10 essential tips for living abroad
Whether you are a professional, an employee, a student, a retiree, etc. and you have decided to expatriate, it is essential to review several points to make your project a success. We present here, 10 essential tips for living abroad with peace of mind.
Be aware of cultural differences
To live in a new country, you must take into account cultural realities. They can indeed be very different from what you have always known. It is therefore normal to be disoriented and to sometimes have a time of adaptation. However, you must learn, understand and accept this “ culture shock “ in order to better integrate and feel comfortable.
Find a job in the host country
If you are not an expatriate employee, you will have to find a job to support yourself. To do this, you can contact the International Employment Centre or EURES to find out about job offers abroad for which you can apply.
Finding suitable accommodation
To live abroad, you will also need to find housing. Your company or the relocation company you work with can help you in this search.
Adapting
It is important to try to adopt the local rhythm. You must show tolerance by respecting the local population, culture and beliefs. Observe what is going on around you and live at the same pace. This will lead to an easy adaptation in the new living environment.
Find out about local legislation
Of course, the laws are not the same in all countries. When you are abroad, local law applies. You must then find out about the local legislation and comply with it in order to avoid being a witness or perpetrator of unpleasant situations.
Find out about tax obligations
It is important to know where your tax residence is: is ittransferred to the host country or not? You must then contact your usual tax office so that they can tell you all the steps to take to remain compliant with your tax obligations.
To rule on its social protection
Depending on your status abroad (expatriate or seconded), you may be covered by the French social security system unless you are covered by the social security system of your host country. It is therefore necessary to find out about your social protection in order to know what to do if you need to.
Register with the consular services
Even if it is not an obligation, it is still advisable to register with the register of French citizens established outside France. You can then benefit from consular protection.
Check the rules of the road
Depending on the country, the risk of accidents is more or less high. It is therefore advisable to keep the rules you acquired in France (wearing a helmet, wearing a seatbelt, etc.).
Keeping in touch with your acquaintances
Even though you live abroad, it is important to stay in touch with friends, family, former co-workers, etc. This way, you will feel less isolated and your return home will be easier when the time comes.
