A Guide to Setting Up Your New Home Abroad

Moving to a new home abroad comes with many exciting opportunities. Effective planning and preparation are important parts of getting comfortable, settled and set for success. This guide provides tips for moving to another country, from registering with embassies and consulates to finding local amenities and services.

Registering and Getting Documented

Prioritize administrative tasks before arriving at your new home in a foreign country. Start by registering with the appropriate embassy or consulate. Embassies can provide assistance and security in case of natural disasters, precarious political situations or other emergencies. Consulate offices assist expats with navigating passports, visas, legal issues and various administrative tasks. Many offices offer online registration services that simplify the process.

Required documents vary by country and circumstances but may include:

• Passport
• Visa
• Work or study permit
• Birth certificate
• Proof of accommodation
• Health insurance
• Financial statements

Obtaining each of these documents may involve applications or other steps. Starting early is ideal, but support from your consulate office can also help streamline this process.

Research local banks and open an account in your new location. Setting up an account lets you pay bills, receive funds and avoid foreign transaction fees, simplifying transactions and access to local services.

Arranging Utilities and Services

Utilities and services are necessary for everyday household functions. Research local providers in your new country and the process for setting up services — many countries have different utility service structures and vary in availability and setup times. Arrange connections and installations for electricity, water, internet and other services shortly after your planned arrival.

An eSIM or international SIM card can temporarily support your mobile phone needs, but most expats switch their mobile phone services to a local provider. Obtaining a SIM card in your new country usually offers better coverage, flexible data plans and a local phone number. A local phone number is often required for two-factor authorization, such as for your online accounts or banking, and services in your new area. Update your emergency contacts with your new number.

Health care procedures vary throughout the world, and accessing public health care may take time and leave you with a gap in coverage. Research public and private medical facilities, and inquire about registration with local general practitioners and other medical services or specialists you may need. Many expats opt for global health insurance, which includes policies that ensure access to high-quality facilities across established networks.

Familiarizing Yourself With the Neighborhood

Get acquainted with your neighborhood to immerse yourself in your new home. This includes practical exploration, such as locating grocery stores, pharmacies, medical facilities and other essentials. Check out cafés, bars, fitness centers and other amenities for further insight into the cost of everyday items.

Walking or cycling through your new streets helps build connections and a sense of direction in nearby areas. Familiarize yourself with public transportation options, including routes, schedules and ticketing.

Take some time to acquaint yourself with the local community. Making connections with locals and other expats is the start of a support network and social circle. Research expat groups, social clubs and cultural events where you can easily meet new people. Consider a part-time job or volunteering for broader cultural immersion and to make social connections.

Making Your House a Home

Having a comfortable and familiar space is important while you’re culturally acclimatizing. Prioritize unpacking your space systematically to avoid living out of a suitcase, starting with kitchen supplies, bedding and other essentials. Keep in mind that you may need to obtain new or used appliances since they aren’t always a standard inclusion with rentals or real estate in other countries.

Arrange your belongings and incorporate personal touches that make your space feel like home. For example, adding framed photos of family and friends to a reading nook or workspace can serve as a reminder of your sentimental ties back home.

Adapting to Cultural Differences

Understanding cultural norms, including social etiquette, religious or spiritual traditions and cuisine and dining practices, serves several important purposes. Besides minimizing culture shock and faux pas, learning the local culture is a respectful behavior that demonstrates appreciation for a foreign country.

Adapting to cultural differences is an ongoing process, but you can start with taking language lessons if you’re not fluent in the language and learning basic social and dining etiquette. In France, for example, locals place importance on formal manners, which include starting and ending each interaction with “bonjour” or “au revoir.” Explore cuisine by cooking at home or sampling local-recommended restaurants, participate in holiday events, tour galleries and museums and visit public temples to foster deeper cultural understanding.

Maintaining Ties With Your Home Country

You don’t have to leave your home country completely behind. It's essential to find a balance between immersing yourself in a new culture and staying connected to your home country.

Besides regular calls, messaging and social media updates, stay connected with family and friends with virtual gatherings for holidays, meals or watch parties for your favorite TV series back home. Cook your favorite meals from home, and keep photos or memorabilia from home in areas throughout your new space.

Partner With Atlas International in Setting Up Your New Home Abroad

Getting settled in a new country is more than packing and unpacking your boxes. Whether obtaining important documents, getting a new phone number or finding a favorite café near your apartment, thoughtful preparation is key to establishing basic essentials, new routines and social networks.

Atlas International handles your moving logistics so you can focus on preparing for life abroad. Contact Atlas International for a free quote and to learn how comprehensive relocation services support you, fellow expats and international movers.