Moving overseas is a bold decision for even the most experienced travelers.
It requires courage and a steadfast determination to start new in a foreign country.
The experience of living overseas comes with brand-new opportunities to learn about the history and culture of a new land. It will push you out of your comfort zone and give you the confidence to take on almost anything.
As you integrate into your new host country, you will likely hit a few stumbling blocks – which is entirely normal. After all, it is not change if it is not different, right?
Before you move overseas, there are seven crucial things that you should know about. These are not deal-breakers, but they will help you successfully adjust to your new normal.
#1. Give Yourself Time
Many people try to move overseas in the blink of an eye, and not only do they often miss many essential steps along the way – but they also enjoy the overall experience a lot less.
Start planning your move no less than six months before moving abroad – if possible.
While it can get done in less time, a longer timeframe will give you more time to plan and bolster your savings before the big day.
#2. Learn The Language
If you are moving to a country that speaks your home language, then you can skip this step, but if not – read on.
Moving to a foreign language country is understandably trickier. While you will certainly pick up the language from living there, it is a good idea to start learning the basics before you arrive.
From ordering food at cafes to giving taxi drivers addresses, picking up some handy phrases will make life much easier.
Sign up for classes or join an online group to practice speaking – and never be afraid to make mistakes because that is how you will learn.
#3. Experience New Things
New countries come with new people, places, and experiences.
One of the saddest things anyone can do when moving to a new country is to hermit at home.
Go out and experience new things. That is one of the biggest reasons most people choose to move overseas.
Set goals for yourself to meet new people, experience their culture, start new hobbies, and live your life in a new country to the fullest.
Every country has a list of tourist activities – do those; embrace the cheesiness of it all – but also find simpler ways to enjoy living in your new country.
#4. Get Your Insurance in Order
Amidst the giddiness of moving to a new country, do not overlook the importance of comprehensive insurance coverage to protect you and your family from unforeseen expenses.
Take the time to understand your unique requirements by considering your health status, lifestyle, and budget. Once you know what you need, find overseas medical insurance to suit your circumstances.
Before finalizing your policy, review the details and fine print. Pay special attention to coverage limits, deductibles, and claims procedures.
#5. Set Goals
Whatever goals you have at home, whether family, career, or fitness-related, should be kept in your new country.
Find things that set your soul alight, and never stop moving forward in your endless pursuit of the things that make you smile.
Goals encourage people to stay focused on what they want to achieve.
#6. Do Not Romanticize It
While living in a new country will be exciting, you should not romanticize the idea of it before you even arrive.
Your time abroad will teach you new things and allow you to indulge in new experiences, but it will also have mundane, daily tasks – much like living at home. That is the same regardless of where you live.
Be prepared to do the boring stuff, much like you would in your home country, such as buying groceries and commuting to work. You are moving to a new country, not going on a holiday.
#7. Research Areas
We are all guilty of stereotyping countries to some degree or another.
For example, Egypt is filled with pyramids and camels when it is actually a cultural mecca filled with rich history and not as many pyramids as you might think.
The best way to avoid falling into these stereotyping pitfalls is by thoroughly researching towns, cities, and countries before you settle on the one you think you would be the happiest in.
Check out the website of the host country’s embassy – those sites often give you an overview of their customs, culture, and laws.
Discover more about what you need to move to that country, such as vaccinations and visa requirements.
To End
It is perfectly normal to experience some anxiety while planning your move but do not let those feelings deter you from achieving your goal of starting a new chapter in an exciting new country.
Make informed decisions along your planning journey, and everything should go smoothly.
Beth is Cloudmineinc’s senior health editor and a certified personal trainer. She has over 10 years experience as a science journalist and is the author of two books. She deadlifts over 315 lbs.