You’re Moving to Sydney! Are You Excited? Overwhelmed?
Or a bit of both with a dash of AM-I-REALLY-GOING-TO-DO-THIS sprinkled on top?
Sydney Moving Checklist
What to Know Before You Pack & Go
You can’t google your way through coordinating pet quarantine, visa paperwork, school enrollments, and international shipping while working full-time and keeping your family sane.
This checklist breaks down when to start each process (spoiler: pet import takes 7 months if you’re on top of it), what actually costs money, and which decisions you can push until you’re on the ground.
Explore Trending Topics
Before You Move
Moving to Sydney is a big decision and will consume every minute of your day. Is it worth it? Yes, it is. Most expats now living in Sydney, never want to leave. If they do, it’s with a very heavy heart. Start planning and budgeting your move ASAP. It will make all the difference.
Three Reasons Why You Should Move to Sydney
Are you considering moving to Sydney? I got three reasons why you should, especially if you’re from the USA, UK, Ireland, South Africa, or Canada.
Read MoreArrival Expenses to Budget for When You Move to Sydney
Yes, moving to Sydney is expensive, but you also need to budget for these expenses when you arrive plus the first few months afterwards.
Read More
Australian Visas
You can’t enter Australia without a valid visa, whether you’re visiting for two weeks or moving permanently to Sydney. There are dozens of visa subtypes, from tourist visas to permanent residency. I focus on work visas for skilled migrants since that’s what most people relocating to Sydney actually need.
Quick Guide to Australia’s Working Holiday Visas
The Working Holiday Visas are the most popular of all the Australian visas and for a good reason. Here is what you need to know before you apply for your’s.
Read MoreApplying for TSS 482 Visa While on Tourist Visa
Thinking of moving to Australia on a Tourist Visa or a Working Holiday Visa then switching to a TSS 482 Visa? Is that possible? Maybe.
Read More482 Visa After Job Termination: 180-Day Rules and Options
Job termination on 482 visa? You get 180 days to find new sponsorship while keeping work rights. Family stays, income options, and backup plans.
Read More
Real Estate & Renting
Sydney’s rental market is brutally competitive. Figure out where you want to live and what you can afford before you move. Over 600 suburbs make this harder than it sounds. Factor in commute times, local schools, and the 100 Points ID Test. That last one’s critical.
Surry Hills Suburb Guide for Expats Relocating to Sydney
A complete guide for expats in Surry Hills covering rental prices, commute, schools, parks, dining, and pros and cons.
Read MoreSydney Suburbs for Expat Families with Young Children
Are you moving to Sydney with young children? Here are the best suburbs for expat families with small children, all an easy commute to the city.
Read MorePaddington Suburb Guide for Expats Relocating to Sydney
Moving to Sydney and want a suburb with character? Paddington, just east of Sydney’s CBD, combines historic terraces with city living.
Read More
Expat Finances
How much money do you need saved? Can you open a bank account before leaving? Best way to transfer funds? Psst – You can lock in your rate before moving. Filing taxes in both countries? Yes, both countries. Get your money questions sorted before you leave home.
Monthly Cost of Living in Sydney for Family of Four
Wondering what the cost of living in Sydney will be for a family of four? Here’s a detailed list of monthly expenses.
Read MoreWhat is an Australian Superannuation?
You’re going to love Australia’s Superannuation. For one, it’s a 9.5% employer compulsory contribution. And you can cash it out when you move back home.
Read MoreWhat US Expats Living in Australia Need to Know About FATCA
What is FATCA and how it affects your tax return. This post covers Filing Thresholds Values, Physical Presence Test, and Bona Fide Residence Test.
Read More
Sydney Moving Timeline
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Aenean commodo ligula eget dolor. Aenean massa. Cum sociis nat
12 Months Out: Budget & Visa
Create moving budget:
• Cost to Move to Sydney
• Sydney Arrival Expenses
Submit visa application → Australian Visas Articles
Research shipping costs → Shipping Costs
8 Months Out: Pets & Finances
Start pet importation → Recommended Pet Relocation Companies
Open forex account → Transferring Money Guide
Consult Expat Tax Accountant → Recommended Tax Accountants
NOTE: U.S. Taxes for expats is a pain in the butt. Make sure you have a clear understanding of how living in Australia is going to affect your U.S. tax filing.
4 Months Out: Packing & Research
Downsize household and personal belongings → What NOT to Pack
Research schools/childcare
• NSW Schools Guide
• Sydney Daycare Guide
Book short-term housing → Stayz.com.au
2 Months Out: Jobs & Logistics
Get shipping quotes → Moving Quotes Contact Form
Update resume for Australia → All Finding a Job in Sydney Articles
Zero in on Sydney suburbs → Best Sydney Suburbs for Expats
Final Month: Pack & Prepare
Organize documents → 100 Points of ID Check
Prepare for Sydney’s Competitive Rental Market → How We Found Our Apartment in a Week
Open Sydney bank account → Open Bank Account guide
