By Alana Bailey

As more and more people migrate temporarily or permanently these days, one assumes that they will also be informed about the responsibilities that this step entails. Unfortunately, this is not the case. One often hears of someone who has forgotten one of the essential steps in the process. Here is a list of five less obvious issues that you should familiarise yourself with before you migrate and during your residence abroad.

1. Family matters

When you go to work or study abroad, your family members will not automatically get permission to accompany you. They also will not receive permission to work or study automatically either. They will probably need different residence permits to accompany you. Pay very close attention to the conditions of their permits, as well as the expiration dates thereof, which may not be the same as those of the breadwinner or the rest of the family.

2. Documents

Take good care of all relevant documents and especially your passport. Also keep photos of it and any valid permits in it on multiple devices. A lost passport between flights can mean that you will be denied access to further flights and if you are unable to show your passport when asked, or cannot prove that it is gone and you have already applied for a replacement, you may be considered to be, and treated as an illegal immigrant.

3. Taxes

Make sure whether the country you are going to and South Africa have any tax agreements that will ensure that you will not have to pay income tax in both. Also make sure what the requirements are on both the South African and foreign side for tax liability in the financial year.

4. Labour legislation

Know your rights as a worker in the country you are going to. People make the mistake of thinking that countries in the First World will have legislation that offers more protection than South Africa, but this is not necessarily the case. You may even find that the laws are inadequate and even may be to your detriment.

5. Acquiring property

In South Africa, it is quite essential to own some kind of vehicle, and most people consider buying their own home to be essential. This is not the case everywhere. For example, countries with good transport systems encourage people not to buy their own car, and it may be particularly expensive to do so. There are also countries where it is more common to rent a home for life. Adapt to the customs of the country where you live to save unnecessary costs and hassles.

Finally, migration will only be a success and enjoyable adventure if you prepare thoroughly for it and inform yourself about all aspects pertaining to it. Good luck if you are considering this step!