The change of scenery is something that can do wonders for almost everyone. However, moving and relocating can also be quite stressful and unpleasant, when it’s not handled properly. Especially when it comes to moving abroad. But with all that said, moving abroad can be an experience of a lifetime. There is no better way to learn about a different country and its culture than to move to that country.
Whether you’re going abroad in order to start your new job, or you simply want to change the scenery, there are some things you need to keep in mind before you start packing. We did a bit of researching and we’ve come up with this short guide through moving abroad. These tips and tricks should help you understand what’s important, and how to deal with the entire relocation process. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and get straight to it.
Paperwork
One of the first things you have to take care of is paperwork. From travel papers, through bank statements, and all the way to insurance providers and taxes, there are a lot of things you must take care of before you board the plane and leave. When it comes to bureaucracy, there is always something that can slip your mind. Simple things like registering as an overseas elector, defining the way you regulate your income or signing up for foreign ID can slip your mind quite easily.
Do your best to research as much as you can about your new country of residence. Get in touch with everyone who can help, whether they’re your friends who live in the country you’re moving to, or you’re simply talking to an embassy employee. Make sure you understand what’s absolutely necessary and make a list. Double check all of that information with people surrounding you, because spending some extra time on preparations will most definitely help you a lot. And don’t forget to make sure you’re completely covered if you decide to sell your home before you depart.
Family and Pets
Another quite stressful aspect of moving abroad is explaining to your kids why they have to change the scenery. When you add up a pet or two into that combination and you’re in for a lot of stress if you don’t prepare your family for the move beforehand. So, before you decide that some country is absolutely perfect for you, think about your family and how can they fit in.
Look for information on education in the country you’re going to and try to find the best possible schools for your little ones. Explain to them that moving to another country doesn’t mean they have to lose all of their friends. Make sure that the place you’re going to has something to offer to your children, as that can help you a lot with building their excitement for the move. Do your research and check out what animal laws your new country of residence has. Learn about vets and animal play zones. Keep in mind that some animal species are very sensitive to major climate changes, and perhaps your new country isn’t the best choice for them. With all this research, you can make more realistic preparations and get quite a lot off of your shoulders, before you even start packing.
Possessions
Probably the hardest part to take care of, when it comes to moving abroad, is how to handle all of your possessions. As human beings, we tend to get emotionally attached to the things we get over the years, so moving far away can be extra challenging when you realize that you will have to leave some things behind. Sometimes it’s simply not possible to take everything with you, and that’s when you have to act.
The smartest thing to do is to organize a yard sale and hit the second-hand shops where you can get some money from the possessions you certainly won’t take with you. If you’re moving abroad for a limited period of time, one of the smartest solutions might be to rent out a storage space and leave your things there until you return. But whatever you do – make sure you hire a trustworthy shipping and removal company. Look for useful removal quotes so you can learn about everything that follows a large relocation process like this. Make sure you understand all the necessary things before you pick a company and start packing your bags. This way you ensure the safety of your possessions while having enough space and time to focus on other, equally important, parts of the moving process.
Moving abroad is never easy. You have to say goodbye to so many things that were making your daily life; you have to learn a new language and adapt to a new culture; you have to find a job that satisfies you, and yet, leaves enough space for free time. But moving abroad will also help you become more open. It will help you appreciate your country and your origins and it can open countless doors to even more opportunities. So, don’t waste any time – start your research and you will be ready for an international move in no time.
Author: Jessie is a passionate blogger and home designer. She loves writing about tips and tricks that make every home a better place, inside and outside. Besides this, she loves sports, outdoor activities and spending time with her close ones. Facebook Twitter
