Your European Emigration Checklist

A move to the EU is going to be much easier than emigration to somewhere such as America or Australia. As a British citizen you can move freely around the European Economic Area, settling wherever you see fit without need to apply for visas or undergo rigorous interviews or points based tests.

However, whether you are moving to Belgium or moving to Holland it is still not as simple as getting a plane ticket and a passport, and there are still a number of things that you need to ensure you do before you head off towards that sunset.

Before heading off, you need to ensure you talk to HM Revenue & Customs regarding your liability for tax. The laws will differ depending on where you are moving to so don’t just assume that moving to Belgium will carry the same rules as if you were heading to Spain. In fact, you should spend time researching all the laws for the given country that you plan to move to so that you are fully aware of both your rights and the things that could potentially land you in trouble.

Fully understand the situation regarding healthcare. Again the benefits you will be allowed will differ from country to country and it is essential that you are adequately covered from the very start of your life abroad.

Finally, you need to let people know you are going. Even for those who simply want to disappear and get away from their current life, there are certain people who will need to be informed of the dates you leave from schools and banks to any outstanding creditors that may well need paying after you move. You also need to remember to forward your post so that any important letters reach you no matter whether you are moving to Holland or the furthest reaches of the desert.

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Amsterdam-age

Apparently teenage dreams are hard to beat. It’s doubtful that your teenagers are dreaming of a move to Holland; uprooting and leaving their friends, schools and social life completely behind. But if a great move is on the cards for your family, here’s a little juicy information about Amsterdam to reassure your kids that moving to Holland doesn’t have to be all about clogs and tulips!

Getting Around
The Dutch love bicycles. Simply put, Holland is quite flat so cycling is easy. Cycle paths are numerous and well-used, vehicle drivers are polite, and bicycles are inexpensive. Similarly to Japan, cycling around both your hometown and cities is a common form of transport.

Language
Moving to Holland brings you and your family up against that whole language barrier issue, against which we Brits generally panic and behave like a little group of clucking hens (mostly through embarrassment) until someone speaks to us in English and is they become our new best and most trusted friend. The fact is that the lovely folk of Amsterdam, on the whole, speak some English. Signs, warnings etc are usually written in English too, so the kids aren’t going to feel like they stick out more than giant alien spiders on their adventures.

Exploring
Entertainment, clubs, music venues, shopping, street fairs, nice big parks to hang out in and moan about society – Amsterdam is very, very much a city for the young. Of course the standard museums etc (are actually anything but standard) exist for you too. Reassuring your teenagers that relocating to Holland is exciting is crucial to everyone’s happiness, so… pre-move trip to Amsterdam anyone?

Enjoy the Alps – from 7 Countries

The Alps are one of the most staggering of mountain ranges, and for the thrill-seeker are a definite once in a lifetime place to visit; offering not only stunning vistas, but world class ski resorts. However, what you might not be aware of is that the Alps actually fall into 7 countries, with each side offering a unique experience! If your emigrating, why not consider moving near to the alps? You are certainly spoiled for choice in terms of possible destinations.

If you have ever considered moving to Switzerland, for example, you will surely be aware of the majestic Swiss Alps, which are world renowned for their ski resorts as well as their unrivalled natural beauty. The Swiss Alps also have a whole cultural identity of their own, playing host to a range of languages and picturesque historical towns.

The Italian Alps are also similarly perfect for Skiing, with the stunning Valle d’Aosta being home to some awesome resorts. In the Italian Alps you will also encounter some one half of the famous Mont Blanc, making relocating to Italy a cultured experience.

If you are moving to France then you’ll experience the other half of the Alps, and will be able to enjoy lush green forests against a miraculous backdrop of snowy peaks throughout the year. By moving to France you will also never be more than a train ride away from the heart of the UK, perfect for anyone who wants the best of both worlds: The Alps and Britain.

If you are considering relocating to France, Italy or Switzerland, European Removal Experts’s efficient removals service can help you along the way.

Stress-free Swiss Bliss!

European Removal Experts is the discerning customer’s choice when moving to Switzerland. Our friendly staff have years of experience in the secure packing, removing and storing of fragile and valuable items, and in transporting your precious possessions safely over land to your newly-adopted Alpine homeland.

Moving to Switzerland is a brave but wise decision: the Swiss are a punctual, precise and professional people, with high levels of expertise in fields as diverse as watch-making, chocolate production, skiing and pocket-knife manufacturing. Switzerland is an innovative nation which embraces modern technology but is home of some of the most beautiful, ancient and dramatic scenery on Earth.

