Right now, increasing numbers of people are considering large lifestyle changes. We’ve been through a tumultuous period in history, largely because of the coronavirus and Covid-19 pandemic, which completely threw many of us out of our usual routines. Companies collapsed, redundancies were widespread and many of us found ourselves without much direction or purpose and looking for change as a result – particularly in regards to our career paths. Many people have decided to go self-employed or start their own businesses in a bid to grasp more control over their own income and work. But others are looking for something even more different. With the cost of living crisis in full effect in many countries, it’s not surprising that a lot of people are stepping back and wondering if life could be better overseas, in different countries with different qualities of life, rules and modes of work. Of course, for many of us, living overseas and working overseas is a viable option. So could this actually be something worth pursuing? Here’s some more information to help you make the right decision for yourself and your individual needs.

 

Why Are You Considering Moving?

 

First and foremost, it’s good to look into your own feelings and behaviour before diving into this massive life change. Why are you considering such a major change and big move? You need to make sure that this isn’t on a whim, as it can be difficult to return to your current way of living after making such a big jump. Moving overseas takes commitment, money and time. You don’t want to waste all of this if it’s not something you genuinely want. You shouldn’t simply be running away from problems. Instead, you need to make sure that the wish to move is positive, genuine and will make a positive impact on your life. Consider what you will leave behind in comparison to what you stand to gain.

 

Where Are You Considering Moving?

 

You then need to consider where you’re considering moving. While “working overseas” is a good consideration to get started from, you are going to have to hone in on a particular country or region to decide whether this really is the right decision for you. Different countries have different rules, different roles available and different perks and challenges. Choosing a location will help you to start to question some of the benefits, challenge difficulties and get a better idea of what you’re up against.

 

VISAs

 

Are you actually able to work in the country you want to visit long term? Different countries have very different rules regarding who can and can’t work within their borders. Regardless of where you go, chances are, you’ll need to apply for a specific work VISA, so it’s best to look into this sooner rather than later, as this can often be a lengthy and time consuming process.

 

Cost of Living

Where will you live when you get to the country? Will you be able to afford everything you need when you get there? Different countries have different costs, and different average rates of pay for different roles. Everything might not be in line with your home country. Consider your job role, what you are likely to be paid in your new destination and the cost of living in your new destination. You can click here to start looking into the price of accommodation. Research online for food costs, transport costs and more. You need to make sure that the move is realistic and manageable.

 

Language Barriers

 

Does your destination have a different language to your own language? Sure, you may be able to find a job overseas in your native language, but you’re still going to need to understand, speak and read the local language to an extent in order to live your life in the new location. This will allow you to shop, get around, interact with others and generally get by on a day to day basis. Sure, you don’t need to be fluent before heading out. But it is good to have a grip on some of the basics that you can then work on when you’re immersed in the country and culture.

 

Insurance

 

Do you need health insurance or other forms of insurance when moving to the new location. Sometimes, non residents won’t be entitled to health care, or health care may not be subsidised and can prove unaffordable, if you don’t have the right type of insurance policy. Look into this and its costs. It can make a big difference.

 

At the end of the day, only you know whether a move to work overseas will prove right for you. Hopefully, some of the information highlighted and outlined above will help you on your journey to making the right decision!