If you are considering relocating to another country, well variety is the spice of life. Routine becomes monotonous and going to the same places, seeing the same people, and having the same experiences will give anyone bitten by the travel bug some incredibly itchy feet.
But before you give into to those travel cravings and up sticks to another country, there are some important things to consider. Much of the information you need to study up on is readily available online. However, to get an in-depth look at the country you are going to soon call home, talk to locals. Explore local message boards like The Villages, track down people currently living in the country on social media, and reach out to friends of friends to get a vivid picture of what to expect. These are the 5 things you need to find out about before stepping onto the plane.
Budget
Moving abroad is a costly affair. From buying plane tickets, organizing furniture removals, paying a deposit on a property, visas, legal fees, and the first month of expenditures at least should all be budgeted for. You will need to find out how much all these expenses will set you back and ensure you have enough in the bank to cover it all. Running out of money abroad is a nerve-racking experience. It is best to err on the side of caution and save up an emergency fund before you go.
Cultural Differences
To avoid making a social faux pas on arrival, ensure you are going into the move with a deep understanding of the culture you are moving into. In some places, living with a member of the opposite sex without being married can cause social problems, as can drinking alcohol, and of course, religious holidays. If these cultural norms clash with your lifestyle, it might be worth reconsidering the move.
Visa Laws
You may need to secure a visa to work in the country you are moving to. These can sometimes require you to simply pay a fee, however, there may be more stringent requirements for some countries. You may need to have a family member living in the country, or a firm job offer, or a specific skill or qualification. You will need to research the visa arrangements that your native country’s government has with that particular country and ensure you meet the requirements. You can usually find this information from the country’s embassy.
Healthcare
Not all health systems work the same way. In some countries, there is free healthcare and simply working in the country is enough to give you access to their health system. However, in others, you will be responsible for ensuring you have adequate health insurance to cover any medical procedures or doctor and hospital visits. You will need to know what system is in place in the country you are moving to and make the necessary arrangements to prevent any gaps in your coverage and putting you at risk of hefty medical bills.
Getting Home
Even if you are planning on relocating abroad permanently, presumably, you will wish to return home to see your friends and family periodically and maintain relationships. Research the cost and ease at which you can come home in the event of an emergency. It is best to keep a level of savings that could support a trip home in case you have to leave the country at short notice and to prevent you from becoming stranded without travel funds.
