Are you thinking of moving abroad? I would assume most people who love travel, adventure, or new experiences have given some thought to the idea. But what are the key things to consider? As much as I have desired to see every corner of the world, another life goal of mine is to live in another country (or a few). Not just study abroad or extended visa status, like properly integrating into another culture, making local friends, and having a place to call home.
I have considered moving abroad more seriously over the last few years, but I didn’t know where and when. The intention was there, but the vision was unclear, and I didn’t have my WHY yet. In December 2024, I visited my 70th country, which felt like a huge milestone. I’m unsure why it felt different from my 60th or 69th, but it just did. It also left me feeling a bit beat up, if I am being honest. It left me with contemplative thoughts I will never have the answer to.
Like, have I gotten shorter from all my heavy backpacks weighing me down? Why did I choose the most expensive hobby? Why do my knees ache so bad after long hall flights? Is my jet lag getting worse? Is the window seat still the best choice? When will I be flying business class all the time? And so on. Maybe, just maybe, I’m moving into a ‘semi-retired’ era of my travel career.
Moving Abroad to Mexico
Well, I am ecstatic to report in March 2025, I am moving abroad to Mexico with my boyfriend. The barrier to entry in Mexico felt less than other places we have dreamed of living. We love Mexico and the state of Nayarit we are moving to; more on that region here. We will still have businesses in California, so the direct flight back when needed will be easy. Also, I have my residency in Mexico, which will make driving my car down and getting a Mexican driver’s license easier.
Mexican culture is one I never really had to adjust to, it just felt like part of my soul. The WHY became clear: adventure, a slower pace of life, warm ocean, amazing locals and the mystery of the unknown. Having a whole new geography for ‘local trips’ also makes me giddy. I’m curious if this move will check enough of my curiosity and adventure boxes, where I just might start traveling less. On that note, let’s unpack 8 key things to consider when moving abroad.
8 Important Things to Consider
While I believe your WHY is number one, here are 8 important things to consider before leaping. Getting a grasp on these logistics as well as the unique cultural nuances of where you want to go will make your time that much more enjoyable.
1. Visa
Securing the right visa is one of the most important steps when moving abroad. Research the visa types available for your destination, whether it’s for work, study or residency. Some countries offer retiree residency programs or investment/digital nomads visas. Check out Nomads.com to network with like-minded travelers. Certain countries may also require proof of income, health insurance, or sponsorship for approval. You may also be eligible to apply for residency or citizenship in your family’s country of origin if you can prove a relation with various documents. It’s worth consulting an immigration expert or lawyer to ensure a smooth process and avoid surprises later. If you are interested in a Mexican residency consultant, please email us.
2. Cost of Living
Moving somewhere with a lower cost of living sounds too good to be true right now. Having lived in LA for 14 years, you get used to yearly inflation and peak prices. Understanding the cost of where you are going is essential before making the move. I realized places I used to think were ‘cheap’ aren’t anymore. Globalization and remote workers gentrifying desirable cities are factors that drive prices up. Start by researching key expenses like housing, groceries, utilities, transportation and returning home. A smaller city or a cheaper country might be a consideration if you have a fixed budget. If you have a group of friends somewhere you enjoy visiting, that would also be a good place to research.
3. Employment or Income
Securing stable employment or income is essential before moving abroad. Research job opportunities in your field and understand the local job market, including salaries and if work permits are available. If you work remotely, confirm that your visa allows it and check for any tax implications. Research Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE), Foreign Tax Credit (FTC) and Foreign Housing Exclusion + Deduction to understand your tax liability and ways to save money. Having a clear financial plan will give you peace of mind and help you confidently settle into your new home.
* Pro tip ~ If you need to continue getting mail back home, be sure to look into digital mailboxes that will open your mail, scan it, send it to you and even shred it! These places might even be the right fit for your business address as well.
4. Housing
Choosing the right location is a key part of moving abroad. Start by researching neighborhoods that suit your lifestyle, considering factors like safety, food quality, proximity to amenities and public transportation. Decide whether to rent or buy, depending on your long-term plans and local regulations. Short-term rentals or serviced apartments can be a good option while you explore and get a feel for the area. If you pay cash for a home abroad, imagine not having to rent or a mortgage! I suggest a few discovery trips to the locations you are considering and networking with locals and online groups for housing options. Be aware of price gouging to foreigners and be discrete when discussing your budget.
5. Healthcare System
Understanding the healthcare system in your new country is essential before moving. Can you get public healthcare, private insurance options, or a mix of both? Many countries require proof of health insurance for visa applications, so it’s worth planning this early. Research local medical facilities and see if you need additional vaccinations or prescriptions before arriving. Several reputable companies offer international health insurance for expats, travelers, and digital nomads. Check out the offerings of Cigna Global and Allianz Care. Many expats living in Baja California have chosen this location for ease of returning to the states for medical needs. Perhaps a neighboring country to where you live is a logical choice?
6. Education
Education is important if you’re moving abroad with children or planning to pursue studies yourself. Research the quality and availability of local schools or universities in your destination. If language is a barrier, look into institutions that offer instruction in your preferred language and foreign language classes. For families, perhaps researching and visiting international schools will help you dial in viable locations for moving abroad.
* Pro tip ~ a key component to living abroad is mastering your cell phone plan. Our full article on that is here!
7. Building Community
Building community is vital when adjusting to life abroad and will be an antidote to loneliness. Start by connecting with local expat communities or interest groups, which can provide valuable advice and camaraderie. A weekly hiking group or yoga classes will help you quickly make friends. Engaging with locals can help you learn a language quicker, and they may be interested in speaking your native tongue with you. If you want to live abroad but can’t see leaving your friends back home, consider choosing a location they’ll love visiting.
8. Long-Term Goals
Before moving abroad, it’s essential to reflect on your long-term goals and how the move aligns with them. Consider whether you’re seeking career growth, a lifestyle change or new cultural experiences. Personally, I want to explore living in places with less ‘hustle culture’. My American job will still be a hustle at times, but what if, aside from that, other aspects of my life could feel more relaxed? Spent in less traffic, with less emphasis on consumption, less overhead and the opportunity to retire sooner?
Planning, Passion & Vision
Moving abroad takes a lot of planning, passion and vision. Hopefully, these logistical tips will get your wheels spinning. Now, we are eager to hear from you! Where do you want to live, or where have you lived abroad? Was it how you envisioned and what did you learn? Do you want to stay there long-term or are you looking for your next place to call home?
No matter how long your move abroad lasted, I admire you for taking the leap and trying something new. I know I came back from my extensive travels abroad due to loneliness. This time around, building community and being less nomadic are my goals. The mystery of the unknown and new life experiences continue to drive my lifestyle choices.
Stay wild,
Rach
PS ~ If remote working is your next step before moving abroad, check out our digital nomad tips article here!
