Are you thinking about leaving America and settling abroad? Well, you’re not alone. Surveys suggest that 15% of Americans want to leave the US permanently and move to another country.
320,000 Americans relocated to Florida between 2021 and 2022; West Palm Beach alone has become a favorite destination among new residents. But despite being one of the most popular states to move to, East Coast locals also find it easier to relocate to parts of Canada, South America, and Europe.
So whether you’re relocating because of a new job or want to seek a more adventurous life outside the US, planning an international move properly is crucial. If you live along the East Coast in a city like Palm Beach and want to plan a smooth move abroad, here’s what you need to know:
- Research all aspects related to moving
Where should you live instead of America? Research every aspect related to your relocation journey. Use websites, e.g., Numbeo and Expatistan, to compare living costs. Check real estate prices and other expenditures such as healthcare, public transport, and retirement. Similarly, research that place’s political situation, cultural sensitivities, and public perception regarding Americans. You can use Reddit to gather more information and find your perfect new home abroad.
- Hire reliable international moving services
It’s estimated that West Palm Beach’s population will grow by 1.45% annually. Also, with an average household income of less than $55,000 a year, many residents are considering moving to another country to earn more and improve their living standards. So, if you’re considering moving internationally from West Palm Beach, Florida, search for a reliable moving company in the city. Hire reputable movers to handle your relocation so you can just sit back and enjoy the experience.
- Remember to renew your visa
Renew your visa if it’s close to the expiration date. Staying in another state with an expired visa may lead to your removal from that country. Moreover, learn the conditions under which the new visa’s issued, e.g., some work visas are valid only for certain occupations. It would help to stay in touch with the American embassy when you shift.
- Get an international bank account
It’s completely legal for an American to have an offshore bank account for legitimate business/personal reasons. Having one makes it easier to relocate internationally, and you can easily manage your foreign exchanges, give/take money in different currencies, and receive some tax benefits as well (based on your circumstances). So, apply to open an offshore account.
- Renew your passport before moving
Is your passport going to expire soon? Your passport would expire in a decade if it were issued to you when you were 16 (or in five years if you were under 16). Many countries forbid travelers whose passports will expire in a few months. You can check online visa guides to confirm the six-month validity rule.
- Find employment outside the US
One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to move abroad is neglecting to explore different employment options. How can you get your visa sponsored to settle in another country? Many Americans go through the employment pathway. However, getting a job abroad can be difficult if you don’t have a work permit or if the employer doesn’t sponsor you. So look into other options such as:
- Get hired by US-based companies working overseas
- Apply for a digital nomad visa in countries, e.g., Bermuda
- Teach English in public/private schools (e.g., in Hong Kong)
- Ask your current employer for an international job transfer
- Work from home as a freelancer for an international employer
- Learn to follow new laws
Moving to another country requires you to pay additional taxes. And this aspect of overseas moving can be a little confusing because other countries may have a set of laws alien to Americans. A language barrier can also create confusion. Learn to follow these new laws and prepare for culture shock. You must overcome cultural differences and assimilate yourself into a non-American society.
- Avoid foreign real estate scams
Buying property in another country requires you to be cautious. You may be tempted to buy a condo or a house at affordable rates right after moving to another country. However, going through these real estate deals via reliable agents is smarter. Find a reputable broker to ensure the property you’re buying actually belongs to the advertiser.
- Your liabilities will follow you
Just because you’re leaving America doesn’t mean your liabilities will cease to exist. They’ll follow you no matter where you go. For instance, you have to pay your taxes for those months in the year you’ve spent in the United States. Similarly, if you run a business in the homeland or rent out an old home, pay your taxes regularly to avoid these liabilities disrupting your offshore life.
- Come up with contingency plans
What’s your “plan B” in case something goes wrong? Always come up with a contingency plan when planning to relocate. For example, you may lose your visa eligibility or separate from your partner. A medical emergency can also force you to leave the country for a few days and make it difficult to return. That’s why you must always have some extra cash or trusted local friends to aid you in emergencies.
Conclusion
Statistics indicate that over 8 million ex-pats live across 160+ countries right now. Safety concerns, racial discrimination, and cheaper healthcare are why some US citizens leave America. All you need to do is learn the right tips to make this transition as smooth as possible. So, do your research, ensure your documentation is in order, and work with reliable international movers to make the transition as smooth as butter.
