with administrative steps or emigration advice.

Jeofferte.nl and administrative support

Moving companies you can compare via jeofferte.nl often offer more than just transport. Many recognized international moving companies assist with administrative preparation, including deregistration, document checks, and connections with emigration advisors. This ensures your move is not only practical but also legally correct.

Conclusion

Timely administrative deregistration in the Netherlands prevents financial and legal complications after your departure. Arranging this at least 5 days before leaving ensures you receive the correct documents and avoid double obligations. Combine this step with professional moving advice via jeofferte.nl to make the transition to your new country of residence smooth, complete, and risk-free.

Customs formalities when moving abroad

When moving internationally, you will almost always encounter customs formalities. These rules determine which goods you can take with you, which documents are mandatory, and whether you have to pay import duties. Correct handling prevents delays, fines, and unnecessary costs.

What do customs formalities entail?

Customs formalities are the administrative and legal procedures required to transport your belongings into or out of a country. They ensure that your items are legally imported, inspected, and – if applicable – exempt from import duties.

Difference within and outside the EU

• Within the EU
  Free movement of goods. You do not need to file an import declaration or pay duties as long as the items are for personal use.
  Example: moving from the Netherlands to Germany or Spain.
• Outside the EU
  Customs declaration is mandatory. You must provide documents, pay any import duties and sometimes take inspections into account.
  Example: moving from the Netherlands to Canada, Switzerland, or Australia.

Which documents are usually needed?

1. Copy of passport and visa/residence permit.
2. Inventory list with a detailed description of all goods (including value).
3. Proof of ownership (such as purchase receipts or a declaration that the items are personal property).
4. Moving document (Bill of Lading or Air Waybill) from the moving company.
5. Declaration of long-term stay outside the Netherlands or proof of deregistration from the BRP.
6. Any additional documents such as insurance papers, freight invoices, or customs declarations from the moving company.

Goods with special rules

• Prohibited or regulated goods: weapons, medicines, alcohol, tobacco, food, plants, animals, and certain electronics.
• Wood products or garden tools: strictly controlled in countries like Australia or New Zealand due to quarantine legislation.
• Vehicles: separate import rules and often additional taxes (registration, environmental inspection, testing).

Cost estimate

• Customs clearance costs moving company: €100 – €400.
• Storage costs in case of delay: €30 – €100 per day per container.
• Inspection or quarantine costs (outside EU): €150 – €800.
• Import duties and VAT: depending on country, sometimes exemption for personal belongings.

In many countries, you can receive an exemption from import duties if you can prove that the goods are personal property and have been in use for at least six months.

Example situations

• Moving to Switzerland
  Exemption obtained by proof of ownership and deregistration from the municipal personal records database → no import duties, customs clearance within one day.
• Moving to Australia
  The container was held for three days because garden tools were not clean enough. Additional costs: €300 for cleaning and inspection.
• Moving to Canada
  Thanks to a complete inventory list and customs documents arranged through the moving company, customs clearance proceeded without delay.

Practical Tips

• Start collecting all necessary documents at least one month before departure.
• Have your moving company prepare the customs declaration; they have experience with local regulations.
• Clean items subject to quarantine, such as bicycles, shoes, and garden items.
• Keep digital copies of all documents in the cloud.
• Ask moving companies via jeofferte.nl if they include full customs clearance in their services.

Jeofferte.nl and customs clearance

Via jeofferte.nl you compare moving companies specializing in international removals with customs clearance. These recognized companies know exactly which documents are needed and how to apply for exemption from import duties. This ensures your move goes smoothly, without delays or unforeseen costs.

Conclusion

Customs formalities are an essential part of moving abroad. The right documents, careful preparation, and collaboration with a specialized moving company prevent delays and extra costs. By choosing experienced international movers with knowledge of customs procedures via jeofferte.nl, you can arrange your move safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with the law.

Request international moving quotes

An international move is a major logistical operation involving multiple factors: transportation, insurance, customs, storage, packing, and even time zones. Prices and conditions can vary significantly between moving companies. Therefore, it is essential to request multiple international moving quotes and compare them carefully before making a choice.

Why request multiple quotes?

1. Large price difference between providers
   Rates for international removals can vary by thousands of euros, depending on the transport method, scope of service, and distance.
2. Insight into included services
   Not every moving company offers the same service. Some only arrange transport, while others also include packing, insurance, and customs clearance.
3. Avoiding hidden costs
   By comparing multiple quotes, you can more quickly see where surcharges are calculated for fuel, port handling, or storage.
4. Better negotiating position
   When you have multiple quotes, you can negotiate more effectively on price or additional services.

