Preparing for International Relocation or Embracing the Digital Nomad Lifestyle: A Comprehensive Overview
While the thought of seizing your passport and boarding a plane to begin a new adventure overseas may seem exhilarating, most individuals will gain from additional preparation. Whether you aspire to travel long-term, work as a digital nomad, or permanently move to another nation, there are crucial steps to complete before you embark on your journey. Neglecting these could result in a host of unresolved complications, financial dilemmas, and unnecessary stress back home.
Forget about the daunting 49-point checklists—this guide emphasizes the key areas you need to focus on. These are the foundational elements for a seamless transition to life in another country, with most smaller tasks falling under these categories. Let’s explore.
1. Mail, Taxes, and a Permanent Address
Even in today’s digital world, a dependable address in your home country remains important. This is vital for receiving tax documents, replacement credit cards, and other essential correspondence. You have several options:
- Utilize a family member’s address: Best if you have someone reliable who can notify you of important mail.
- Rent a virtual mailbox: Companies like Traveling Mailbox or Earth Class Mail will scan your correspondence and allow you to manage it online.
- Keep a home base: If you’re retaining property and renting it out, use that address and arrange for someone to check your mail.
Remember to update your address with banks, credit card providers, subscription services, and the IRS. A mail forwarding service typically lasts only 6–12 months, so create a checklist of all who require your new address and begin notifying them in advance.
2. Banking and Finances
Handling your finances while abroad calls for preparation. Here’s what to consider before you depart:
- Obtain credit cards with no foreign transaction fees: These can save you 2–3% on each purchase overseas. Look for cards that provide travel rewards as well.
- Open a bank account with minimal ATM fees: Credit unions and investment firms like Charles Schwab or Fidelity often refund ATM fees globally.
- Hold multiple accounts and cards: If one card is misplaced or locked, having a backup is essential. Carry both Visa and MasterCard, and consider Amex if it’s accepted at your destination.
- Establish online access: Confirm that all your accounts are accessible and manageable online.
- Utilize international money transfer platforms: Services like Wise (formerly TransferWise), PayPal, Revolut, or Xoom can assist you in sending and receiving funds across borders at reduced fees.
Insider tip: Set up any new accounts while still in your home country. Many banks necessitate in-person signatures or identity verification.
3. Maintaining Communication
Keeping in touch with friends, family, and clients has never been easier, thanks to current technologies. Here’s how to maintain connections from any location:
- Utilize Wi-Fi calling: Applications such as WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom, and Google Meet allow you to call or video chat for free over the internet.
- Acquire a local SIM card or eSIM: This provides you with a local phone number and data plan. Services such as Airalo and GigSky offer flexible eSIM options.
- Retain your home country number: Utilize services like Google Voice or Skype to keep a U.S. number that forwards to your new phone.
- Safeguard your data: Use a VPN such as ExpressVPN or NordVPN to secure your connection on public Wi-Fi and to access content from your home country.
Be sure to share your updated contact information with friends, family, and any organizations that may need to contact you.
4. Voting While Abroad
Living overseas does not mean you forfeit your right to participate in your home country’s elections. If you’re a U.S. citizen, you can cast your vote via absentee ballot. Here’s how to proceed:
- Register using your new mailing address: This ensures that you receive ballots and election information.
- Stay updated: Be aware of election dates and submission deadlines. Some states require you to request a