Whether you’re relocating to feed your dream or out of necessity, a big cross country move or change of country involves lots of planning. Here are some key tips to help you have a smooth transition.
- Don’t skimp on the research
You don’t know what you don’t know, so take your time with research to build your knowledge so you can best prepare. It’s important to get specific when it comes to research on important aspects like climate, job prospects, cost of living and health care options. In one country alone, the answers to these questions can vary significantly. - Learn about lived experiences
Theoretical research is one important factor, but lived experience is another. Connect with immigrant or expatriate groups online or through consular services before you make your move to get real-world, practical tips about life in your future home. Ask them about what surprised them or what they wish they’d known before they arrived. - Get your finances ready
There’s no doubt about it, moving far from home is an expensive endeavour. The sooner you can start saving up for costs of transporting your life and getting set up in your new location, the more money you’ll have to work with. To make this easier, look to move money or open an account before you arrive. In Canada, for instance, permanent residents, international students and foreign workers can open a bank account digitally up to a year before arriving here through BMO’s NewStart program.
