So, you’ve relocated to a new country, whether for work or for play and now you don’t really know what to do next! Moving abroad can be quite stressful so it is quite common to feel a little lost when you first arrive – after all, finding the right routine and getting a handle on the flow of a new environment can be a little tricky.
There are lots of tips out there for when you first relocate, and we’ve summarised them into eight key points here. Take a look below to find out what you should do when you move to a new country.
Find accommodation
You may have booked a hotel or a hostel for your first week abroad, or maybe you’re in an Airbnb the first month, but after that you’re going to need somewhere more permanent to live.
Once you’re on the ground, it is easy to get in contact with local estate agents to find a new place to rent or buy. If you’re one of the lucky ones and your accommodation has already been sorted out, ensure you have all of the correct details so you can move in and feel at home quickly.
Sort out your transportation methods
Now you’ve settled, you’re going to need to find a way to move around. Check out local public transport systems and see if there is a way to use them cheaply. You could also find the numbers for local taxi firms as well as routes on foot that are safe and quick.
Some people may choose to move their own cars aboard with companies like a1autotransport.com, and if so, you should look up local road rules so as not to get caught out when driving.
Get a phone sorted
When you land, you may find your own phone suddenly becomes very expensive and so, getting a local contract will be easier and cheaper for communication. The sooner you can do this, the better, so you can stay in contact with others, and you have a way of getting help!
Register with immigration
This could be very important for your visa and is a good way of finding your embassy. Ensure you register with immigration in a timely manner so that they know you’re there!
Open a bank account
Opening a local bank account gives you a way to get paid while working in your new country and it can help when it comes to renting accommodation. As soon as you can, you should open a bank account with a local branch.
Get health insurance
Though you should probably get health insurance before you travel, if you haven’t, get it when you arrive. Some countries charge extortionate prices for healthcare, and you don’t want to get injured and have to find out!
Before travelling, you could look up whether your country has any agreements with your destination country regarding health insurance. For example, there are different health insurance options when it comes to countries in the EU which are covered by European Health Insurance cards.
Start with easy phrases in your new language
You could start learning key phrases before you leave for your new country to get a head start with the new language. Once there, continue to build up the language, starting with phrases you’re definitely going to need.
There are tons of apps and online videos to help with language learning and you could also find a local language school or a tutor to help you progress.
Find a good supermarket
And finally, make sure you can eat! Finding a good supermarket that is close to where you live and stocks foods you enjoy is imperative when you first arrive! You could even try and find a store that offers foods from your home country for when you’re feeling homesick.
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