Where Will YOU Go? – Moving Abroad
You’ve decided that moving abroad is for you. You have an idea of how you might do that, but now you find yourself wondering…where. Where will you go? How will you choose? Where will you learn about different places, places you’ve never been?
This page is here to help you learn about where to go to learn about a place, provide you with some starter resources for your research, and factors you might want to consider as you choose your new location. Let’s start with a few important factors you may want to consider.
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Factors to Consider
As you consider different cities or countries to move to, there are several major factors that need to be taken into consideration before you move abroad. We’ll detail these major factors briefly to help you prepare for your move.
Interests
First and foremost, when you decide where you might like to go when becoming an expat, what interests you? Are you curious about Vietnamese cuisine? Do you have a passion for Japanese woodblock art? What about medieval castles and history? Perhaps you want to hike through the Andes or drink tea in the Mediterranean? Your interests, food preferences, and social life requirements will all play a role in where you choose to move abroad and settle as an expat.
Researching New Locales
Research is essential before moving to a new place. You should read about the culture, lifestyles, healthcare availability, and everything else. Many will say you NEED to visit a place before moving there, but we do not find that to be true. Would it be helpful to visit a place before moving there? Absolutely, but it’s not always possible, and from our experience, moving to a place without having visited can be an exciting experience.
When it comes to researching a country or city, there are plenty of resources available.
- Lonely Planet – A staple in the travel community, Lonely Planet has published travel guides, first in print, now online, for many years. They provide more formal information about sites to see, restaurants, places to stay, etc.
- Reddit – Reddit can be a terrific source of information. There are subreddits for nearly every country (likely every single one) as well as every major city. There are subs for general travel, shoestring travel, and expats (plus many more, including country or city-specific subs). These subreddits consist of people native to these places, expatriates who’ve moved there, people who travel or frequently visit, or people like yourself – looking for information.
- Tales Mag—This site offers reviews of different countries and cities, focusing on those moving abroad rather than simply traveling. The reviews include more detail, such as cost of living, schools, healthcare information, etc. Anyone can review, but many posts are made by US embassy/consulate families, so they may have certain views or lifestyle options that those of us not working for the US Government may not have access to.
- Expat.com—This is a great place to get basic information about different countries and moving abroad. Its information is specifically geared towards expats, so you’ll find information about healthcare, housing, getting around, etc. We don’t recommend using its financial services (we recommend speaking to someone in your home country), and its selling services have mixed reviews.
Age
When moving abroad, your age is one of the most important factors to consider as you look at new countries to live in. Some countries have visa restrictions depending on your age. Sometimes, restrictions change from year to year or even month to month. As we’ll see later. (and as we all almost certainly know), age also plays a role in many other factors, such as family and healthcare.
Visa restrictions can vary from place to place but many have them set in a range from the age of 55 to 65 for work visas. Some countries do not have age restrictions and allow people to work up to virtually any age at all. As you get older (unfortunately we all do) and want to work abroad, visa age restrictions are an important factor to consider.
Along with visa restrictions, as we get older our health also becomes, oftentimes, a greater issue. You may need specific medical care or access to certain medications that might not be in every country. Researching medical care, access, and medication in a prospective country is valuable information to have.
Lastly, depending on your age, you may be close to retirement. When moving abroad, you’ll need to think about your financial goals. Will you still be able to save and invest? If you’re retired, will you be able to draw from your retirement accounts? Not every country or account allows for this.
These are just a few factors to consider as you look to move abroad as you get up there in years.
Cost of Living
The cost of living plays an oversized factor in deciding where to live. This applies to whether you choose to live abroad or even within your home country. Some key questions to ask yourself are:
- Will you be able to afford a lifestyle you enjoy?
- Can you afford housing if it isn’t covered by an employer?
- What is the cost of basic household goods and everyday expenses such as gas or public transportation?
- Will you need to pay local taxes?
