With recent election results setting the stage for the next four years, you might be feeling a pull towards starting anew somewhere else. If living abroad sounds like the breath of fresh air you need, you're certainly not alone.
Relocating to another country is a big step and an exciting opportunity to reinvent your daily life. Here's a straightforward, step-by-step plan to get you settled abroad before the new president takes office.
Weeks 1-2: Choosing Your New Home
What's important to you in a new place? A sunny climate, bustling city streets, or perhaps a relaxed expat community where everyone knows your name? Now's the time to dig into these questions. Research visa requirements, assemble the necessary paperwork, and budget for your new life. Understanding the cost of living in your chosen locale will help you plan effectively.
Resources
- Expatistan (expatistan.com): Quick look at cost of living comparisons.
- Numbeo (numbeo.com): Detailed insights on city and country costs.
- VisaHQ (visahq.com): Handy for checking out what visas you'll need.
Weeks 3-4: Legal and Health Preparation
This is the week to sort out the nitty-gritty details. Renew your passport if it's nearing expiration, apply for your visa, and secure any additional legal documents required for your move. Make sure you're up-to-date on vaccinations and arrange for international health insurance to keep you covered.
Resources
- CDC Travel Health Notices (cdc.gov/travel): For health advice and vaccination requirements.
- International Insurance (internationalinsurance.com): Compare different health insurance plans for expats.
Weeks 5-6: Financial Arrangements
Open a bank account that lets you manage your money easily from anywhere. Talk to a tax advisor to understand your tax obligations abroad—this can prevent unwelcome surprises. If you plan to work remotely or find a job in your new home, get the wheels turning on setting up your work environment.
Resources
- HSBC Expat (expat.hsbc.com): Streamlines international banking.
- Greenback Expat Tax Services (greenbacktaxservices.com): For managing U.S. tax filings from abroad.
Weeks 7-8: Packing and Housing
Decide what you're bringing with you and what stays behind. Sell, donate, or store your belongings as needed. Also, nail down your living arrangements—whether renting a place or buying, having a roof over your head when you land is crucial. My "Organize & Plan" toolkit can help you keep track of all these details seamlessly.
Resources
- Internations (internations.org): This is for connecting with other expats and finding good housing advice.
Weeks 9-10: Final Preparations and Departure
Plan your "seek-ya-laters" and ensure all your travel arrangements are locked in. This step includes flights, transfers, and your first few nights' accommodation. Run through a final checklist to ensure you haven't missed anything—like canceling subscriptions, setting up mail forwarding, or securing your stateside residence.
Resources
- Skyscanner (skyscanner.net): Finds the best deals on flights.
- AnyList (anylist.com): Perfect for keeping your moving checklist organized.
Settling In
Once you land, dive into getting to know your new surroundings. Register with local authorities if necessary, exchange your driver's license, and start making connections in your new community. Finding your new favorite spots and creating a social network will help turn this place into your home.
Resources
- Meetup (meetup.com): Great for finding groups that share your interests.
- Expat.com (expat.com): Offers tips on settling in and connecting with other expats.
This plan isn't just about packing up and leaving; it's about moving towards a life that feels right for you. If you need a hand keeping things organized, check out my Organize & Plan toolkit for a smooth transition.
Questions?
If you're considering a move, I'd love to hear what excites (or worries) you most about starting fresh in another country.
