Living abroad is exciting and educational, but it also has drawbacks, depending on the circumstances of the move. Whether you're an adult who has chosen to move to another country or the child of a military person, your situation influences your perception and quality of life abroad. Another factor determining the pros and cons of living abroad is if you are moving to another country and staying put for a long time or hopping from place to place, becoming a "global nomad," a term coined by Norma McCaig, the founder of Global Nomads International.
Maintaining Income
According to an article on BraveNewTraveler.com, one of the biggest obstacles in living abroad is having to settle for lower paying jobs or finding that the same pay doesn't go as far. To work overseas, learn the laws and regulations about accepting a position in that country. You may need to apply for a work visa. If this is a working holiday, some countries offer limited numbers of working holiday visas. You'll be taxed according to the rules of that country.
Although it is illegal in most countries to accept cash under the table, there are cases in which it is accepted. This money won't be taxed, and it's only good for a short time. You're not likely to find short-term jobs that fulfill your ultimate career goals, but if your stay is short-term, you may be able to earn enough to pay for everyday expenses.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in other countries may be prohibitive. You may find yourself having to downsize considerably, taking a smaller living space with sparse furnishings to make ends meet. Most housing close to amenities and business districts can be quite expensive per square footage, but you may also find that downsizing helps eliminate unnecessary clutter.
Traffic and Transportation
In the larger cities of most countries, traffic can be a nightmare. Traffic laws vary from country to country, so you'll need to become acquainted with regulations before you attempt to drive. However, the upside may be that you won't need your own transportation because typically, densely populated cities offer affordable and convenient public transportation.
Starting Fresh
Moving to another country will enable you to start fresh. You can make some major life changes without much of the baggage you'll have if you stay put. However, the negative is not having family and friends nearby to offer the support you may already have. Most people who make the move abroad consider leaving family and friends behind as the biggest negative, according to an article on emigrationexpert.co.uk.
Medical Care
Medical care varies from country to country. Before you leave, it's a good idea to refer to the Consular Information Sheets at the U.S. State Department. Look under Medical Facilities and Health Information after clicking on the country where you'll be. Know the generic name of all your medications. Pack what you need and have it with you during your travels.
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