Moving Abroad in 2024? 15 Things To Consider Before You Leave

Moving abroad is a fantasy many of us have, but only the courageous few decide actually to take the leap.

Whether it’s for retirement, a job or a better quality of life, moving abroad could lead to an entirely new way of life.

However, there is some work required first as several things are often overlooked when moving abroad, leading to delays.

The widespread influence that COVID had across the globe has influenced expats across the globe!

Many people have found that their priorities have shifted since the pandemic, both in terms of finances and quality of life.

Life during the pandemic saw more people working from home, with many people reprioritising and looking overseas for a life change.

It is, therefore, more important than ever that you are completely certain that moving abroad from UK is right for you.

An exciting part of your life is about to begin, and to ensure the beginning is stress-free and enjoyable, here are 15 things you should consider before moving abroad:

Which VISA?

Make sure you are up to speed with the latest VISA requirements. Image credit: Unsplash

While many of you have done your in-depth research, it’s essential to know that the VISA you are applying for is the correct one.

On top of this, double-checking the visa requirements is a must as knowing the ins and outs can allow you to avoid any pitfalls along the way.

Make sure to visit the website of the government you are travelling to as well as extensive research using sites specifically for expats.

As of 2021, the UK is no longer a member of the European Union!

Prior to Brexit, British residents maintained the right to visit, live and work anywhere in the EU.

This meant Brits could move to a European country without visa restrictions or maximum length of stay.

As a result of new post-Brexit rules, the situation for British citizens who want to live in Europe is now very similar to those in place for non-European citizens.

The new rules mean there is now a maximum stay of three months for UK passport holders in Europe.

Anyone hoping to stay longer must legally register as a resident, and any non-resident hoping to work in Europe, could need a visa or work permit.

Whilst these rules have been in place for some time, its important to keep them in mind when moving abroad in 2024.

Inform Your Bank of the Move

You will likely need to set up a new account when moving overseas. Image credit: Pexels

The next step to take before moving?

Inform your banks of the move!

If you are connected to any credit and debit card companies; you could see your cards frozen if they are not aware you have moved abroad.

So, to avoid this minor (or major) inconvenience, have a chat with your bank.

Depending on where you are relocating to, it may be best to set up a new bank account when you arrive.

If you don’t open a new account, you could find that access to services like online banking is restricted once you’ve made the move!

Those of you banking with Santander will be able to keep certain UK bank accounts if you move abroad (especially in Europe).

However, it won’t let you open any new ones, as applications are restricted to UK residents only. And living abroad could limit your options for getting credit.²

Choose Your Removals Company Wisely

White & Company Truck

Shipping all your personal effects abroad can be stressful.

You want to be sure that your sofas, tables, chairs, photo albums and your child’s favourite toys are all safe and protected.

It is of paramount importance to pick the right moving company when moving abroad.

This can be the difference between a delightful start to your new life and the move from hell.

The best way to ship would be to hire an international removal company that includes the shipping aspect of the procedure. If they have BAR registration, then that is a sure sign that they are a reputable and trusted company.

At White & Company, we have introduced a number of new services in recent years, ensuring our customers receive the best possible service!

When choosing your removals company be sure to enquire about remote video surveys!

In a post-COVID world, all of the best removals companies are offering this new video survey service.

Using this technology, an agent from your chosen removals company will be able to gather all the information required to assist with your move, from the comfort of your home!

Video surveys can help to save valuable time and ensure your survey is scheduled for the most convenient time for you!

Do you need Storage?

You’re now committed to moving abroad.

Are you bringing absolutely everything with you, or would you prefer to keep some in storage while you are gone?

International removal companies often offer many services alongside the actual act of moving abroad everything you want.

There are a number of reasons why you may need to use our secure storage when moving abroad, either as a long-term or short-term storage solution!

Perhaps there is some time between moving out of your current home and relocating overseas or maybe you need to store your possessions whilst working abroad.

Whatever your circumstances, be sure to ask us about our storage options!

Which Neighbourhood Is For You?

The majority of cities around the world will have many neighbourhoods to choose from.

Some are more family-friendly than others; some are suited more towards young professionals; while some are better for those who wish to retire.

Moving abroad comes with many challenges.

It’s fair to say that choosing where to live is one of the biggest challenges going.

This will take some research on your part is certainly an important part of moving to a completely new country.

There is nothing more important than feeling comfortable with where you live!

What will happen to your property in the UK?

