What to consider before you move abroad

Making the decision to move abroad isn’t something to be taken lightly. There’s plenty of planning to do and boxes to be ticked. But where do you start? Here are some tips on things to consider before your move:

• Paperwork

The first thing you’ll have to do is find about visa or permit work requirements. If you have a job waiting for you on arrival, be sure to speak to your employer in advance about visa support. Find out the costs involved, and take into special account the timescales.

• Travel

Air travel can be expensive, but keep in mind that booking in advance generally results in discounts for long haul flights. Be sure to check out baggage allowances for the airlines you are considering flying with, and don’t forget about travel insurance.

• Healthcare

Have you figured out how the healthcare system works in your chosen destination? When it comes down to health standards, statutory care and emergency treatment; details vary from country to country. Some countries provide free state healthcare; but many don’t.

Ensuring that healthcare will be provided for you and your family is a must, so it’s key to research the implications for expatriates in your new country of residence.

We offer a wide range of levels of expat medical insurance cover available to protect you in your new homeland, and anywhere else you may be travelling.

• Shipping or Storage?

If you’re planning on renting at first in your new homeland, you could consider renting a fully furnished property and put your belongings into storage until you’re settled – then arrange for shipping at a more convenient time. It’s all about planning. If you know the accommodation you’re arriving to, then you know what you can afford to take with you.

• Budget

Moving abroad comes with logistical complexities, and it can be easy to lose track of your finances. Try to plan ahead as much as possible and be sure to factor in things like accommodation costs, local transport, local utility costs, legal documentation costs on arrival, and import tax where applicable on any goods you may be taking with you.

• Learn about the culture

Adjusting to a new culture can take time. Be prepared for a mental and emotional shift in your lifestyle. Learning in advance about the culture you will be immersing yourself in will help to manage expectations. If you don’t speak the local language, try learning some basic words and sentences - there are plenty of tools online that can help you.

Becoming an expat takes planning and research, but by following the handy steps above, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a fully-fledged expat. It’ll be an exciting time, so take it all as it comes, and enjoy starting a fantastic new chapter in your life in a new country.

Discover more about Cigna International Health Plans.