For years, moving abroad was something we talked about as a dream—an exciting possibility we kept on the horizon. But this past summer, we made the decision to turn that dream into reality. Now, with a timeline stretching to mid-2026, we’re carefully planning every step of this journey. From research to passports to applications, each phase brings us closer to building the life we’ve imagined.
July 2024: The Decision
This summer marked the moment everything changed. We were on a walk as a family and decided that moving abroad wasn’t just something we’d talk about anymore, it was something we’d do. After years of imagining this life for our family, we were ready to take the first steps toward making it real.
August – October 2024: Research and Exploration
The first phase of our planning focused on narrowing down where we wanted to go.
- Exploring Locations: We started with the UK but also looked into Ireland, Canada, and other European countries. Each offered something unique, but after weighing the pros and cons, the UK emerged as the clear choice. It aligned most closely with our values, dreams, and the life we want for our family.
- Visa Research: Once we chose the UK, we began looking at visa options. By October, we narrowed our focus to two possibilities: the Global Talent Visa and the Skilled Worker Visa. Right now, we’re leaning toward the Global Talent route because it best fits Zac’s skills and experience.
October 2024: Renewing Our Passports and Deciding on a Timeline
Before moving forward, we tackled a practical but essential step: renewing our passports. Both Zac and I now have updated passports, a small but important milestone in this journey.
We also took a moment to lay out the various options for our timeline. We had a three, two, and 18 month plan, and there were a few factors that have been weighing in to help guide us. After the start of November we landed on 18 months. It feels aggressive, comparatively, but we know that regardless of the “how long” the heavy lift will inevitably come in the last 5 months.
January – June 2025: Visa Preparation and Budgeting
The new year will mark a shift toward more concrete planning.
- Finalize Visa Strategy: By early 2025, we’ll confirm whether we’re pursuing the Global Talent Visa or the Skilled Worker Visa. Although, we will not completely shut off either idea.
- Financial Planning: We’ll create a detailed budget that includes visa fees, moving expenses, and a financial cushion for unexpected costs.
- Decluttering Ramps Up: During this time, we’ll continue simplifying our belongings, focusing on larger items and sentimental keepsakes.
- Job Research: Although we’re leaning toward the Global Talent Visa, we’ll begin exploring job opportunities in case the Skilled Worker Visa becomes a better option.
July – September 2025: Applications and Job Search
This phase will focus on setting the foundation for our move.
- Start Job Applications: While waiting for endorsement approval, we’ll actively apply for jobs in the UK to explore whether the Skilled Worker Visa might be a viable backup option.
- Begin House Sale Prep: We’ll start preparing our home for sale, addressing repairs, decluttering further, and setting a timeline for listing the property.
October – December 2025: Big Decisions and Planning the Visit
As the year winds down, we’ll focus on preparing for a major milestone: visiting the UK.
- Global Talent Endorsement Application: If we proceed with the Global Talent Visa, Zac will submit his application for endorsement during this time. This is the first step in the process and is critical to gaining approval for the visa.
- Secure Endorsement Approval: By the end of the year, we hope to have the endorsement approved for the Global Talent Visa.
- Plan and Visit UK: Once the endorsement is secured, Zac and I will plan a visit to the UK. This trip will allow us to explore potential neighborhoods, visit properties, and decide on a place to rent.
- Final Decluttering Push: At this point, we’ll downsize as much as possible, keeping only the essentials and meaningful items to take with us. We will be selling 85%-90% of our home items.
January – March 2026: Visa Application and Final Logistics
- Submit Visa Application: With the endorsement approved, we’ll submit our full visa application in early 2026.
- List and Sell our Home: We will be putting our house on the market once we have submitted our visa application. This timing is a challenge and may change if it doesn’t feel right.
- Finalize UK Housing: During our visit, we’ll have secured a rental property, giving us a place to land when we move.
- Book Flights: Once the visa is finished processing, we’ll confirm travel dates and book our flights.
- Tie Up Loose Ends: This includes transferring medical and school records, canceling services, and preparing for the transition abroad.
April – July 2026: The Big Move
- Travel to the UK: This is the moment we’ve been working toward. Zac and I will move first to settle into the rental property, followed shortly by the kids.
- Enroll Kids in School or Nursery: One of our priorities will be ensuring the kids adjust smoothly by enrolling them in local schools or nurseries.
- Create New Routines: From exploring local shops to building connections in the community, this phase will focus on settling into our new life.
Why This Timeline Works for Us
Eighteen months gives us the space to plan thoughtfully while keeping momentum. By starting early, we’re able to approach this process with intention and excitement, ensuring no detail is overlooked.
This move is about more than just logistics. It’s about creating a foundation for the life we’ve dreamed of—a life of safety, community, and opportunity for our family. Every step brings us closer to that vision, and we can’t wait to share the journey with you.
