Buying a one-way ticket is always exciting and scary at the same time. You can never know what to expect and where you will end up. But one thing you know for sure – your life will change completely right after you get out of the airplane.
Another country is like another planet – most probably, you will face a lot of challenges. On the other hand, you shouldn?t forget that moving to a foreign country is an immensely enriching and rewarding experience.
To avoid unpleasant situations, make a detailed plan before you hit the road. That?s what you need to consider when migrating:
Table of Contents
Your Immigration Status
A lot of immigrants get in trouble due to their ignorance of the law.
Ignorance of the law is no excuse (unfortunately). That?s why you need to check what you can legally do in the destination country. Avoid working illegally – it?s a risk that can lead to horrible consequences (for instance, deportation without possibility to return).
If you want stability and personal freedom, follow the rules, and establish residency? to be able to buy the property or start a business.
Experts in Lightman Immigration recommend contacting a lawyer in order to determine your status in a foreign country.
Packing
Moving to a different flat can be a nightmare. Moving to a different country is even worse. Besides clothes and electronics, take some basic toiletries and medicines. You don?t need to take everything with you (especially if you don?t have accommodation yet). So, feel free to sell your old things instead of bringing them all with you. (prestigeonline.com) However, if you do find yourself needing to bring your belongings, you can always look into employing long-distance movers.
Besides practical things, make sure to pack some sentimental items – like photos or a blanket made by your grandma. These things will help you to cozy up your new apartment.
You are about to start a new chapter in your life, but it doesn?t mean you should leave everything behind and never look back.
Socialization
Making new friends in a foreign country can be pretty challenging. However, you should do your best to get to know other people. Expanding your social circle will give you a lot of opportunities and make you feel more confident.
The most important thing is to learn the language of the country you have moved to. If you are still a beginner, consider going to the local Language Club where you can meet native speakers and other expats.
Find local Facebook groups and connect with people there. Visit as many social events as possible. Being with other people is good for your professional life and mental health.
Language Barrier
You must have heard this saying: learning a foreign language can open new doors. Once you learn a local language, you will be able to find a better job, make new friends, and feel more comfortable in a new country.
So, start learning a foreign language as soon as possible. You can take a course at a language school, find a language exchange partner, listen to podcasts, etc.
Once you are abroad, speak a foreign language as much as possible. You shouldn?t be afraid to make a mistake, since it?s not your first language. Most native speakers will appreciate you speaking their language anyway.
Access To Medicine
The smartest thing is to get health insurance right after you move to a foreign country. The medical system in your destination country might look completely different. So, do your research beforehand. Getting insurance will help you feel more secure – especially if you don?t speak the local language.
Accommodation
Looking for accommodation on the spot might not be a good idea.
You might even need to ask other expats (in local Facebook groups) about the rental price so that you can avoid overpaying.
If you are moving to a foreign country all by yourself, consider sharing a flat with the locals. It will help you learn the language faster and blend into the local community.
Mental Health
Moving to a foreign country is quite stressful. There is even something called a ?migrant depression.? Needless to say, you will also miss your family, friends, food, places. If you want to make it any less painful for yourself, don?t change everything at once.
Start exploring a foreign culture gradually. Meanwhile, keep in touch with your family and friends, cook your favorite food, celebrate your traditions. By doing so, you will be able to keep your feet on the ground.
Understand your emotions and try to prevent depression. If you feel insecure and lost, consider seeing a therapist.
Immigration is a real challenge, no matter how mentally strong you are. But one day you will walk outside and realize that it feels like home.
