Language

• When you move to another country, you may be forced to learn a new language. While some people may be able to learn the language quickly by immersing themselves in their new life, others may need to take classes before the big move. A classroom approach can help you to slowly learn the language alongside others who are on the same level. Investing in language-learning software may help you to learn the language more quickly. However, you may have to live in the new country for a while before you fully grasp the language.

Laws

• The laws in each country vary. Therefore, become familiar with the laws that govern your new country and how they differ from what you are used to. If you don't, you may end up inadvertently breaking a law and starting off your new life on the wrong foot. You may also need an additional document to go with your driver's license to drive in the new country. To better understand your move from a legal standpoint, consult with an attorney who specializes in international affairs.

Culture Shock

• Moving to a new country involves immersing yourself in a new culture. Every culture has its own set of traditions, dress codes and celebrations. When you expose yourself to a new culture, you do not have to forget everything from your old culture, but to fit in, it is beneficial to at least be familiar with your new culture and all it entails. Expose yourself to local people, make friends and attend local events to gain a better understanding of your new culture and how you are expected to act.

Emotional Issues

• Because you are now living far from home, it is normal to experience homesickness and miss your old life. It is important to understand that these feelings are completely normal and will fade with time. Don't pressure yourself and become discouraged when you have been living there for a week or a month and still are unhappy. Adapting to a new place with a new language and culture takes time. You will experience many stages from fear, guilt and depression to acceptance and happiness. Recognize that this process and each stage can take a different length of time for each person. It could be a whole year or even more before you truly feel comfortable in your new life.

Lack of Support

• Unless you are moving to a new country to join your family or friends who are already living there, you may find that you do not have a support system to help you through the transition. This can lead to having a more difficult time with the adjustment period, and you may find yourself dealing with your feelings in an unhealthy manner, such as overeating, drinking too much or sleeping too much. Reach out and find some local activities that pique your interest to help make your transition smoother and help you to find friends to lean on for support.

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