What should be included in an international moving quote?

A reliable quote always includes:

• Full description of services (packing, transport, assembly, insurance, customs clearance, storage).
• Volume or weight of the household goods on which the price is based.
• Transport method (sea-, air- or road transport) and estimated duration.
• Insurance options with coverage and conditions.

How many quotes do you request?

Ideally, you should request at least three quotes from accredited international moving companies. This allows you to assess not only the price, but also the reliability, response time, and customer focus.

Cost Estimate (Guidelines 2025)

Please note: The final price depends on volume, insurance choice, distance, and additional services.

Example situations

• Moving to Switzerland
  A couple received three quotes. The cheapest was €900 lower, but without customs clearance. The more expensive quote ultimately proved more advantageous due to full service and faster delivery.
• Moving to Canada
  An expat requested four quotes via jeofferte.nl. The differences amounted to €2,500. After comparing, he chose a company with all-risk insurance and experience with Canadian customs.
• Moving within Europe
  A family saved €1,200 by comparing quotes, as one provider offered groupage (shared transport).

Practical Tips

• When requesting, clearly state: departure address, destination country, moving date, and size of the household contents.
• Ask about insurance conditions and not just the transport price.
• Check if packing and dismantling services are included.
• Pay attention to the fine print: surcharges and additional costs can add up quickly.
• Use jeofferte.nl to compare quotes clearly and contact accredited moving companies directly.

Jeofferte.nl and international moving quotes

Via jeofferte.nl you can easily and free of charge request multiple international moving quotes. You will gain insight into prices, included services, and transport options from reliable moving companies. Jeofferte.nl works exclusively with accredited partners who have experience with customs, insurance, and logistics worldwide. This way, you compare objectively and choose the best option without unnecessary risks.

Conclusion

Requesting international moving quotes is an essential step in preparing your move abroad. By comparing multiple accredited providers, you gain insight into costs, quality, and scope of services. Via jeofferte.nl, you can arrange this efficiently and safely – with transparent quotes, clear conditions, and support at every step of your international move.

Adjusting or expanding insurance when moving abroad

When you move abroad, not only your place of residence and lifestyle change, but also the risks you face. Many Dutch insurance policies expire or offer limited coverage as soon as you stay outside the Netherlands for an extended period. Therefore, it is essential to adjust or expand your insurance policies in a timely manner so that you are well protected in your new situation.

Why adjusting insurance is important

1. Dutch policies are usually valid nationally
   The coverage of health, contents, or liability insurance, for example, often only applies within the Netherlands or the EU.
2. Other risks abroad
   Consider higher medical costs, damage during international transport, or loss of contents during a move or storage.
3. Obligations in the new country of residence
   Some countries require local health insurance, car insurance, or liability coverage as a condition for registration.
4. Continuity of coverage
   By arranging the switch in time, you prevent a period arising in which you are uninsured.

Important insurances to review

1. Health insurance

• The Dutch basic insurance expires as soon as you no longer live or work in the Netherlands.
• You must take out international or local health insurance.
• Pay attention to coverage for medical evacuation or repatriation in case of serious illness.

2. Contents and building insurance

• Dutch home contents insurance does not cover damage abroad.
• Consider an international contents insurance during transport and storage.

3. Liability insurance

• Mandatory in some countries; Dutch policies often do not apply worldwide.
• Check coverage for damage to third parties in your new country of residence.

4. Car insurance

• Dutch car insurance policies expire after deregistration.
• Often, new insurance in the country of destination is required for registration.

5. Life and death risk insurance

• Usually remains valid, but report your move to the insurer.
• Check whether the payout is made worldwide.

6. Transport and removal insurance

• Coverage during the transport of your belongings is not included as standard.
• An all-risk transport insurance protects against damage or loss en route.

Cost Estimate (Guideline 2025)

Example situations

• Moving to the USA
  A family thought they were insured through their Dutch health insurance, but discovered it was not valid outside the EU. They were forced to take out an international policy, resulting in two weeks without coverage.
• Emigrating to Switzerland
  An expat reported their move to their insurer in advance. The health and liability insurance were timely converted to international variants. No interruption in coverage.
• Moving to Australia
  A container suffered water damage during transport. Thanks to an all-risk transport insurance, the full damage (€3,800) was reimbursed.

