How to Move to Another Country: 5 Essential Tips
Move ahead on your move abroad with these helpful tips
After an amazing trip abroad, you’ve decided that you want to call another country your new home. But you may feel deterred by how much an international move costs or the work involved in executing such a monumental move. Don’t give up on your dreams of moving abroad just yet, though. These five tips will show you how to move to another country successfully.
1. Apply for a Visa
You will need to obtain a travel visa for your move out of the country. A visa is a travel document that legally allows you to enter a foreign country for a specified period of time. Depending on your desired country of residence and what type of visa you apply for, this can be a lengthy and intricate process or a relatively straightforward one.
Common types of visas you may apply for include:
Work visa: Allows one to live in a foreign country while doing legal work
Student visa: Allows study at a university or other educational institution in your desired country
Tourist visa: Allows you to enter the country in the short term for leisure and tourism
Freelance visa: Allows self-employed individuals to work remotely in a foreign country
Before settling on a country, you’ll want to spend time researching its visa requirements and immigration options. You should also consider factors such as:
Required documents: During the visa application process, you’ll need to present important documents. You’ll definitely need a passport to apply. You may also be asked to show an official job offer, a letter of acceptance from a university, proof of funds, fingerprints, and a photograph.
How you’ll apply for your visa: You can apply for a visa online, at an embassy or consulate, or on arrival. Each method of application comes with its own detailed process and varies with each country. So, make sure the method you choose is feasible and the most suitable for your situation.
Visa format: Your visa may be issued in electronic or printed form, as a stamp in your passport, or as a separate document.
Single-entry versus multiple-entry visa: A single-entry visa only permits you to enter a country once. A multiple-entry visa allows you to enter that country multiple times during a specified period of time.
2. Find a Way to Earn Income
In addition to the cost of moving, you’ll also need to think about the cost of living abroad. Rather than seeking employment once you arrive, it’s best to have a concrete plan for how you’ll make income.
Many expats have been able to make a living by working remotely, teaching English, or doing freelance work. Others have been able to find in-person employment opportunities in the travel, service, or childcare industry. If you’re a homeowner, you may also consider renting out your home for income. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative.
3. Make Living Arrangements
Before you pack up your entire life and hire some local professional movers, it’s important to know where exactly you’ll be settling down. Searching online and reaching out to rental agencies near you is a good place to start. Some expats have been able to find housing through listings in local newspapers or by connecting with individuals seeking roommates in online groups.
However, it may be worth it to take a trip to your new country and find a place to live in person, rather than trying to do so online. This is especially true if you’re looking to buy a home in another country. You’ll want to allow yourself ample time to visit, scope out the local housing market, and work with a trusted local real estate agent.
4. Handle Other Essential Business
Aside from living and employment, there are many other essential business details to square away before starting your new life abroad.
Here are some matters to consider before moving to another country:
Healthcare: Since healthcare systems vary from country to country, it’s essential to research the system of your new country. While it’s possible that your current provider may still be able to cover you abroad, you may have to find a new local provider. You should also look into any required immunizations, obtaining prescriptions, and getting your medical records transferred.
Finances: Not only should you have enough savings to make an out-of-country move, but you’ll also need to inform your current bank and credit card companies of your move. If they do not offer international services, you’ll need to set up an account with a local bank. However, it’s recommended that you still keep your current bank account for the sake of your credit score and existing loans.
Transportation: You may choose to walk or use public transportation in your new country. But if you want to drive, you’ll need to decide whether you want to ship your car, rent one, or buy a new one. You may also need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP), depending on the country.
Education: If you have children, you’ll also need to think about their schooling. This may involve getting them set up with an online program or enrolling them in a local school.
Taxes: Before moving, make sure you have plans to pay your taxes while abroad. As a citizen of the U.S., you’ll still be required to file your taxes annually. Also, make sure to look into any exemptions you may qualify for as an expat.
5. Sort Out Moving Details
Tons of planning is required to pull off a local or cross-country move; this is true to an even greater magnitude when moving to another country. You’ll need to pack for your move, make plans to transport your belongings, and make travel arrangements.
For travel day, make sure to keep all your important documents with you—including the ones you need for entry, such as your passport and visa. You may also need to make temporary lodging arrangements at a hotel if your permanent living situation isn’t finalized yet. You might even consider making a moving checklist so you won’t forget any important tasks.