8 Considerations Before Moving To A New Country
Whether it’s a spur-of-the-moment decision or a move motivated by your job, it can be difficult to relocate to a new country. Maybe you’ve traveled to a certain country and thought to yourself, “boy, I would love to live here!” Many people do, as evidenced by the 6.6 million US citizens living in another country.
But there are considerations far beyond the crime rate of the neighborhood you plan to move to, or how to speak the language. Here are seven tips for anyone planning to make the move to a different country from your friends at Exodus Moving and Storage – your Fort Collins Colorado movers.
Which country should you move to?
While some people have no choice, such as those with the military or those moving for a job, others should do their research carefully when deciding which country to relocate to. Just as with a move here in the US, you’ll want to look into the type of climate and if you could tolerate it, the language that is spoken there, if there are any restrictive traditions or customs that don’t jive with your own lifestyle choices, the political system and regime in power at the time of the move, crime rate, etc. Some even take into consideration the cost of a trip home – you never know when you’re going to become homesick, or need to get back for a death or family emergency.
Can you speak their language?
While this isn’t truly necessary, it is helpful to at least have a grasp of the local lingo essentials. You know, when you need to ask for something on the menu, or where to find the bathroom. If you don’t know a bit of their language, that’s easily remedied. There are numerous programs that exist to teach you the language such as Rosetta Stone, or you can take a class that is offered locally. Chances are there’s also an app for that. Scour the internet for a program that works for you. You’ll find that once you’re there, immersed in the language, you’ll pick it up over time. You can also take classes in your new country. Added bonus: you’ll meet others that are struggling along with you to practice with!
Will you be safe?
Until you’ve acclimated to your surroundings and you understand the true safety of the area you’re in, it pays to utilize a bit of common sense. You know, the simple things your mother probably told you when you went off to college for the first time. Don’t wander areas you don’t know, especially at night, wearing all of your expensive jewelry. Get to know the local bartender and grill him on areas to avoid. Travel with a buddy. Before you make your move, spend some time talking with the locals about the true safety of an area. Any tourism agency will say they’re a wonderful place to visit, but chances are there are still dangerous areas that should be avoided. Don’t end up moving to one of these areas in error!
What if you need medical care?
Chances are if you’re moving anywhere outside of the US, your medical care will be cheaper. But at what cost? While you’re asking locals about the safety of any given community, find out how the healthcare system is rated. You don’t want to be waiting for weeks for a crucial, life saving surgery simply because of an overworked system. Look into the availability of prescription medication, especially those you are required to take on a daily basis.
What will the taxes be like?
You won’t be a citizen of this country overnight. Until you’ve met the specific requirements spelled out by that country to become a citizen, you’re still considered a US citizen. The IRS will want taxes from you if you are working no matter where you live, so keep that in mind so you don’t end up in trouble.
Can I keep my health insurance? What about banking?
Most insurance companies can work with you, but don’t expect them to cover a procedure or doctor visit when you haven’t informed them you’ve moved out of the country. Contact your insurance company before you’ve made your final decision so you can discuss your options. This way, you aren’t stuck uninsured! When it comes to banking, you can certainly keep your US bank. The internet has made it simple to do so with things like online bill pay, direct deposit, and online banking. You can choose to have your mail sent to a relative if you want paper copies, but most banks today give you the option of paperless billing.
When should I buy a house?
While you are excited to move to a new country, don’t make that decision to purchase a home just yet. You just never know how you’re going to feel in two years time. Instead, look for a good rental situation. In this way, you aren’t stuck paying way too much for a house you don’t want to live in anymore. Your lease will run out, and you can find a new city to relocate to.
What about a job?
If you aren’t relocating for work, this can be tricky. You really need to do your homework regarding a country’s rules on employment for those who aren’t yet citizens.
Moving to a new country can be exciting, but it’s scary at the same time. It really can be a whole new world, so you need to do extensive research in order to make sure it is the right decision for you.
If you’ve come to that decision, know that Exodus Moving and Storage will be there to help make the process of getting your belongings to your country of choice as smoothly and easily as possible. Call Exodus Moving and Storage today – your Fort Collins Colorado movers – to get a free estimate, or to find out how you can store your items when you move – just in case you return!