- Will you make enough to save for emergencies or retirement?
- Will you make enough to send back to your home country for any obligations there?
- Can I afford to go home easily if need be?
This is just a start to some of the questions to ask yourself as you consider moving to a new country. Some of the sites listed above are great places to start learning about a city’s cost of living. You may also want to check out cost of living calculators such as:
These calculators aren’t 100% accurate as they do rely almost solely on user data input. They are, however, a great jumping-off point to give you an idea of what your day-to-day expenses might cost you.
Final Thoughts on Finances
If you are moving abroad with a secured job, speak with your employer about potential savings. Also, ask to speak with employees already there to discuss the cost of living, savings, housing, etc. If you are planning on working independently or as a remote worker, make sure you will have enough to cover costs in the country and back home.
No matter the situation, knowing your finances and how to manage them is crucial to the success of your move abroad! To learn more about expat finances, visit our Taxes for Expats and Finances for Expats pages. Do remember, however, that we are not finance professionals, and we recommend speaking with an experienced professional before making any decisions.
Lifestyle
Moving abroad often means adjusting your lifestyle, at least from what you are used to. The location of your new country and city can have a big impact on how you live your life or want to live your life.
Prior to moving abroad, it is highly important to make sure a country is LGBTQ+ friendly. Not all places are tolerant of this, and depending on the location, you could risk danger and/or imprisonment. Google is your friend here as you research human rights.
What about if you’re single? Are you married? Is it a partner/significant other but are not married? Do you have children? All of these ideas should play a role in helping you choose your next location. If you want somewhere outdoorsy or calmer, then Bangkok might not be for you. If you are looking to go out all the time and grab a drink, then maybe certain places in the Middle East might not be your first choice.
Be mindful, too, that some countries are stricter with dependent visas. If your partner has a job lined up in a new country and you aren’t married, you may not qualify to join them in that posting. Are you willing to get married or turn down the offer? Often, situations such as these are out of the hands of a potential employer and are dealt with at the federal level of a country.
Another factor is food. Most countries cater to meat eaters and vegetarians alike. Yet, depending on location, meat-free options may not be as readily available (or more so!). Being a vegan would be trickier yet, but none of these are impossible! As you move to a new country, you can find grocery stores that have what you need. They may be different items than you are used to, but fitting your dietary lifestyle can be done!
All of these are factors you need to consider as you look to move to a new country. Making sure you are happy and have a healthy life outside of work is important for enjoying your new home and making sure you don’t hit stage 2 of culture shock too often!
Professional – Your Job & Moving Abroad
When moving abroad, you may also need to make sure you are working and can support yourself financially. If you are taking time off to travel or using savings, dividends, etc., then great, you skip this section!
For many future expats, however, making sure they have income available is an extremely important consideration. Many expats, those who remain abroad, usually have some form of self-sustaining way of living in a new country prior to moving. This could be a transfer request through a current employer. You may search for jobs in other countries and get hired. Perhaps you run a business/work remotely that allows you to live where you would like.
As living full-time in a new country often has restrictions as a non-citizen or resident, your employment usually plays a significant role. Many countries require work visas, which your employer may provide. If you run your own business or work remotely, you may be able to secure a digital nomad visa.
Unless you’re confident in your ability to be self-sufficient without having a steady stream of income (savings, dividends, retirement, etc.), then making sure you have that source is important. Check out our Ways To Become an Expat Page for opportunities on how you can transition into an expat position.
Children
If you decide to move to a new country and have children in tow, how will you decide what is best for them? As with everything on this page, several factors must be considered when moving your children around the world.
Schooling – Local vs. Private
Children are generally expected to attend school, which can impact where you might want to move or what kind of school you’ll want them to attend.
Will your child be able to attend a local public school? Is it in a language they understand, and if not, is there support for them to learn? Do you want them in a public school in that country?
