There is no denying that emigrating to another country is an exciting business. Just think of all the new things that you can enjoy discovering – the sunny climate, the unusual foods, the new friends that you will make. However, there are issues that you need to take into consideration other than what SPF you will need, which can prove a little tricky if you don’t get them correct right off the bat!
Article written by The Overseas Guides Company
Perhaps the most crucial of these is determining what family status counts as in your new country. In a world where there are now seemingly a hundred and one different examples of what constitutes a ‘family’ – it is important that you know where your family stand.
Across the world different relationships – are viewed in different ways so you should consider the following:
- Same-sex couples –14 countries now recognise same-sex marriage and it looks like it won’t be long before the UK follows suit with same-sex unions set to become legal by the end of 2013. However, most countries do not recognise same-sex marriages or even civil unions. Same-sex relationships are even illegal in a large number of nations. Obviously this is something that you should check before you decide to make the move abroad.
- Recognition of children – Once outside of the EU, recognition of legal guardianship of children that are not biologically yours can be a complete minefield. If you have an adoption certificate, it will have the names of both the adoptive parents but trouble can arise when the adoptive parents do not share the same surname.
- Unmarried couples – Although it may seem completely alien to us UK dwellers, in many nations it is illegal to live with a member of the opposite sex unless you are close family or married. This can affect your ability to obtain a visa/residency, your tax status and even your personal relationship. In stark contrast, many Western countries offer the same recognition of “de-facto” couples as married couples, providing you with superior rights on matters such as tax and inheritance than you currently get in the UK.
As you can see, the issue can prove rather complex. To avoid any confusion, make sure that you conduct your research before any move. For more information about making a success of your move, download your free copy of the Overseas Guides Company’s Emigration Guide.