| Necessary checklist before moving places | Send to a friend |
| Friday, 27 August 2010 16:09 |
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By Noela Oyugah Since her arrival in Tanzania six months ago, Elizabeth Nakanja, 33, a Ugandan working as a country manager with a network providing company, has been attending weekly Kiswahili classes, something she does not fancy. “Despite the fact that I have a tight schedule, I have to attend Kiswahili classes at least twice a week,” she says. When her boss informed her that she would be moving to Tanzania to spearhead the opening of their branch six months ago, Elizabeth was out of herself with excitement. With little knowledge about the country, she hurriedly packed her belongings and moved. However, a few months later, she realised that a little more time and inquiry would have made her more prepared to deal with her new environment. “It’s really a challenge, the food is different, the mode of paying the rent, electricity just to mention but a few is totally foreign to me,” says Elizabeth. Just like Elizabeth you might just be required to move to another country or have the desire to shift base especially with the East African community free labour market in operation. Having a clear picture of where you are going and preparing for the change is paramount to avoid being in a similar position as Elizabeth. “Had I taken time to find more about the culture and Tanzanians lifestyle, I wouldn’t find it hard to settle,” she says. Some of the things that she suggests you look into before shifting to another country include: Availability of health care services Do they have a health insurance policy, what are their terms of the insurance, how accessible are the hospitals? These are some of the questions that you ought to ask yourself in regard to health care. “Find out how you can access local doctors and hospitals should the need arise,” says Elizabeth. Accommodation Find what kind of accommodation will be most suitable in your new country. If you don't know anyone who can help find accommodation, consider the services of a relocation agent. “To avoid being conned, go for a registered estate agent to find a suitable place to stay,” she says. Insurance Insurance is very important when moving to a foreign country. Once you've decided what you're taking with you, insure it as soon as you get to the country. If you have a family ensure that you get the appropriate insurance for everyone,” says Elizabeth Banking Most of the time, you will need to open a new bank account so as to make money transaction easier. Find out which bank is suitable and do the necessary paperwork. You may need to open a new bank account-look for the one that suits you best. Transport What is the means of transport? How flexible is it? What are the rules? Will you take your car with you or buy/rent/lease one when you get to your destination country? Depending on where you're going and how long you're going to be there, you may need to apply for a new driving license or even take a driving test. Means of communication Mostly, this has to do with the preferred language of communication. Determine the language of the country. If it is not a language you are fluent in, you may wish to consider learning the language before you move. “You can get language tapes or CDs, and at least become familiar with popular and necessary phrases you will need upon your arrival.” Have all your documents No matter how insignificant that old document at the back of the bottom drawer may seem now, take it with you. The chances are that at some stage, you'll have to show it to someone. “Things that you ought to have with you include birth certificates, wedding certificates, educational certificates, medical certificates among others,” she says. Electric connection “Check whether or not your TV, video, hair dryer, alarm clock and other electrical appliances will work in the new country. You may need to take out a new network subscription for a mobile phone or buy a new one with a subscription,” says Elizabeth. Start preparing as early as possible. Make a checklist of everything you need to do. Moving to a new country can be difficult even when everything goes according to plan. There will be times when you're physically and emotionally exhausted but try not to let things get on top of you. Don't be shy about asking for help or support, there are plenty of people who have been there before. Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites           |
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