Accepting a job offer in a different country can be an exciting prospect. The chance to build a career for yourself and a new life in a new country is something many people dream of as they look to follow those who have done the same before them.
However, before readily accepting any job offer, there are a few technicalities you need to look at before making a move.
Visa Requirements
Many countries have strict laws regarding immigration and working in a country that isn’t the one you hold a passport for. When considering a job offer requiring you to relocate to a different country, look at the entry and visa requirements and use the expertise and knowledge of an immigration lawyer to assess the likelihood of your visa being granted, especially if this is a permanent move. The last thing you want is to have all your ducks in a row for the move only to find you need to change your plans last minute.
How much will you be paid, and is it enough?
How does your new wage offer translate to the country you are moving to? If you are getting a pay rise, use this figure to assess how much money you will be spending on relocation costs and living costs in your new country. Different countries have different rules regarding taxes, and the cost of property varies. So instead of appreciating the extra wage if applicable in your current location, use this time wisely to look at the typical outgoings you can expect to pay when you have relocated to see if this will be liveable or if you will need to reconsider taking the job offer.
What will your quality of life be?
This is an important aspect to look at as you will be moving to a completely new place and potentially know no one there except for people you work with. And many times, it won’t be appropriate or even possible for them to be your only source of companionship. Will you be able to have adequate free time to carve a life out for yourself? How much time will you be spending working or commuting, and what will this mean for you if you are making a move alone?
What will happen once you move?
Leaving everything behind is a huge step for anyone. Look into what will happen once you make the move and the ramifications should you realise you made a mistake. Do you need to sell a property to fund buying a new home, or will you be looking at giving up a lease and selling belongings?
Carefully look at what happens once you decide to start a new life abroad and what you will be expected to do before you leave. In many cases, you can look to rent out a house you sell to provide you with an income and somewhere to come back to should that be an option. Can you take your furniture with you, or is storage an option? If you need to come back to visit or for emergencies, where will you stay and who, if anyone, will be your base upon your return?
All of these are important points to consider before agreeing to move to a new country and packing up your life for pastures new.
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