Relocating overseas from Africa or any other part of the world involves significant preparation, understanding, and adaptability. Here’s a comprehensive list of 100 things you need to know, categorized for clarity:
1-10: Planning and Research
- Research visa requirements for your destination.
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months post-departure.
- Check flight availability and compare prices early.
- Understand the cultural norms of your destination country.
- Identify your purpose: work, study, or permanent relocation.
- Study the country’s cost of living, including housing and utilities.
- Learn about the local currency and exchange rates.
- Research job markets and potential opportunities.
- Verify the educational qualifications needed in your field.
- Check the country’s safety, crime rates, and political stability.
11-20: Legal and Documentation
- Obtain certified copies of key documents (birth certificates, degrees).
- Research visa types: work, study, or dependent visas.
- Ensure vaccinations required by your destination country are up-to-date.
- Prepare a will or power of attorney if necessary.
- Get police clearance certificates for visa applications.
- Translate key documents into the destination country’s language if needed.
- Understand residency and work permit regulations.
- Keep copies of employment contracts and offer letters.
- Familiarize yourself with customs regulations for imports.
- Get an international driving permit if you plan to drive.
21-30: Financial Preparation
- Save enough funds for the first 6-12 months of expenses.
- Open a bank account that allows international transactions.
- Learn about tax obligations in the destination country.
- Budget for relocation costs, including flights and moving.
- Understand currency fluctuations and their impact on savings.
- Plan for international money transfers.
- Get financial advice on retirement and pension options abroad.
- Check affordability of healthcare and health insurance plans.
- Investigate scholarship or funding options if studying abroad.
- Cancel or transfer subscriptions and memberships in your home country.
31-40: Accommodation
- Research housing options in advance.
- Budget for rental deposits and monthly payments.
- Familiarize yourself with tenant rights and rental agreements.
- Use trusted platforms to search for safe accommodations.
- Understand if housing includes utilities or if separate payments are required.
- Consider temporary housing for the first few weeks.
- Evaluate commute times to work, school, or amenities.
- Factor in costs like council tax or maintenance fees.
- Prepare to adapt to smaller living spaces in urban areas.
- Avoid scams when arranging housing remotely.
41-50: Health and Well-being
- Purchase international health insurance.
- Learn about the destination’s healthcare system.
- Find a GP (general practitioner) or primary doctor upon arrival.
- Carry medical records, prescriptions, and a health history.
- Check for mandatory vaccinations and health certifications.
- Pack a first-aid kit for emergencies.
- Research mental health resources in the destination country.
- Understand how emergencies (like 911 or 112) work locally.
- Stock up on essential medications.
- Stay updated on COVID-19 or other health-related entry requirements.
51-60: Transportation
- Research public transportation systems.
- Budget for daily travel expenses.
- Learn the country’s road rules and regulations.
- Use apps or maps to navigate public transit systems.
- Check if you can use your home country’s driver’s license.
- Factor in the cost of purchasing or renting a vehicle.
- Explore bicycle-friendly options in urban areas.
- Familiarize yourself with parking rules and fees.
- Investigate discounted travel cards for commuters.
- Budget for long-distance trips or visits to family.
61-70: Cultural Integration
- Learn the basics of the local language.
- Respect cultural customs, traditions, and norms.
- Understand dining etiquette and habits.
- Research the country’s history and heritage.
- Avoid sensitive topics in conversations.
- Dress appropriately for the local culture and climate.
- Be open to making new friends and joining local groups.
- Join expatriate communities for advice and support.
- Participate in local festivals and events.
- Show curiosity and respect for different religions and beliefs.
71-80: Employment and Education
- Confirm if your qualifications are recognized internationally.
- Research the job application process for your industry.
- Build a CV/resume tailored to your destination’s format.
- Network with professionals in your field.
- Enroll in courses to upgrade skills if needed.
- Check the job market demand for your profession.
- Understand labor laws and employee rights.
- Prepare for potential language proficiency tests (e.g., IELTS).
- Explore child schooling options if relocating with kids.
- Register children in schools before your move.
81-90: Practical Daily Life
- Pack weather-appropriate clothing.
- Understand utility setups for gas, electricity, and internet.
- Learn local grocery shopping options and pricing.
- Familiarize yourself with local time zones and working hours.
- Pack adaptors for electrical devices.
- Learn how to manage waste and recycling.
- Set up mobile phone and internet services.
- Research food options for dietary preferences.
- Understand the local post and courier system.
- Adapt to local shopping habits (e.g., early store closures).
91-100: Emotional and Psychological Adaptation
- Prepare for homesickness—it’s natural and temporary.
- Build a support network of friends, family, or expats.
- Stay open-minded to cultural differences.
- Practice patience when adjusting to new systems.
- Learn stress management techniques for tough days.
- Celebrate small milestones of your adaptation journey.
- Keep in touch with family and friends back home.
- Accept that mistakes and misunderstandings will happen.
- Be ready to unlearn stereotypes or biases.
- Embrace change as an opportunity for personal growth.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared to manage the challenges and opportunities of relocating overseas from Africa.
