Moving to another country can be one of the most exciting and eye-opening experiences in your life. It can also be one of the scariest and most difficult! Before you start packing up all your belongings and moving abroad, it’s important that you take some time to consider what’s coming next.
These expat tips before relocating abroad will help you prepare, adapt, and make sure you get the most out of your time living abroad while minimising the downsides along the way.
Do your research
The best way to prepare for moving abroad is to do your research and understand what you are getting yourself into.
If you visit expat websites online, you’ll be able to see how other people have made the move abroad, and get a feel for what’s it like. There are lots of other travel stories, other options for travelers looking for all sorts of options, freelancers, retirees, digital nomads, and property moguls.
Keep reading to learn more expat tips before relocating abroad about visas, insurance, and financing options during your relocation.
Know your visa requirements
It is always a good idea to understand the visa requirements for the country you are relocating to, especially if you are not an EU citizen. Some countries require that the expat reside in their country for a certain amount of time before obtaining a work visa, some demand proof of employment, and others have tight restrictions on who can enter the country. It is critical to know these requirements because failure to abide by them could result in fines or even deportation.
Our partners at RHJ Law are experienced with immigration law and know the visas required for entry to Portugal, Malta, and the United Arab Emirates. Make an appointment for a free 30-minute consultation with our legal experts to find out which immigration pathways you should pursue.
Have a solid plan
With associates that are experts in the field of visas, real estate, insurance, bank accounts, taxes, and more, RHJ Law can help you get to the country that is most suitable for you. We are the best company for creating solid plans, so look no further!
Contact them today to get started in preparing your expat tips before relocating abroad.
Consider your health
Health is important, so consider hospitals or health plans for moving abroad. If you’re coming from a country with stricter regulations on medication, check to see if the country where you’re moving has the same standards. Find out about the best places for doctors in your new country and whether or not your prescriptions will be available there.
We can offer health coverage for you with many providers, allowing us to look extensively for an affordable, practical plan that fits you and your family’s needs.
Get your finances in order
You’ll want to take a few steps before relocating abroad, such as getting your finances in order and making sure you have a bank account set up. You should also look into the cost of living in your new country, as well as any costs involved with moving.
With our expert accountants at hand, we can make sure that you comply with the correct tax requirements, reducing the chances of you incurring an unreasonable fine. In addition, we can open a bank account for you to help make sure you have quick access to your money. Schedule a free 20-minute consultation today, where we will get a full understanding of what you’re looking for.
Learn the language
While it’s great to move abroad and immerse yourself in a new culture, it’s important to learn the language before you do. This way, you’ll be able to get around, participate in activities, and make friends more easily. Plus, learning the language will help you adjust better and more quickly than if you don’t.
Though most people do know a few words of English now, it is always worth appreciating their own culture and speaking to them in their first language too.
Know the culture
The culture in your new country will be different from your own. It’s important to know the culture of your new country so that you can fit in well and adapt to your surroundings. Join local events in your new country by using expat websites and forums, or even take a mini vacation before your full move to get a feel for the culture.
Portugal has a number of bank holidays throughout the year, and you should know when businesses or shops will be closed to avoid being without food or merchandise.
Prepare for homesickness
One of the most common feelings when moving abroad is homesickness. If you think you might be suffering from homesickness, it may help to reconnect with people at home who can provide a sense of security and stability. Make use of modern technology in this time to be able to regularly contact family and friends back home, so ensure your new home has a strong internet connection.
Connect with other expats
You can find people in similar situations to yourself by reviewing many expat websites online as we have mentioned a few times in this article; you might find they can provide answers to questions you are still debating or even steer you away from making foolish decisions they themselves should have avoided.
Even our CEO is an expat – he moved to Portugal from the UK – so he might be able to answer some of your questions!
Enjoy the adventure!
You’re going to have a new adventure, so just enjoy it. Life is a little more simple, and less predictable. You’ll be living in a country with different customs, rules and morals, but that’s what makes it so fun! Take everything in your stride and enjoy the adventure!
How RHJ Accountants Can Help
We recognise more than ever that individuals and businesses from the UK and other countries may be globally mobile. We aim to make you aware of the tax-efficient opportunities, available tax relief and structure finances for life at home and abroad.
Our international team of specialists operate from offices in the UK and Portugal. We work together synergistically to provide tax efficient solutions to our clients to help them grow their business whilst keeping tax liabilities to a minimum.
Get in touch with us today to find out more, or to make use of our services.
