Trek the Pyrenees with Fellow Expats 

One of the first things American expats will have to do upon arrival to Australia is apply for a Tax File Number (TFN), which is equivalent to what US citizens know back home as a social security number. With the TFN, you will be able to work, file taxes, and receive government benefits. Before this though, Americans relocating Down Under will have to think about applying for the correct visa and work permit, finding adequate housing, and how to move their belongings abroad.

Visas and Work Permits

There are several visas and work permits available for US professional workers depending on their line of work and skill set. Work visas exist for skilled American workers, investors, highly-specialized workers, business people, even trainees or short-term employees. To successfully apply for an employment-based visa, your job must be listed on the skilled occupations list. Being sponsored by an approved Australian company/employer will facilitate the work permit application process as well.

For US expats moving to Australia, it is essential to know that rent prices in Melbourne are getting more expensive, while advertised rents in Sydney are dropping. These major expat cities, along with Brisbane, will have plenty of apartments released onto the market over the next few years. Be aware that Australia’s capital Canberra is the most expensive city to rent in, while the city of Hobart is costlier than Melbourne. 

If moving to Australia, be aware that to rent a home or open a bank account, you must suffice the 100 point check—a personal identification system. Different pieces of ID you can produce are worth a number of points. You need to satisfy a minimum of 100 to be approved for certain things in Australia. 

Are you planning to relocate internationally? If you’ve never moved abroad, the process will be overwhelming. If you have, you know the challenges that lie ahead. Whatever stage you’re at, InterNations can help you with comprehensive guides and a community of experienced expats who are happy to help and share their knowledge.

Housing

For Americans looking to ship personal household items duty- and tax-free when relocating to Australia, they must have been owned and used for at least a year or imported temporarily. Regarding bringing along dogs or cats, the US is considered a category 3 country, which means your pet would be eligible for importation to Australia with an import permit.

Relocating

Learn More about Australia

The largest international community for people who live abroad with 4 million members, offering a range of online and in-person events.

The largest international community for people who live abroad, offering a range of online and in-person events and networking opportunities.