There are some things that you can't afford to leave at home when you are moving your teaching career overseas

Going abroad is exciting, but when you're moving your whole life abroad for a considerable number of months, there are some things you can't afford to leave at home, under any circumstances.

This is the second installment of my 'Moving On Out – Top Ten Things To Take With You When You Move To Your New Teaching Job Abroad' series.

2. Original documents that prove who you are and what you know

Government departments don’t tend to accept copies of foreign identification or certification documents. Ensure that you take all your original documentation. If you don’t have it, then get it.

It’s always good to leave a copy at home with someone responsible too, either with a family member, a lawyer or in a safety deposit box, so if you can, get duplicate originals. An extra set is insurance against theft, fire or natural disaster and makes good sense.

My parents have a file in their filing cabinet with all my important documents, including my will.

You’ll need:
* Birth certificate
* Marriage certificate
* Police clearance certificate
* Degree certificates
* Your will
* Teacher certification
* Recommendation letters

Moving your teaching career overseas