10 Things to Consider Before Migrating
There are people, especially those who can afford to travel from country to country in search of one where they can settle and call it as their “home”, their personal sanctuary. Deciding to move to a new country, whether it is for retirement, work or lifestyle, is often the result of having had several vacations in the area or is based on a good review in a travel magazine or on T.V.
However, travelling and deciding to permanently move into a country, regardless of how long you’ve spent your time there, are two different things as actually living there can often be based on an idealized vision that can’t be always true.
So before you sell your belongings, here are things to consider before deciding to migrate to a different country:
- Family and Friends
Keep in mind that when you move to another country, you would, in most cases, be far away from your family and friends, so think about how close you are to them and if you can really “leave” them behind in order to start a new life in a different country. This is one of the most, if not the most, important thing to consider since there will come a time that you may miss them.
On the plus side, it is always great to gain new friends and you won’t necessarily have to forget the old ones. It would just make your circle bigger and that would be just as exciting. Picture having your friends visit you at your new home and introducing them to your new friends—that could be something to look forward to. Also, the internet has given an opportunity to get in touch with people regardless of distance so you won’t really have to be “far away” from them.
- Language
Another important factor to consider is the language used. If the native language of the country you are considering is not English, determine how well you understand the language. Do you know the basics enough to cope with an emergency or could you make small talk at a party?
However, it is always fun to learn new languages although it would take time and a lot of getting used to, but it isn’t impossible. Also, English is a universal language, so for sure you are bound to find someone who can understand you even when you are in a country where English is not the native tongue.
- Culture
Keep in mind that every country has their own unique culture and their way of doing things that can be different from what you are used to. The way people interact when shopping, working, doing business, in social settings, etc, can be different from country to country. Also, there would be traditions that, in most cases, you would have to follow as well; therefore, you have to consider if you can adapt to these new customs.
However, similar to languages, it is also exciting to learn new cultures from different countries although it would require a lot of time getting used to it. Most natives of different countries are helpful enough to teach foreigners so, even if it can be hard, it is still possible.
- Financial
It is important to know the cost of living in the country you are considering so you would have an idea how much budget you would need as you start off your new life so it is important to research on this first before moving. There are a lot of forums and other websites that have informative contents on cost of livings in countries so it is best to check that out first before moving.
- Employment
Do you have the skills, talents or legal abilities required to work in your designated country? There are issues in some countries where you are allowed to work or not which is why it is important to consider this. There are jobs that will require work visas or permanent resident statuses for the country so it is best to do proper research first.
Luckily, there are jobs that you can do from anywhere in the world where the internet can be accessed through online jobs such as web content writing, online marketing or web developing and designing. You can do this first while waiting to have a permanent resident status in the country in order to get an office-based job if you want to.
- Lodging
Have you already considered your lodging? Do you have an eye on a certain home or have you purchased one already? Or can you temporarily stay at a friend’s house? It is important to browse through homes before completely immigrating to another country—after all, you wouldn’t want to spend months in a hotel room as this would increase expenses.
Before moving out, make sure that you already have somewhere to go. Research on houses by typing in specific and clear keywords such as “homes for sale in Calgary” or “Calgary home listings”, for example, so you can easily find credible results.
- Lifestyle
Do you have a certain ritual or lifestyle that you do such as visiting museums, eating out, watching movies or television programs at home? It is important to know if the country you are considering can suffice the certain lifestyle that you are used to.
However, there are countries that could give you a different ritual and even better than what you do. In Calgary, at Alberta Canada, for example, there are tons of activities such as horseback riding that you can do. The hills there are perfect for hiking and biking any day you want so this can add to your lifestyle if you are willing.
- Shopping
It is important that you have access to shopping areas where you can buy all the necessities and more without having to travel too far. Also consider if the selection of goods and services that you have become familiar with are available or if they have some alternatives for them. Most countries do, so shopping may not be that much of a problem but this is still something to consider.
- Amenities and Facilities
Consider the amenities available in the country if you are used to a certain standard of living. Are roads well maintained and cleared after every snowfall? Is there a consistent supply of electricity? Are services completed at a reasonable time? These are things that you should consider if you are used to live in a certain way. Also make sure that you are close to important facilities such as medical clinics, shopping areas, schools and the likes.
- Emergency Return
There may come a time when you have to return to your native country such as a family emergency so it is important to consider if this would be stressful or a hassle to you as it would cost a lot of time and effort for you to do so.
Ultimately, immigration is an exciting endeavor as it would mean a new world and a new life to start. The bottom line is that you should be flexible in order to successfully do this and you should be willing to adapt with whatever will come your way if a situation demands it. If you can do this, it would be easier and enjoyable for you to live in another country.