Malta Invest has created this checklist to assist with each phase of your relocation process.

Checklist # 1

Visas and Permits- the application process

  • First of all you would need to secure a job. Hopefully you will have a signed employment contract or a formal job offer signed by you and the employer
  • Based on your particular employment, research what type of visa you and your accompanying family members would need
  • Maybe ask HR what assistance they can give regarding you and your family’s visa process.
  • Ensure you have all the documents required to accompany your visa application.Gather the originals and make multiple copies. Get the required documents motorised or officially translated
  • Make an appointment to drop off your visa application
  • Upon arrival at your new expat destination, ensure you show your visa to the customs officer and make sure you get a stamp in your passport when passing through immigration. You might need this stamp later
  • Make sure you or your employer registers you with local authorities. Apply for your residence card if necessary

Checklist # 2

House hunting – getting started

  • Plan and decide on your budget.
  • Ensure you have saved enough for deposits or any fees required upfront
  • Make a list of your house requirements
  • Get in touch with a reputable real estate company to assist you with your search
  • The agents can give you information on tenant laws and rights

Checklist # 3

Which neighbourhood to choose

  • Start with some online research about the different areas, those close to your place of employment, those that have parks and outdoor areas especially if you have pets.
  • Decide what are your most important fundamentals are when choosing a neighbourhood.
  • Reach out to future work colleagues or join social networks to get recommendations about the different areas.
  • If you have children look at the schools in each area and the bus routes your children will need.
  • Research the crime rate etc in the areas your are interested in
  • Once you are in your new city, visit different areas during the day and night to see if they are a good fit for you.

Searching for a house

  • Decide whether you will be renting short term while you continue searching for the right area and home.
  • Research which are good real estate companies and set up  meetings with agents to start your search.
  • Start a list of homes that fall in your budget and meet your needs
  • Contact the agents to set up a viewing.

Deciding

  • If you have decided to rent short term, make sure you review the lease carefully before signing
  • Decide on a move-in date with the landlord before paying a deposit.

Checklist # 4

Getting the basics done

  • Opening a bank account
  • Find out if you can open a bank account as a non-resident or whether you need a resident card.
  • Look at both local and international banks to see which meets your needs.
  • Take all necessary documents when you apply to open an account. This would include an address in your new country, or a utility bill.
  • Transfer the minimum deposit into your new account
  • Cancel your previous bank account if you are switching entirely
  • Apply for debit and credit cards
  • Connect to the banks online platform and mobile apps.
  • Setting up utilities
  • On your day of departure, have your meters read for the final time
  • Look at the main utility providers in your new country.
  • Research the main service providers and compare their offers for internet, TV, cell phone and land lines.
  • Choose a date for the set up and organise with each service provider.

Checklist # 5

Becoming legal

  • Before departure check the validity of your passport, driving license etc. It might be worth renewing before leaving home
  • Make sure all relevant documents have the correct stamps and certifications on them
  • Research any mandatory registrations needed in your new country. You may be required to register at your local council or police station etc.
  • Start application for residency
  • Register for a tax or social security number.
  • Register for healthcare or take out private medical cover
  • Find out where to find a family doctor and register if you need to.

Checklist # 6

Settling down

  • Consider getting an international drivers license before you leave your country
  • Research how long your current drivers license will be valid for before it needs to be exchanged in your new country
  • Find out if you have to take a driving exam
  • Make an appointment with the driving authority to exchange your license, if allowed. There might be long waiting period to do this
  • Local transportation may be better than driving, so find out the local transport network and apply for a monthly transport card.
  • Make a list of any local services you might need and ask for recommendations from locals or expats.
  • Start building your social network. Join local and expat on-line forums and events.
  • Join local social and exercise clubs
  • Maybe consider volunteering