Relocate Like a Pro
Thinking about moving abroad? Making the decision to move to a new country can be exciting and stressful. There are a lot of factors that can influence your decision to move and where you decide to move to. To guide your thinking, we’ve come up with a list of the most important factors to think about.
10 Things To Consider
1. Immigration and Visa Requirements
Every country has different requirements for visas, work permits, and residency. It is important to know what you qualify for and how meet the legal requirements before you make any big moves.
2. Cost of Living
Everyday expenses – housing/rent, groceries, healthcare – can vary quite dramatically based on where you are located. Even within the United States, the cost of living varies widely by state and region. You should consider the difference between the cost of living where you currently live and where you want to move. You don’t want to end up stuck somewhere that you cannot afford.
3. Healthcare
Many, but not all, countries offer universal healthcare. The quality of those healthcare systems can vary country to country. Before moving, you should familiarize yourself with the local healthcare system, how to access care, and whether or not to get private health insurance.
4. Employment Opportunities
Will you be able to work in your preferred country? Can you stay at your current company and work remotely or from an international office? Do you need to find a new opportunity? These are all important questions to consider before landing in a new country.
5. Taxes and Finances
If you are a US citizen, you will be taxed on your worldwide income. You will likely also have to pay taxes in your host country. To prevent double taxation on income earned abroad, look into countries that have tax treaties in place with the US. You should also consider how you will access your bank accounts, any retirement funds/ savings, and investments.
6. Language
What is the language most commonly spoken where you want to move? If you are not already familiar with the language, even conversationally, you should look into language learning apps or classes. Language barriers can make it difficult to navigate daily life and lead to feelings of isolation from local culture.
7. Social Support
Moving abroad can be lonely without a support system. Consider whether you have friends or family there, if there’s a strong expat community, and how easy it will be to make new connections.
8. Education
If you have kids or are continuing your own education, look into local school quality, cost, language of instruction, and whether international or bilingual schools are available.
9. Emotional Readiness
Living abroad brings new challenges: homesickness, culture shock, and daily frustration in unfamiliar systems. Ask yourself if you’re adaptable, resilient, and mentally prepared for change and uncertainty.
Download a PDF version of our Relocation Checklist here!
10. Legal Rights and Safety
Check the legal protections and civil liberties in your destination, especially if you’re part of a marginalized group. Also assess safety, political stability, law enforcement practices, and how foreigners are treated.
What Next?
You’ve decided to move abroad. Congratulations! You’ve considered the legal, financial, and social aspects of living abroad – now what? After the research has been done, it’s time to begin planning your move!
You’ve got this! Adventure awaits
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