Relocating abroad is an exciting decision that can open new doors to a world of opportunities regarding your career, quality of life, and so much more.
But even so, planning a move overseas is a pretty complicated task; you will need to plan ahead for various challenges and follow specific procedures. In addition to this, you must prepare emotionally and mentally for the move, stick to a budget, and consider essential insurance coverage.
So we’ve rounded up this list of the most common mistakes to avoid when relocating, so your move abroad can be less stressful.
Table of Contents
Relocating Without Visiting First
Moving to a foreign country is a big decision that will impact every aspect of your life. As a result, it’s best to visit your new home region before moving over. This way, you can navigate the area, get to know the locals and the culture, figure out the transportation system, and much more. Visiting first is the best way to prepare for the move fully to avoid common mistakes.
Not Purchasing Health Insurance
As an expat, you will need to think about purchasing international health insurance. Your current health coverage won’t cover you anymore, and you might struggle to buy local health insurance in a foreign country.
If you are relocating from the UK, global health insurance for UK citizens will give you peace of mind regarding all your healthcare needs and expenses.
Making A Decision Without Your Spouse And Children
While moving abroad is already a significant life change for any child, children are also more vulnerable to psychological changes. With this, it’s vital to be attentive to children, specifically when big life changes are about to happen.
It’s essential to discuss relocating with your family before making a final decision. Preparing your spouse and children will give them time to understand and accept the upcoming changes. To avoid this common mistake, you should tell your children and spouse about the move at least a year in advance.
Not Prioritizing The Paperwork
Relocation comes with a mountain of admin and paperwork. If you don’t sort out your passport, work permit, visa application, credit checks, tax records, medical records, academic records, pet vaccination records, insurance documents, legal documents, and citizenship applications, you’ll undoubtedly run into stressful hiccups during the process of relocating. To avoid all possible failures, you can consult an immigration officer to get all your documents ready, depending on your destination and the purpose of your removal. For instance, if you are going to Canada, you may need documents for a common-law marriage. You can check details about common law marriage in Canada (vérifiez les détails concernant le union de fait au Canada) if you are interested in details.
Also, consider relying on a relocation agent who will guide you through the complexities of moving abroad while ensuring all your necessary paperwork is in order.
It may also be a good idea to look up local rental property management companies in your new city and search their available inventory of properties for rent, as they are a trusted source to find a home for rent.
Forgetting To Cancel Existing Obligations
If you don’t cancel existing obligations like utility bills, phone bills, property mortgages, student loans, car loans, and any investment policies, you’ll find yourself in a bit of a pickle a few months down the line.
It’s crucial to notify all respective organizations that you are relocating and will need to close relevant accounts. Otherwise, you can incur substantial debt and even later be charged in court.
Choosing The Wrong Movers
Unless you are planning on relocating with no more than personal items that can fit into your travel luggage, you will need to rely on international movers to get all your belongings abroad.
When it comes to finding a reliable moving company, it’s wise to think about the company’s experience in relocation, packaging and storage facilities used, any authorized affiliates, and customer support.
Underestimating The Time Frame
Moving abroad requires extensive planning and preparation. You will also need to consider the moving time frame. Unlike moving to a new neighborhood, which can take roughly one to two months to plan and execute, relocating abroad can take three to six months.
To ensure you can arrive at your new home in comfort, you will need to ensure your belongings are shipped in time to arrive before you do. Otherwise, you will need to get by without your things for some time after arriving.
Not Booking Temporary Accommodation
Whether you are planning on purchasing or leasing a new home, these processes can take some time. You might also want to view properties in person before choosing your new home.
It makes sense to book a furnished apartment as a temporary home while you search for a property that suits your budget and lifestyle. Short-term rentals are more affordable than hotel stays, so remember to book in advance to prevent overspending.
Not Saving Enough
The cost of living differs in every country around the world. With this, you will need to budget carefully with a new income to create a monthly budget that’s in line with local costs.
Beyond differing living costs, you will also need to create a detailed relocation budget. If you don’t, the costs of moving might question your financial stability in the months following the move.
Relocating to a new country might be as stressful as it is exciting. But with enough planning and preparation, you can enjoy a smooth and simple transition to your new home abroad.
Featured Photo by HiveBoxx on Unsplash
