How to Move to Another Country in 8 Easy Steps
When it comes to moving to another country, there are a lot of things that go into the process. It isn’t as difficult or complicated, depending on how you prepare and how you look at it. I secured a job in Sweden that sponsors my relocation. This means I also got an immigration consultant that helped me with the legalities in Sweden. So, my moving abroad process was easier.
But what if you’re going to do it on your own? In this blog post, I will break down the process of how to move to another country and provide some tips on how to make the move as smooth as possible. So, whether you are moving for work, love, or family, read on for all the information you need!
You don’t need a powerful passport to move abroad! There are still opportunities available even if you’re not an international citizen with access to the world’s most desirable travel documents. I’m a Philippine passport holder (which we know is not powerful), but I was still able to move to Sweden!
Even if you hold a powerful passport, this blog post is still a good start on learning how to move to another country.
And remember no matter where YOU call home right now–there’ll always be somewhere else worth going!
Before you do anything else, you need to choose the country you want to move to. This may seem like an obvious step on how to move to another country, but it is important to have a specific destination in mind before getting started. There are a lot of factors that go into choosing the right country for you, so take your time and do some research.
The top three countries that I want to move to are either Australia, New Zealand, or Canada. Sweden was in my 5-year plan, but, I ended up moving to Sweden right away!
If you are thinking of moving to Sweden, then you are definitely in the right place! You’ll find a lot of resources about Sweden like the pros and cons of living in Sweden in this blog.
Research the cost of living and make a moving plan
Once you have chosen a country, it is important to research the cost of living in that area. This will help you determine how much money you will need to move and how long your savings will last.
This is also a good time to think about your finances like how will you make an income?
It is also helpful to create a moving plan so you know what steps need to be taken leading up to the big move.
A goal without a plan is just a wish.
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Here’s an actual breakdown of the cost of living in Stockholm in case you are planning to move here too!
Check the housing options, healthcare, daycare, and overall quality of life
Once you have a general idea of how much it will cost to live in your chosen country, it is important to research housing options, healthcare, daycare, and overall quality of life. This information can help you make an informed decision about whether or not the chosen country is right for you.
For example, one of the struggles of expats in Sweden is finding a long-term apartment. Healthcare in Sweden is almost free & accessible. But, the queue is long in public healthcare. Though, the overall quality of life in Sweden is better than in the Philippines!
You need to consider things like these so you can set your expectations before relocating. If you are planning to move to another country with kids, then you need to research about daycare or schools too.
In Stockholm, it’s normal to move apartments every year and it’s cheaper if you buy an apartment instead.
Research on the visa requirements to move to another country
Another important thing to research before moving to another country is the visa requirements. This will help you determine if you are eligible to move and how long it will take to process your visa.
The most common visa types if you’re planning to move abroad:
- Work visa
- Student visa
- Dependent visa
- Business visa (self-employed)
Planning far in the future, you can also check the requirements for permanent residency or citizenship.
In Sweden, permanent residency is four years and citizenship is five years.
Are you a digital nomad? Here are some countries that offer visas to digital nomads or freelancers!
- Barbados – Barbados Welcome Stamp
- Croatia – Digital Nomad Visa
- Estonia – Digital Nomad Visa
- Malta – Nomad Residence Permit
- Portugal – D7 passive income visa or residence permit for independent workers & entrepreneurs
Explore the job market or secure a job abroad
If you are thinking of getting a new job upon moving to another country, you need to start exploring what the job market is like.
For example, in Sweden, most jobs require the Swedish language. But, you can find a job in the IT industry without knowing Swedish.
If you are aiming for a sponsorship for your relocation, then getting a job abroad is your best option! Most companies that offer relocation will help you with your documents so you can move smoothly.
- Glassdoor
- LinkedIn Jobs
- Jobbatical
- Relocate.me
- Neuvoo
- Company websites
Apply for a visa
Depending on how you are planning to move abroad, the next step is to apply for the right visa. I moved for work so I have a work visa. My husband applied for a dependent visa before he moved to Sweden.
You can apply for a dependent visa for your family members.
Start learning the local language of the country you are moving to
One of the best ways to get prepared for a move to another country is to start learning the language of that country. This will help you adjust to life in your new home much faster. There are many different resources available online, so there is no excuse not to learn!
Pack your bags and prepare your relocation
Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to pack your bags!
I recommend keeping your bank account open in your home country, and you can also open an international bank account (I use Wise) while you cannot open a bank account in your new country.
Look at your moving abroad packing list to help you manage your move & ensure that you packed all the necessary items!
It is important to remember that moving to another country can be an emotionally taxing experience. You may feel homesickness, culture shock, and anxiety in the early stages of your move. It is important to give yourself time to adjust and make sure you have a support system in place. Talk to friends and family back home, as well as other expats who are living in your new country.
Got travel insurance? Don’t dwell on what could go wrong. Opt for World Nomads travel insurance and save potentially thousands.
Now that you have an idea of how to move to another country, it is time to get started! The sooner you start planning, the easier the process will be. Good luck!
If you’re considering moving to another country, this blog post should give you enough information and resources that will help make your transition as easy as possible. I hope this guide on how to move to another country was helpful. Good luck with your new life in a new city!
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There’s so much great information in this post! I moved abroad to Ireland from the US in 2020, and I loved your suggestion that people reach out to other expats in their new home. A little over a year after my move, I started reaching out to other Americans–it was really helpful to connect with them.
I also joined an Ireland immigration group on Facebook, and it’s been incredibly helpful. I’ve gotten quick, detailed answers to many of my immigration-related questions there!