There are many international schools around the world that cater to expatriates, but they are not always easy to get into and are very rarely cheap. Can you afford private school tuition, or does an employer pay for it? Top-tier private schools around the world can run as much as $25,000 – 30,000 (USD) per child.
Public schools can be an option, but it would be highly dependent on the country. For some countries, the local public school systems are vastly different and would be incredibly difficult to get used to without even considering language. When factoring in language, it can be even more difficult for a child to assimilate. However, in other countries, you might feel your child could easily fit into the local system, which can be great and affordable!
Athletics
Another factor related to schooling is that of athletics. For those coming from the US especially, many countries do not offer the same level or amount of athletics through school as are available in the US. There are often plenty of clubs available, but at an extra cost with differing calendars. Many international schools do offer athletics, but with far less competition and enthusiasm as those back in the U.S. If your child is interested in playing sports (especially baseball or American football), there may be fewer opportunities for them to do so abroad.
Language
One of the biggest benefits of schooling is the social-emotional aspect, an opportunity for children of all ages to engage with their peers and learn to navigate the world around them as they interact with others their own age. Language can be either a boon or a detriment in this area.
If a child doesn’t speak the local language, it can be more difficult for them to engage socially which can lead to a myriad of other problems, both academic and social. Younger children tend to adapt much quicker in this area as older children have a stronger sense of self and what they hope to get out of a place or a school.
However, on the other end of the language spectrum is learning, new friends, and a new culture. Children who move abroad with their parents and opt to learn a new language often find themselves becoming more immersed in the local culture and having an easier time making friends.
Friends & Family
For those going abroad who have done so before, they know that friends and (especially) family back at home can be one of the biggest arguments (and guilt trips) for staying. Maybe you want your child to grow up with grandma and grandpa around. Perhaps they are already great friends with a cousin or have an amazing group of friends. Whatever the case may be, you need to consider what it means to your family, to your children, and to you to possibly move thousands of miles away.
Medical
As we’ll discuss in more detail in the next section, available healthcare for your child (as well as yourself) is an extremely important element of deciding where to go. If there is an emergency, can you get the care you need immediately for your child? Do they perhaps already require specific types of doctors or treatments that may or may not be available in every country? Researching ease of access to healthcare is important for every potential expat.
Final Thoughts On Moving with Children
These are just a few of the questions to ask yourself about your children as you embark on a new journey in a new country. Your children are likely the most important part of your life, and you’ll want them to be happy and comfortable wherever you choose. If they are old enough, it might also be worth including them in the discussion.
Healthcare
Healthcare, depending on age and dependents, is certainly something to consider, but in reality, it’s an important consideration for every single person moving abroad, even if they’re a picture of health.
Insurance
Before even leaving and thinking about the healthcare aspect of a new country, you’ll need to know more about insurance. While there is a number of different countries providing insurance for travel, full-time insurance for expatriates is another ballgame.
Will your insurance from your home country cover you abroad? Does an employer provide insurance? Will any insurance you have require co-pays or reimbursements? Will it work worldwide or only in a select few countries? Making sure you are covered can take a few different paths.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can provide all the necessary coverage you might need for a non-permanent move abroad. It can provide both medical and travel coverage. Medical coverage can include emergencies, basic doctor visits, and even events such as evacuation. Travel insurance can provide you with refunds for canceled flights, lost luggage, illnesses, and other travel-related items. Again, this is a great option if you are just traveling, generally for 30 or fewer days. We offer a more in-depth look at travel insurance for those planning a nice trip.
Medical Insurance
This is the tricky one, the one of which expats need to be mindful. If you are moving abroad as part of a company hire, transfer, or working for a foreign employer, then the assumption is that insurance is a part of your package. However, if you are looking to be a nomad or your employer does not offer insurance, let’s take a look at a few major options you have. Remember, these are actual medical insurance providers, not travel insurance.
