Moving abroad with your family for better career prospects and standard of living can be adventurous and exciting as well as frightening. Before deciding about the country, state, city, workplace, and school for kids, the most vital thing to do is seek professional help. Personal research is good, but getting sound advice from professionals such as Total Law immigration lawyers and a well-reputed London Immigration Lawyer can help you make the right calls from the start.
Moving abroad with your family is totally different than as a bachelor. In the former case, it is crucial to get advice on immigration, prospects for your spouse, schools for your children, the cultural and social environment of the country, and language requirements. As a bachelor, you have to fend for yourself in an alien environment, but you have more responsibility on your shoulders as a family.
Moving to a new country may often create anxiety for your family. There could be many doubts about trivial things that may seem unimportant to you. You may also be leaving behind your friends and family, which may be overwhelming in some cases. Here are some tips to make your new life abroad a pleasant experience.
Research
If you haven’t selected a country, there are many ways to find the right one as per your needs. In short, plan everything before taking off. There are ranking systems available for most countries according to the accommodation costs and availability, quality of education, public transportation, crime rate, recreational facilities, and cultural environment. These systems can help you narrow down on the location.
You should also take the help of fellow expats. Activate your network and contact people you know may be working in the same or nearby country. Sometimes hearing from close associates, friends, colleagues, or loved ones will give you a clear picture of the ground realities.
Documentation and Formalities
Do your paperwork before leaving your current location. Get as much documentation work done as possible from your home country so you and your family can get through the airport immigration process smoothly. Make a plan for things to be done after you arrive, such as buying a sim card, traveling from the airport to the hotel or new home, etc.
Accommodation
Having a roof over your head is the primary security your family will need once you land. If it is difficult to finalize a permanent house/apartment from your current location, book a temporary place at least for a month. A month is enough to find a place for a long-term stay.
Some people think renting a place near their office will help them save time traveling and spend more time with their family. Many times having a place near your child’s school is a better idea. Weigh the cost versus benefit of the location you chose to live in.
Schools
Decide whether you want your kids to go to a local or an international school. Studies have shown that expats prefer their kids to go to international schools. These kids have an open mindset towards change and easily make new friends.
There is a difference in the cost of education. International schools are more expensive than local ones. Talking to your kids and discussing it as a family will help with the transition and adjustment.
Talk To Your Children
You should always expect a reaction for your children. A younger child might be scared of going to a new place to stay or study. An older kid might be more accepting of the change. Whatever your situation, sit with your children, and explain the reason behind the shift. Tell them about the new possibilities and opportunities the relocation may bring. Getting them excited about shifting to a new country and location will be half the battle won.
Let Everyone Contribute
The best way to reduce anxiety due to the move is to put everyone to work and feel like they are contributing. Make each one child pack their essentials and possessions. It may seem inconsequential for an adult, but for a child, being involved in decisions, packing, and discussions make them feel like they are a part of the process.
Tell your children to carry their favorite games and toys to kill time in transit. This will help you keep them occupied during the journey.
Touchdown
Once you arrive at the destination, you can finally breathe a sigh of relief. After recuperating and relaxing, keep everyone busy in unpacking bags. This exercise will help them feel excited and optimistic.
Following all your traditions, rituals, and routines in your new place will make everyone realize that the family is important and not the place you live in.
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