When relocating to a foreign country there are many factors one must consider in order to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible. From researching the area and understanding how local laws work, to learning the language and organising your finances before you leave, there are many ways to increase the likelihood of an amazing experience. And, in lieu of 20/20 foresight, a selection of Lloyds TSB International customers residing all over the world have brought the benefit of hindsight to others considering moving abroad with essential advice on relocating to another country.
It may seem obvious, but thoroughly researching the country you intend to move to is vital, not only to ensure you like the area, but also for the specifics of day-to-day living that are often taken for granted. Andy Hunt, ex-professional footballer and current adventure company owner in Belize, advises that getting to know the area you intend to move to stretches far beyond a few weeks holiday and a Google search. Andy comments, “I think you have to live somewhere for a long period to understand the small details of different cultures. I would suggest spending at least a year in a country to get to grips with whether it’s for you in the long term, or if this isn’t possible, visit at different times of the year as the way a country or region behaves during different seasons can vary widely.”
Geoffrey Fletcher, Portugal, “When you move abroad, you shouldn’t expect anything to be the same as it is in the UK. It is important to maintain an open attitude and fully immerse yourself in the new culture.”
Although immersing yourself in the relevant culture before moving is a common piece of advice, the desire to maintain close ties to your home country in terms of both proximity and lifestyle is often keenly felt by expatriates. However Ian De Souza runs his own dance school in Germany, and advises that maintaining a close link to the UK will not necessarily impair your ability to integrate into a new life overseas. Ian says, “If you are British, never give up your British Passport. Always keep the option of returning home open even if you marry a resident in your new country and end up remaining there for many years. You may be offered a passport of your partner’s country, which you can always politely decline in favour of maintaining your British citizenship.”
Respect for another country is often a concern for expatriates and there are plenty of ways to demonstrate consideration of different cultures. Nicole Gandy moved to Spain seven years ago and advises, “Learning the language is imperative. However it takes time to find your feet and make connections. If you can’t learn the language before you move, expect to spend a year learning as much as possible.” The ability to communicate in the local language is not only seen as a sign of courtesy and respect, but is essential when dealing with local governments, banks, lawyers, accountants and civil service. It is equally important to understand the local mentality and culture. Nicole continues; “Simply not knowing the basic rules of a new country can be a significant adjustment. Ultimately, in order to understand all of the aspects to a foreign country, you must allow a specific focus on getting to grips with them. Therefore alleviating the pressure of other aspects, such as finance, will make your relocation experience much more enjoyable.”
Sally Middleton, Athens, “If you want to build your own property then think twice as it is probably easier to buy a property ready-made.. The language barrier when it came to discussing technical aspects of the build was difficult to overcome and very frustrating.”
Claire Snowdon has had 19 years experience working abroad and recently set up a company specialising in advice for expats. When it comes to managing your finances as part of a move abroad, Claire recommends opening an international account to all the would-be expats that she works with. Claire comments, “There is certainly value in having a local account but the best thing about having an international account is that if you do move regularly (I had an additional eight short term assignments in different countries, beyond longer term periods spent in Portugal, Israel, Sri Lanka and Hong Kong) you can continue banking wherever you go. It’s then possible to keep your account running and don’t have to open and close it in order to move around freely.”
Jo Sargent, Azerbaijan, “It is important to always be on top of your spending and check all accounts very regularly as payments may take much longer to be debited or credited when you are abroad. Finding yourself without money is one thing, but when you are in a foreign country that situation can become significantly more daunting.”
Daphne Reed and her family emigrated to New Zealand in January 2007. She explains that moving to the other side of the world is a stressful experience, especially when you are relocating young children too. In order to minimise pressure of such a change Daphne comments, “I would certainly advise people to build a personal relationship with an individual at their bank. That personal service is invaluable when you are living on the other side of the world. I would also suggest setting up all your international accounts in the UK before you move.”
Ross Pays, Cyprus, “I would suggest talking to as many people as possible before making a decision regarding international money management. Everyone has their own opinion on the best options for money management and you need to make sure that you are fully informed before you make a decision.”
Many aspects of relocating abroad cannot be planned for and will form part of the learning experience. However situations that can be prepared for like learning the language, understanding traditions and familiarising yourself with local areas should be capitalised upon. Opening an international account before you go will ensure you have financial security, a link back to the UK, favourable interest rates and English speaking financial advisors. By doing this before you move, any problems can be solved before you are thousands of miles away. It is also worth considering exchange rates and understanding the difference between ‘buy’ and ‘sell’ as currency movements can affect the value of your savings considerably when you are transferring money between countries. By ensuring you have these situations fully researched, you will be less likely to find yourself saying ‘if I could do it all again.’
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It may seem obvious, but thoroughly researching the country you intend to move to is vital, not only to ensure you like the area, but also for the specifics of day-to-day living that are often taken for granted. Andy Hunt, ex-professional footballer and current adventure company owner in Belize, advises that getting to know the area you intend to move to stretches far beyond a few weeks holiday and a Google search. Andy comments, “I think you have to live somewhere for a long period to understand the small details of different cultures. I would suggest spending at least a year in a country to get to grips with whether it’s for you in the long term, or if this isn’t possible, visit at different times of the year as the way a country or region behaves during different seasons can vary widely.”