12 Things to Consider Before Migrating

Considering migrating to another country? Before you pack your bags, let’s discuss what you need to know before you go.

Immigration

Some countries offer simple immigration policies. Others don’t. Before moving countries, make sure you’re going to be allowed and welcome with as little hassle as possible. Do you need a visa to visit? What is the country’s immigration policy? What are the advantages of residency in your dream country?

Risks

Life is full of risks. When moving to a new country, there are a myriad of risks to consider, including economic, social, personal, political, and environmental.

Eating, Drinking, and Going Out

While this may seem unimportant, elements such as habits, requirements, and dietary options can have a major influence on your happiness. Choosing places to eat at is another issue: what is the hygiene like? Are they washing salad in water that will make you ill?

If you’re paying to volunteer, the organization is after your money, not your skills.

A woman cleans her pots in a river while her child watches. Photo taken by Irene Scott for AusAID.

Social Habits and Customs

Do you hate changing habits? Get frustrated by slow responses? Then you’re going to want to stay away from Caribbean islands. But then again, slowing down could add years to your lifespan.

Stability, Personal Freedom, and Form of Government

This ties in with risk and stability as well as how much freedom of rights you’ll have in another country.

Housing and Real Estate

It is important to look at the housing market before moving. Consider the cost of rental rates, ownership costs, and availability.

Education

What is the educational outlook in the country you want to migrate to? Is education accessible and affordable? What languages are classes available in?

Cost of Living, Banking, and Currency

Many people migrate to another country for the lower cost of living. However, an important long-term consideration is your income, savings, and pension in another currency.

Import Taxes, Shipping Costs, Duty on Household Goods

How easy is it going to be to move your belongings overseas? What will you take with you and what will you leave behind? This will vary from country to country and it’s a good idea to discuss these issues with an immigration lawyer in Melbourne.

Some countries do allow expats to bring in almost all their possessions tax free, including vehicles. There are others that limit what you can bring by placing tax on imports.

You also need to consider the location of the country versus where your goods are. Where will your goods arrive and how will you get them home?

Remember to check duty rates, too, and acquire an accurate bill of lading along with a customs freight forwarder.

Communications

You may assume that moving around the world means staying connected. But many countries experience frequent Internet downtimes. What is technology like in the country you’re considering?

Health Care and Health Risks

What is the healthcare situation like in the country you want to move to? How is the availability, cost, and accessibility of the services?

Taxis, Public Transport, Cost of Petrol and Getting Around

Where you move to will determine your transportation needs. If you’re heading off somewhere urban, you may not need a car. Then there are cities that offer world-class public transportation. What will the various costs involve and will you be able to manage?

Conclusion

There is literally a world of opportunities at your fingertips but you need to be properly prepared and do thorough research. A well-thought out destination is going to be better for your health, happiness, and personal satisfaction. Sure, adjustments are going to have to be made wherever you settle down, but with the right advanced planning, you’ll be better able to handle challenges.

Megan is an Australian Journalist who has been travelling and blogging since 2007, with the main aim of inspiring others to embark on their own worldwide adventure. Her husband Mike is an American travel photographer, and together they have made the world their home.

Committed to bringing you the best in adventure travel from all around the globe, there is no mountain too high, and no fete too extreme! They haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on their list.

Follow their journey on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest and Instagram.

Photo credits: Water by Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.