- Cigna: Cigna is a major worldwide insurer that will offer medical insurance as you would normally use in your home country. They have a very detailed guide covering their different international insurance plans. You can also request a free quote, though be mindful that cost will be dependent on different factors (age, health, etc.).
- BUPA (BlueCross Blue Shield): Like Cigna, BUPA is a full medical insurance provider that will work as if you are in your home country. BUPA operates through local insurance companies that vary from country to country. By visiting their site, you can see what coverage is available by country (and who the local provider is). BCBS is a good healthcare provider in the US, but it is recommended that you call and discuss your options with an agent.
- Allianz: Allianz is a common company to see offering travel insurance when you purchase your tickets, but they also offer comprehensive worldwide health insurance. They have several different plans available and add-ons to choose from, though the US is not included in their care. Call to request a quote and see compare their packages.
- United Healthcare: Another major insurance carrier, United Healthcare (UHC), offers both individual travel insurance (as you might find through other companies), short-term assignment coverage (as defined by UHC as six months or less), and long-term insurance. Long-term being for those who intend to live outside their home country for a longer significant period of time.
- Safety Wing (Nomad Insurance): Safety Wing is a cross between travel insurance and full-on medical coverage. Unlike travel insurance, with Safety Wing, you can get coverage for up to 1 year as long as you are under the age of 69. It is not, however, full medical coverage and only covers certain costs in your home country. Per Safety Wing’s FAQs
- “Nomad Insurance provides coverage for unexpected illness or injury, including eligible expenses for hospital, doctor, or prescription drugs. This means that if you get ill or injured, we will cover eligible medical expenses.”
- “It provides this coverage for those traveling outside their home country. It does not cover routine checkups and preventative care. In addition, it provides emergency travel-related benefits such as evacuation from local unrest, unplanned overnight stay, and lost checked luggage.”
- Please note we are a SafetyWing Affiliate and earn a small commission should you choose to purchase their product. It comes as no extra cost to you.
- InsureMyTrip: Unlike others on this list, Insure My Trip simply offers a comparison tool for insurance for traveling and moving abroad. you can search by evacuation, Schengen, comprehensive, and more. It’s been mentioned in the New York Times, Washington Post, and more. We have not used it personally, but it comes highly recommended.
- Medjet: Medjet specializes in evacuation and does not offer plans, but rather memberships that allow for different options. With Medjet you can get covered for evacuation by air to the United States and includes services such as shipping of mortal remains and medical cash advances (depending on the plan).
- NHS: If you happen to live in the United Kingdom, you may have a few more options for your healthcare depending on where you go and/or why. The National Health System is designed for UK residents, but for those looking to permanently move abroad, purchasing your own healthcare plan is likely the best option.
- The NHS does have specific guidelines for NHS Residency within the EU and other European Countries: NHS Moving Abroad
Many younger people assume they will not need healthcare or that healthcare will be cheaper wherever they travel or live. While this is perhaps true, especially if you are leaving the US, having health insurance is the smart option. Healthcare quality will differ from country to country, so being able to count on the best care available is important for those situations when you least expect it.
Prescription Medication
Healthcare aside, as you move abroad, you will need to consider any prescription medications you need. Not every over-the-counter (OTC) drug is over-the-counter in every place. For example, Allegra (allergy medication) is an OTC in the United States, but not in Europe.
When moving abroad, speak with your employer or healthcare provider about the options available to you in your new home. It may mean stocking up in your home country and taking 3-6 months’ worth of medication with you to ensure it is available.
Also, make sure to research more significant medications. Some treatments, such as cancer treatments, may not be readily available or covered under all insurance plans.
Final Thoughts on Insurance & Moving Abroad
Horror stories abound in the US of those waiting in ERs or opting for an Uber over an ambulance. Having a solid medical plan helps to negate those worries and costs. And as you are living in a new country, it can be even more stressful as you may not speak the language, procedures may be done differently than what you are accustomed to, or you may simply be ushered in and have things done with little to no explanation.
