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Moving From Australia to America

Costs, Visa, Checklist & Life

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Moving to the USA from Australia is a big step to take, but it doesn’t need to be too hard or stressful. That’s why we put together a guide about the moving costs, an essential checklist, and great tips on moving to America. You can even request free removal quotes to make your move even easier.

The Cost of Moving to America from Australia

The average cost of moving to America from Australia is between $5,500 and $24,500.

Calculating the exact cost of moving from Australia to the USA is difficult, since many factors affect costs when moving overseas. We’ll talk more about these factors later on.

The table below is based on the container shipping costs for sea routes:

Property SizeTimeAverage Cost
1-bedroom house8 – 11 weeks$5,500 – $7,500
2-bedroom house6 – 8 weeks$7,000 – $10,000
3-bedroom house6 – 8 weeks$10,000 – $13,500
4-bedroom house6 – 8 weeks$12,800 – $17,300
5-bedroom house6 – 8 weeks$17,000 – $24,500

Disclaimer: These figures are only estimates, and the real cost may differ.

Factors Affecting Moving Costs

  • Choice of removalist – The offered service and quality of said service will be reflected in the price. Check out our list of the top 8 international removalists who can help with your move!
  • Volume – Not to state the obvious, but the more you move, the more you’ll pay. Use our volume calculator to see how much you’ll be moving.
  • Distance – Needles to say, the longer the distance, the higher the costs.
  • Season – Depending on the time of year, you’ll find that prices peak. This happens during winter, or for the rest of the world, summer.
  • Insurance – Having good insurance when moving is non-negotiable; it will protect your goods from damage occurring during transport.
  • Additional services – Additional services like storage, packing, and unpacking will cost extra.

Top International Movers from Australia to the USA

Are you searching for movers to America? You’re in the right place. Take a look at the 3 best international removal companies from Australia to the US:

  1. OSS World Wide Movers
  1. Allied Pickfords
  1. Palmers Relocation

Request Free Removal Quotes to America

Fill in our removal quote form now and receive up to 5 free removal quotes. This will ensure that you get the most accurate cost estimates, and allow you to compare movers to find the best deal for yourself.

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Visa for America

Unless you happen to be an American, you’ll need a visa when moving to America from Australia. There is a visa that is specific for Australians who have a job in America, although there is a yearly quota.

So, the specific visa for Australian citizens moving to the USA is called an E-3 visa. However, the visa requires employer sponsorship, which means you need to find a job before applying.

It’s still also possible to apply for other types of visas, such as the H1-B visa for specialty occupations, an L visa if you’re going via an intracompany transfer, an O or P visa for those with outstanding achievements or working in the arts.

For more information about visas and the application process, visit the US government’s website on travel and visas.

Checklist For Moving to America

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Here you can find the ultimate moving to the USA checklist, which will ease your move abroad.

Before Moving to The USA:

  • Important documents – Make sure you have copies and originals of important documents, and store them in a safe place.
  • Taxes and Superannuation – You may still be liable to make a tax return in Australia based on your tax residency.

Once You Arrive in The USA:

  • Social security number – You can apply for a Social Security number when you apply for your visa. If you haven’t done this, no need to worry; you can also apply after you arrive in the USA.
  • Healthcare – You’ll need to take out a health insurance policy to cover any medical expenses. Remember, it’s common for employers to offer health insurance as a perk of the job.

Life After Moving to America

There are many similarities between the two countries due to a history of being settled by the UK, but there are some differences you’ll be glad to be aware of.

Taxes in America

Income tax, as well as Social Security tax, is taken directly from your pay, just like in Australia. Similarly, you must submit an annual tax form telling the authorities exactly how much you earned throughout the year and what amount of tax you paid.

Moving to the USA with pets?

If you are moving your dog from Australia to the USA, your dog to must be:

  • At least six months old
  • Microchipped
  • Vaccinated against rabies with certification and serological test from an approved centre
  • In general good health with a certificate of health

For cats, there are no specific requirements, but your cat will be subject to a thorough health inspection on arrival for any infectious diseases.

If you do have other pets like fish, turtles, and more, then you should check out the CDC page on the importation of animals to the USA.

Education in the USA

Schooling within America has many similarities to schooling in Australia. On average, around two-thirds of children attend public or state-funded schools, whilst the remaining third attend private, fee-paying, religious, or international schools.

After high school, there is the choice of pursuing tertiary education, such as public universities, community colleges, professional schools, or the ever-prestigious Ivy League colleges.

Working in America

America has a competitive workplace, and there are always opportunities, with it being home to very important financial, technological, and innovative hubs.

Most popular job search sites:

Ready for Your Move to America?

After reading our guide to moving to the USA, you’re ready to begin your journey! If you are still left with questions or are curious to find more information, have a look at our FAQs and related articles.

Frequently asked questions

Is it worth moving to America from Australia?

How much money do I need to move to America?

How much money do you need to immigrate to the USA?

How much would it cost to move to America?

Can you move to America from Australia?

How to immigrate to America?