Essential Tips for Starting Your New Life Overseas
Moving abroad is an exciting adventure, but without the right preparation, it can quickly become overwhelming. Whether you’re chasing career opportunities, studying in a new country, or simply craving a fresh start, planning ahead is crucial for a seamless transition.
So, how can you set yourself up for success when moving to a new country? From securing the correct visa and landing a job to finding housing and managing your relocation budget, here’s everything you need to know to make your international move stress-free and exciting!
Check the Legal Requirements for Moving Abroad
Before moving abroad, it’s crucial to understand each country’s unique visa and legal requirements. Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or long-term residence, securing the correct visa well in advance can help you avoid delays or legal complications.
Some countries may also require additional permits, background checks, proof of financial stability, or even mandatory health insurance coverage. In fact, certain work visas or employers might require you to show proof of a global medical plan before your relocation is approved.
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Notably, if you’re immigrating to the U.S., you must meet specific eligibility criteria based on your visa type. You may also need sponsorship, medical exams, or interviews as part of the process.
To navigate these complexities, check out our comprehensive article on the different types of visas for living and traveling abroad.
Read More: The Easiest Countries to Get a Work Visa
Secure Health Insurance Before You Move
Your health should be a top priority when moving abroad, but depending on your destination, you may or may not be eligible for local health insurance.
As mentioned, some countries require proof of coverage before granting a visa, and certain work visas come with mandatory healthcare requirements. But even if it’s not legally required, securing global medical coverage ensures you have access to quality healthcare while living overseas.
Before you move, take the time to research your healthcare options. Research the best international health insurance companies and compare global medical plans to find the right solution. Consider factors such as cost, coverage limits, and any exclusions to ensure you choose a plan that aligns with your lifestyle and future needs.
There are several plans specifically designed for expats, including:
Cigna Global Medical Plan
- Flexibility to tailor plans to suit your individual needs
- Access to Cigna Global’s network of trusted doctors
- Convenience and confidence of 24/7/365 customer service
IMG Global Medical Plan
- Four plan options and plus optional coverages
- Choice of the coverage areas and deductibles
- Freedom to choose your health care provider
Notably, U.S. citizens planning on living abroad can also apply for the following plan:
Xplorer Worldwide Medical Plan
- Premium Benefits, Coverage and Service
- Define your deductible and prescription benefits
- For Foreigners in the US or US Citizens Abroad
If you’re unsure which plan to choose, you can always seek expert guidance from our partner, International Citizens Insurance. Their team of brokers can provide valuable insights to help you find the best plan for your needs.
By securing the right coverage in advance, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re protected in case of an emergency while living abroad.
Choose the Right Destination Overseas
Deciding where to live abroad is a major step, and several key factors should guide your choice. Safety and cost of living are two of the most important considerations, as they can significantly impact your quality of life.
Identify the Safest Places
Safety should always be a top priority when choosing a new home abroad. Researching safety indices, analyzing crime rates, and understanding cultural norms, societal expectations, and the political climate can help you make an informed decision.
Our article on the safest places to live abroad provides some great insights into the top destinations for expats, including detailed safety ratings, crime statistics, and local cultural factors to consider before moving.
You can also explore our country-specific safety guides to better understand safety and living conditions in various locations.
Research the Cost of Living
The cost of living is a major factor when deciding where to live abroad. It’s essential to ensure that you can afford the lifestyle you desire, as expenses can vary significantly from country to country.
Even within a country, prices can differ significantly from city to city, so make sure to research the specific city you plan to move to rather than just relying on the average cost of living for the entire country.
To get a clearer picture, explore our cost of living articles, which offer detailed insights into what you can expect to pay in some of the most popular expat destinations.
If you’re still unsure where to call home, we have 30 country guides that provide great insight into life in various locations worldwide. From the best cities for expats to the cultural nuances and practical tips you need to settle in, these guides can help you make a well-informed decision about where to start your new life abroad.
Find a Job Abroad
Moving abroad comes with many challenges, and working abroad is no exception. If you plan to work overseas, it’s essential to start your job search before your big move. In many cases, securing a job in advance is the key to obtaining the right visa.
