Relocating to a New Life Abroad

Relocating to a new country is an exciting adventure that offers a fresh start and the opportunity for personal growth. And expats come from all walks of life, and from many different countries.

As a British expat considering a move to Europe, there are numerous factors to consider, from legal requirements to cultural differences.

You may have decided to move to another country in order to experience a new culture or to change your current way of life.

Perhaps work, study or family commitments have influenced your decision. Whatever the motives for your move, it’s likely that while living in a new country can be full of excitement and positive experiences, there will be growing pains and difficulties along the way.

Europe is a popular destination choice for British expats

Here in the UK, Europe is a popular destination for British people and their families to relocate and embark on the life of being an expat and living abroad.

Why move to Europe?

Europe is an epicentre for expats, with 2.7 million foreigners moving to the EU in 2019 alone.

There are several reasons for this that include job opportunities, good salaries, higher standard of living. Not to mention diverse cultures and history, lively cities, beautiful countryside, and great food!

Also, for many, ancestral links continue to attract people of all ages to travel, study, work, live and relocate to Europe.

Who relocates to start a new life abroad?

Some people are keen to permanently settle in one place, while others commute annually back to the UK too.

From digital nomad travellers, students, and remote workers who decide to settle, to individuals and families who choose a new life in another country, and retired people seeking a place in the sun – as well as those who relocate for work. All of these relocations need great research, planning, required paperwork to move goods across borders and the channel, and the all logistics of moving.

Choosing a dependable, established and reliable removals company is key.

What are the exciting parts of moving to Europe?

Cultural Immersion: Living in a different country offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture. Embrace the chance to learn new languages, explore local traditions, taste different cuisines, and engage in exciting cultural events. This enriching experience can broaden your horizons and provide you with lifelong memories.

Travel Opportunities: Europe is renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and proximity to various countries. As a British expat, with the necessary visas and post-Brexit paperwork, you’ll have the advantage of easy access to explore neighbouring nations, enabling you to embark on exciting travel adventures and discover new destinations.

Some of the things to consider when choosing a new country to settle in

This is an extensive list! But it covers things like healthcare, money matters, the ability to open bank accounts, property rental or buying.

Staying connected to old friends while making new friends in your new adopted country forms part of the emotional links that unite your old and new worlds.

Things to Consider:

Legal Requirements: Before making the move, it is essential to research and understand the legal requirements of your chosen European country. This includes obtaining the necessary visas and work permits, understanding tax obligations, and familiarising yourself with immigration laws.

Language and Culture: Language barriers can pose a challenge when relocating to a foreign country. Learning the local language or at least the basics will greatly enhance your ability to communicate and integrate into the local community. Additionally, understanding and adapting to the cultural norms and customs will help you settle in smoothly.

Cost of Living: The cost of living can vary significantly from one European country to another. Research the average expenses, including housing, transportation, healthcare, and groceries, to ensure that your budget aligns with the cost of living in your chosen destination.

Job Market: Consider the employment opportunities in your destination country. Research the job market and ensure that your skills and qualifications are in demand. It may be helpful to network with professionals or join expat communities to gather insights and potential job leads.

Healthcare and Insurance: Familiarise yourself with the healthcare system of your chosen country. Determine if you are eligible for public healthcare or if private insurance is necessary. It is crucial to have adequate health coverage to protect yourself and your family in case of any medical emergencies.

Which country is right for you?

When you plan your move, it’s important to remember that some countries may be better suited to you and your family than others. So, a good suggestion is to first research, research, research! Find out the European countries that are the best for expats, and also for your particular set of needs, aims, and family.

What are the best European countries to live in right now?

According to The Expat Insider 2022 Report: Portugal is the best destination for expats in Europe. And Portugal comes 4^th in the overall rankings for the best global expat destination, particularly for its sunshine and good social life.

Nine out of ten expats surveyed said they enjoy the climate and weather, and that people are friendly and open. In contrast, they also mentioned that it is harder to deal with the local bureaucracy. And that the job market and career opportunities are not as strong as other destinations. However, 85% of expats said they are happy with their life in Portugal.

Portugal is one of the favoured destinations that we’ve moved our customers to, and we can do the same for you.

Spain offers expats the best quality of life

Although coming in 5^th in the overall rankings of the same report, Spain was voted top expat global destination for quality of life out of 11 thousand participating expats. Access to healthcare options seem to be favoured. Like Portugal, career opportunities and levels of pay weren’t rated highly.

However, many expats from the UK relocate to Spain as part of their retirement plans. And the good food and great weather more than make up for it!

France, Belgium, Italy and Germany are also among the popular European destinations for expats.

According to a seasoned British expat, there are 8 tips for settling into a new country successfully

• Be open minded
• Improve your language skills
• Make new friends
• Don’t forget your old friends
• Know what you’re getting into
• Plan ahead
• Seek out help when and if needed
• Expect the Unexpected!

Getting there – the relocation begins!

Part of the planning process includes choosing the right expert pair of hands when it comes to deciding on your removal company.

We have been moving our customers for nearly fifty years, including many, many moves across the channel between the UK and Europe.

And these days, with the requirements of Brexit, we know how to navigate all the necessary paperwork to make your relocation and move to Europe stress-free.

One-step door-to-door move for peace of mind

When it comes to moving, we pick up your valued goods at your doorstep – whether you are moving from the UK to Europe, or returning to the UK.

Your goods stay with us every step of the way.

They do not leave our trucks until they are offloaded on the other side at your new doorstep. There is no third party local company involved. No changeover. Your entrusted items stay in the very same truck from start to finish.

For extra services that might be needed, we can also pack surplus goods directly into our containers and store them in our 24/7-secure large storage facility in the UK.

You are not alone in your new move!

We guide and plan with you every step of the way when it comes to transporting your treasured items.

And while things certainly will be different and new, there are local expat groups, internet forums, friends and colleagues who can all be an excellent source of advice to help you get settled in your new life abroad.

Moving with us at Shires Removals means that you can literally move lock, stock, and barrel with one company, with one van and trailer (or more, if needed) between UK and Europe.

And the door to door service gives you peace of mind in a challenging time of relocating abroad.

International Moves. Home Moves. Office Moves. Business Moves.

Whether you are moving house or office, nationally or internationally, our friendly and helpful staff aim to make the move as easy and stress free as possible.

Our head office is located in Kinsley, near Pontefract and Wakefield, West Yorkshire, UK but we cater for moves all over the country whether you are moving a few miles or a few hundred miles. Our representatives can visit you at your home to discuss your moving requirements, with no charge and with no obligation to use us.

We provide Local, National and International Removals, Packing, and Storage services to Domestic and Commercial customers.

You find a place, and we’ll take you there!

info@shiresremovals.eu