Practical Tips

• Start reviewing all your policies at least three months before departure.
• Always report your move to your insurer — even for life or pension insurance.
• Ask about international extension options instead of cancelling immediately.
• Watch out for double insurance: sometimes your new policy already covers risks that were insured in the Netherlands.
• Ask moving companies via jeofferte.nl about their cooperation with insurance partners for transport and international coverage.

Jeofferte.nl and insurance advice

Via jeofferte.nl you can compare moving companies that not only handle the move but also offer advice on insurance for transport, storage, and household contents. Many recognized international movers work with specialized insurance companies, so you are assured of full coverage during and after the move in one process.

Conclusion

Adjusting or expanding insurance is an essential part of moving abroad. Dutch policies rarely offer worldwide coverage, and each country has its own obligations. By timely identifying which insurances you need to change and choosing moving companies via jeofferte.nl that work with reliable insurance partners, you move with certainty, protection, and peace of mind.

Arranging Housing in Your New Country

Finding suitable accommodation in your new country of residence is one of the most defining steps of an international move. It not only determines your living comfort but also how quickly you integrate and can arrange practical matters such as school, work, and registration with local authorities. Because the housing market and regulations vary greatly from country to country, it is important to arrange housing promptly and carefully.

Why early housing is essential

1. Registration and residence permit
   In many countries, you need an official address to register with the municipality or immigration service.
2. Logistical planning of the move
   The moving company needs to know where and when delivery can be made; this also determines the transport and storage planning.
3. Financial security
   By concluding a rental or purchase agreement in a timely manner, you prevent yourself from being forced to take expensive temporary housing.
4. Stability for family and work
   Permanent housing provides peace of mind during the initial period of adjustment to a new country.

Accommodation Options

1. Temporary Rental Property

Ideal for the first few months until you find a permanent home.

• Advantages: Flexible, often furnished, quickly available.
• Disadvantages: Rental prices are usually higher, limited contract duration.

2. Permanent Rental Property

For longer stays or emigration.

• Advantages: More stability and lower monthly costs than temporary rental.
• Disadvantages: Often a deposit and proof of income required; rental agreements in the local language.

3. Purchase of a home

Suitable for long-term emigration or job relocation.

• Advantages: Long-term investment; full control over the property.
• Disadvantages: High entry costs, taxes and legal procedures vary by country.

4. Corporate or expat housing

Some employers arrange housing for employees who are moving internationally.

• Advantages: Less paperwork, often centrally located.
• Disadvantages: Limited freedom of choice.

Required documents for renting or buying a property

• Valid passport or residence permit.
• Employment contract or proof of income.
• References or landlord statement.
• In some countries: local tax number or bank account.
• Security deposit (usually 1–3 months' rent).

Cost Estimate (Guidelines 2025)

Please note: in popular cities, the rent can be up to 30% higher.

Example situations

• Moving to Switzerland
  A family arranged temporary accommodation for three months through a local real estate agent. This allowed them to find a permanent home at their leisure without time pressure.
• Moving to Spain
  By conducting video viewings in advance, they were able to sign a rental agreement before departure. The container with their belongings was delivered immediately upon arrival.
• Moving to Australia
  An expat opted for company housing through their employer, which was €500 per month cheaper than comparable private rentals.

Practical Tips

• Start looking for housing at least three to six months before departure.
• Use reliable platforms or local real estate agents, especially for purchases or long-term rentals.
• Request a bilingual rental agreement or have it translated before signing.
• Consider security deposits, registration fees, and brokerage fees.
• Ask moving companies via jeofferte.nl about their local partners for housing or storage advice.

Jeofferte.nl and housing support

Via jeofferte.nl you compare moving companies that not only arrange transport but also offer support with housing, temporary storage, and logistical planning. Many reputable movers work together with expat services or local real estate agents, so you can quickly find suitable accommodation in your new country.

Conclusion

Arranging housing in the new country requires preparation, knowledge of local regulations, and a good overview of costs. By starting well in advance, choosing reliable partners, and selecting moving companies via jeofferte.nl that have experience with housing and storage, you create a smooth transition to your new living environment – without stress or financial surprises.

Banking and taxes when moving abroad

An international move involves more than just transporting your belongings. Your financial and tax situation will also change significantly. Bank accounts, savings, mortgages, and taxes need to be adjusted to your new country of residence. Good preparation prevents double taxation, blocked accounts, or problems with pension and income transfers.

Why handle banking and taxes in a timely manner?