Whether you are relocating to Switzerland for personal or professional reasons, European Removal Experts can ensure that your removal needs are met professionally, discreetly and courteously, because we pride ourselves on the professionalism of our staff. We are acutely aware of the potential for panic and stress which seems unavoidable but we can guarantee that moving to Switzerland will be a pleasure rather than a chore. You will enjoy the journey as well as the destination when you engage the elite services of one of Europe’s greatest removals companies – European Removal Experts.

European Removal Experts also offers a part-load service whereby you can share a van’s storage capacity with other customers or a dedicated service where the entire van is solely used for your move. You are free to choose which service will best meet your requirements. We are confident that we are the best in the business and we can definitely offer you stress-free Swiss bliss!

European Removal Experts Expand Their European Fleet

European Removal Experts, efficient suppliers of removals around the EU for clients moving to France, Germany and many other destinations, have now expanded their fleet and have even more vehicles running through various locations across Europe.

Due to further success as renowned professionals in their field, European Removal Experts are able to offer their clients further productivity due to the recent expansion of their assets, whether they are moving to Belgium on business or relocating domestically to Holland or elsewhere in Europe.

The option for clients to have their belongings transferred privately in a fully-insured vehicle is increasing in popularity, as European Removal Experts can now offer their services with the promise of even better service. To add further convenience, the expansion of Europe Removal’s fleet also makes it much more achievable for clients to employ the services of numerous vehicles for the transportation of their goods; making moving to Switzerland, France or Spain incredibly simple, no matter what size the job.

“We are excited to announce the expansion of our fleet, as it means that we can now serve a larger population of people around the EU,” comments Christian Popovici of European Removal Experts. “Employing a removals company you can trust to deliver your belongings with a quality-assurance and time efficiency is a priority when relocating, which is why we strive as a company to make the entire process effortless and affordable. Having more vehicles at our disposable not only makes this process easier for us as a company, but gives our clients peace of mind that whatever their personal requirements, we have them covered.”

Comprehensive Guide To Moving - Rules Of Residency In France

Some Advice if You are Moving to France

Moving to France: A Comprehensive Guide

Relocating to France is a dream for many, offering the opportunity to immerse yourself in a country renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-class cuisine. However, moving to a new country involves more than romanticizing the experience. It requires detailed planning, pragmatic decision-making, and a willingness to adapt to a new culture. Here’s a complete guide to help make your transition to France as smooth as possible.

Planning Your Move

The foundation of a successful relocation lies in meticulous preparation. Moving internationally involves unique challenges, so having a well-thought-out plan is essential.

Hiring a Professional Moving Company

Transporting your belongings across borders requires professional assistance. A reputable moving company will handle packing, loading, and transportation, ensuring your possessions arrive safely. When choosing a moving company:

Look for one experienced in international relocations.
Confirm they offer insurance for your items.
Read reviews and get recommendations to ensure reliability.

Managing Logistics and Paperwork

Relocating to France involves administrative tasks, including:

Customs declarations for your belongings.
Arranging a visa or residence permit.
Securing health insurance that meets French legal requirements.

Start this process early to avoid unnecessary stress as moving day approaches.

Choosing the Right Location

When deciding where to settle in France, it’s vital to consider more than just your holiday memories. Living somewhere full-time often differs significantly from experiencing it as a vacationer.

Visit During Different Seasons

That charming village where you’ve spent idyllic summers might feel entirely different in winter. Before committing to a location:

Visit during off-peak seasons to understand its year-round vibe.
Assess whether local amenities, such as shops and restaurants, remain open.
Consider the climate and whether it suits your preferences.

Assess Accessibility and Amenities

Ask yourself practical questions:

Are essential services, like schools and healthcare, within easy reach?
Is public transportation available?
How far are you from major cities or airports?

Understanding the logistics of your chosen area can make day-to-day life easier.

Navigating the French Housing Market

One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is finding a home. France offers a variety of housing options, but diving into the property market without proper knowledge can be risky.

Renting Before Buying

If you’re unfamiliar with the French legal system, renting is often the best choice. This approach allows you to:

Experience life in the area before committing to a long-term purchase.
Learn about the local property market.
Avoid potential legal pitfalls.

Engage an English-speaking lawyer or notary to help navigate rental agreements and property laws.

Helpful Resources

For insights into the French housing market, visit:

French Property

Legal and Administrative Requirements

France’s legal system can be complex, especially for newcomers. It’s crucial to understand the basics or seek professional guidance.

