With Brexit never out of the headlines and as a result the pound dropping, many young people are considering whether it’s worth migrating to another country.
Indeed, with better economies and more opportunities, Europe and North America are becoming increasingly attractive – but there are a lot of things to consider before you make the big move abroad.
Below, we’ve put together five of the biggest considerations before emigrating…
Your friends and family
Okay, so this one is kind of obvious, but it’s worth mentioning nonetheless.
If you’re thinking about moving to another country, spare a thought for your friends and family who you’d likely have to leave behind. Sure, you’ll be able to come home and visit them every now and again – and they can visit you and squeeze in a holiday – but the truth is that saying goodbye to your loved ones can be tough. Make sure you’ve got a good support network in your chosen country and ensure grandma knows how to use FaceTime for when you’re feeling homesick!
Job opportunities
Many young people choose to move abroad for job opportunities, whether they’ve only just graduated or they’re ready to climb the ladder.
Before you move to another country, it’s wise to have a job offer in place or a least an idea of how you’re going to make money.
On that note, make sure you have the required visas and permits needed to live and work in your country; if you don’t have those, you’ll struggle to find permanent employment abroad.
Where you’ll live
Next step, deciding where you’re going to live.
That’s about much more than simply looking at Rightmove or Airbnb and sofa-surfing from one friend’s apartment to another.
Spend your time researching into the neighborhoods of your chosen city, and arrange to meet with estate agents before you sign any lease agreements, or purchase a home. The last thing you want to do is sign a 12-month tenancy agreement for a place without running water or electricity!
How you’ll get there
Unless you’re planning to drive to your new country, the chances are that you’re going to take a plane.
But what about your possessions? Some people like to start again when they relocate, but others want to take all of their belongings with them.
If you’re moving to France, for example, you may want to contact a specialist removals firm such as Dumond who can carefully pack and transport your furniture and nick-nacks to your new chosen country. Don’t try to organize a lorry-load of furniture; the chances are, something will get lost or broken, so leave it to the professionals and arrive at your new home with everything you love.
Learning the language
Finally, take some time to get to grips with the lingo. Download apps such as Duolingo and watch YouTube videos to get your head around conversational Spanish, French, or German and you’ll pick up the rest on your travels.
Even better, befriend a local who can teach you some of the nuances of the language, and show you around your city when you get there.
Whatever you decide to do, we wish you the very best of luck. Moving to another country may seem scary and alien at first, but you’ll unlock so many new opportunities and enrich your life. Take advantage of your privilege and explore everything the world has to offer.