1. Legal Obligations
   As soon as you deregister from the Netherlands, your tax status changes from domestic to foreign taxpayer.
2. International Money Flows
   You may have income in different countries (salary, pension, rent, investments) that fall under separate tax regimes.
3. Practical Payment Transactions
   Without a local bank account, it is often difficult to pay rent, energy, or insurance in the new country.
4. Prevention of double taxation
   Through tax treaties between the Netherlands and other countries, you can prevent paying tax twice on the same income.

Arrange banking matters before departure

1. Keep or close existing accounts

• Many Dutch banks allow emigrants to keep their accounts, provided the address is updated.
• Check if your bank is allowed to remain active outside the EU — some accounts are restricted or terminated upon emigration.

2. Open a new bank account abroad

• Usually requires a valid passport, residence permit, and proof of address.
• Often, you can arrange this before departure with international banks that have branches in both countries.
• Consider an international current account (e.g., Wise, Revolut, or HSBC) for currency payments without high transaction fees.

3. Money and investments

• Check if your investment portfolio is allowed to remain in the Netherlands.
• Some financial institutions are not allowed to serve foreign clients due to stricter EU legislation (MiFID II).

Tax matters when emigrating

1. De-registration from the Netherlands (tax consequences)

• You file an M-form in the year of departure. This is a combined domestic/foreign tax return.
• State your departure date, income, deductions, and assets in it.

2. Foreign tax liability

• After departure, you are subject to the tax rules of your new country of residence.
• Income from the Netherlands (such as a pension or rented property) often remains taxable in the Netherlands.

3. Tax treaties

• The Netherlands has treaties with more than 90 countries to prevent double taxation.
• The distribution of taxing rights depends on the type of income (wages, pension, property, profit).

4. Wealth tax and bank deposits

• In some countries you pay no wealth tax, in others more than in the Netherlands.
• Find out where it is best to hold your savings and investments.

Costs and administrative points

Example situations

• Moving to Switzerland
  An expat kept his Dutch account for pension payments, but opened a Swiss account for salary and fixed expenses. This way, he avoided high exchange rate costs.
• Emigrating to Spain
  A retiree was double-taxed on his pension because he had not applied a tax treaty. After advice, this was corrected, and he received €1,200 back.
• Moving to Canada
  By opening an international current account in advance, a family could easily pay their deposit and first rent before arriving.

Practical Tips

• Inform your bank at least one month before departure about your emigration.
• Check whether direct debits (such as insurance or mortgage payments) still work after departure.
• If possible, open an account in the new country before departure.
• Consult a tax emigration specialist if you have income or assets in multiple countries.
• Ask moving companies via jeofferte.nl if they cooperate with expat advisors who have experience with financial planning for emigration.

Jeofferte.nl and financial advice

Moving companies active via jeofferte.nl often collaborate with international partners who also assist with banking, tax emigration, and administrative processing. This allows you to arrange transport, insurance, and financial matters in one process, with the certainty that everything will proceed correctly from a legal and administrative standpoint.

Conclusion

Banking and taxes are a crucial part of an international move. By arranging accounts, insurance, and tax obligations in a timely manner, you prevent financial problems and double taxation. Through jeofferte.nl, you can find moving companies that cooperate with reliable emigration advisors and financial specialists, ensuring your move is not only practical but also administratively and fiscally seamless.

Translation and legalization of documents when moving abroad

When moving internationally, you often need to present official documents: birth certificates, diplomas, marriage certificates, medical statements, or certificates of good conduct. These documents are not always immediately valid abroad. Therefore, it is essential to have them translated and legalized before you leave. This prevents delays with registration, work, school, insurance, or visa applications.

What is translation and legalization?

Sworn translation

A sworn translation is an official translation of a document, carried out by a sworn translator authorized to guarantee legal validity. The translator confirms that the content has been correctly transferred to the target language.

Legalization

Legalization is the official confirmation that the signature and status of the issuing authority (such as a municipality or court) are genuine. Only then will the document be recognized abroad.

There are two main forms:

• Apostille (for countries party to the Hague Apostille Convention) – one stamp is sufficient.
• Full legalization (for countries outside the convention) – multiple steps via municipality, court, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Which documents often need to be translated or legalized?

• Birth certificate
• Marriage or divorce certificate
• Diplomas and transcripts
• Certificate of good conduct (VOG)
• Medical certificates or vaccination records
• Employment contracts or employer statements
• Proof of income or bank statements
• Powers of attorney or notarial documents

Always consult the embassy or consulate of your new country of residence: they will specify exactly which documents are required.

