After spending almost my entire adult life in Ireland - aside from a year-long stint in New York when I was 19 - I recently found myself preparing for the challenge of relocating to another country.
This time, I planned to move to northern Norway. Eight years had passed since I'd last lived somewhere new, and I realised I had to re-learn everything there is to know about moving abroad.
Without a doubt, moving is never just about packing a suitcase; it’s a complete shift in lifestyle, mindset and routine. From the logistics of setting up a new life, to the mental resilience needed to step outside my comfort zone, the new adventure was both exciting and daunting. But with the right preparation, the transition became much smoother.
If you’re planning a move abroad, here is my advice to help you navigate the journey.
Visa & residency requirements
If it is required for the country you plan to move to, make sure to thoroughly research visa types, work permits and legal paperwork that you will need if you plan to stay long-term. You can avoid a lot of unnecessary stress if you plan ahead. The process can be really slow, so give yourself enough time. Keep all documents well organised and set up a tracker in Excel or in a notebook to keep on top of it all.
Cost of living/banking and finances
Research the country and compare housing, food, healthcare, and transportation costs with your current expenses. Ensure you have saved enough money to cover unexpected or emergency costs while travelling or when you arrive in the country.
You never know what can happen when you first arrive, so it is always best to be financially secure. When you arrive, try to set up a bank account as soon as possible and understand currency exchange (if needed).
Be careful with your money - and don’t flash around cash!
Language & communication
If you are moving to a non-English-speaking country, I recommend you learn basic phrases before you move. This will help with daily life and reduce isolation. There are plenty of language-learning apps out there, or you can nab a handy phrase book.
I have picked up a few Norwegian phrases which help when buying groceries or ordering coffee but, lucky for me, people here are fluent in English.
An Irish goodbye
While some may enjoy a big going away party, I decided against it as I felt it created too much unnecessary pressure. If you have a going away party, and then you move and decide it isn't for you, you may feel extra pressure that you have to make it work.
Cultural differences
Culture shock is real. While I had visited Tromsø before, travelling somewhere is completely different to living there. Therefore, my recommendation when moving somewhere is to be open-minded and patient when adjusting to new customs, social norms and traditions. It can take time, but if you embrace your new life, it will make it easier to settle.
Norwegian people are very reserved, and I'm used to being around Irish people who are chatty and very friendly. It took me a while to adjust to the silence and lack of engagement with strangers. Norway has strict alcohol laws as well, and people don't really socialize unless it's for an event or sometimes at the weekend. This took me a little while also, because I was so used to meeting friends for a drink in Dublin after work.
Now my lifestyle is more focused on exercise and outdoor activities, which is fantastic. Their attitude towards weather is also so different. They really embrace the harsh winter here, and very little stops them from going about their daily routines. I found this hard at the start because the weather can be really terrible here, but yet I am forced to continue on, and dress appropriately!
Public transport & driving rules
Some countries have amazing public transport, while in others you will absolutely need a car. Here in Norway, I am very lucky that public transport is excellent. While Tromsø does not have a train system, the buses are very reliable. I rarely have issues getting to work or to other events.
However, if you are planning on driving in your new country, or if it is required for work, then make sure to check if you need an international driver’s license, and be aware of different traffic laws. For example, winter tyres are mandatory here in Norway, and if you fail to comply you are faced with fines or driving restrictions.
Dealing with loneliness
This was a big one for me. It’s important to note that you can expect some homesickness when you move away. This is something I really struggled with, but it is completely normal. Sometimes you will just miss what is familiar, whether this is your family or food.
What helped me was to stay connected with loved ones by calling weekly, making an effort to meet new people, and building a support system. Remember, too, if you haven’t moved far, it is okay to go back home for a weekend. No one will judge you.
Building a routine
In order to create some stability and emotional comfort, I would recommend creating familiar habits when you move to a new place. This could be exercising, taking up hobbies or cooking your favourite meals. It really helps me here to go for a daily walk in nature, and breathe in the fresh Arctic air that surrounds me.
Handling unexpected challenges
Life happens and things won’t always go as planned! Stay flexible, have a problem-solving mindset, and embrace the adventure. It took me four weeks to find somewhere to live when I moved to Norway, and although this wasn’t expected, I had no choice but to remain positive.
I wanted to give myself a chance, and so I pushed through. I am very happy I did, as I now live in a beautiful apartment overlooking the Norwegian Sea and snow-capped mountains. While it was difficult and cost more money than I had initially intended, this challenge made me more self-aware and wiser.
Self-care & mental health
Moving abroad is exciting but it is also stressful. Make sure to find ways to relax, seek professional support if needed, and be kind to yourself. Sometimes you just need time to yourself, and that is okay. I find it helps me to take a nice shower and chill out, or treat myself to a nice massage or facial when I can. Practicing yoga helps calm my nervous system, and regular pilates sessions helps keep me physically and mentally healthy too.
If you have done your best to settle in but still find yourself feeling unhappy, remember that it’s okay not to be okay. If you are really struggling and feel the need to go home, that’s completely valid. Do what is best for you. This is your life and your decision, no one else’s. Moving abroad isn’t for everyone, and there is no shame in realising it’s not the right fit.
Unfortunately, some people feel pressured to pretend they’re enjoying it when they’re not. Prioritise your well-being above all else, and do not try to stick it out just to prove a point. The experience of moving abroad will test you in ways you never imagined.
However, with the right mindset and preparation, it can also be one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. No matter where life takes you, the lessons you learn along the way will stay with you forever.
