As Sheldon Cooper once said, “Change can be scary but we have to do it anyway.” And, if you are planning to uproot everything you have known and move to New Zealand, here are a few things you must check before boarding the flight and settling into something strikingly new. Even if you haven’t watched Young Sheldon and the character explaining a change in such simplistic terms, we all know that change is one thing that is constant.
The task can seem daunting at first, but once you settle and explore the charms of New Zealand around you, believe us, you would want to stay bewitched. Therefore, here are some things you will require before you finalize your move to New Zealand.
1. Get your visa in order
The foremost step is the most important one and would probably require some time. You will need to cross the legal barriers first to gain entry rights into the country. You can request a visa from the authorities by submitting all the documentation. You cannot gain access to the country without a visa. Therefore, if you are planning to move to New Zealand, sort your visa requirements out and get familiar with the criteria before you land.
2. A Proof of Address
Individuals planning to move to this spectacular country must sort their accommodation scenario as soon as possible. To complete steps 4 and 5, you must have proof of address. Therefore, fulfilling this step is crucial for individuals planning to move to New Zealand. You can consider living in a hostel or hotel for a few initial days. However, once those few days pass, you will need something permanent to call home.
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3. Get a Sim Card/Phone Number
The tiny electronic device in the right pocket of your trouser might be buzzing an important notification at the moment. Imagine a world without phones! How can a working person ever spend a second without a functional phone with all the latest features! Hard to imagine, right? Therefore, the second thing once you land is to get yourself a local phone number equipped with a data pack and Talktime.
You would be able to accomplish nothing if you cannot dial numbers or access addresses at the tip of your finger. Humanity has succumbed to the vices of technology, and let’s be honest, it is the only thing that allows us to stay updated on current affairs across the world. Therefore, moving into a new place without a functional mobile device is preposterous.
4. A Bank Account
Where are you planning on storing all the money that you have brought along from your homeland? You will need an active bank account in New Zealand since the country propagates digital payments in light of current circumstances.
Apart from this, you will need a bank account to transfer money from overseas, pay taxes, or get your salary credited on your first job. However, to gain access to a bank account, you will need proof of address. Therefore, finding yourself a permanent accommodation is crucial to a hassle-free stay in New Zealand.
5. Acquire an IRD Number
The IRD number will hold all your details. Everything will be done with the help of an IRD number, from entitlement benefits and personal information to tax filing. The Inland Revenue authority holds a record of all the citizens in New Zealand based on which residents receive government benefits or file for tax.
Since you will be immigrating to the country, you probably won’t know this but sort your IRD number before getting a job; otherwise, you will be taxed at the highest rate, which is 45%.
6. Find a Job
Finding the ideal job is susceptible to perception. We cannot tell you which sector to choose; you will have to do that for yourself based on your major in college or preference. However, once it is clear in which sector or industry you want a job, start finding one immediately. The job market here is really competitive. Therefore, do not slag and find yourself an opportunity that can even help you renew your visa in the long term.
7. Make your “House” a “Home”
Once you are done with finalizing where you wish to live and in which part of the country, it is time to give your house a makeover and transform it into a home. You can either buy brand new furniture or acquire second-hand from a flea market. However, the choice will depend on how much you want to spend. You can pick great deals from Facebook groups, Op shops, or online furniture stores. You can also consider signing up on eBay to find your house the perfect furnishings.
8. Purchase a Car
You won’t always be using public transport to commute, right? If you want to settle in the country and feel comfortable while doing so, buy a car. You can get an excellent second-hand car if you don’t have the budget to buy a brand new one. As far as driving is concerned, residents can drive on their overseas license for a year. However, you will have to apply for a legitimate license with the New Zealand transport authorities after a year.
In Conclusion
Now that you know what to consider before moving to New Zealand check the boxes as soon as you land and start completing them. You must follow the list as it is to ensure a hassle-free and comfortable stay in a new country. New Zealand is a very welcoming country, and you will not find any issues adjusting except for the initial few days when you will be feeling homesick. Work out your blues and make the country your own by following the advice mentioned above.
