PRE-ARRIVAL PREPARATION

Family needs assessment
Counselor will collect information from employee/spouse to ensure that we are addressing all the family’s needs.

Home search
Counselor will assign a real estate agent, will preview and select properties based on the family’s needs and expectations to maximize the time during the family’s physical search.

Schools
Counselor will identify schools based on family’s needs and will make all necessary appointments, will review required documentation with family.

ARRIVAL SERVICES & SUPPORT

Package of information is provided
The counselor will provide a package with Social Security application, ITIN application (Individual Tax Identification Number for family members), DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) manual and list of required documentation for Drivers License, information pertinent to the new location, itinerary etc.

Home search
Counselor will accompany family to visit pre-selected homes, help with identifying and selecting a home, assist with lease negotiations and finalization of lease and arrangements for deposits.

Temporary Housing
Counselor will coordinate temporary housing as needed and allowed by corporation.

Visits to schools
Counselor will accompany family/children to the schools and assist during registration process, make arrangements for testing, physicals etc.

Neighborhood familiarization
Once a neighborhood has been identified, the Counselor will accompany family on a community orientation, including emergency facilities, shopping, post office, etc.

Utility hook-ups
Counselor will arrange for telephone, cable and utility installations as needed (this may require written approval from the employee and specific arrangements for deposits).

Assistance with move-in day activities
Counselor will assist with move-in day coordination and deliveries, as needed when employee/spouse is not available.

Obtaining local documentation
Counselor will provide SS application and ITIN application, will assist in completing the forms as needed and will accompany the employee and/or spouse to the appropriate offices.

Opening Bank Accounts/Bill Payment
Counselor will accompany employee/spouse to their choice of financial institutions to assist with process as needed. Counselor will also explain the bill payment process and options.

Obtaining driver’s licenses
Destination counselor will assist in making appointments, reviewing process and accompany employee/spouse to motor vehicle office as needed.

Options of transportation
PDS will facilitate the purchase/lease for GM, Ford and Chrysler vehicles. This program provides financing at the manufacturers rates and provides insurance at very reasonable rates considering the lack of history upon arrival. Should the employee/family chose other makes of automobiles the counselor will accompany them to the appropriate dealerships and assist with process as needed.

Vehicle insurance
Counselor will provide a list of insurance companies and will assist with process as needed.

Health care
Counselor will work through the list of healthcare preferred providers; will assist in locating offices etc.

Spouse activities
Counselor will research volunteer opportunities, international/expatriate organizations, educational opportunities etc.

Leisure activities including club memberships
Counselor will research and provide information regarding country clubs membership, theater, community organizations, etc.

Discussion of security issues
Destination counselor will give general orientation of safety in the area and will provide appropriate emergency numbers.

Ongoing Access

The family will continue to have access to the counselor for the duration of the assignment, with telephone support and other emergency support.