As of 2023, approximately 183 million people lived outside of their home country. In an increasingly globalized world, individuals cite a variety of reasons for doing so, from fleeing conflict and unfavorable governments to living closer to family.
Whatever a person’s reasons for emigrating from their country of origin, the task can be complicated at best and overwhelming at worst. But fear not, as there has never been a time in history where emigration has been such a feasible prospect as it is now.
In this article, we will explore the necessary steps that you will need to undertake if you want to move abroad successfully, while avoiding certain pitfalls. We will consider each part of the process, from choosing a desirable country, to making financial preparations, to assimilating yourself into the culture of your new country.
Choosing Your New Country
When it comes to moving abroad, there is a wide range of countries to choose from. The key here is to realize that what suits one person, may not suit another, so consider your own personal preferences, goals, and values when making this decision. Key factors to consider include:
- Quality of life: the level of safety and the quality of healthcare and education.
- Culture: the cultural norms and traditions the country holds.
- Career opportunities: the possibility of working successfully in your preferred field.
- Visa requirements: eligibility requirements to be granted a visa.
- Distance from family and friends: how far the country is from your loved ones.
Research and Self-Reflection
It’s important to conduct thorough research, as well as self-reflection, when considering potential countries to move to. There is a wide range of factors that will dictate whether a country is a suitable destination for you.
Though these may not all be relevant to you, important factors to consider include the country’s language, culture, cost of living, job opportunities, and the climate it exhibits.
Remember to consider your own personal circumstances and goals. For example, if you have aspirations to work in an advanced technological field, you should consider economically developed countries that are more likely to accommodate this preference.
If you can’t stand the rain, you may want to consider a drier, sunnier country. Whatever your personal preferences, be sure to conduct thorough research and ensure that you fully understand the cultural, social, and economic landscape of any potential country that you may choose.
Visa and Immigration Requirements
Once you have considered your preferences, you will need to look at the visa types available to you in order to facilitate your move. Each country will have a variety of visa types on offer, which typically differ from one country to another, as do the specific requirements attached to each type. Generally, the main visa types and requirements for longer-term stays are:
- Work visa: for individuals who plan to work abroad – requires a job offer from an employer in the country of choice, as well as proof of qualifications and experience in the relevant industry.
- Family visa: for individuals who are joining their spouse, children, or partner – requires proof of relationship, proof of financial support, and thorough background checks.
- Student visa: for students who wish to study at a registered educational establishment – requires an official offer from the establishment, as well as proof of sufficient funds.
Financial Preparation Before Moving Abroad
After identifying a desirable country to move to, you need to ensure that you prepare yourself financially prior to moving.
The level of financial preparation required will depend on a range of factors, such as the economic climate of your destination and your lifestyle preferences, but wherever you’re headed, you will need to ensure you have calculated all your potential expenses thoroughly and made the necessary preparations so that you can hit the ground running when you arrive.
Budgeting and Savings
As well as considering any expenses, you should also research suitable banks, building societies, and financial services, in your country of choice, so that you can manage your finances sustainably and effectively, once you have arrived.
When creating a budget and figuring out how much you need to save prior to moving, the main expenses to consider are:
- Relocation expenses: the cost of flights, passport fees, and any other travel fees.
- Cost of living: the cost of food, utilities, healthcare, education, and any other essentials.
Banking and Currency Exchange
Wherever you’re headed, understanding currency exchange rates, money transfer protocols, and the different types of bank account, will ensure that you have the knowledge you need in order to manage your finances efficiently.
Housing and Accommodation
Picking accommodation which suits both your budget and your personal preferences is crucial to any successful move. Housing markets will vary across countries, and it’s worth exploring a variety of options, such as renting, buying, and securing temporary accommodation.
It is important to consider not just the quality of the accommodation in terms of the build and structure but also the location and important safety features such as flame-proof cladding.
Employment and Career
Moving to a foreign country can feel like an exciting adventure and mystery, but it’s important to remember you will need to fulfill many of the same duties you currently do in your country of origin. It’s important to consider your employability and career prospects and understand how you can improve your chances of securing employment when you arrive.
This might involve searching for local networking events where you can develop professional relationships with like-minded individuals and discover new work opportunities. You should also research the country’s etiquette, in terms of applying for jobs, and the interviewing process.
The local standards for resumes and cover letters may be vastly different from what you are used to, so make sure to do your research to improve your chances of success.
Work Visas and Permits
When applying for a work visa or permit to enter a new country, you will need to review the eligibility criteria to ensure that you meet the requirements. These requirements differ from one country to another; some are lax, and some are highly stringent.
Work visas allow applicants to leave their home country to work in another and are normally tied to a specific job, while a work permit is a separate document that allows an individual to work anywhere in the country in a more general sense. However, these two terms are often used interchangeably.
The eligibility criteria for work visas and permits usually require a formal job offer from an employer in the host country, as well as the applicant having suitable qualifications and experience to take on the job. Many countries also require applicants to have a background check, which often includes a health and character check.
Healthcare and Insurance
Healthcare systems can vary dramatically from one country to another, so it’s important to conduct thorough research on both public and private options in your country of choice. Calculate the likely costs of different options, and research private healthcare plans, to ensure you are making an informed choice.
Obtaining International Health Insurance
When picking an appropriate health insurance plan, it is important to consider your own personal health situation and needs.
Individuals with complex health needs may be more suited to a comprehensive insurance plan, while individuals with no existing health conditions may opt for a more simplistic plan. It’s about striking a balance between a plan’s affordability and its level of coverage.
Education and Schooling
It’s important to consider the education system in your destination country, as well as enrollment procedures and language requirements. Some countries teach entirely in their native language, while others offer education programs in prevalent languages such as English, Mandarin, and Spanish. Do your research so you can make the most of the resources available to you.
Cultural Adaptation and Integration in Destination Country
Wherever you’re headed, learning the local language and developing an understanding of the culture, will put you in good stead. Not only will this increase your chance of forging fruitful business relationships in work and in education, but it will also enrich your interactions with the people around you, allowing you to foster a sense of community.
This will help you integrate yourself into the new country, promoting both your satisfaction and well-being in the longer term.
Legal and Administrative Tasks
The application process for moving from your home country to another country will require you to provide essential documents such as passports, visas, birth certificates, and marriage certificates, depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Ensure these documents are up to date to avoid unnecessary delays during the application process.
Moving and Logistics
Once you’ve had your application accepted, it’s time to figure out the logistics of moving. It’s worth researching reputable moving companies to transport any furniture and valuable goods you may want to take with you and to figure out any travel arrangements well in advance.