Leaving the comfort of living in our own country is never easy, but it is certainly worth it. Moving abroad changes our worldview and opens doors to unknown horizons that deserve to be discovered.  

Today, we live in a highly connected world, and becoming an expatriate is an increasingly common idea among people. However, it involves several aspects to consider and a great deal of uncertainty when being away from home.  

Therefore, this article will share helpful tips if you want to know what you need to know to become an expatriate and not die trying. 

Decide to move abroad

Leaving your country is difficult, so you must consider your motivations and goals carefully. Then, once you have made this critical decision, follow through.  

Your friends or family may try to dissuade you, but the best thing you can do is to trust yourself and your desire for a new lifestyle. Remember that stepping out of your comfort zone is worth it and can lead you down unique paths. 

 Apply for an expatriate visa 

This is crucial, so you should ensure the correct visa you need to apply for. For example, a tourist visa will not allow you to work, and your stay in the country will be minimal. Remember that overlooking the terms of this official document is serious, so make sure you get the right one. 

Once you know the allow you need to apply for, check that you have all the requirements to process it. This will save you time and money since you will not get a refund if your application is rejected.

Look for places to live

Research the area where you would like to live during your stay abroad. This will help you know the housing prices to make a budget that fits your needs.   

You can also use a service to rent accommodation in the area, which will allow you to look for first-hand options that might not appear in your online search.    

Take out important insurance 

Sometimes we overlook the relevance of being insured because we think it won’t be necessary. However, it is essential to think twice because unforeseen events can always arise, so it is better to be prepared.  

Consider taking out medical, auto, or life insurance, and investigate their coverage services in certain situations. This will undoubtedly help you to be ready for any eventuality. 

Think about how you are going to get around 

Decide if you will need a car or if you will use public transportation. This will depend mainly on how close you live to your workplace or if you will be working from home. Also, consider options such as renting a car or using car-sharing services.  

If you must buy a car, consider the implications such as the purchase process, cost, insurance services, or whether you will need a local driver’s license. 

Find a community  

Explore the city as much as you can. Visit markets, coffee shops, museums, events, or other spaces where you can interact with like-minded people. You’re bound to find people who like to share their culture with you.  

Also, look for expat communities with whom you can exchange anecdotes, tips, and other experiences that you have in common by sharing the fact about living in another country. This is a great way to feel accompanied if you haven’t made many local friends yet. 

Study the language 

If a different language is spoken in the country where you want to live, study it. You can do this through formal classes or in a self-directed way, as there are now several apps, videos, and other resources that will make it easier for you. Find out what works best for you and commit to learning the language.  

Initially, focus on the fundamental statements you need in everyday communication: greetings, directions, or polite phrases. Then, to reinforce, you can listen to the radio in the local language, read newspapers, and watch series or movies. Finally, being in contact with the new language will be the fastest and most effective way to learn once on site. 

Stay in touch with your loved ones 

Nowadays, there are many free means to communicate with your family and friends to feel closer to home. Constantly send them text or voice messages and make video calls where you can share experiences you like about your new home.  

Without a doubt, being in frequent contact with your loved ones will help them stay in touch with the situations they are going through, and they will be able to encourage each other if they need it.   

Make your destination your new home  

Add small details to your space that make you feel at home: a book, a painting, photographs, or anything else you can think of. This can make your new house feel cozier and closer.  

It is also a good idea to look for restaurants that offer typical food from your country or places you feel closer to. These small actions will surely help you feel better when you miss your place of origin. 

We hope these tips will help make your expat adventure an unforgettable experience. And, as the writer Amin Maalouf says: Never hesitate to go far away, beyond all seas, all borders, all countries, all beliefs. 

Do you want your experience abroad to be memorable, contact us!