Natalie Knowing what to consider when moving abroad can save time and money and prevent stress and culture shock. Whether you’re a British expat seeking new opportunities in European countries or embarking on a preferred destination, the logistics of expat life are both exciting and daunting. Numerous factors, from financial institutions to adapting to new cultures, present challenges.
After settling in, expats also need to navigate the daily necessities of life, like access to money, living expenses, foreign languages, utility companies, and area-specific communities. After all, this isn’t a holiday anymore, but a new life in a different country. When living abroad, allow plenty of time for planning and preparation, seek professional advice when needed, and remain open-minded as you navigate the intricacies of expat life. But what are the specifics to take into account?
What to Consider When Moving Abroad
1: Money, Budget and Cost of Living
The first reason, some expats fail in their move abroad is a lack of financial advice and planning. Financial matters are essential to successful moves, and expats can never do too much planning.
Savings: Grow savings before taking up permanent residence to avoid financial struggles. Unforeseen expenses will arise, and if it all goes wrong, there is money to fall back on. Many countries also offer higher interest savings accounts than the UK.
Costs of Living: Research living costs in your chosen country and factor in inflation and exchange rate fluctuations to ensure you stay within budget. When looking at homes abroad, some areas are more expensive than others. These tend to be major cities.
Budget: Before departing, create budgets for financial stability during the transition period. Remember to factor in inflation and also currency exchange rates. Have copies of relevant financial records and set up direct debits for ongoing expenses, like council tax payments or utility bills, to avoid disruptions to essential services.
Banking: Notify current banks of your impending move and inquire about international banking options, to facilitate seamless transactions across borders. Also consider using an international money transfer provider to get cheaper foreign transaction fees. Mobile and digital banks also often offer competitive exchange rates and lower costs for foreign transactions. Don’t forget to notify credit card and debit card suppliers of your move so they don’t block the card for security reasons.
2: Research Tax Laws on Income and Pensions
Understand the potential tax liabilities in both your host country and country of citizenship. You would be surprised at how many tax laws go unnoticed. Retired expats should also check laws on taxable pensions. Some countries, like the USA, insist that American expats pay income tax regardless of where they live. In contrast, others have agreements to prevent double taxation. Consulting with financial advisers and tax authorities helps manage tax obligations, transfer funds, and maximise financial resources.
3: Culture and Language of your Destination Country
Even though area-specific communities in many countries speak English, if your chosen country has a different language, attempt to learn the language even one word a day to enhance your quality of life. Also, learn about the culture and traditions. An excellent way to do this is by delving into the worlds of history, travel and food.
Many expat communities organise events for you to find out more about your host country, and by doing this, you increase your chances of settling in more easily. Remember that the holiday days are over, and to succeed in everyday life events, you must be familiar with local customs.
4: Documents and Paperwork for Expats
Ensure legal documents are in order and in paper form. First and foremost, have a valid passport for identification and various purposes like opening bank accounts, obtaining visas, and signing rental agreements. Make sure passports are up to date and have sufficient validity remaining.
In addition to passports, other necessary documents in your relocation checklist include birth, adoption papers, education, divorce, and marriage certificates. Don’t forget tax records, medical records, education records, driving licenses, bank statements, rental or tenancy agreements, employment references, and up-to-date CVs or resumes. Ensuring these essential documents are packed means being prepared for administrative processes and minimising potential delays.
5: Check the Type of Visa for Host Countries
When planning to move overseas, thoroughly research and understand the residency laws and visa application process. Visit the government website for immigration and visa matters for comprehensive information on residency requirements, documentation needed, and visa application processes.
One crucial step is understanding visa requirements. Depending on the visa—whether it’s a temporary visa, work visa, or permanent residency—gather relevant documents like passport copies, visa application forms, and possibly even divorce papers. Also, find out the average cost. Research visa processing times and plan accordingly to allow time for unexpected delays or additional paperwork.
6: What are Your International Health Insurance Options?
Healthcare facilities are of utmost importance, especially for expats in the later stages of life or with pre-existing medical conditions. Some countries have social security medicine, provided by the government and funded through taxes. In such cases, residents may access free or low-cost healthcare. However, these systems have long waiting times or limited options for specialised treatments.