Make sure you know what is happening with your property in the UK. Image credit: Pixabay

If you were planning on keeping your property in the UK and renting it out; you are still liable to pay UK tax on that income.

If you’re thinking of selling your property; it means you can make a fresh start and have a large enough cash injection that you’ll be financially stable in your new home country.

The downside to selling is that you have no backup plan if something were to go wrong.

With a lot to think about before moving, it’s incredibly important to take your time on this step and decide what is right for you.

What about your pets?

Moving Abroad with Pets with take some planning. Image credit: Unsplash

Sadly, moving pets isn’t as easy as moving humans.

This is in no small part thanks to the different strains of bacteria in different countries, and our pets tend to be a tiny bit dirtier than us!

Ensure that you know how to get your pet dog, cat or snake safely into the country you are moving to.

If you don’t abide by the rules you may find your pets quarantined due to failure to follow proper procedure.

The best way to check this is by visiting the relevant government website for the country you are relocating to!

Open a New Account

On top of talking to your current bank accounts, it’s beneficial to look into opening an account in your new country of residence.

These can be far more difficult to open up abroad due to specific requirements needing to be fulfilled.

Your best course of action will be to do your research, ensure you get the best deals and keep an eye out on the fine print for any traps along the way.

What about your Phone Contract?

You may need a new mobile phone contract. Image credit: Pixabay

If you’re planning on getting a new SIM, then it will be worth unlocking your phone.

This is very common nowadays and straightforward to get done for £20 or so.

You may find it more beneficial to opt for a new contract.

Again, many people will do this; however, it depends on what’s right for you.

At the end of the day, you can always buy a cheap prepay SIM for £10 and use that until you’ve made your final decision.

Make New friends

Making new friends is an important part of moving abroad. Image credit: Pexels

A step that is quite easy to do; however, many are often too shy to involve themselves in community activities.

There are many ways to make friends while abroad, ranging from a BBQ to a housewarming party and so on.

One way to everyone’s heart is food, and let’s be honest, food shared between friends are friends for life.

Remember, during these unprecedented times it may be a little tricky to meet new people!

When moving abroad, be sure to follow the social distancing and safety measures that are in place.

We all hope that any such limitations will eventually be eased, but remaining vigilant is key.

As the rules in the UK are eased it may be easy to forget that strict regulations remain in place in many different countries.

As a general rule, you should keep up to date with the latest rules on the relevant government websites.

We are sure you will still be able to meet new friends despite these rules!

Tackling Homesickness

Right now, you are on top of the world and ecstatic to begin your new life!

One day you may find yourself missing home just a little too much, especially if it’s a quiet day.

On these days, it’s essential to keep yourself busy by challenging yourself or starting a project that you’ve always wanted to do, or even go outside and do something new!

There are bound to be plenty of new activities to enjoy in your new home country!

Don’t allow yourself to get bored in the stunning new country you call home and keep yourself busy in those tough times.

Learn the Lingo

Learning the local language could help you adapt to your new home. Image credit: Depositphotos

While English is spoken throughout the world, it is beneficial to learn the basics of the native language of the country you are moving to.

This means that you can at least converse with the local populace and even begin to make new friends along the way.

Even if you are moving to an English-speaking country, try and learn some of the lingo; Australian lingo is one of the hardest out there.

Many apps are free, such as LingoDeer, that provide you with short lessons daily.

You’ll slowly see the transition from knowing nothing to being bilingual before you know it!

Stock Up On The Things You Love

This often doesn’t come to mind for many people.

When you move abroad, the likelihood of you finding your favourite food is quite low, especially if it’s very obscure.

Is there anything that you just can’t live without?

Make sure to bring a large enough stock abroad with you, and whenever friends and family come to stay, make it a requirement that they bring you these snacks.

So, if you crave those coveted marmite cashew nuts, make sure to bring at least a suitcase load with you.

Need a Hand Moving?

White & Company Truck

Moving abroad is stressful for all involved. That’s why White & Company are here, to help your move be smooth and stress-free.

Over the years, White & Company has positioned itself as the international removals firm of choice for removals worldwide.

Our experience is second to none. As members of BAR, FIDI and OMNI, White & Company have been relocating people to destinations worldwide for 145 years.

Our experienced teams located across the UK will pack and prepare your valuable, fragile and bulky furniture ready for export

To find out more about how we could get your dream move underway, don’t hesitate to give us a call today. Alternatively, fill out a quick quote form or chat with our Bot and we’ll get in touch with you straight away.

Max Peterson

Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.