Plan Your Exit Strategy Before any US Election Chaos
Thinking About Moving Abroad Before the Election? Here’s What You Need to Know
Every election cycle, I hear the same thing from friends in the U.S. and from people online—panic about the next president and the idea of fleeing the country. It’s understandable, but is there enough time to actually pack up and move abroad before things change? Realistically, it’s a tight timeline, but if you’re motivated and prepared, you might just be able to pull it off.
1. Financial Security Comes First
Before anything else, you need to make sure you can support yourself financially. It’s not just about paying the bills—many countries require you to meet a certain financial threshold to get a visa. Beyond that, having a financial cushion is essential. What happens if you land a job but it turns out to be a nightmare? Or if an emergency comes up? I’d recommend having at least six months’ worth of living expenses saved up, plus a little extra for emergencies like flights back home or unplanned travel.
Picture this: You miss the last train back from a neighboring town. You’ll want enough for a hotel or a late-night taxi rather than being stuck in a place where you don’t know anyone. The same goes for bigger emergencies—always make sure you can get on a plane home if things go south.
2. Navigating the Visa Process
Next up is your legal ability to stay in your chosen country. Visa requirements vary depending on where you’re going, and they’re not just about finances. There could be age restrictions, nationality restrictions, or even specific quotas you need to meet. And here’s the kicker: getting a visa can take time—sometimes weeks, sometimes months. Some consulates are booked out for ages, which means getting an appointment alone can be a challenge.
This is especially relevant if you’re racing the clock to get out before a political event. Will you have enough time to apply for a visa, sell your stuff (or put it in storage), and hop on a plane? It’s a lot to juggle, and that’s one reason why I always say, *if you can get a second passport, do it*. Dual citizenship can make the whole process smoother, and you never know when you might need it.
3. Don’t Forget Your Passport
This may seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people leave this to the last minute. Not only do you need a valid passport, but most countries require that it remains valid for several months beyond your travel date. Depending on where you’re headed, this could be three to six months.
If you’re thinking of applying for your first passport or renewing an expired one, bear in mind that passport processing times can be long—especially during busy travel seasons or post-pandemic rushes. And renewing a passport while living abroad can be a headache, especially if you’re nowhere near a consulate.
4. Housing: A Tricky Puzzle
Finding a place to live abroad can be complicated, especially when you’re doing it from afar. In some countries, you might need proof of a rental or ownership just to get a visa. This means you could end up signing a lease for an apartment halfway across the world before your visa is even approved, and if your application gets rejected, you’re still on the hook for rent.
Looking for a place to live remotely also comes with its own set of challenges—especially if you don’t speak the language. It’s not impossible, but you’ll need to be careful. In my experience, it’s crucial to do a video walkthrough of the property and research the area well. You don’t want to end up in a sketchy situation just because you didn’t double-check things.
5. Long-Term Thinking
Even if you’re feeling the election heat right now, moving abroad is a long-term commitment. Don’t rush the decision. The first year in a new country is tough. You might not feel at home for a couple of years. It’s a big adjustment, so if you make the leap, give it time before deciding whether it’s right for you.
Final Thoughts
Moving abroad before a major political change might seem like an appealing option, but it’s not something you can do on a whim. From finances to legalities to housing, there are a lot of things to consider. If you’re serious about it, start planning now—prepare early, and don’t leave anything to chance.