Potential expats have been urged to investigate how they transfer money in their chosen countries ahead of moving overseas.

Speaking to the Telegraph, Rhiannon Davies, from financial advisor Shelter Offshore, recently highlighted the issues that can crop up when Brits encounter unfamiliar banking practices overseas.

For instance, in France Britons opening a bank account may need to prove they own property in the country or have resided there for at least six months.

In addition, cheque guarantee cards are not widely used in the region unlike debit cards, which are often an accepted payment method but they may attract high fees.

To make money transfers to loans and mortgages, Brits should consult expert companies, according to Ms Davies.

"Consider speaking to currency specialists rather than your bank to see if you can save on the exchange rate and get a more instant transfer," she said.

In other news, real estate company International Mortgage Plans recently highlighted the internet as an effective tool for finding loan deals.

Click here to make an International Money Transfer.

By John Mills