Moving abroad as an American expat can be an exciting adventure, but it’s easy to overlook important details that can impact your experience.
From navigating cultural differences to understanding bureaucratic processes, the transition to life in a new country comes with its own unique challenges.
Before you pack your bags, it’s essential to be aware of key insights that many expats miss, which can make or break your journey abroad.
In this post, we’ll explore 15 critical factors that every American expat should know before making the leap, ensuring a smoother and more successful relocation.
1. Build a Flight Fund
While it’s easy to focus on settling into your new home, you should also plan for the unexpected especially when it comes to emergency flights back to the U.S.
Life abroad doesn’t always go as planned, and whether it’s an emergency or a special event, you may need to return home.
The cost of last-minute flights can often exceed $1,000 or more, depending on the distance and the season.
By setting aside a “flight fund,” you can avoid scrambling financially when a sudden need arises.
Additionally, factor in the fluctuations in airfares, especially during holidays or busy seasons. A dedicated savings account specifically for flight emergencies will give you peace of mind.
2. Rent Before Buying
Buying property in a new country can seem like a long-term goal, but it’s important to test the waters first.
Renting gives you a flexible way to experience the culture and community without committing to the financial burden of ownership.
You’ll get to know the neighborhood’s vibe, the reliability of public transportation (if you don’t drive), and the local amenities.
Some areas might look great on paper, but they may not offer the lifestyle or convenience you’re expecting.
Renting also allows you to adjust to the local rental market and avoid being stuck in a property that isn’t ideal.
3. Research the Culture
Understanding the local culture is key to integrating smoothly into your new environment.
It’s more than just learning the language or knowing when the holidays are; it’s about understanding the nuances of social interactions.
For example, in some countries, social hierarchies and formalities are strictly observed, while in others, casual interactions are the norm.
In certain cultures, it may be considered rude to be too familiar with strangers, while in others, a friendly “hello” or “how are you” is commonplace.
Familiarizing yourself with social expectations, including dressing appropriately and understanding local customs, will help avoid any awkward or uncomfortable situations.
4. Streaming Services Vary
When you move abroad, you might find that Netflix, Hulu, or other streaming services offer different content depending on your location.
Licensing agreements and regional restrictions mean that some of your favorite shows, movies, or channels may not be available.
Additionally, some streaming services limit access to particular content based on local laws or ratings systems.
While a VPN might allow you to bypass some of these restrictions, not all services support VPN use, and in some cases, using a VPN could violate terms of service, leading to an account ban.
It’s best to research what entertainment options will be available in your new home and adjust your expectations accordingly.
5. Making Friends
Building new friendships is one of the most rewarding, yet challenging, aspects of moving abroad. The social landscape in many countries is different from what Americans are used to.
In some places, people may be more reserved, and it might take longer to form close bonds. It’s important to embrace the local culture and find ways to meet people who share your interests, whether they’re locals or other expats.
For expats, online platforms like Meetup, Facebook groups, and language exchanges can help you find like-minded people.
In the long run, having a strong support network of both locals and fellow expats will enhance your experience abroad and combat feelings of isolation.
6. Bureaucracy Could Run High
Moving abroad often involves navigating a maze of paperwork, from securing a visa to registering with local authorities.
Depending on the country, this bureaucracy can be a major hurdle. Some countries have streamlined processes, while others may require multiple visits to various government offices, numerous forms, or even the services of a local agent.
If you’re planning to buy a property, start a business, or get a job, you may need additional permits or approvals.
Joining local expat groups or forums can help you get advice from people who have already navigated the bureaucracy in your new country, so you’re better prepared.
7. Spotlight Is On
For Americans moving abroad, especially to countries where they stand out due to physical appearance, ethnicity, or accent, being the “outsider” can feel overwhelming at times.
The constant attention, whether it’s stares, questions about your background, or even negative treatment, can add a layer of stress to daily life.
In some regions, you might face xenophobia, while in others, curiosity or admiration might be the response.
