8 tips for those who dream of living abroad

Leaving Quebec to live abroad is a dream for many. Whether for love, for work, or simply to experience a wonderful adventure, the desire to travel abroad still requires you to be well prepared. Fadwa Lapierre, author of the book Expat: Choosing to Live Abroad, for Better and for Worse , offers eight tips based on her numerous discussions with Quebec expats from around the world.

Eight tips for those dreaming of moving abroad 1) Explore your destination of interest

Before heading off to the other side of the world, take a vacation in the city you're planning to relocate to. Scouting out the area will allow you to discover the neighborhoods, good places to eat, and services of your potential new city, and, most importantly, to check if you're comfortable there.

2) Find out about the formalities

Each country has its own requirements, which means you have to fill out a lot of paperwork months in advance: visa, work permit, insurance, etc. Take the time to understand the administrative procedures to avoid being refused entry into the country.

3) Plan your international move

Moving your belongings abroad is a logistics issue in itself. Sea or air transport? Full or shared container? Should you bring everything or travel light? Compare costs and, most importantly, insure your belongings.

4) Calculate your budget

The cost of living can vary greatly from country to country. Research the cost of rent, healthcare, food, and school fees for children. Also, plan for a financial cushion for unforeseen expenses.

5) Consider culture shock

Cultural differences can be both profound and subtle. Research local customs and traditions, follow local news, and watch movies and TV shows that accurately portray life at your destination.

6) Be aware of emotional distance

When you move abroad, you'll inevitably miss important events: birthdays, births, etc. Being away from your loved ones is difficult. It's essential to plan ways to maintain connection despite the distance. Set aside a small budget to come home from time to time and schedule video calls with family and friends.

7) Encourage meetings

Before you leave, join groups on social media and in person once you arrive. Sports teams, book clubs, dance parties... creating a network, made up of both locals and expats, helps you integrate into your new community.

8) Accept discomfort

Despite all the preparation, it's impossible to plan for everything. You have to take risks to experience life like this and remain flexible in the face of daily challenges.

To explore the subject further

Expat: Choosing to Live Abroad, for Better or for Worse , by Fadwa Lapierre, brings together testimonies from Quebecers who have gone overseas, expert commentary on the challenges of expatriation and references for preparing.