The Uncomfortable Truth: Some People are Not Ready to Move Abroad

Let's address the elephant in the room. Mindset is key when considering a move abroad. People motivated by a desire to escape something are often less successful at assimilating into their new life than those who are running towards a new opportunity or experience, regardless of whether they are expats or immigrants. Speaking of, it’s important to know the difference: An expat typically plans to return to their home country eventually, usually moving abroad for education or a work opportunity, while an immigrant is someone who intends to make a more permanent move.

Social media can inspire a feeling of wanderlust, showcasing idyllic scenes of life abroad, but it's crucial not to let your head get stuck in the clouds. Being realistic about what moving abroad truly entails will help keep you grounded and determine whether your motivations are genuine or if you're simply trying to outrun a problem. 

Here's our list of top things to keep in mind when considering your move abroad:

Expectations for Bureaucracy: 

Prepare for a frustrating and often slow bureaucratic process, conducted in a different language. Laws can be applied differently by local officials, so adaptability is essential. This can involve lengthy waits for appointments, complex paperwork, and a need for persistence and patience to navigate the system effectively. 

Go into appointments over-prepared and with the expectation that you may not be successful on the first try. Be kind, but be persistent. This is where doing the research beforehand truly makes the difference. And where we shine with our local immigration experts, Carla and Alonzo, who make Italian bureaucracy look like child's play.  

Expenses: 

Moving abroad is a significant financial investment. Beyond initial travel and housing, consider costs for shipping luggage, professional assistance (e.g., tax advisors, immigration consultants), setting up a new home, and even purchasing new electronics with correct voltage. Don't forget potential costs for pet vaccinations and passports. 

Moving abroad is full of unexpected expenses. Consider that it can be more costly to ship old clothing than to simply replace them with new pieces. Keep in mind that climate, culture, and potential weight loss and body changes after your move will be contributing factors in your wardrobe.

Banking and Managing Finances: 

Most European banks have monthly fees, which can be a new consideration for those accustomed to free banking. Americans, in particular, may face restrictions when setting up bank accounts due to U.S. tax regulations, and many banks may be reluctant to handle the additional administrative work involved, making the process more challenging.

Learning the Language: 

Language is often the biggest barrier. While apps are useful for vocabulary, they are limited for teaching true conversational fluency. Investing in a private teacher can be invaluable for navigating daily life, from making healthcare appointments to visiting the hairdresser or vet, as it provides the practical skills needed for real-world interactions. Language isn’t just about getting things done, it’s also about making connections and finding your place within your new community.

Social Life: 

Building a new social circle can be challenging. Seek out expat or immigrant-friendly communities to connect with others who understand your experiences. 

Also, manage expectations with friends and family back home; they may not fully understand your experiences. It’s not uncommon for those you left behind to express disinterest in your new life, no matter if your experiences are positive or negative. You may even find yourself experiencing "survivor's guilt".

Timing: 

We completely understand that you want to move NOW. But moving abroad takes time. Getting ready for your move is a process and spending your time to do the research and preparing before you move is crucial to your eventual success. 

Settling in and assimilating is its own lengthy journey. There's no fast track to feeling at home in a new country, even if your stay is temporary. It's a gradual process that requires patience and perseverance.

Driving: 

Research local driving regulations thoroughly. International Driving Permits (IDPs) have limited validity (e.g., Spain for 6 months, Italy for 12 months). Driving tests in Italy are not available in English, and Spanish written tests can have poor English translations, adding to the difficulty. Be aware that if you take an automatic driving test, you may only be permitted to drive automatic vehicles, which can limit your options.

Go in with your eyes open, do your research thoroughly, and create a game plan for when things inevitably go wrong. Find someone to be your backup—whether it's a local friend or family member, a translator, or a professional agency. None of these challenges will stop you from moving abroad, but by being realistic and prepared, you will set yourself up for success.