No matter the case, having health insurance helps to mitigate your worries so you can focus on what’s important. Whether that is travel insurance for a short-term trip, or full-medical coverage planned for moving abroad. Either way, insurance is something you and your family will want.
Accessibility
Accessibility has several meanings here:
- How easily accessible is the country for your friends and family should they want to visit?
- Will you be able to return home easily in the event of an emergency?
- If you use (or need to use) a wheelchair or something similar, is mobility going to be an issue?
Visiting Family & Friends
some locations are easier to access than others. If you would like to invite friends and family to visit you (you should!) need to think about accessibility. Consider flight times and routes to new countries, as they can be daunting for new or older travelers. You should also consider visa restrictions. Are tourist visas available? Will a visa agent be necessary in order to procure a visa, or can you help your friends get a visa ahead of time or on arrival?
All of these are small but important considerations if you hope to have family and friends come to visit. Having people visit is not just fun but a great way to help dispel any fears your loved ones back home might have about your new location.
Leaving family and friends can be difficult, though. For some expats like us, it means leaving behind our parents. Dealing with guilt for leaving people behind is a very real experience for many expats. We also cover how we handle leaving parents back home.
Your Travels & Emergencies
Aside from the possibility of friends and family coming to visit you, you should consider how easily you will be able to travel. If your goal is to travel frequently, then look for cities with large international airports or a city in close proximity to other places. For example, Dubai is a large city with a world-renowned airport, flights to all over the world, and a location that makes Asia, Africa, and Europe all relatively short flights.
You should also be aware of the travel time back home in case of an emergency. Whether it’s a medical emergency, a death in the family, or anything else, knowing your route home and the time it takes is also something to keep an eye on. One downside of living abroad is the likelihood of missing major events back home. Some, however, are not worth missing, and knowing how to make it back quickly (and affordably) are important considerations in your new move.
Mobility
Lastly, if you need a walker, wheelchair, or any other item to help with mobility, thorough research is needed before a big move. Not every country or city does well in catering to those with different needs. Ramps and elevators may not be mandatory in all places. Or they may be, but the law isn’t enforced. Using our resources above can help you get started in learning how a new city or country treats someone who might need help with mobility.
Pets and Moving Abroad
Pets are part of the family. For most people, there is no question about this. Yet, moving a pet to a new country rarely has such an easy answer.
When moving abroad, your pets may or may not come with you. Many countries have strict restrictions on imported pets. Australia, for example, will require your pet to be quarantined upon arrival for a certain number of days. This is all dependent on where you are bringing your animal from. If you are moving from a non-approved list, they will not accept the animal, and it must first transit (and spend time in) an approved country. The US is quite similar in that it will not accept pets from current “high-risk” countries, otherwise there are still strict procedures that need to be followed.
Even if you can bring a pet, it can be traumatizing (and possibly dangerous) for the pet as they may have to travel alone and/or in cargo. It can also be extremely expensive and time-consuming. Shipping a pet to a new country can easily run you upwards of $5,000. So what will you do if you can’t or don’t decide to bring your pet? Will you leave them with a family member? Or will you give them up for adoption? Either way, it’s good practice to leave your pet with someone who will love and care for the animal.
If you have a pet, moving abroad requires very careful research. Depending on the size and age of your pet, you may be able to get them certified as an emotional support animal, or they may be small enough to carry on board with you. Whatever the case may be, this topic requires significant research to care for your furry family members.
So You’re Moving Abroad…Final Thoughts
Moving abroad is an extremely rewarding experience. It can lead to new experiences, and a different mindset, and helps us to learn to be more tolerant and open-minded. It does, however, also come with many complications and factors that you will need to consider.
Those above are just a few of the major factors you’ll need to think about as you plan to move to a new country. There are others that you will certainly come across as you begin this new journey. But as with all things in life, remember to be flexible and keep an open mind. By doing this you can prepare yourself for the journey of a lifetime!