Step-by-step plan for translation and legalization

1. Request original documents from the relevant authority (municipality, DUO, court).
2. Have documents translated by a sworn translator into the language accepted in your new country of residence.
3. Check if legalization or apostille is required.
4. Carry out legalization:

• Municipality confirms signature on deed.
• Court confirms signature of municipal official.
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs places final stamp (or apostille).

Cost Estimate (Guideline 2025)

Example situations

• Moving to Canada
  For the work permit application, birth certificates and diplomas had to be legalized and translated into English. The total costs amounted to €350, including apostilles.
• Moving to Spain
  Because Spain is a signatory to the Apostille Convention, one apostille stamp on each document was sufficient. The translation was carried out by a sworn translator for Spanish.
• Moving to Qatar
  Because Qatar is not a member of the Apostille Convention, documents had to be fully legalized through the court and ministry. The procedure took over three weeks.

Practical Tips

• Start with translation and legalization at least two to three months before departure: some authorities have long processing times.
• Always check the required language: English is often sufficient, but not everywhere (e.g., France or Germany require translation into the local language).
• Ask for multiple certified copies: often the same documents are required in different places.
• Keep scanned versions in the cloud to prevent loss.
• Ask moving companies via jeofferte.nl if they have contact with translation agencies or emigration specialists who can outsource this process for you.

Jeofferte.nl and document support

Via jeofferte.nl you can compare moving companies that cooperate with recognized translation and legalization partners. These companies help with collecting, translating, and legalizing all necessary documents, so you won't face rejections or delays with registration, work, or customs clearance.

Conclusion

Translation and legalization of documents are essential steps when moving abroad. Without these official confirmations, your documents are often not accepted by local governments or employers. By starting on time, following the correct procedure, and choosing moving companies via jeofferte.nl that cooperate with reliable translation partners, your emigration will proceed administratively smoothly and completely according to the rules of your new country of residence.

Arranging school and work when moving abroad

When moving abroad, finding suitable work and good education for children is often just as important as the move itself. Both require preparation, documents, and knowledge of local rules. Those who start arranging school and work in time avoid stress, financial uncertainty, and last-minute decisions in the new country.

Why arranging school and work early is essential

1. Limited availability
   Good schools, especially international schools, often have waiting lists. Also, job openings for expats are not always open throughout the year.
2. Administrative requirements
   Employers and educational institutions often require legalized documents, diplomas, language certificates or medical statements.
3. Influence on the moving planning
   School start dates and employment contracts often determine the moving date and transport planning.
4. Financial security
   A fixed income and a school place ensure stability and predictability of expenses.

Arranging work abroad

1. Orientation and application

• Start looking for jobs 6 to 12 months before departure.
• Use international job platforms (such as LinkedIn, EURES or Expat.com).
• Check whether your professional group is recognized in the new country (e.g. doctors, teachers, technicians).

2. Work permit and visa

• Most countries require a work permit or specific work visa before you can be employed.
• Often the employer has to apply for this as well.
• Inquire whether partners or accompanying family members are also allowed to work.

3. Diploma recognition

• For regulated professions (education, healthcare, technology) you must have diplomas legalized and possibly recognized by local authorities.
• In EU countries, automatic or simplified recognition of diplomas often applies.

4. Contract and terms of employment

• Check salary, working hours, health insurance, pension and taxes.
• Ask if the employer offers assistance with housing, visas and school choice for children.

Arranging school for children

1. Types of schools

2. Registration and admission

• Request information in time; some schools use admission tests or intake interviews.
• Required documents: passport, birth certificate, vaccination certificate, school reports and diplomas (often translated and legalized).

3. Language support

• Consider language lessons in advance or extra guidance through school.
• International schools often offer “language support programs” for non-native students.

4. Cost indication (per child per year)

Example situations

• Moving to Germany
  A family with young children opted for a local primary school. The children received six months of language support and were fully integrated within a year.
• Moving to Singapore
  An expat family enrolled their children in an international school six months in advance. Cost: €18,000 per child per year. By enrolling in time, they were able to start immediately.
• Moving to Canada
  An engineer received a work permit and relocation allowance through his employer, including assistance with school selection.

Practical tips

• Start school and work orientation at least six months before departure.
• Have diplomas, certificates, and school reports officially translated and legalized.
• Check local school calendars — these may differ significantly from the Dutch school year.
• Ask your employer if there is support for relocation, housing, or family integration.
• Use jeofferte.nl to find moving companies that work with expat services for work and school support.

