Migrating Overseas: 7 Potential Issues to Contemplate
Moving Abroad: Tips for a Seamless Expat Experience
Embarking on a new life in another country can be exhilarating, but it's not without hurdles. Whether you're planning a temporary sojourn or a permanent shift, here are crucial aspects to consider.
Financial Planning
Becoming an expat involves numerous expenses, including visas/permits, relocation, and shipping goods. Plan your budget accordingly and set aside at least six months' worth of living expenses as a safety net. To reduce the cost of shipping possessions, consider taking only essentials, especially if you're moving short-term—consider using storage services for items you don't need immediately.
The Right Documents
Depending on the destination, you might need visas, work permits, or residency papers to stay for more than a month. Investigate the specific requirements, such as eligibility criteria, processing time, and costs. In some cases, obtaining residency or a visa on a low income can pose challenges, and you may need to seek assistance from immigration services.
Securing Employment
If you don't already have a job secured, start applying well in advance. Applying for jobs and moving simultaneously can be risky. Be transparent with potential employers about your availability, so they can adjust their timelines if necessary.
Language Proficiency
While English is widely spoken, you may encounter areas with few fluent English speakers. To facilitate communication, consider taking foreign language lessons or using language learning apps prior to moving. Depending on the country, fluency in the local language could even be a prerequisite for citizenship.
Cultural Adaptation
Cultural differences require adjustment. Familiarize yourself with local customs, laws, and acceptable practices to avoid offense or legal troubles. Key areas to research include food customs, road laws, religious customs, worker rights, and tax regulations.
Building New Connections
Finding new friends and maintaining old ones is essential. Connect with local communities and expat groups through Facebook or local expat networks, attend social gatherings, and participate in volunteer work to build relationships and a sense of belonging.
Navigating Homesickness
Experiencing homesickness is normal. Focus on the positive aspects of your relocation and immerse yourself in the local culture. Keep in touch with friends and family back home using video calls, messaging apps, and by staying involved with media from your home country. Embrace new experiences and adventures to help overcome homesickness and feel more connected to your new surroundings.
[1] Numbeo - Cost of living index, https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/[2] Exchange Rates - OANDA Currency Converter, https://www.oanda.com/currency/converter/[3] Portugal Visa Requirements - iVisa, https://ivisa.com/visa/Portugal[4] Expat Communities - InterNations, https://www.internations.org/communities/expat-activities/
1. To help settle into a new lifestyle in your home-and-garden overseas, it's beneficial to research and join expat communities for social events and advice, such as on InterNations.
2. Prior to moving, consider investing in language learning apps as fluency in the local language could make daily life more manageable and could even be a prerequisite for citizenship, ultimately enriching your new home-and-garden experience.
