5 things you need to know when considering immigration
For many people, immigration may seem like the perfect solution to all their local problems. They want to escape low quality of life, find better employment opportunities, avoid violent conflicts, learn at a better school, live in a more environmentally-friendly city, pay fewer taxes, etc. And if you don’t feel comfortable or safe in your home country, that may be the best option.
There are many things you need to know before immigrating. In fact, the immigration process can be so complicated that many people decide to get some help from solicitors for personal and business immigration cases. We are here to help as well.
In this article, you will find a list of things you need to take into account, such as visa requirements, the support of your family and friends, immigration scams, opportunities for students, being all alone during the process, and many more. Read on, get prepared for your next move, and good luck.
You may need to apply for a Visa
Depending on your destination country, you may need to apply for a visa before moving there. So plan ahead and get ready for any upcoming paperwork. The rules vary from one country to another (and sometimes even from one consulate to another) and are often subject to change.
For example, in the United States, you do not need a visa to visit or study short-term (less than 90 days) in most countries, including Argentina, Norway, Israel, Japan, Portugal, and Italy. But if you want to travel to countries like China, India, or Russia, you will need to obtain a visa.
Moving alone is hard
Moving alone can be challenging. When you move with friends, you share the expenses, help each other during the stressful moving process, and have a built-in support group throughout your life in your new home. If you move alone, you have to pay all the expenses yourself.
On top of that, you will feel lonely as soon as you arrive, because it takes time to make new friends no matter how friendly the locals are. You will have to learn how to live alone in a new environment, get used to new cultural rules and norms, handle bureaucracy alone and learn a new language by yourself. It is okay if you don’t speak any language other than your own — many people move abroad without being able to speak a foreign language. It just takes some time and effort until you become comfortable and confident in your new surroundings.
Your family and friends may not be supportive
Many people move abroad with the support of their family and friends. Nonetheless, that does not mean everyone is happy about their decision. Some people may think you are abandoning them and you will never see them again. Just let them know that visiting over the holidays or summer break is possible if they worry about losing you forever.
The best way to deal with this issue is to keep in touch with your loved ones through Skype or phone calls. This way, they get to see how you are doing in your new life while getting used to it gradually.
You may be required to live in a different place during the process
In many cases, relocation companies send potential employees or students to temporary accommodation in another city or country while arranging a permanent place for them to live. This accommodation can vary depending on where you are moving from and where you are going.
For instance, when relocating from Ireland to the UK, you may be sent to a hotel in London. At the same time, people from the relocation company will arrange suitable accommodation for you in London or elsewhere in England depending on your preferences.
There are many immigration scams
Scammers can take advantage of your desire to leave your home country and quickly find a job abroad before disappearing with your money. Most scams involve finding work in Western countries like Canada and the United States that offer higher salaries than those in “third world” countries. The scammer often pressures the victim to send them money for visas, plane tickets, and other fees for jobs that never even existed.
The bottom line
Traveling to another country can be a lot of fun. However, do not underestimate the value of preparation. It is especially vital when you intend to immigrate for an extended period of time.
Whether you plan to work or get an education abroad, check if you need to apply for a visa to get to your destination. Additionally, keep in mind that your friends and family might oppose your decision to move out. You should also be aware of immigration scams and always double-check if the work offer you want to accept is legit. If you do these things, moving abroa
