Visas and work permits

Unless you are a resident or citizen of the country you are moving to, you may require a visa or work permit. If you are going on a work contract, check with the company you will be working for to see if they will be arranging the necessary work permit on your behalf. You should also contact the embassy of the country you are moving to for details on their visa requirements. To find a list of embassies and their contact details, you can visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Make sure you allow sufficient time to process all the ncessary travel documents and check that your passport has a validity of at least six months.

Accommodation

Relocation companies based in the country you are moving to, can help you find suitable accommodation. In addition, expatriate services in the country of destination may also provide invaluable assistance in settling in.

If you are interested in purchasing property overseas, we have home loans that are tailored specifically for that purpose. Contact our Premier International Bank Officers or visit HSBC Premier Centres and they can provide you with more information.

Packing up and moving

Make sure you give plenty of notice to the moving company and confirm your booking ahead of time. Make a list of all the items that you want to ship overseas and ensure that you have copies of your travel documents stored in a safe place. You should consider getting insurance coverage for the shipment of your belongings to safeguard against any potential losses or damage.

Schools and education

Schooling and education are important factors of any overseas move, particularly if you have children. If your child is currently attending an international school in Singapore, there may be a complementary system in the country you are moving to. You could also contact the country's government education department for more information on their public schooling, if you would like to explore this option.

Driving overseas

If you plan to drive in a foreign country, you will require an International Driver's License and your own native driver’s licence. Holders of Singapore driving licence can apply for an International Driver's License through the Automobile Association of Singapore.

If you wish to apply for a local licence, visit the Comfort Driving Centre website. In order to qualify for a driving license in Singapore, you have to pass a two theory tests and a practical driving test.