Recognize that being different is part of the experience, but also be aware of how it could impact your interactions.
Taking a proactive approach to learning about cultural sensitivity can make the transition smoother and help you navigate any challenges with grace.
8. Understand Visa Options
Choosing the right visa is crucial when moving abroad. Many countries offer a variety of visa options, such as work, student, tourist, or digital nomad visas, which can come with specific requirements and benefits.
For example, a digital nomad visa might allow you to live in a country for a longer period while working remotely for an overseas employer.
On the other hand, a tourist visa typically has a shorter duration and may require frequent border runs to maintain legal status.
Understanding the visa process and the legalities of staying long-term in your new country will save you from potential legal issues down the road.
9. Electricity Reliability
In some countries, especially in remote areas or developing regions, power outages can be frequent and unpredictable.
This can be frustrating if you rely on electricity for work, communication, or essential appliances.
If your new home country is prone to blackouts, consider investing in backup power solutions such as solar panels, a portable generator, or power banks.
Talk to locals about their experiences with power reliability, and check whether your area has a reliable backup power grid.
Being prepared for outages can help you avoid disruptions and reduce stress when the power goes out.
10. Accounting Woes
When moving abroad, managing your finances and understanding your tax obligations becomes much more complicated.
In addition to filing taxes in the U.S., you may also be required to pay taxes in the country where you’re living.
The IRS offers the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion, which can reduce or eliminate U.S. taxes on income earned abroad, but the rules are complex.
It’s recommended to hire an accountant with expertise in expat taxes to ensure you’re compliant in both countries and take advantage of any available tax breaks.
Not having a clear understanding of your financial obligations could lead to fines or penalties.
11. Health Insurance
Healthcare systems vary widely around the world, and what works in the U.S. may not be the best solution abroad.
Depending on where you move, private health insurance might be necessary, and in some countries, you may be eligible for public health coverage.
However, the U.S. health insurance system is unique, and not all countries accept U.S. insurance, so it’s important to either obtain international health insurance or adapt to the local system.
If you plan to visit the U.S. occasionally, consider maintaining some form of U.S.-based health coverage to avoid high out-of-pocket expenses when you return home.
12. Food Diversity
Many expats worry about losing access to their favorite American foods once they move abroad. However, large cities around the world often have international supermarkets that stock familiar products.
You may be able to find your favorite snacks, cereals, or even comfort foods like peanut butter or macaroni and cheese.
That said, it’s still important to embrace the local cuisine, which could lead to a healthier and more culturally immersive lifestyle.
If you’re in a smaller town or rural area, you might need to adjust your shopping habits and get used to eating what’s locally available.
13. Maintain Relationships at Home
Long-distance relationships with friends and family back in the U.S. can be tough, especially if you’re in a time zone that makes communication difficult.
To stay connected, consider setting regular video calls or sending updates through social media. However, it’s important to balance staying in touch with the reality of your new life abroad.
Too many details about your new lifestyle can make it hard for those back home to relate. Focus on staying in touch with your closest loved ones, but also make time to forge new relationships in your new home.
14. Unlock Your Phone
If you want to avoid high roaming fees while traveling or living abroad, make sure your phone is unlocked before leaving the U.S.
When your phone is unlocked, you can swap out the U.S. SIM card for a local one and get access to affordable local rates.
Most major phone carriers can unlock your device for a fee or by meeting specific contract conditions.
If you’re traveling to multiple countries, you might want to consider using an eSIM or purchasing a local SIM card in each country.
15. Drying Clothes
In many countries, especially in Europe, owning a clothes dryer is not the norm. Instead, most people air-dry their clothes using clotheslines or drying racks.
This is not only a matter of lifestyle but also a reflection of environmental concerns, as air-drying is more energy-efficient.
Be prepared for a slower laundry process, especially if you move to a region with high humidity or limited space.
Investing in a drying rack and finding a spot with good airflow can help speed up the process. It’s also worth noting that many local apartments may not have dryers, so this may become your new normal.
Alicia Richards