Moving overseas can be a life-changing experience that offers many benefits. However, it’s important to consider the challenges and be honest about your reasons for moving. Read on for our tips for moving overseas, whether to roam or relocate and if it is right for you.
Roam or Relocate? Tips for Moving Overseas
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A love of travel can often get us thinking about moving overseas and starting a new life. But is living abroad the right option for you? Roaming free, taking working vacations, and spending a couple of weeks in another country is very different from relocating. In this guide, we’ll discuss some key points to consider when choosing between traveling and moving overseas.
Can You Move Overseas?
When considering relocating to a different country, the first step is to find out if you can actually move abroad. You’ll need to check the entry requirements and visa rules before deciding.
Many countries have strict policies dictating who can enter, what they can do during their trip and how long they can stay. Visa requirements vary according to the chosen country and your plans. Visiting as a tourist is usually more straightforward, but staying longer carries additional complications.
It’s a good idea to get immigration legal help if difficulties negotiating legal processes or the application is rejected. In some cases, you may be able to stay for a short period and then extend your stay.
Research online and get advice from legal experts and people who have been through the process of relocating from abroad. It’s important to understand the rules and regulations before moving overseas.
Are Your Expectations Realistic?
Many have traveled to beautiful places, seen incredible destinations in movies or TV shows, and wondered what it would be like to move. Relocating overseas can be a magical experience, but it’s crucial not to have rose-tinted glasses.
Vacationing is not the same as moving somewhere and living in a different place. Life is different with bills to pay, a job, and other commitments. You might think you’d spend every day basking in the sunshine or enjoying romantic sunset strolls on the beach, but is this possible when working full-time or summer gives way to winter?
Always make sure your expectations are realistic before moving overseas. Speak to locals and visit locations at different times to get a feel for what life is like. This is particularly true of popular vacation resorts. Outside of peak seasons, the ambiance is very different, especially with weather changes or when the tourist season ends and businesses close for the season.
Are There Better Opportunities?
We’re all familiar with the saying, “The grass is always greener on the other side.” Be aware of this when weighing up your options. Think carefully about your opportunities at home compared to abroad. Ask yourself if there are better options for your career, lifestyle, health, social life, and work-life balance. If yes, it’s worth exploring destinations and more about living in the countries on your shortlist.
What are you leaving behind?
It’s common to lose sight of what you have until it’s gone. Relocating is an exciting proposition but it can also be daunting. Before taking the plunge, consider what you’re leaving behind.
If you’re determined to discover new places, meet new people, take on new challenges, and confident you’ll be happy in another country, go for it!
If worried about missing friends and family and not 100% sure why you’re moving, take your time. Consider your priorities. If you want to spend as much time as possible with your family and friends, traveling thousands of miles and setting up a new home may not be the best idea. If wavering, take a prolonged break and see how you feel. If you can work remotely or take a break from your job, take a few weeks or months and “move overseas” to experience how it is to live there.
We may love to travel but roaming around different countries and taking vacations is very different from moving overseas.
If thinking about relocating, it’s important to take time before finalizing your moving abroad decision. Consider your priorities, what kinds of opportunities you could enjoy, and whether you’re legally allowed to stay for a prolonged period. Seek legal advice, get tips and recommendations from people who have been through the move, and weigh the pros and cons. Research locations, visit places outside of peak vacation times, and try to get a feel for the area when you’re not in vacation mode.