Member-only story
Things to Know BEFORE You Move Abroad
Yes, these are important
I’m always amazed when I read about someone who moved to another country and discovers it’s not what they wanted, and they are just outraged.
Um… you moved somewhere else?!
Here are four things to know BEFORE you move abroad.
1. If you aren’t flexible, don’t move
Living somewhere is NOT like going on vacation there. Every country is different, and if you expect everywhere to be like where you are from, you will be disappointed.
2. Bureaucracy
Wherever you move, you will need to fill out a ton of paperwork to live/work there. Even if it is an “easier” country, you can’t just move there as if you are moving from one city to another in your own country. You will also need to set up a bank account and other administrative bits. It can really be frustrating learning a new system, but you have to be ready for it.
3. Visitors or not
Even if a lot of people say they will visit, you will find that you may get only a handful of visitors. Be prepared for that. I’ve found that I am often the one to travel if I want to see people, or I just decide to see only the select few. Of course, you will meet…