Jeofferte.nl and support for school and work

Via jeofferte.nl you can compare moving companies that offer more than just transport. Many recognized international movers work with relocation specialists who help with finding schools, diploma recognition, visa applications and work preparation. This ensures that your emigration is professional, practical and family-friendly.

Conclusion

Arranging school and work is a crucial part of a successful international move. By starting to collect documents, diploma recognition and registration in good time, you avoid delays and uncertainty. Via jeofferte.nl you will find moving companies with partners who specialize in guidance with work and school matters, so that you not only move, but also really make a new start abroad.

Preparing your belongings for an international move

An international move requires thorough preparation of your belongings. Not all items are suitable, permitted, or economically viable to take abroad. Good preparation prevents damage, delays, overweight in transport, and unnecessary costs. By inventorying, sorting, and having items professionally packed beforehand, the move will go smoothly and safely.

Why careful preparation is important

1. International transport is more intensive
   Your belongings often travel thousands of kilometers, by sea, air or road transport. Proper packing and labeling prevent damage.
2. Customs rules differ by country
   Some goods may not be imported or require inspection, for example, wooden furniture, food or electronics.
3. Costs depend on volume and weight
   The more items you take with you, the higher the price. Smart selection and disposal of unnecessary items saves considerably.
4. Timely preparation prevents delays
   By starting to sort, clean, and document well before departure, the mover can load efficiently right away.

Step 1 – Inventory and select

Create a complete inventory list of everything that will be moved, sold, or left behind.

• Note down dimensions, value, and material type.
• Mark vulnerable or valuable items (art, electronics, heirlooms).
• Check electrical appliances for voltage difference (110V/230V) – not everything is usable abroad.
• Discard or sell unnecessary items before the moving date.

Tip: less volume means lower transport costs – up to 20% savings possible with efficient selection.

Step 2 – Cleaning and Preparation

Many countries (such as Australia, New Zealand and Canada) require that all goods are clean and free from soil or organic material.

• Thoroughly clean garden tools, bicycles, shoes and furniture.
• Remove batteries from devices (mandatory for air transport).
• Dismantle furniture where possible for safe transport.

Step 3 – Professional Packing

International moving requires professional packing materials:

• Use double-walled moving boxes, protective film, and shock-absorbing material.
• Pack fragile items by category (glass, crockery, decoration) with extra protection.
• Use wood-free packaging if required by customs regulations.
• Label each box with its contents, destination room, and a unique number – this is mandatory for customs declarations.

Step 4 – Insurance and declaration of value

• Make a declaration of value of your belongings for the moving and transport insurance.
• Add photos of valuable items (e.g. art, electronics).
• Ask the moving company if their insurance offers cover for damage during transport or storage.

Step 5 – Customs and Transport Documentation

Ensure your moving company has:

• Detailed inventory list (in English, if required).
• Copy of passport and residence permit.
• Proof of ownership of goods (purchase receipt or declaration).
• In some countries: declaration that goods have been owned for at least 6 months (for exemption from import duties).

Cost Estimate (Guidelines 2025)

Example situations

• Moving to Australia
  A family had all their belongings professionally cleaned and packed. The container was imported without customs delays, saving two weeks of time and €400 in inspection costs.
• Moving to Sweden
  By selling 20% of their household goods in advance, the couple saved €1,200 in transport costs.
• Moving to Canada
  An expat chose a moving company via jeofferte.nl that worked with customs-compliant wooden crates and insured shipments. No damage, no delay.

Practical Tips

• Start inventory and preparation at least four to six weeks before departure.
• Have valuable goods (such as art or antiques) packed and insured separately.
• Check if furniture fits through doors and elevators in the new house.
• Make digital copies of the inventory list, insurance papers, and customs documents.
• Request quotes via jeofferte.nl from international moving companies that combine packing, insurance, and customs clearance.

Jeofferte.nl and preparation of household goods

Via jeofferte.nl you can easily compare multiple international moving companies that specialize in safe transport and preparation of household goods. These companies offer complete packages including professional packing, inventory, insurance, and storage. This way, you can be sure that your belongings will reach their destination carefully and without risks.

Conclusion

The preparation of your household goods is the key to a carefree international move. By selecting, cleaning, packing correctly, and preparing all documents in advance, you save money, time, and stress. With the help of recognized moving companies via jeofferte.nl, you are assured of a safe, well-organized, and fully documented move to your new country of residence.