Thinking about making the leap to a new country? Here’s what I wish someone had told me before I took that first flight.
1. Yes, You Actually Need That Degree
I know, I know – you’ve heard about college dropouts who made it big. But here’s the reality: a bachelor’s degree is your golden ticket abroad. It’s not about the education (though that’s nice too), it’s about the doors it opens.
Want to teach English in Asia? Degree required. Need a work visa? They’ll ask for your diploma. Applying for skilled worker immigration? That degree literally adds points to your application. In 2025, 72% of skilled worker visas in top destinations like Canada, Germany, and Australia require proof of tertiary education.
Skip the debt if you can, but don’t skip the degree.
2. Stop Trying to Predict the Future Job Market
My high school teacher used to say he was preparing us for jobs that didn’t exist yet. He wasn’t wrong.
Instead of chasing trends, focus on timeless skills:
- Write clearly (then cut your word count by half)
- Communicate well – listen more than you speak
- Learn a second language – any language, even badly
- Solve problems – get comfortable with math and basic programming
- Understand money – take that economics class you’ve been avoiding
- Read up on the latest in AI (Artificial Intelligence) developments – it’s changing the world (and job market) forever.
These skills will serve you anywhere, in any economy.
3. Get Comfortable Being Alone
This sounds weird, but hear me out. Your first year abroad can be genuinely lonely, especially in a culture with different values than yours. If you can’t handle being alone at home, you’ll struggle overseas.
Start small – take long walks without your phone, spend an afternoon in a café by yourself. It’s not about becoming antisocial; it’s about being comfortable in your own company when meaningful friendships take time to develop.
4. Fix Your Problems Before You Pack
Moving abroad isn’t a magic reset button for your life. Whatever issues you’re running from will likely follow you – with jet lag.
Hate your social circle? Find better people locally first. Broke? Unless you have a signed contract abroad, changing countries won’t change your bank balance. Having family drama? Running away just delays those difficult conversations.
Pro tip: 23% of failed expatriations stem from inadequate savings. Build up 6-12 months of expenses and get a multi-currency account like Wise or Revolut before you go.
5. Test Drive Before You Buy
You wouldn’t buy a car without a test drive, so why move to a country you’ve never experienced? Visit your target destination for at least a week – alone. Get a real taste of what daily life feels like, not just the tourist experience.
Better yet, try living there for a year before committing to residency. The novelty might wear off, or you might fall even more in love with the place. Either way, you’ll make a better decision.
Budget tip: Check out Workaway or HelpX for room and board in exchange for a few hours of work daily – perfect for extended exploration.
6. Trust Yourself (And Ignore the Doubters)
People will tell you it’s impossible. That you’ll fail, go broke, and come crawling home. Maybe they’re right – but you know what you’ll regret more than failing? Never trying.
If you’ve done your research, saved your money, and have a solid plan, go for it. You’re more resourceful than you think, and even if things don’t work out exactly as planned, you’ll figure it out.
Here’s a fun fact to remember when people doubt you: 34% of expats eventually settle permanently abroad, citing higher life satisfaction as the main reason.
The Bottom Line
Moving abroad changed my perspective on everything – including my appreciation for home. Whether you stay for a year or a lifetime, living in another country will teach you things about yourself and the world that you can’t learn any other way.
The leap is scary, but the regret of not taking it is scarier.
Ready to start planning? The world is waiting.
Check out one of our free Immigration Guides (organized by continent)!