Travel changes us, and at some point in our way, we have found ourselves saying, What if I had never left here. In an actual sense, though, there is actually no conversation of scooping up and boarding a flight when relocating to a foreign country is concerned. It is visas, language, logistics, a million little things that all get in your way. We shall here use three random case studies to illustrate how deeply complex the move may have been.
Italy – USA
Exit from Italy to the USA begins with a visa. It can take anywhere between 6 months and many years, so you will have to wait patiently. Check out the requirements on the official U.S. Embassy in Rome website – you can also book your interview there. Visas are split into several categories:
- Work visas: H-1B, L-1, O-1, E-2;
- Family visas: IR (Immediate Relative), F (Family Preference);
- Immigration visas: DV (Diversity Visa), EB (Employment-Based Immigrant Visas);
- Student visas: F-1, M-1;
- Visas for entrepreneurs and startups: E-2, International Entrepreneur Parole.
Next comes the paperwork. You’ll need a passport valid for at least 6 months, police clearance certificates, and financial statements. If you’re traveling with family, prepare marriage and birth certificates. Translate all documents into English using certified translators to avoid delays.
Relocation logistics must also be taken into consideration. Shipping one’s personal belongings internationally is expensive, so purge anything that is not essential. Bubble wrap fragile objects and identify good movers with FMCSA certification. Companies like Elate Movers can provide both international and domestic transport.
USA – Paris
It is possible to move from the USA to France. Step number one is the visa. France has long-stay visas for work (Talent Passport), studying, or family reunification. The France-Visas website explains step-by-step how to prepare your CV, employment contract, or letter of university acceptance. Processing time is 2 to 4 months, so begin early.
Documents needed are:
- Passport;
- Health insurance;
- Evidence of accommodation (rental agreement or invitation letter).
If you are buying real estate, research the market on Seloger.com – Paris is expensive ($10,000 per m² inside the city), and you have to learn the language. The French respect you if you try hard to communicate in their language, even with simple words. You can pick up basics on the Babbel app or courses at Alliance Française in 3 to 6 months. Without French, it will be very difficult to get a job or lease an apartment.
Thailand – UAE
Moving from Thailand to the UAE means trading humid chaos for futuristic luxury. In the UAE, work visas (Employment Visa) and investor visas (Golden Visa) are popular. Check the requirements on the UAE Embassy website – you’ll typically need an employment contract, health certificate, and passport. The process takes 1 to 2 months, and employers often assist.
Standard documents are: passport, diplomas, and medical tests (HIV and TB). Translate all documents in English or Arabic via accredited agencies. If with family, include marriage and birth certificates.
Language is no problem. English is the language of choice, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Nevertheless, some Arabic (hello, daily expressions) will get you far in communication. Take Rosetta Stone or Bangkok-based tutors prior to departing, and don’t neglect learning local culture, from Ramadan rules to attire. That way, you will settle in more quickly.
In Conclusion
Any kind of immigration to a new country is like starting a book at the very beginning of it; the secret to its success is planning, patience, and the readiness to find out the unknown. Believe in the big stuff, dare to seek help, and do not forget that it is not a simple change of address, but a chance to rediscover yourself.
