expat network

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.

Get our FREE Destination Guide to America!

How To Stop Worrying And Feel Better As An Expat

Are you worried? Are you feeling lonely? Do you work elsewhere and already miss your loved ones? You are not alone. People worry all the time; it is only human to worry. However, if not regulated, mild worrying can easily transition to chronic worrying and eventually cause panic disorder, anxiety, and depression, especially if you…

Child Abduction By Spouse – Precautions and Legal Remedies

Child abduction by one parent from another following marital breakdown can be a harrowing experience. Prevention is preferable as legal remedies can be expensive and difficult. Here Samara Iqbal of Aramas Law explains the legal remedies and practical precautions available. Written exclusively for Expat Network by Samara Iqbal, Director & Solicitor of Aramas Law Ltd …

Top 3 States For Expats In The U.S.

What are the top 3 states for expats in the US? As the fourth largest country in the world (by land area), it can be difficult for expats to choose where to live in the United States, especially if they really don’t know where to start. Deciding which location has the most to offer…

3 In 4 Agree Restricting Screen Time At Work Would Benefit Their Wellbeing

With more employees currently working from home due to the Covid-19 pandemic, workers are now more reliant on technology than ever before according to a recent report. The report explores how the use of technology was impacting employee well-being before the pandemic began and reveals how we can make adjustments to our relationship with digital…

What Makes LA A Great Place For Your Career Move?

Housing around 4 million people, Los Angeles, or more popularly known as the City of Angels, is the third-largest city in the world. Also called the home of Hollywood, LA is a geographically vast and diverse playground of opportunity. Written exclusively for Expat Network by Victoria Berman of AvocadoPesto Because it is a melting pot…

Keeping In Touch With Friends And Family From Abroad

Missing friends and family is something we’re becoming all too used to at the moment. For expats though, it can be especially tough. Prior to lockdown, research by AXA – Global Healthcare found that nearly half (48%) of expats who have felt isolated at some point, miss friends and family. Written for Expat Network by…

How Expats Can Stay Fit And Healthy At Home

As expats across the globe continue to be isolated in their homes, keeping up with physical fitness is quickly becoming an overwhelming concern, especially for those who are used to regularly visiting the gym and enjoy staying active. Exercise is not only important for physical fitness, however. Getting your heart pumping is also extremely beneficial…

Parenting Through The Change Curve Of A Big Move

Preparing young children for a move abroad can be a challenge. Clare Rowe moved to Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia with her two children when her husband took up a new job there. Here she sets out her experience of making the move and how she used the experience to write an illustrated children’s book to…

Worldwide Expat Divorce And Family Law

Divorce rates among expats are high and when this happens in a foreign country it can be even more difficult to handle. One decision that has to be made is which legal framework should apply. Samara Iqbal of Aramas Law explains the issues that need to be considered when making the decision. Written exclusively for…

Top Reasons For Moving To Cincinnati

People move out of state for various reasons – it could be for a higher paying job, better climate, a loved one, or someone who is just looking for a fresh start in life. In recent studies, 40 million American’s move between states at least once in a year. Moving to a new city can…

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.