5 things to do before moving abroad

Have you just found the reason to move abroad?

Whether for a job opportunity, an Erasmus, a language course, an exchange, or a Master’s, you are finally going to discover a whole new life and culture. Moving abroad is not for everyone, but everyone should do it once in their life. It is one of the most challenging experiences you might live and, at the same time, the best thing it can happen to you.

But what about the process of moving abroad?

Well, if you don’t know where to start, here are five things you should think about before relocating abroad and start your new life:

Decide if living alone or in a shared flat
Consider your budget
Check your visa and documents obligations
Think about your healthcare
Don’t forget to turn off your brain!

1. Decide if living alone or in a shared flat

One of the most important things you need to think about before moving abroad is whether you want to live alone or in a shared flat. Rooms’ prices in shared flats in Europe range between €250 and €800, depending on the country, the city area, and many other aspects. For instance, in Madrid, to live in the outskirts of the city, you might find some options around €250/€300, but to live in the center, the price increases to a minimum of €400/€450 per month.

Also, consider that sharing a flat allows you to know people with different nationalities and cultures. If you are moving abroad to learn a new language, the best way to do it is surely sharing a flat with other people. This not only allows you to open your mind, but you will never be alone in case of necessity. There will always be someone with whom to talk. However, if you prefer to live by yourself, you can always know people by participating in local communities, but expect the average rent to be way higher.

2. Consider your budget

Your budget is an essential parameter when planning to move to a foreign country. Depending on it, you will have to adapt your way of living. If you didn’t save enough money, you will have to set a monthly amount you can spend. And, if you know nothing about the cost of living in that city, you will never know what you will be able to afford.

Always try to research information about:

Cost of living – such as food, drinks, supermarkets, restaurants, public transports.
Cost of flats and rooms
Rent expenses – rental agencies fees, deposit, utilities.

3. Know your visa and documents obligations

First of all, check the validity of your documents (both passport and ID card). It is always convenient to bring two Identification Documents in case you lose one for any reason (and we hope it does not happen!).

Also, when moving abroad, it is important to be aware of any documentation requirements to avoid problems during your stay. If you are a non-EU citizen, contact the nearest Embassy of the country you are moving in to determine if you will need a visa or not. Then, check with them the next steps you will need to do once arrived in your new country. If you are an EU citizen, check if you will have to do a local registration within 90 days from your arrival. You can always ask your embassy which documents you require.

4. Think about your healthcare

Especially in this particular period, it is important to understand what to do if something was to happen. In order to get ready for your next move abroad, take into consideration:

Your medications: if you take specific medications regularly, visit your family doctor to renew your prescriptions. You might not find the same medication in your destination city. However, if you know the active ingredient contained in your medicines, you will easily find substitutes.
The Healthcare System of your destination country: each country has its own requirements to provide nationalized care. Pay attention not to assume you will be automatically covered by a country national health system. If you are a non-EU citizen moving to an EU country, it is highly likely you will need to get a healthcare insurance to be allowed to enter the country.

5. Don’t forget to turn off your brain!

Exactly, you read well. Do not forget to turn off your brain. You are going through an important moment, but remember to take a break. Your brain needs to relax to be fresh to face this new adventure abroad.

Now, spend time with your family and friends and enjoy your days with your beloved. You just reviewed with us the things you had to check.

Relax, enjoy your time and prepare yourself to live the most beautiful experience of your life!

Always remember that if you are moving to Madrid or Milan and you need support with your situation, we are here for you!

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