Moving To Europe - The Dos and Don’ts
The Dos and Don'ts of Moving to Europe
Moving to Europe? Awesome. But let’s be real—it’s a big deal, and there’s a lot to think about. Whether you’re heading over for work, school, or just because, here are some things you’ll definitely want to keep in mind to make the whole experience smoother.
Do: Keep Connected While Living Abroad
Staying connected is crucial. You don’t want to land in a new country and suddenly realize you have no way to reach your family or friends. Before you go, make sure you've figured out how you’ll stay in touch. Maybe you need to show Grandma how to use WhatsApp, or maybe you need to find the best local SIM card. If you work online, this is even more important—get your internet sorted ASAP. Trust me, you don’t want to be scrambling for Wi-Fi the second you step off the plane.
Don’t: Think You Can Get Away With Only Speaking Your Own Language
Learning the local language? Yeah, it’s a must. Sure, translation apps can be helpful, but they won’t get you through everything. Even if you only learn the basics, it’ll make your life so much easier. You’ll be able to handle day-to-day stuff without stressing, and you won’t be stuck in awkward situations where you have no idea what’s going on.
Do: Take Time to Explore Your Surroundings and Travel Abroad
One of the best parts about living in Europe is that there’s so much to see. Don’t just sit around—get out there and explore. Whether it’s hitting up neighboring countries or just checking out different parts of your new city, take advantage of the opportunity. You might not be there forever, so make the most of it while you can.
Don’t: Get Stuck in an Expat Bubble
It’s easy to hang out with other expats—they get you, and it’s comfortable. But don’t let that be all you do. Make an effort to connect with locals and dive into the culture. You’ll get so much more out of your time abroad if you step out of that bubble and really experience what the country has to offer.
Do: Make Sure You Get Your Residency Visa Before You Arrive
Visas are tricky, so don’t leave this to the last minute. Depending on where you’re going, you might need to apply for your residency visa before you even get on the plane. Know what you need, get it sorted, and have a plan for when you arrive. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re not dealing with visa issues on top of everything else.
Don’t: Assume the Ingredients You’re Used to Back Home Will Be the Same
Think you’ll find all your favorite foods in the local supermarket? Think again. The ingredients you’re used to back home might not be available—or they might be in a totally different section of the store. Be ready for some surprises, and maybe even discover some new favorites. Just don’t expect everything to be the same, because it probably won’t be.
Do: Have a Plan of Action, Not Only Where, But When!
Timing is everything, especially when moving to Europe. Some months, like August and December, can be tricky with holidays and everything shutting down. Plan your move and any big tasks around those times so you’re not caught off guard by closed offices or empty streets. Trust me, it’ll save you a lot of headaches.
Do: Make Sure You Have a Long-Term Plan, Even If You’re Only Staying Short Term
Even if you think you’re only staying for a little while, it’s smart to have a long-term plan. Look into what it takes to get permanent residency or citizenship. Rules can change, and having a plan in place gives you options and security if you decide to stay longer—or if things change suddenly.
Don’t: Assume Everything Will Be Cheap – Compare and Contrast the Cost of Living Across Europe
Europe isn’t as cheap as you might think. Prices can vary a lot from one country or city to another. Don’t assume just because you’re moving to a different part of the world that everything will be budget-friendly. Do your homework, compare costs, and pick a place that works for your budget and lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Moving to Europe is an adventure, no doubt about it. But it’s not without its challenges. Keep these dos and don’ts in mind, and you’ll be better prepared to tackle whatever comes your way.