The International Relocation Guideline booklet was compiled by CRG staff member Nicky Hampson.  Now a naturalized US citizen, she has personally experienced two international relocations between South Africa and the USA.  On both occasions, all household goods, several family members and a variety of pets were moved.  As a result, Nicky gained extensive firsthand knowledge of all aspects of an international move including work visas, immigration petitions and procedures.

This booklet is a useful tool for Relocation Counselors, HR staff and transferring employees.  Additionally, it is a good resource for “temporary workers” in search of U.S. based employment opportunities, family sponsored immigrants and international students.  Contact CRG at info@carolinarelocation.com for information on how to receive a copy.

SUMMARY OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

   Financial- Assessing financial considerations such as salary, lifestyle, cost of living and the liquidation of assets.

   Health and Insurance- Medical insurance, pre-existing medical conditions, life and retirement policies.

   Family and Friends- Considerations such as aging parents and accompanying children.

   Culture Shock- The four stages of “culture shock” and the possibility of “reverse culture shock” when an international assignment ends.

 PRE-DEPARTURE PLANNING

   Pre-Move Trip- The importance of making a pre-move trip to your destination.  Reviewing local conditions.

   Job Search- There are different opportunities available to immigrants and non-immigrants.  An approved visa will be required before any employment may commence.

   Credential Evaluation and Resume Preparation- Having your foreign education qualifications evaluated and determining the U.S. equivalent is important.  Preparing an American style resume rather than an “International” style curriculum vitae (CV).

   Visa Options- A review of various Immigrant and Non-Immigrant visa categories.

   Documents and Legalities- A checklist of important preparations and documents including taxation, travel documents, personal records, etc.

   Moving Household Goods and Possessions- Selecting a moving company, services to expect, what to take and what to leave, moving your pets.

   Final Preparations- A comprehensive list of important last minute details that will require your attention.

 THE MOVE

   Moving Day- Tips on dealing with your moving day.

   The Journey- Travel Tips.

   Arrival- Customs inspections, the importance of your Form I-94, jet lag.

 SETTLING IN

   Social Security Card- The importance of a Social Security card, how to apply for it and information on the requirements and restrictions.

   Banking and Credit- Establishing a credit history is one of the greatest challenges to be faced when relocating to the U.S.  Opening a bank account and hints on how to build credit.

   Buying or Renting a Home- Renting an apartment or home initially can give you time to “get your bearings” before buying property.  An experienced real estate agent will be able to help familiarize you with the area and assist you with your needs once you are ready to purchase a home.

   Education and Schooling- The U.S. has compulsory school attendance laws and most children attend school for 12 years.

   Business Practices and Etiquette- There are some obvious dissimilarities between the American workplace and those of England, Australia or South Africa- two obvious examples being terminology and spelling.

   Driver Licenses- These are issued by individual states and are the main form of picture ID used in non-driving situations.  When implemented, The Real ID Act will require State driver licenses to meet federal ID standards established by the Department of Homeland Security.

   Healthcare- The standard is high but so is the price.  Health insurance needs to be a top priority.

 OVERVIEW

Despite the challenges, a properly prepared relocation to the U.S. will be an exciting and enriching experience. 

 RESOURCE GUIDE

This section provides website addresses for sites with useful information on relocation and immigration.  They provide information on employment, immigration, home finding, general information, embassies and expatriate resources. 

 CONVERSION TABLES

Differences in American clothing and shoe sizes and other measurements can be confusing.  These simple tables will assist with temperature and clothing conversions.  Easy conversion formulas give guidelines for weight, length and volume conversions. 

 SPELLING AND WORD USAGE

There are numerous differences between American and “Commonwealth” English spelling and word usage.  This section provides a variety of examples.

Contact CRG at info@carolinarelocation.com for information on how to receive a copy of this booklet.