Banner image courtesy of Humphrey M
Sometimes a vacation isn’t enough. You want more than two weeks of sun and warmer temperatures, and who would blame you? Maybe this thought spirals around your head for a little while, and then you’re thinking that living in a foreign country where the weather is hot year-round is the answer. This might be the time you question, “Should I become an expatriate?”
Expatriates, or expats as they are commonly known, are individuals who reside outside their native countries. There are many reasons why a person might decide to make this major change, but this also means you need to think about it thoroughly. If you want more information on what to consider before finalizing your decision, then this post might provide the answers.
Financial Planning
Everything in life requires money, and moving abroad is no different. This is why, first and foremost, you should think about your finances if you want to become an expat. There are numerous costs involved in this life change, and creating a detailed budget can help you manage them effectively. This budget should include visa fees, flights, initial accommodation costs, living expenses for a few months, and even an emergency fund.
Once your budget is set, you can begin researching the cost of living in your ideal destination. Some countries are more expensive than others for expatriates, of course, so knowing where you want to live can simplify this process. This will give you an idea of what to expect in terms of groceries, rent, transportation, utilities, and other regular costs.
It is also worth considering your income and the taxes in your chosen new country. If you have a potential job lined up abroad, or you are going to work remotely in your current role. You can assess the income you might earn, ensuring it aligns with your desired lifestyle, and understand how this will reflect the tax of working and living there.
Legal and Visa Requirements
As previously mentioned, one of the initial costs you may need to cover is a visa. This means you will need to research the visa options available to you, which could include digital nomad, retirement, student, or work visas. Whatever visa you require, you should initiate the application process as early as possible. Processing times may vary depending on the visa type, your location, and whether you opt for priority services.
There are also other legal matters to plan for. Important documents, such as your passport, should be up-to-date to ensure the process proceeds as smoothly as possible. It is also a good idea to research local laws and regulations, so you are adequately prepared.
Healthcare
When moving to another country, you will need to access a different healthcare system as well. This is vital to ensure you have access to necessary medical services and financial protection in the event of illness or injury. You will need to understand the healthcare system in the country, including any potential costs you might incur, as well as the available insurance options.
Some countries have public health systems, like the UK’s NHS, but others will rely more heavily on private healthcare. There might be a mix of both. You should investigate the waiting lists in public systems, as this can affect timely access to treatment. This is especially important if you have pre-existing medical conditions or require specialized care, as you will need to know the availability and accessibility of these services in your new location.
However, this doesn’t mean you won’t need an emergency plan. You should understand how to access the emergency services in the new country. Having important phone numbers saved and knowing how the hospital system works is essential.
Accommodation
Another aspect to consider when simplifying the transition of your potential relocation is accommodation. This is not the apartment or house that you will rent for months to come or purchase outright; instead, consider this your base. You can explore the area, look into suitable neighborhoods, and avoid pitfalls by using temporary accommodation, like an Airbnb.
Finding a forever home in your new home country may not be a quick decision, and you don’t want to rush this process. Different neighborhoods cater to different lifestyles, and staying in an Airbnb will allow you to experience various areas and find the best fit for your preferences. If you are relocating for work, your employer may be able to assist with the move, so it is worth checking in with them as well.
Culture and Language
Although it might feel like you don’t need to worry too much about these things, culture and language will be important considerations when moving abroad. This is particularly true if English isn’t the primary language of the country you want to live in, so begin learning the local language. Even basic phrases can be a good starting point, especially if you want to facilitate communication and integration.
In addition to the language, take the time to learn about the country’s culture. You can research the local culture, customs, and social norms. This type of information can help you to avoid any misunderstandings that might occur and adapt smoothly to life in a new environment.
To conclude, becoming an expat is a significant change. This means that a lot of preparations are required, and there are even more things to consider before taking the plunge. The information in this post should provide you with a clearer understanding of what to consider when contemplating expat life.