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Moving to Australia

Are you considering a move to Australia from the US? Congratulations on your decision! Australia ranks high among the preferred relocation destinations for Americans, boasting numerous advantages.

Australia’s robust economy, coupled with a wealth of job opportunities, makes it an attractive prospect. Moreover, being an English-speaking country, it offers seamless integration for newcomers. Add to that the promise of a high quality of life, and it’s easy to see why Australia draws so many expatriates.

What’s on this page?

Australia offers a favorable economic landscape with abundant job opportunities and a high quality of life. With a large population of native English speakers, it’s an inviting destination for expatriates.

However, relocating to Australia involves several considerations. From visa preparations to shipping household goods, it’s essential to have a clear checklist of permissible actions.

But don’t fret; we’ve done the groundwork for you. Our comprehensive research has compiled all the essential information in an easy-to-follow format.

Can a US citizen live in Australia?

Absolutely, US citizens can live in Australia. In fact, thousands of Americans migrate to Australia every year, either for a fresh start or to pursue career opportunities. Australia offers a high quality of life with relatively less hassle.

To live in Australia, there are primarily three main pathways for US citizens. Firstly, if you have family members or relatives residing in Australia or New Zealand, you can apply for a family visa, which often has a high success rate.

If you don’t have relatives in Australia or New Zealand, obtaining a work visa is another common route for US citizens. Having a job offer from an Australian company significantly increases your chances of obtaining clearance.

For US students aspiring for higher education in Australia, there’s a separate process. You can stay in the country until you complete your graduation. Once all the necessary paperwork is completed, migrating from the USA to Australia becomes more streamlined.

Things to Know Before Moving to Australia

Australia offers a vibrant cultural experience distinct from both the US and Great Britain, thanks to factors like its weather and stunning seashores.

If you’re planning to relocate with many belongings, it’s wise to consult with us regarding what’s permissible and what’s not. For instance, Australia’s voltage, set at 230V, differs significantly from the US’s 120V.

It’s crucial to be aware of Australia’s quarantine laws if you intend to bring animals or plants. Visit their official customs website to determine if your pets or specific plants can be brought into the country.

Before arriving in Australia, consider setting up a bank account. Many banks allow you to open an account before your arrival. We advise consulting with a financial planner to streamline this process. Be sure to communicate to your financier the type of account you wish to open in advance.

Visas and work permits for moving to Australia

Before you begin packing, ensure all your essential documents are updated and readily available. Verify that your passport has adequate pages for any necessary stamps and visas. Additionally, if any family members qualify for a specific type of visa, review the requirements on the official immigration website.

It’s advisable to create at least three sets of copies of all crucial documents, ranging from your official job offer letter to your passport, photographs, and essential bank documents. This precautionary measure helps mitigate any last-minute complications.

Regarding visas, the Australian government offers various visa options for individuals seeking to relocate and settle in the country. For instance, if your spouse resides in Australia or New Zealand and holds permanent residency status, you may be eligible for a partner visa. However, it’s important to note that you must be outside of Australia when applying for this visa.

Moving Household Goods to Australia

Shipping household items to Australia is relatively straightforward, with no customs duties imposed on items that are at least 12 months old and have been used by you. However, it’s essential to review the customs list to ensure that your items are permissible for import into Australia.

Keep in mind that Australia operates on a voltage of 230V, whereas the US uses 120V. For heavy appliances like washing machines, refrigerators, ovens, or televisions, it’s crucial to use sturdy stabilizers to ensure safe operation.

Considering the voltage difference and potential logistical challenges, we recommend selling heavy-duty items in the US and purchasing replacements upon arrival in Australia. For smaller electronic devices like coffee machines, laptops, and speakers, adapters can be used to accommodate the voltage difference. Be sure to check the official immigration website for guidance on permissible furniture items for shipping.

If you’re uncertain about what to pack and what to sell, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to assist you in preparing a comprehensive list tailored to your needs and circumstances.

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Moving to Australia Checklist—Things you will need to check

Before embarking on your journey to Australia, ensure you have all necessary documents in order, including your passport, visa, driver’s license, work permit, and any other personal documentation required for immigration. It’s also wise to designate a local point of contact who can assist you if needed.

Cancel any ongoing subscriptions that are exclusive to the US and update your bank account statements to clear any pending dues. Additionally, consider opening a bank account in Australia at least a month before your arrival and discuss credit card options with your financial advisor to expedite the process.

Verify your insurance coverage and ensure that you and your family members have up-to-date health insurance plans. Research transportation options from the airport to your destination ahead of time to avoid any inconvenience upon arrival.

If you plan to bring alcohol or cigarettes with you, familiarize yourself with the allowed limits outlined on the official immigration website to avoid hefty taxes during immigration.

For pet owners, ensure your pets have the necessary health certifications and apply for a special permit at least 7 months before your arrival in Australia to facilitate their relocation with you.

Cost of Living in Australia

Australia is one of the most expensive countries in the world, but its cost of living is still comparable to US standards. Before your arrival, make sure to convert US dollars to Australian dollars to ensure you have the local currency ready for any immediate expenses.

Here you can see some prices for comparison:

Item	Australia	USA
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant	$20.00	$20.00
One-way Ticket (Local Transport)	$4.50	$2.75
Domestic Beer (0.5-liter bottle)	$6.00	$3.00
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre	$4,000.00	$3,500.00
Internet (60 Mbps or More )	$70.00	$60.00

International Moving Services

We at SDC International Shipping provide easy and quick international shipping from America to Australia. Our team adheres to important safety guidelines to ensure your goods arrive safely at your doorstep. Get in touch with us for an instant quote and enjoy a hassle-free shipment experience.

We offer door-to-door international shipping from the US to any part of the world. Experience faster and more secure shipping with SDC International. Call us, and we will be happy to guide you through a pleasant relocation. From packing to dispatching your precious goods, our team takes care of everything.