Many of us long to travel more and some people have ambitions to move abroad. If you dream of putting down roots in a different country, it’s hugely beneficial to take time to think about relocating and plan ahead. Here are some things to consider before taking the plunge.
Legalities and requirements
It’s relatively easy to book a vacation or to go backpacking, but if you plan to settle in a different country, you will need to check the requirements. Different countries have their own set of requirements for tourists and those who wish to relocate, and you’ll need to ensure that you meet the criteria. It is understandable to have questions like what is a green card if you haven’t traveled a lot or you’re moving to a country you haven’t spent a lot of time in before. The best thing to do if you have queries, or you’re unsure what you need to do to get the relevant visa or permit is to seek advice and visit government websites online. It can also be helpful to join forums or social media groups to speak to others who have been through the process.
Where to live
One of the most important tasks to tackle when you move overseas is deciding where to live. Before you jet off, think about whether you want to rent a room, a house or an apartment or buy, and try to create a shortlist of locations. Think about the lifestyle you want and consider practical issues, such as where you’re going to work or what kind of job you’re looking for. If you need to be close to a big city, for example, this will rule out rural locations. Research online, get ideas and advice from locals and identify priorities.
How to earn money
There are many reasons why people move abroad. Some people swap to different cities or countries for work, while others go to be closer to family or to experience a different culture or see more of the world. If you already have a job, you won’t need to worry about how you’re going to earn money, but if you’re self-employed or you’re quitting your job to move, it’s essential to think about how you’re going to find work. You could look for vacancies and start applying before you relocate, or you could start your search when you get there if you have sufficient funds to tide you over. If you run your own business, it’s a good idea to start looking for clients in advance.
Establishing a contact network
Technology affords us the opportunity to make friends and meet people without seeing them in person. As you look forward to the big move, it’s an excellent idea to try to forge relationships and get involved in community groups. You can join online groups and meet people through social media to help you make friends and integrate into the community when you move.
Moving abroad is a dream for many people. While relocating to a different country is a hugely exciting prospect, it’s natural to be apprehensive. To make the process easier, it’s beneficial to plan ahead and figure out what you need to do to meet the entry requirements, how you’re going to earn money, where you’re going to live and how you’re going to make new friends.