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Moving Abroad

Are you going to live and work abroad?

Moving abroad can be a daunting experience. Here you have some topics to keep in mind before taking the step. Preparation is the key!

Language requirements

It is advisable that you have some command of the language spoken in the country where you will live, as this will make your integration much easier. Highly qualified professions, such as healthcare professionals, are generally required to have a language proficiency certificate for registration with the competent authorities.

Visa requirements

If you are an EU citizen, you can move to virtually all European countries. However, you should always inform the competent authorities of your arrival in the destination country and explain why you are moving and whether it is a short or long stay.

Life costs

Living costs vary widely across European countries. It is also important that you check the price of houses, rooms, food, transport, mobile phone cards, etc. so that you have an idea of how much you will spend in monthly expenses. Websites like Numbeo can help you with that.

Taxes

Before you move you must notify the tax authorities in your country that you are planning to leave. If you don't do this, you may have to pay additional taxes. Another important thing to check is what taxes you will pay on the destination country. There are some online salary calculators that can give you an idea about this.

Renting a house

Renting a house can be very difficult in some countries as there are not many properties, mainly furnished, for rent. It is important that you make sure you have a place to stay before moving to avoid unnecessary stress. Like in your home country, to rent a house you will need to sign a rent contract and pay the rent plus the month of the deposit. Don’t forget this extra expense.

Health insurance

Healthcare services and coverage are also very different between countries. It may be that in your country you have free assistance but the same does not happen in other countries and you will probably have to purchase a health insurance to ensure that you have coverage in case you become ill. If you are moving to another European country, you may want to consider applying for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Please note that this is really only designed to cover you for short-term stays. You can learn more about the EHIC here.

Bank account

Your employer will likely ask you for your bank account number so that he can transfer your monthly salary. As soon as you arrive at the destination country you must choose a bank to open a new bank account. To open a bank account you usually only need your ID card and employment contract.

Keep in touch with family and friends

Moving abroad and starting a new life is exciting however moving can also be difficult and you may feel homesick. Nowadays there are many ways to keep in touch with your family and friends. Enjoy the best of new technologies and stay in touch with those you love most all year.

Travel safely!

Posted on 08 January 2020 by Andreia Castro
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