Moving to another country is often a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that many people dream of, but it also requires careful consideration. Before losing yourself in the excitement of being in a new country and exploring better opportunities, you need to get real first.
If you’re considering moving to a different country, consider the tips below to make your journey as smooth as possible.
Take Care of Your Passport and Visa First
The most important thing you need to prepare for first when immigrating is your passport. Some countries require you to have a passport valid for six months beyond your final travel date. So, if you don’t have one yet, apply for one or renew your existing one at your local U.S. Embassy or consulate-general. Besides the passport, most countries require immigrants to have a visa. However, before applying for a working visa or a visa for your fiancé, check with your new country’s government website to see what documentation you’ll need to get it.
Secure Employment
After securing your essential documents, you need to find a job. Although it can be challenging, it is possible. There are several ways you can go about it, including working with an international recruiter, requesting your current company for a transfer, posting on online job boards, or freelance.
Secure Housing
Moving to a country without securing a house or apartment first can be dangerous and expensive. After all, the local hostel or hotel can only keep you for so long before you need a permanent abode. That’s why it’s best to secure housing before you make the big move to not end up on the streets in your first few months. To scout for houses in the area you’re planning on moving to, work with a real estate agent, check classifieds, talk to other expats, or use online housing providers.
Packing and Shipping
When moving overseas, you can move your household items through the air and sea, but the latter is a longer process. Consider shipping furniture and other household items you want to keep in advance and scale down as much as you can is better and cost-effective in the long run. However, permanent moves should include essentials, sentimental things, and documents. But for items you can replace for low costs, it’s best to donate or sell them before moving.
Contact Your Bank
It’s best to inform your bank and credit card provider of your travel dates and consider applying for an international credit card to save money and avoid paying hefty foreign transaction fees. Moreover, keeping your current accounts maintain your credit score and allow you to make direct payments for ongoing bills or loans, making it convenient for you.
Prepare for a Culture Change
Moving to a different country means you need to adapt to a new culture and a new way of living. Although most have experienced culture shock when vacationing to other countries, moving into one is another experience. Experiencing culture shock may lead you to have difficulty in concentrating, make you more irritable and anxious. All these changes can affect your overall health, so before leaving your home country, make sure to pack up pictures of your loved ones to make it feel more like ‘home.
As thrilling it is to pack up your things and move to the other side of the world, the logistics, planning, and the travel itself can be complicated and overwhelming. However, if you begin preparing early on and follow the tips mentioned, you’ll find the entire process to be manageable and convenient.