It is easier to move abroad these days than at any time before, with all the information and resources we have. Whatever the reason for this move is, you have to know what you need to prepare, how to be ready for anything that may happen, and how to move overseas in general. First off, this is not a rash decision. Think carefully and thoroughly about moving across the world to some exotic and faraway lands. This decision is in no way finite, but you should try to avoid all the problems that may arise.
How to Move Overseas – Think Everything Through
Don’t start packing to move somewhere simply because you like it there. Many factors can have a significant impact on the quality of your everyday life, like the cost of living, climate, infrastructure, safety, surroundings, health care, job market, environment, and proximity to certain amenities. Not having researched just one of these things could have a great impact on your idea of how to live in another country.
Now we come to all those conditions you have to meet when you are moving to a new, foreign country. Visa, work visa or permit, residency permit, a certain amount of money on your banking account, and health inspection. These are just some of the legal requirements to fulfill if you want to live in some foreign countries.
What’s Important to Know in Advance
You have to know all the conditions under which you can stay and live in your intended new country legally. Different countries have different requirements, and it may be impossible to get a work permit without some higher education or credentials. Most countries will require you to pass their official language exam to get a residence visa. Many programs promise you legal work and a residence visa abroad. You should approach them carefully since there are scams that can get you in a lot of trouble with the law. Contact some expats in the desired location and get a first-hand experience of all the legal procedures.
What Documents Are You Going to Need to Move Overseas
Your passport is not where it ends when it comes to the documents needed to travel abroad. For many countries, you need a visa even as a tourist, let alone for some longer stay arrangements. If you are paying for foreign work programs, check their credibility online and from acquaintances that used their services if you can. Depending on the law, some countries offer student work and travel visas, volunteer visas, temporary work and residency visas, immediate relatives and family visas, and immigrant visas. You will have to prepare documents such as:
- passport
- education certificate or diploma
- birth certificate
- marriage certificate
- social security number
- bank statements
- credit scores.
What Are Your Options
There are a few options for moving and living abroad, such as:
- Work abroad programs
This is the best option if you finished your education and want to move somewhere abroad – if you meet all the conditions, of course. The companies that offer this kind of service have a setup system and will guide you through all the legal proceedings and preparation for a fee. You can even organize living arrangements through some of the companies’ business partners. It is essential to check the credibility of the company you are about to work with and know which relocation questions to ask your employer because there is always a risk of being scammed.
- Student exchange programs
If you are still a college student, you have an excellent opportunity to try living abroad while partaking in some of the student exchange programs. You can learn a lot about different cultures, lifestyles, history, cuisine, social structure, and life in countries all over the world. If you meet the criteria and you dream about visiting some exotic places and cultures, don’t waste this opportunity.
- ESL teachers
Since you are most likely a native speaker of English, you can take a TEFL certificate course and teach English in many countries in Asia and Africa. Some of those countries will require a college diploma in addition to the TEFL test, and if you have one, you hit the jackpot. ESL teachers can earn anywhere from $40,000 a year up to $75,000 depending on the country, experience, student profiles, and qualifications.
- Moving for a job
It is the best option to find a job and then relocate. Most companies that employ candidates from another country will cover the costs of corporate relocation services that will make your life a lot easier. Besides taking care of the paperwork, they can even provide short or long-term home solutions.
What Are the Obstacles
The most common obstacle would be the failure to fulfill all the requirements for a visa or some other legislative requirements. Some other things that can make moving overseas harder are:
- insufficient budget
- health conditions
- inability to adjust to cultural and social differences
- different living standards
Make a Budget for Your International Moving
Your budget will play a significant role in this decision. You will have to adjust all your plans according to it if you want a safe and secure start in the new country. Believe us, the last thing you want is starting rocky somewhere far from home. You have to count in:
- relocation and travel expenses
- visa expenses
- rent for an apartment for the first few months
- money for your basic needs for a few months
You Can Leave Your Home, but You Can Always Come Back
If you have a hard time fitting into a foreign land, always remember that there is always the option of going back. You don’t want to end up condemned to a certain life if you find out it doesn’t suit you. You have decided to try and live somewhere else, but it shouldn’t be your only option or the point of no return.
Get Your Free Quotes for International Shipping
The easiest way to ship your things abroad is to hire a company for their moving services. You should get information on shipping arrangements and rules, the cost of this service, and the companies’ reputation before you hire them. The cheapest solution is not always the best one if you look at all the perspectives of international shipping. Get a few free estimates to have a better idea of the budget you need, and what you can or can’t bring with you.
The last thing we want to add is to think about your decision a few times before it becomes final. If you decide to take the leap of faith for a new life and transport your belongings, you may want to consider professional packing services as well as international auto shipping and storage solutions for your things.