Keep in mind that not all countries offer job opportunities in every industry. Depending on your field, your professional skills might not be in demand in your destination country. To protect your financial interests, research international job boards thoroughly before you go.
In addition to using online job boards, try networking by connecting with professionals in your field on LinkedIn or reaching out to expat communities. Networking can be especially useful if you’re searching for jobs in countries with more competitive job markets.
If you have your heart set on a particular country but can’t find openings in your field, remember – it’s never too late to explore a career change! Upskilling, earning certifications, or even learning a new language could open up exciting new opportunities.
Read More: The Best Countries to Work in for Expats
Enroll Your Child in School Abroad
If you plan to move abroad with children, researching schooling options should be a top priority. Depending on your destination, you may have several options, such as enrolling your child in a local public school or an international school specifically for foreign citizens.
Before making a decision, take time to explore the different types of schools available, as well as their curricula and language requirements. Some international schools may follow your home country’s curriculum, while local schools may require your child to learn the local language.
Once you’ve chosen the best option for your child, gather all the necessary documents, such as current school transcripts, medical records, and proof of residency. Be prepared to complete the admission applications well in advance, as waiting lists or specific deadlines can sometimes apply.
Read More: The Best Countries to Raise Children
Relocate Your Pet Abroad
Moving abroad with pets requires careful planning, which you should start well in advance. Many countries have specific entry requirements, including vaccinations, health certificates, and sometimes even mandatory quarantine periods.
These requirements can vary significantly depending on your destination country, and the entire process can take anywhere from one to six months, depending on your pet’s health and the country’s regulations. Therefore, it’s important to factor this timeline into your initial relocation plans to avoid any last-minute stress.
In addition to health and vaccination requirements, you’ll need to arrange transportation for your pet. Research your options thoroughly, whether through a pet relocation service or direct airline transport, and ensure your pet will be safe, comfortable, and well-cared for during the journey.
Finally, be sure to check any post-arrival pet regulations at your destination, such as mandatory check-ups or permits required to keep your pet in the country. By researching and preparing early, you can ensure a smooth relocation for you and your furry companions.
Find a Place to Live
Once your visa and job situations are in progress (or ideally sorted), the next step is finding a place to live. Many people prefer to begin their housing search after confirming the location of their job or child’s school.
Depending on factors like your job, rental prices, and whether your move is temporary or permanent, finding the right home can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
Ideally, you’ll want to secure housing before you arrive by researching apartments and rental properties online. However, if you’re unsure about which neighborhoods are best, consider booking a temporary rental, such as an Airbnb, for your arrival. This will give you a place to stay while you explore the city and search for a more permanent home in the right neighborhood.
Keep in mind that while finding affordable lodging for a few nights in tourist-heavy areas is usually easy, you might need to book accommodation in a nearby town and commute during your initial days if you’re moving to a more remote location.
Insider Tip: Many expats choose temporary accommodation to buy themselves time to get a feel for their new city before committing to a long-term rental or purchasing property. If you can’t secure housing before you arrive, this flexible approach allows you to make a more informed decision.
Pack and Ship Your Essentials
Once you’ve sorted your accommodation, the next step is to pack and ship your belongings. Packing is often one of the most stressful aspects of moving abroad, as it involves thinking long and hard about what you should take with you and what you should leave behind.
A helpful way to approach packing is to separate your belongings into three categories: store, ship, and trash. The less you take with you, the easier (and less expensive) the move will be. Deciding what to keep can be tricky, but it often depends on how long you plan to stay abroad.
If you’re moving for an extended period, packing and shipping your important belongings makes sense. However, if you think you’ll only stay abroad for six months or a year, storing most of your items back home is more cost-effective.
Insider Tip: Consider whether you need certain items, such as winter clothes or seasonal gear, for your destination or if you can replace them locally. Sometimes, buying things in your new country can be more practical than shipping them across the world.
If you decide to store items in your home city, make sure you have a reliable storage facility and leave the key with a trusted family member or friend. That way, you can always ask them to ship items to you if you need them.
Read More: The Ultimate Packing List for Expats
Budget for Your Move
Once you’ve decided what to bring with you (including any pets!), the next step is arranging for their delivery to your new home. Whether you’re moving to a nearby town or halfway around the world, relocation comes with costs, so it’s important to budget for your move.
