Photo by Ross Parmly on Unsplash
Although moving to a new country is an incredibly exciting step to take, it can also be one of the most stressful things you will ever do. With so many different things to consider before you step foot on the plane, moving abroad takes a lot of attention to detail. After all, one small mistake could result in some major consequences.
Whilst 90% of the time everything works out for the better, it’s important you’re being as organised as you can in order to avoid any issues. With that in mind, here are 8 things to consider before moving to a new country:
1. What Paper Work Do You Need To Sign?
The first thing you need to think about is what paperwork you need to sign. Moving abroad is an incredibly tricky process and if you haven’t signed everything before you leave, you may find that you have to come back in order to get everything sorted. The best thing to do is do your research so you can be sure what you need, crossing off everything as you go. For more information about the potential documents you may need, you can visit this site here.
2. Do You Need To Get A Visa?
One of the most important documents you will need when moving abroad is your visa. Although most countries require you to have a visa in order to live and work there, you need to be researching whether or not you need one before you go.
Chances are, you’re going to have to attend a meeting or interview at an embassy in order to be granted access. If that’s not the case, ensure you’re still applying within good time. After all, you never know what could happen.
3. What Cultural Aspects Do You Need To Consider?
If you’re moving to a country that has a considerably different culture to yours, it’s important you’re doing as much research as you possibly can. There are so many different things that you need to consider when it comes to culture, ensuring you’re clued up before you go could help you avoid making any mistakes when you arrive.
Whether it’s the way to dress in certain areas or the way in which you spend your Sunday mornings, you need to learn to adapt to your new home’s lifestyle.
4. Will You Need To Learn A New Language?
Depending on where you’re moving to, you may have to learn a new language. Whilst a lot of places speak English on a basic level, learning the language of the country you’re moving to not only shows respect, but it will help you get by on a day-to-day basis.
If you know you’re moving a couple of months in advance, you can get a head start with your language skills using sites like Rosetta Stone or Duolingo.
5. How Will You Find Your New Accommodation?
One of the hardest hurdles to overcome when you’re moving to a new country is the accommodation you’re going to be staying in. The best thing to do is stay in an Airbnb for the first part of your visit, viewing houses and apartments whilst you’re out there. Not only will this give you a better chance of seeing the best places, but it also means you will be able to find out whether or not they’re legitimate and can be trusted.
Whether you’re renting or looking for affordable landed property, you need to ensure you’re making the best possible decision.
6. Are You Able To Find Work In Your New Location?
Although a lot of people find work before they leave, ensuring you have a job is incredibly important. Not only is it required information for some visa programmes, but it also means you can be sure you’re going to be earning enough to afford your new way of life. Whether you’re a digital nomad travelling the world or looking to move to your new forever home, finding a job should be one of your main priorities.
7. Have You Left Yourself Enough Time To Settle In?
When it comes to moving to a new country it can be all too tempting to get started with work right away. Whilst this may be the best option when it comes to money, giving yourself time to get used to things and settle in is probably more important. Whether it’s getting used to the new time zone or finding your way around your new neighbourhood, you need to ensure you’re feeling comfortable before you get started with anything permanent.
8. What Will You Be Taking With You?
Finally, you need to consider what you’re going to pack. Whilst it may be tempting to take absolutely everything with you, this just isn’t possible when it comes to moving abroad. Consider the things that are most important to you and the things that you can buy whilst you’re out there, as this will help reduce your packing down by at least 50%.
Are you moving to a new country soon? What do you need to consider in order for it to be a huge success? Let me know in the comments section below.
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