Planning to Move Abroad? Here’s How to Get Started Without Losing Your Mind

Dreaming of sipping espresso in Paris, lounging on a beach in Thailand, or exploring the cobblestone streets of Lisbon? Moving abroad is the ultimate adventure—it’s also a logistical beast. Between visas, housing, and figuring out where the heck your favorite snacks will come from, there’s a lot to juggle.

The key to a smooth move is preparation. No, not just Pinterest boards full of cute cafés in your destination city—actual planning that keeps you from derailing your finances or your sanity. Let’s break it down into clear, actionable steps to get you started.

Don’t Rush to Buy Real Estate (Seriously, Don’t)

Buying a house in your dream destination sounds romantic. If you’ve gone through the purchasing process in your home country before, chances are it was an arduous process. It’s even more complicated when you’re buying property abroad. If you leap into buying a home too soon, you could end up with a place that doesn’t fit your needs—or worse, in an area you don’t love.

The fix? Start by renting. Look into short-term options, including furnished rentals or even loft apartments that can give you flexibility while you figure things out. This gives you time to explore neighborhoods, understand the local vibe, and see what works for your lifestyle. Think of it as a trial run before committing your hard-earned cash.

• Read our guide to long-term housing for travelers!

Visit (and Revisit) Before You Commit

Would you move to a city you’ve only seen in Instagram photos? No…probably not. Yet, plenty of people pack up their lives without ever visiting their dream destination! It’s a risky move that can backfire big time.

Before you upend your life, spend some real time in the area you want to move to. If your dream destination is on another continent, prioritize extended trips to see how it feels to live there—not just as a tourist but as a potential local. Take stock of what’s important to your day-to-day life, like grocery stores and public transportation. Research the accessibility of services you might need over time, like medical care or childcare. As you continue to visit, explore different cities and neighborhoods to get an idea of where you feel the most comfortable and where you can establish roots.

Understand Residency (It Takes Longer Than You Think)

Here’s something people don’t always realize: securing permanent residency in another country can take months—in many cases, years! Depending on where you’re moving, you might need to apply for residency permits, visas, or work permits far in advance. Some countries require you to apply from your home country, while others let you handle it after arrival.

Pro tip: Start researching residency requirements as soon as you start considering the move. Some countries, like Portugal and Spain, have programs designed for remote workers and retirees—but they still come with lots of paperwork. Be realistic about the timelines and factor in potential delays.

• Read our guides to living abroad and long-term travel!

Don’t Let Analysis Paralysis Hold You Back

Planning a move abroad is exciting, but it’s also easy to overthink. Between choosing the “perfect” destination, managing logistics, and working through the what-ifs, you might find yourself stuck in a loop of indecision.

The fix? Set a deadline for yourself. Yes, moving is a big deal, but you don’t need to have every single detail locked down before you go. Once you’ve done your research and feel confident about your destination, take the plunge. You can (and should) tweak things as you settle in.

Prepare for the Small Stuff That’s Actually Big Stuff

There’s a lot more to moving abroad than packing and finding a place to live. Here are a few things people often overlook:

• Healthcare: Does the country have public healthcare, or will you need private insurance? Research options and costs before you go.
• Banking: Can you keep your current bank, or will you need a local account? Look into international-friendly banks and check what fees you’ll face.
• Driver’s License: Many countries require you to convert your license within a certain timeframe. Find out the rules so you don’t accidentally end up with a fine.
• Language Barriers: If you don’t speak the local language, consider taking some classes or downloading a translation app. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
• Cultural Differences: From tipping norms to local holidays, every country has its quirks. Learn them so you don’t accidentally offend someone or miss out on a key experience.

Ready, Set, Go!

Moving abroad is a mix of thrills, challenges, and a whole lot of paperwork—but it’s worth every second if done right. By renting first, visiting your destination, understanding residency requirements, and avoiding overthinking, you’ll set yourself up for a successful transition.

The world is waiting for you—go make it your home!

Featured image by Steven Lewis on Unsplash