Understand Relocation Costs
When planning your budget, make sure to include not only the cost of movers and shipping but also the initial setup expenses on the other end.
Depending on where you’re moving, you may need to account for boxes, shipping containers, air freight, rental vans, or even professional relocation companies.
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If you’re crossing an ocean, these costs can quickly add up when you factor in international travel and shipping fees. That’s why it’s essential to plan your relocation expenses well in advance.
Booking flights and shipping services early can help you secure better deals and save money. The earlier you book, the more likely you will find the best deals on plane tickets and more affordable relocation services.
To stay organized and ensure a smooth transition, our Ultimate Moving Abroad Checklist will guide you through the process.
Plan for Initial Settling Expenses
Upon arriving in your new country, you’ll quickly discover that getting settled involves various costs. These may include security deposits, utility setup fees (such as for electricity and internet), and furnishing your new home.
Utility setup costs can vary significantly from country to country, so be sure to include them in your budget.
Furnishing your home can also become a major expense, particularly if you’re not bringing many belongings with you. Finding affordable furniture can be challenging in some countries, so it’s a good idea to research alternatives such as second-hand shops, local markets, or online platforms before you move.
If you haven’t found a permanent place to live yet, you might need to consider temporary accommodation and transportation expenses. Planning for these initial settling costs will ease the financial stress of your transition and make the process smoother.
For more tips, check out our guide to how to furnish an apartment on a budget.
Set Up an International Bank Account
Opening a bank account in your new country is essential for managing your finances while living abroad. An international bank account makes it easier to access your savings and credit, especially if you travel often. Choosing a large, reputable international bank ensures you can access your money across multiple countries.
If you already have money in a global bank, you might think you have this covered, but there’s one main thing to remember – foreign transaction fees.
Your current bank may offer international access to your money, but be aware that they might charge fees for withdrawals or credit card transactions abroad. These fees can add up quickly, so it’s crucial to check with your bank and confirm any additional costs.
It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the local currency and exchange rates. At first, thinking about your expenses in terms of your home currency can make it easier to track your spending.
However, as you get used to living in your new country, you’ll eventually adjust to thinking in the local currency. This will help you better understand the value of things and make managing your money feel more natural over time.
Lastly, be sure to research the local tax rates, so you know how much of your income will be taxed in your new country. This will help you plan your finances effectively and avoid any surprises.
Research the Local Language and Customs
Unless you’re already fluent in the local language, you’ll likely face some language barriers. Learning a few basic words and phrases in the country’s national language will make it easier to get around and connect with others.
While you’ll immerse yourself in the culture once you arrive and settle in, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with any cultural norms beforehand. Understanding local customs can help you overcome culture shock and avoid misunderstandings, making the transition smoother.
For example, in Japan, it’s customary to bow when greeting someone and remove your shoes when entering a home or specific indoor spaces as a sign of respect.
Meanwhile, in Brazil, personal space is less of a priority than in many Western cultures, and close physical contact during conversations is common. Punctuality is also often more relaxed, especially in social settings.
In the Middle East, dressing conservatively is important, particularly in public spaces. Handshakes are a common greeting but may not be extended to the opposite sex. Additionally, hospitality plays a key role in social interactions. For instance, accepting tea or coffee when offered is considered polite, while declining could be seen as rude.
Read More: Learning a New Language Abroad
Make Your Move Abroad Stress-Free
Excited to start your adventure abroad? Let us help make the journey stress-free!
Use our Ultimate Packing List for Expats to ensure you are fully prepared and have all the essentials you need while leaving behind the unnecessary.
Find the Best International Insurance
- Compare multiple quotes and coverage options
- Work with an insurance expert at no additional cost
- Find the best plan for your needs and budget
And don’t forget to secure your health coverage! Stay protected and request a free quote from International Citizens Group today so you can embark on your exciting new chapter with total peace of mind.
Read More
- International Moving: The Key Factors that Shape Your Moving Costs
- How to Budget for a Move Abroad
- 10 Best International Relocation Companies
- Making a Successful Move Abroad With Children
