Making the move to another country is a challenge for anyone, no matter how brave and determined you are. While it can be an exciting time in your life, it will also be a taxing one. The various difficulties can make living in another country frustrating at times. Before you make such a big decision, it’s important to understand the challenges of moving to a new country.
Related Read: Have a Goal for Moving to a New Country
Challenges of Moving to a New Country
1. Language barrier
If you are already fluent in the language of the area you are moving to, that’s awesome! However, you may have to learn a whole new language if you want to make it in a new country. This can take a great deal of time and effort on your part.
2. Currency exchange
Different countries come with different currencies. If you are not familiar with the currency you will be forced to use, it may be difficult purchasing and paying for your needs and wants. Lack of currency knowledge also makes it easier to be taken advantage of.
3. Homesickness
Moving to a new country is exciting. However, the challenges you will face can make you feel homesick rather quickly. You’re used to being around friends, family, and familiar places, but now you are thrown into a whole new ballgame. It’s very easy to let homesickness take over when you are struggling to find your way in a new country.
4. Culture shock
Depending on where you move, you may end up experiencing a great deal of culture shock. You’re in a whole new atmosphere, surrounded by different customs and backgrounds. What has been normal for you is suddenly not normal in your new home. Culture shock can make any movement difficult, especially when it is to another country.
Related Read: 2 Hacks for Moving to a New Country
5. Making new friends
A fresh start in a new country may be just the thing the doctor ordered! However, it also means leaving your friends behind. Sure, you can keep in touch via social media, but it’s not the same as being able to pop in or meet up! You’ll have the challenges of making new friends to face when you move abroad. Add the stress of the language barrier, and this can be a very frustrating issue for many.
6. The paperwork
There will be plenty of paperwork involved when you move to another country. This may include various visas, passports, identification, and more. A migration agent in Melbourne will be able to help you put together any visas you may need before you make the move. Just remember to have your paperwork and ID updated and ready before making the move.
Related Read: Have a To-Do List for Moving to a New Country (Will Save Your Life)
7. Finding work
If you aren’t moving abroad for a new job, you’ll be faced with finding one when you get there. When you don’t know anyone in your new area, you may have a more difficult time finding employment. It’s important to have at least three months’ worth of savings to use if you don’t have a job set up when you get to your new home.
8. Financial difficulties
No matter how carefully you budget, a move will usually cost more than you think. Financial difficulties are a common problem for those that move to a different country, especially if they don’t quite understand the currency exchange. Again, make sure you have money in your savings account to fall back on before you go. It’s also a good idea to have a couple of credit cards ready for emergencies.
9. Getting around
When you move somewhere new, you may not know the transportation system very well. How do you get a taxi? Are there bus routes near you? How do you pay for public transportation? It may be frustrating to try and figure out how you will get around, particularly if you don’t have a vehicle of your own. If you do own some type of transportation, you will also have the added stress of moving it to a new country.
10. Relationship strains
A move abroad can put a strain on even the most secure relationships. It’s normal to feel stressed out and overwhelmed at this point, which will easily put a strain on every member of your family. Relationship issues are common when a big move like this occurs, so be prepared for some rocky times ahead of you both.
By: Matt McGratch
About the Author:
Matt McGrath is an avid traveler and a prominent writer in the blogging community. He has been to more than 50 countries. While he loves discovering new cultures and adventures, he is also passionate about sharing practical tips to his followers. If you love to travel and adventure, we recommend that you read and follow all his articles! More about him on his website.
