Moving overseas is a big decision, but it’s also one of the most exciting things that you’ll ever do. Every country is unique, and you’ll gain many new experiences and memories when you become an ex-pat.
You’ll have several different things to organize to ensure your move goes smoothly, including transportation for your belongings, accommodation, visas, a new bank account, and medical insurance for international travel. Forgetting to organize just one of these things could scupper your plans completely or cost you a lot of money to sort out later.
It’s also important to read about the local and national laws in the area you’re moving to, as legal regulations differ drastically across the globe. Reading about the cultural norms and social expectations is also key to ensuring you settle into your new home quickly and easily.
Important Things You Need to Know When You Move to Another Country
If you’re feeling confused or apprehensive about moving to a new country, this article should settle your worries. We will cover four important things to consider when you move abroad.
1. You will need to apply for a visa
Most countries require ex-pats to purchase relevant visas to stay legally in the country. Usually, you can apply for citizenship in your new home country after three to five years of living there. In the meantime, you’ll need to apply for a visa each year to live there.
You’ll need a specific type of visa, depending on why you’re moving overseas. If you plan on working while you’re away, you’ll need to apply for a working visa. You’ll need a retirement visa if you’re retiring in another country.
It’s important to apply for the right visa. Otherwise, your application might be rejected, and you won’t be able to move to your desired country. When you complete your application, you’ll need to provide personal details, financial information, and details about the work and accommodation that you’ve organized for when you move.
You should apply for your visa several months in advance. Visa applications can take a long time to process, and you’ll need an active visa from the moment you step off the plane.
You can find details about the visa requirements in your chosen country on the relevant government website if you’re unsure of anything.
2. Travel and medical insurance are a must
If you’re moving out of a country offering free national healthcare to a country with only private healthcare services, you’ll need to get medical insurance.
Having medical coverage will enable you to access healthcare facilities and treatments while you’re living abroad. It may also reduce the costs of ongoing treatments, therapies, and prescriptions.
Travel insurance is another essential form of coverage that you’ll need when you move abroad. You can never predict when your luggage will get stolen, your flight will get canceled, or your accommodation provider will change your booking unexpectedly.
With travel insurance coverage, you will have financial protection if any of the above occurs. Your insurance provider will cover some of the costs associated with resolving any travel-related issues so that you can have peace of mind.
3. You will need to open a new bank account
Although international banking is possible, opening a bank account in your new country is much better when you move. Doing so will save you from hefty fees when transferring money or paying for things.
Nowadays, it doesn’t take long to open up a new bank account, and once it’s all set up, you won’t need to worry. You can start budgeting and planning your finances from the day you move.
Note that you’ll need to show proof of your address to the financial advisor to open a bank account. You may also need to provide proof of earnings and additional financial information.
4. Cultural shock is a real thing
No matter how much you read about a culture, it doesn’t compare to experiencing it in person. Cultural shock is a very real and common thing!
Cultural norms can differ drastically from country to country, and you might find that you feel a little unsettled when you first move to your new country. There are many social norms and expectations in various countries that the literature doesn’t cover, and you’ll only learn about these norms by living in the country yourself.
To reduce your chance of experiencing culture shock, you can read books and watch videos online about the country. When you move, ask the locals about the social expectations in your area.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and be curious! People will be more than happy to offer their thoughts and advice, and it’s a great conversation starter to help you make new friends when you move.
