If you have already found work, then the one of the biggest obstacles to working abroad is done and dusted. Why? Because you now know where you are going to work, you sorted formalities like visa’s and work permits. It is important not to forget other factors when it comes to living and working abroad though.
Of course the checklist will look a little different for everyone – so our aim here to give you a general idea of what to look into when going abroad. This should help calm those butterflies in your stomach and put your mind at ease.
Language
You know where you are going to work? That’s great! Do you know how to speak the language there? If not, that’s not necessarily a disadvantage for you. People in most countries will also know English so they will understand you. But you should at least make an effort to learn the language because in everyday life it will certainly stand to you, especially when you notice that you can have a quick chat or a small conversation with the locals.
Paperwork
Before making the move to live and work abroad, make sure you have all necessary papers. This includes making sure your passport and driving license are valid. You should also make sure you have all the documents needed for the new job: certificates, references, CV, police checks etc. In addition, make sure you have your birth certificate, bank statements, and any other necessary certificates - these could come in handy when it comes to finding your new home.
Money
Many people underestimate the cost of living and working abroad. Especially at the beginning it will be expensive to get settled in. So make sure that you have enough savings. You should also take care of opening a bank account in your destination country. It will probably be best to do some research on that and compare various offers before you go.
Housing
Another thing that you will have to think about is your house or apartment back home. If you are renting you should hand in your notice in time. If you have your own apartment or house, you should consider selling or renting it out. For this you should keep in mind your plan about how long you want to stay abroad - is it only for a short period or do you want to move permanently?
Belongings
Another question will be whether you want to move with all your belongings or if you want to start over completely. If you want to bring all of your things you should hire a moving company. Here you should also compare different offers. Maybe you will want to go abroad and set up, then have your belongings follow you afterwards – so wold you have someone who can take care of them until then?
Family and Pets
If you are moving with your family or pets, you should make sure that everything is sorted out for them as well. What are the chances of your partner finding a job, can your kids go to school there and do your pets need any special vaccinations?
Your stay abroad
Before making the move to live and work abroad you should make sure that you have booked accommodation for the first few days. Some companies provide initial accommodation for their employees so that they have time to look for something permanent. If the company doesn’t provide that you will have to find a hostel or something similar by yourself. You can certainly start looking for something before you get there but we recommend not signing any contracts before you’ve seen the apartment.
Insurance
Please make sure you check out the insurance requirements abroad. In some countries it will be mandatory in some you don’t have to have insurance. So you should make a decision whether you need this or not. And again - compare different insurance companies. It doesn’t hurt to get a few quotes.
Cancellations at home
After figuring out what insurance to use abroad you should also cancel your insurance at home. But not just that - you should also cancel other contracts like your phone and internet. Also leave any clubs or societies at home – you don’t want people looking for you to realise that you are abroad – think about the farewell parties you could have.
Moving Abroad
Last but not least you have to plan your move abroad. That means for you to book tickets for flights and arrange transportation to and from the airport. The internet is a great source of information. Everything you need to know is there – If you prefer the personal touch – there are those in airports that can help you find the right mode of transport too.
There you have it, a number of things you need to consider before making the move to live and work abroad. But like we said already - this list can look a little different for everyone.
This might look like a lot of work for you right now. But once you have done all this work and are finally settled in in your new home, it will be all worth it.
