Thinking about moving abroad? Whether you’re looking for a new job, better quality of life, or simply your next adventure, choosing a foreign country to relocate to can be a challenge. If you are exploring your options on the best places to live as an expatriate, take a look at our list of things to consider.  

Job market  

Unless you’re retired or come from money, job opportunities are perhaps the most important factor to look at before your move. If you have a destination in mind, consider if it’s an easy place for non-natives to find work.  

Here are the questions you need to find answers to: 

• Are there jobs available in your field?   
• Are there jobs in a language you can speak? 
• What are the salaries on offer? 

Looking at job prospects, LinkedIn can be a great tool to find offers in a specific area. Alternatively, platforms dedicated to one country, such as Work in Lithuania, can help with your research. 

Everyday living 

Some everyday things we usually don’t give a second thought about may be game-changers when deciding where to relocate. When moving abroad, assess if you’ll be able to afford to live, eat, and shop the way you want in your chosen country.  

Some questions to consider might include:  

• Is housing available and affordable? 
• Is there a reliable, easy-to-use public transport system? Will you need your own car? 
• What’s the health system like?

Time off-work 

Before picking your destination, make sure to look into your options to spend great time outside of work there. You might want to think about how you like to spend your time in your current country, and whether the same pastimes will be available to you once you move. 

Your homework might include researching these questions: 

• Do people enjoy a work-life balance? What is the common policy on working hours and paid vacation days? 
• What sightseeing opportunities are there? What about cultural activities and events? 
• Is there an expat community? 
• If you’re moving with your family, are there family-friendly activities and places? 

You can also check out “Foreigners in Country X” Facebook groups and Meetup.com to get an idea of the various clubs and hobby-based groups available. 

Ease of relocation  

It’s not enough to just have a passport when moving to another country. Sorting out immigration paperwork can be a complicated process, so you need to find out the necessary details before selecting a country to move to.  

Here’s what you need to learn: 

• What are the visa requirements?  
• How long does it take to get a visa or a work permit? How much does it cost? 
• How long can you stay in the country in case you lose or change your job? 
• Are there any financial incentives for expats relocating to work there? 

Relocating to any country will run into unforeseen problems, unexpected joys and everything else in between. But thinking through this list of questions might help to make sure the country you choose has everything you’re looking for.