Moving abroad can be one of the most exciting yet challenging experiences of your life. Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or a fresh start, the process involves careful planning and consideration. To help you navigate this journey, we put together essential tips to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
1. Before You Leave Checklist
A comprehensive moving abroad checklist can help you stay organized and ensure nothing is overlooked.
Research your destination country and local cities
Before making any decisions, take the time to research your new country. Understand the culture, language, climate and local customs. Familiarize yourself with the cost of living, banking and healthcare systems and education options if you have children. Websites like westernunion.com and social forums can provide valuable insights and firsthand experiences.
Create a comprehensive and personalized for you moving abroad checklist including tasks such as:
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Passport, Visa & Immigration Requirements
Check what documents you need to live and work in your new country.
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Housing
Research safe neighborhoods and find a suitable place to live within your means. Consider important items on your must-have list such as proximity to city, public transportation.
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Driver’s Permit or Apply for an International Driver’s Permit
Investigate the requirements to obtain a driver’s license if you plan to drive in your new location. Different countries and different cities have a variety of different traffic regulations and in some cases, pricing.
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Pack Smart
Pack your belongings smartly and research about the transportation for pets, bikes, musical instruments etc. Take the opportunity to sort and declutter your belongings.
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Transportation When You Arrive to Your Destination
Make sure you coordinate land and air transportation for cabs, plane tickets, etc. The more prepared you are, the less stress this big move will be.
Each location has their own version of ride sharing apps such as Uber, Lyft, and many others so it is best to download those apps with secure wi-fi connection for smooth sailing if you plan to use that method of transport when you arrive.
2. When You Arrive Checklist
Explore your surroundings
Take the time to walk around your neighborhood, visit local markets and discover nearby parks or attractions to get a feel for the area.
Purchase a new phone or phone plan
Consider purchasing a new phone or phone plan that suits your needs, as this will help you stay connected and navigate your new environment more easily.
Research how to sign up for healthcare
Familiarize yourself with local healthcare providers and the registration process to ensure you have access to medical services when needed.
Sign up for Wi-Fi
This is important to stay connected with family and friends back home and to access essential online resources.
Learn the applicable tax laws for foreigners
This will help you manage your finances and avoid any legal complications.
Enroll in insurance for property and items
This will provide peace of mind, protecting your belongings against unforeseen events and ensuring you feel secure in your new home.
3. After You Settle
Join expat communities
These communities often host events, social gatherings and online forums where you can connect with others who share similar experiences, making it easier to forge friendships and share valuable tips about living abroad.
Explore the culture
Engage and immerse yourself in the traditions, cuisine and customs of your new home by visiting museums, attending cultural festivals and local events.
4. Additional International Moving Items & Tips You Can’t Overlook
Hire a good moving company
Look for international moving companies with good reviews and experience in overseas relocations. Get multiple quotes and ask about their insurance policies to protect your belongings during transit.
Understand local transportation
Familiarize yourself with the local transportation options available in your new city. Whether it’s public transit, biking, or driving, knowing how to get around will help you settle in more quickly.
Housing:
Finding a suitable place to live is crucial, especially when considering proximity to essential services. That includes healthcare facilities, banks, post offices, supermarkets, transportation etc. Also, living near good schools is a top priority if you have children.
5. Stay connected with family and friends back home.
Staying connected with family and friends back home when moving abroad can be achieved through various methods:
Video calls:
Use platforms like Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime to have face-to-face conversations. Scheduling regular video calls can help maintain a personal connection.
Messaging apps:
Utilize messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram, or Facebook Messenger for instant communication. These apps often allow for group chats, making it easy to keep in touch with multiple people at once.
Social media:
Stay active on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to share updates about your life abroad and keep up with what’s happening back home.
Email:
Regularly send emails to family and friends to share detailed updates, photos, and experiences. This can be a more personal way to communicate.
Mail and care packages:
Sending postcards or care packages can be a thoughtful way to stay connected and share a piece of your new life with loved ones.
Online games and activities:
Engage in online games or virtual activities together to create shared experiences, even from a distance.
Plan visits:
If possible, plan visits back home or invite family and friends to visit you in your new country. This can strengthen your connections and create lasting memories.
Time zone awareness:
Be mindful of time differences when scheduling calls or messages to ensure you’re reaching out at convenient times for everyone.
By using a combination of these methods, you can maintain strong connections with your loved ones while adapting to your new life abroad.
FAQs for international documentation and paperwork
Different countries have various visa requirements based on your purpose of moving (work, study, family reunification, etc.). Complete all immigration paperwork to meet with local requirements if needed.
Check if your driver’s license is valid in your new country or if you need to obtain an international driving permit or a local license.
Many countries require foreigners to register with local authorities upon arrival. Check the specific requirements for your destination.
Research the regulations regarding bringing pets into your new country, including vaccinations, quarantine requirements, and pet importation laws.
Banking and legal
Research local banks and their requirements for opening an account. You may need identification, proof of address, and sometimes a local tax number.
Consult with a tax professional to understand your obligations in both your home country and your new country.
Set up a budget, consider opening a local bank account, and be aware of any foreign transaction fees on your credit/debit cards.
Research the legal requirements and regulations in your new country, including any laws that may differ significantly from those in your home country.
Housing and accommodations
Consider using online real estate platforms, local classifieds, or working with a real estate agent. It’s also helpful to visit the area beforehand if possible.
Decide whether to sell, donate, or store your items. You may also consider hiring international movers for shipping your belongings.
Consider setting up mail forwarding with your postal service to share it with family and friends or using a virtual mailbox service to manage your mail while living abroad.
Services
Check the requirements to enroll in the healthcare system in your new country. Consider obtaining international health insurance while you are able to register with local healthcare providers.
Research public transportation systems, car rental options, and whether you’ll need to purchase a vehicle. Understand the local driving laws if you plan to drive.
Ask for recommendations from locals or foreigners, check online reviews, and use local directories to find healthcare providers and other essential services.
You can obtain a local phone number by purchasing a SIM card from a local carrier or signing up for a mobile plan. Research options that best suit your needs.
Investigate local schools, international schools, and homeschooling options. Consider factors such as curriculum, language of instruction, and extracurricular activities. Remember to bring official school records since they can be requested.
Culture and socialization
Research the culture, customs, religious practices, holidays and social norms of your new country to help you adapt and avoid misunderstandings.
While it may not be mandatory, learning the local language can greatly enhance your experience and help you integrate into the community.
Join local clubs, attend community events, or participate in expat groups to build a social network in your new location.
Acknowledge your feelings, seek support from fellow foreigners or local friends, and give yourself time to adjust to the new environment.
Read books, watch videos, or take cultural orientation classes to familiarize yourself with the customs and etiquette of your new country.
These FAQs can help you navigate the complexities of moving abroad and ensure a smoother transition to your new home.
7. More international moving tips and information:
