Starting a job overseas can be exciting and intimidating, no matter what industry you work in. A new country presents a lot of laws, customs, and even languages you need to learn. Additionally, being away from home can be melancholy at times. However, working abroad can be a great learning experience, and it looks imposing on a resume. You may even work in a country you’ve always wanted to visit! If you’re unsure how to start the overseas working process, these tips will put you on your feet.

Secure Your Work Visa
Most foreign countries require a passport and a work visa before arrival. A work visa guarantees you can work in a foreign country without citizenship. According to AlliedPassport, obtaining a work visa can be pretty straightforward in many countries, but you’ll want to secure it before you even plan to move abroad. Once you know you will have your work visa in hand, you can then book your flight or travel plans. Make sure you have your passport updated and ready to go as well.

Research Customs and Laws
One of the benefits of working abroad is learning about other cultures and customs. However, you may be considered rude or even dangerous if you go unprepared. Familiarize yourself with your work country’s laws, expectations, and customs. Some countries may not like direct eye contact. Other countries consider kissing a standard practice with strangers. The more you know about the country you’re heading, the less surprised you’ll be, and the less likely you’ll come off as rude. Additionally, you’ll need to know a country’s formal laws to avoid legal trouble.

Learn the Language
If your destination country speaks a different language, consider learning at least the basic phrases you’ll need for navigation, travel, and pleasantries. You can come across as more prepared and respectful by learning official languages. Additionally, knowing the country’s language can make your job easier when work starts, especially if you have a career in education. Learn as much of the language as possible; you can hire tutors or enroll in classes to help.

Reach Out to Other Expats
If you feel ostracized as a foreigner in another country, many forums and discussion boards exist with expats who live or work abroad. You can find a sense of camaraderie by reaching out to fellow expats. Additionally, you can ask questions and understand what to expect on your overseas career journey, and seek tips for working abroad.

Sort Out Living Arrangements
Before stepping into a new country, knowing where you’ll live beforehand is a good idea. Consider hiring a real estate professional to help you navigate leases or rent negotiations in a different country. A real estate professional can help you obtain a safe and legal housing arrangement while working there. 

Pack Wisely
You don’t need to pack up your entire house and send it overseas. Pack as lightly as possible—remember, you can still do laundry while you’re in another country! Be sure to bring clothing that is appropriate for the climate. A parka in Mexico isn’t the best choice, just like a bikini in Antarctica may be seasonally inappropriate. Keep your travel documents and medication safe, accessible, and dry. Don’t sweat the small stuff; you can always buy one abroad if you forget your toothbrush.

Plan Your Healthcare
Ensure you know how to seek healthcare in your new country, especially if you’re taking regular medication. Your local healthcare provider may be able to provide medication for your entire duration, or you may have to seek out a doctor while overseas. Ensure you have appropriate health insurance or know how much healthcare will cost in a new country. Plan a checkup before you leave, too. Many countries require proof of vaccinations or a clean bill of health before arriving, including COVID-19 testing.

Arrange Cell Phone Service
Your cell phone service may offer international plans to keep your current line. However, securing an unlocked phone or a new phone line for international travel may be cheaper. Research the costs of various cell phone services and give friends and family any new phone numbers you acquire.

Confirm Your Position
While it’s unlikely anything will happen to your job before you arrive, confirm your hiring and position before boarding the plane. There have been situations where companies went out of business, or positions were filled due to lack of communication. It never hurts to double-check!

Forward Your Mail
Many expats forget to forward their mail to their new address. Make sure you arrange mail forwarding promptly, as the changes can take a few days to a few weeks to take effect, depending on where you live. Note the expiration date for the ability to forward mail, if you will be overseas for an extended period of time. 

Prepare Your Finances
Inform your banks and credit card companies of your travel. Many financial institutions will block purchases in new locations to protect their clients from fraud. When you inform them in advance, you can lower the risk of credit card hiccups when purchasing overseas.

While working abroad can be fun, it can also be stressful. By preparing your living arrangements, mail forwarding, cell phone service, healthcare, work visa, and finances in advance, you can lower the stress you feel from the move. It’s also good to learn your destination’s laws, customs, and culture so you don’t experience too much culture shock. You can also reach out to other expats to get a good feel of what you’re going to experience. Happy travels!