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Moving to America – What You Need to Know

So, you are moving to America!

Whether you are emigrating, taking a short term assignment or joining family in America we have put together the information you will need to make your move to the USA a smooth one.

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How To Settle Socially And Build A Support Network As An Expat

Moving to a new country brings opportunity discovery and excitement, but it also introduces social challenges that many expats underestimate. New surroundings, unfamiliar customs, and distance from loved ones can make even confident people feel isolated at first. While adjusting takes time, building a strong social foundation early can significantly improve both emotional well-being and…

Why Every Expat In Los Angeles Has A Side Hustle

Every expat in Los Angeles has a side hustle because the city makes ambition feel practical instead of distant. Newcomers quickly notice that the high cost of living pushes them to explore multiple sources of income. Many find that side projects bring security, confidence, and a sense of belonging. These extra jobs also expose them…

What Expats Should Know About Moving To New England

Understanding what expats should know about moving to New England helps make relocation smoother and more enjoyable. The region blends history, modern living, and nature in a way few places do. Cities like Boston offer strong job markets and cultural depth, while smaller towns provide peace and tradition. Four distinct seasons shape daily life, from…

Expat Real Estate Investing: US Multifamily Playbook | Cross-Border Expertise

I’m a US multifamily expert who built an expat real estate investing practice from the ground up—remotely, across time zones, and through multiple market cycles. For more than a decade, I’ve completed dozens of cross‑border investing transactions, partnering with operators, lenders, and advisors to structure deals that protect capital and simplify reporting. Along the way,…

Smart Moving Plan For New Overseas Contracts

Apartments empty fast when a contract comes through. Laptops get packed, boxes stack up, and deadlines arrive before the visas do. Many DC and Northern Virginia expats begin with a reliable crew close to home. Some book local movers in Arlington to manage packing, short term storage, and the first leg of a long journey…

Between Sweet Tea And Bubble Tea: Generational Shifts In Atlanta’s Expat Communities

Atlanta thrives on contrasts. Sweet tea reflects the comfort of old traditions. Bubble tea speaks for younger voices. Together, they reveal generational shifts in Atlanta’s expat communities. Readers who plan to make a move abroad can look here for a preview of cultural change in action. This article asks you to read actively. Draw comparisons,…

Digital Nomad’s Guide To Living And Working In Chicago

Thanks to its balance of culture, affordability, and thriving co-working scene, Chicago is becoming a bit of a hotspot for digital nomads. While most of us associate the Second City with deep dish pizzas, skyscrapers, and its passionate sports fans, if you look a little closer, you’ll see an incredible metropolis that offers a mix…

Starting A 401(K) Plan For Your Small Business: A Comprehensive Guide

Key Takeaways Table of Contents Offering a 401(k) plan can transform your small business by attracting top talent and boosting employee morale. In today’s competitive job market, retirement benefits are a sought-after perk that demonstrates a commitment to your team’s financial future. Additionally, the right retirement plan offers substantial tax incentives for business owners seeking…

How To Prevent Identity Theft When Relocating Internationally

You are likely to experience identity theft when moving to another country. This is because you connect to many points during relocation, like the airport, hotels, and travel agents. You might want to send copies of your work, travel, and financial documents. You may want to connect to public Wi-Fi to transfer money, pay for…

The Unspoken Rules Of Bay Area Networking For Expats

Arriving in California opens new doors but also tests your ability to adapt quickly. For expats, connections often decide how smooth the transition feels. The rules of Bay Area networking for expats go beyond handshakes and introductions. They set the stage for friendships, jobs, and community belonging. Expats Compare International Experiences The Bay Area hosts…

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.