Key Considerations

Hiring a Notary or Lawyer: Work with an English-speaking professional to navigate contracts and understand legal obligations.
Tax Implications: Research property and income tax requirements.
Business Regulations: If you plan to work or start a business, ensure you comply with French labor and business laws.

Adapting to French Culture and Lifestyle

Moving to France means immersing yourself in a unique culture. Embrace the differences to make your transition smoother.

Language Skills

Although many urban French residents speak English, learning French will significantly enhance your experience. Fluency helps with:

Building relationships with locals.
Navigating day-to-day activities.
Integrating into the community.

Consider online language learning tools such as Duolingo or Rosetta Stone.

Cultural Norms

French culture values traditions, especially in dining and social interactions. For instance:

Meals are seen as a time for connection and should not be rushed.
Politeness and proper greetings are highly valued.

Healthcare in France

France boasts one of the best healthcare systems in the world. To access it:

Register for the Carte Vitale, which allows you to use state healthcare services.
Consider private insurance for additional coverage.

Visit Ameli for more information on healthcare registration and benefits.

Final Thoughts

Relocating to France is a journey filled with opportunities and challenges. By planning carefully, staying informed, and embracing the local culture, you can make your transition a rewarding experience. For further insights and resources, visit:

French Property Guide

Those Tricky Swiss

Moving to Switzerland is in many ways, very similar to moving to any UK address but with a longer distance to cover. The way in which it differs greatly from a UK house move, or even moving to Germany or France for example is in the need for detailed customs practices to be adhered to.

Switzerland has a fairly unique culture and a high standard of living in a beautiful environment. In order to maintain this, they do have a culture of rules and regulations that can appear prohibitive if you do not understand the correct way to navigate them. This should not be mis-interpreted as a negative statement about Switzerland; it is a very desirable place to live but you are required to respect their rules and regulations. They do have strict customs rules and for a successful move you will need to adhere to them.

The best method to navigate these rules when moving to Switzerland is to use a removal firm that specialises in such international moves and understands these rules and regulations. At European Removal Experts, we possess these credentials and will be able to assist you with any scale of move to the continent. This move may be moving to France, moving to Spain or moving to Switzerland or one of many other European destinations as well as Switzerland.

Some house moves will necessitate a dedicated van and full packing service but others may only require the moving of a select few items. With varying deadlines and schedules for each move, flexibility and a range of moving options is key to being a great removal service provider. We are able to include a period of Long and Short Term Storage with many of our house move options and aim to deliver what you need from your house move experience.

Some Facts About Moving to Switzerland

If you are planning to move abroad to a country within the European Union, you will be aware that this is a relatively straightforward thing to do. The rules on moving around the EU mean that relocation from country to country is made as easy as possible for those who come from the member states. This is connected to the charter of the EU which promise the free movement of people, goods and services within the Union. But if you are moving to Switzerland, this could be difficult.

The rules on immigration for those who are planning on moving to Switzerland are very strict, and your nationality is important when it comes to making a decision about whether you will be allowed to move permanently. Citizens of the fifteen pre-2004 European Union member states and of the various European Free Trade Association countries face fewer restrictions than citizens from the rest of the world.

It may seem harsh, but the reality is that it is almost impossible for non-EU nationals to find work in Switzerland unless they have something to offer the state. The only way a non-EU national can find work in the country is if they are highly qualified and able to perform a job that no Swiss person can do. Having said that, if a non-EU national has a couple of million pound in the bank, they will be welcomed with open arms!

It’s also worth noting if you are planning on moving to Switzerland that without a job arranged in advance, you cannot take up residence.

Let the Experts Handle Your Move Abroad

Moving house is always a stressful occasion because of all the planning that has to go into the move. If you want it to go as smoothly as possible you will have placed smaller items in boxes which are marked with the contents, so when they arrive at the other end you know exactly what is in each box. This is fine with the smaller items in the house, but when you add in the physical aspect of the process – all that shifting and carrying of heavy furniture – and it becomes clear why people are using professionals to do the job for them.

If you are moving to another place in the UK the day can be a bit of an ordeal, so imagine if you are moving to France or moving to Holland to start a new life? There are so many more obstacles to deal with when you are moving abroad, whether you are moving to France to retire to a new life in the country or moving to Holland with your job, so why not let the professionals take care of every aspect of this. All you have to do once your house is cleared is get in the car and make your own way to your new address, where you will meet the team who will then take care of unloading your furniture.

So if you are moving to France or moving to Holland – in fact just about any country in Europe – let the experts take care of the moving process for you.