Private international health insurance will cover healthcare expenses in countries without socialised medicine. However, consider job roles, family status, and country-specific requirements when choosing insurance options. Different policies for worldwide health coverage include hospitalisation, doctor visits, medications, and emergency care, and expats can find various policies to suit their income.
7: About Driving Licences Overseas
In some cases, individuals may need an international driving permit (IDP) alongside their valid driving licence from their home country. An IDP translates the individual’s original licence and is recognised in many countries worldwide. Check whether the new country accepts IDPs and if they are necessary for driving.
These requirements may vary from country to country, so consult with the local transportation department or foreign embassy to determine if additional steps are required. Some countries may require foreigners within their borders to obtain a local driving licence, which may involve an application process, including tests and fees.
8: About Working Overseas
To enter the job market of foreign countries, ascertain the specific visa or work permit requirements for that country. Some countries don’t allow foreigners to work, while others operate specific digital nomad visas for those who don’t plan on setting up a home. Working in a foreign country is a different ballgame; knowing the legal requirements before moving will prevent much disappointment.
9: Taking Pets Abroad
Taking pets abroad typically includes a valid pet passport or health certificate issued by licensed veterinarians, proving your pet is up to date on vaccinations and in good health. Typical requirements include rabies vaccinations, deworming, and tick and flea treatments. Ensure these are administered well before travel and recorded in health documents. Using professional animal transportation companies dramatically simplifies the process. Before leaving, consult with veterinarians to assess their overall health, discuss specific precautions, and obtain a letter confirming their fitness to travel.
10: Consider Mobile Phone Options
Decide what mobile phone services are available. Some providers offer international plans or roaming services that allow you to use phones abroad without issues. However, these plans are expensive. Another option is to unlock phones and use phones with different SIM cards from local providers.
This is cost-effective for taking advantage of local rates and avoiding roaming charges. Still, not all phones can be unlocked, and countries like Turkey automatically block them. However, purchasing local SIM cards is the best option for permanently moving overseas. This option allows expats to have a local phone number and use local rates and data plans. It is cheaper than international plans and allows switching providers if needed.
11: International Mover Companies
Research reputable international removal companies and obtain quotes to compare costs and services. Consider the household size, distance, travel time, and specific requirements, like pet carriers for transporting beloved pets. International removal costs are sometimes hefty, and most people decide to take personal items and buy new furniture.
Many UK-based companies give international move quotes. When selecting a preferred country, inquire about service inclusions, insurance coverage, and the estimated duration of the move. Allow extra time for unforeseen delays and have all travel documents, including passports, visas, and immunisation records, readily accessible throughout the process.
12: Moving Abroad with Children
When children are involved in moving overseas, the complexity increases exponentially. Research international schools and evaluate their curriculum, accreditation, facilities, language of instruction, extracurricular activities, and support services for expatriate students. Additionally, seek local expatriate communities and support groups for children to meet peers who share similar experiences and foster new friendships. Take proactive steps to support their language development by enrolling them in language classes or immersion programs.
13: To Buy Property or Rent
Some people prefer buying property for stability and to build capital appreciation. In contrast, others prefer to rent until they are sure their move abroad is successful. It is a personal choice, but if you plan to rent, remember that rent prices will increase. Also, check your obligations and legal rights and those of the landlord. Some countries have notoriously poor tenant rights.
14: Settling In and Adjusting to Life Overseas
Once you handle prominent aspects like moving, visas, banks, and utility companies, give yourself a settling-in period. Remember, these are not holiday days, so expect normal everyday problems like the ones you would encounter in your home country. Use this time to join expat communities or start learning the language. Don’t throw in the towel at the first hurdle, but instead, give yourself one year to adjust to the new lifestyle.
Use Our International Property Services
We are a UK-based company that specialises in property for sale overseas. No matter what your preferred country is, we can help. Call us today if you want to discuss property buying with an agent or what to consider when moving abroad. Also, see our portfolio of apartments and villas for sale in many countries. Just fill in the form to receive more details via email. You might also like to read the following articles.
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