Moving Countries? Here’s What to Keep in Mind Before and After the Big Leap

Relocating to a new country is exciting — and overwhelming. Between packing up your life and settling into a new one, there’s a lot that gets missed in checklists. Having been through this journey myself, here’s a guide that blends practical advice with a few emotional truths that often go unsaid.

Before You Leave Your Resident Country

• Put your house(s) on rent: Choose a reliable agent with reasonable fees and great service. This passive income can be a cushion in your early days abroad.

• Sell or donate furniture: Less is more. I found Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree to be great for quick sales or community donations.

• Book your air tickets early: Avoid last-minute costs and make use of airline relocation offers if available.

• Choose the right logistics partner: If you’re shipping furniture, pick a partner who’s trusted and efficient. We went with Crown Relocations — and it saved us a lot of hassle on the other side.

• Soak in the people, not just the places: Spend time with family and friends. Those memories matter — especially when the loneliness of a new life sets in.

• Transfer money wisely: Research the best currency transfer services with good rates and minimal fees. It adds up.

• Book a temporary stay: An Airbnb or a friend’s place for the first two weeks gives you time to explore neighborhoods before locking in a long-term rental.

After You Land

• Find a rental home: Explore your options, understand lease terms, and choose a location based on access to public transport, schools, or work.

• Buy or lease a car: If you lack a credit history in your new country, leasing might be easier initially.

• Sort out identification: Apply for a local driver’s license, social security number (in the US), and relevant ID cards.

• Build your credit: Nova Credit is one way to leverage your international credit history in the US. Start early.

• Support your kids’ transition: They’ve had their world turned upside down too. Be patient, create routines, and help them settle socially and emotionally.

A Few Months In

• Switch to a savings account: Now that you're earning locally, find a high-interest savings account to make your money work.

• Explore your new home: Travel locally. Be a tourist in your new country — it makes settling in more joyful.

• Document your journey: Write it down. You’ll be surprised at how beautiful and honest those early reflections feel years later.

• Reclaim your fitness or hobby: You’ve likely been running on adrenaline for months. Now’s the time to move your body again — run, join a sport, or just walk often.

Final Thoughts

Moving countries isn’t just a logistics exercise — it’s a mental reset. Be kind to yourself. Everything won’t go to plan, and that’s okay.You’re not just changing cities — you’re changing versions of yourself.