Visa and registration requirements when relocating overseas and buying property abroad
Most countries employ strict immigration procedures that everyone hopeful of relocating overseas has to navigate. Even EU citizens, who are free to move between member states in search of a job overseas, require certain documentation. Depending on where you are buying property abroad, you may even find it beneficial (or essential) to apply for residency.
Relocating overseas - the EU
UK citizens planning on relocating overseas to another EU country no longer need a work permit or visa to do so although they will require a valid passport. EU nationals can live, work and set up a business in another EU state although they may be prohibited from entering the armed services or civil service in some instances.
Although it is no longer a requirement to register for residency after relocating overseas within the EU it may still be advisable to do so. Obtaining a residence card can make life easier when applying for a job overseas or buying property abroad.
Relocating overseas to a non-EU country
The ease of obtaining the relevant visas and work permits depends on exactly where you are relocating overseas. Some countries make it impossible to foreigners to immigrate while others welcome newcomers with open arms. If you obtain a job overseas, your employer may be able to sponsor you for a visa and work permit. You may find you need a temporary visitor visa to enable you to travel in the country in question to complete the paperwork which will allow you to start the job overseas. The same requirement for an initial visitor visa may be necessary to complete the process of buying property abroad.
The UK embassy in the relevant country will be able to advise you on the process of relocating overseas from Britain.
Documentation required for relocating overseas
If you are moving for a job overseas or are buying property abroad there are certain documents you must take with you. These include:
- A valid passport
- A birth certificate and/or marriage certificate
- Proof of accommodation
- Several passport photographs
- Proof of status ie employed, self-employed, retired, student
Relocating overseas - other documents
When you begin working in a job overseas you will more than likely begin paying into the social security system and should obtain the equivalent of a National Insurance number. After relocating overseas to certain countries, you will need to obtain a card proving your entitlement to medical care. A residence permit may be required for buying property abroad or for opening a bank account.
