Given the opportunity, a sizeable percentage of youth are open to relocating from Uganda for work and to pursue better living standards. This is according to Afrobarometer’s 2019 research findings exploring attitudes towards moving overseas in over 30 African countries.

However, despite the ability and willingness among the majority of Ugandans, a lot of planning and preparation goes into relocating to another country. The culture shock, having to learn and speak a new language, and the physical separation from family, friends, and familiar faces back home can be daunting.

Many Ugandans in the diaspora confess that there are some things they wish they knew before relocating from Uganda. Below are some factors to consider before moving overseas.

1.    Visas and Work Permits

Sorting out your visa and work permit should be your earliest priority as it can be a long, daunting process. Whether you’re leaving to work or stay, getting the right kind of visa is not something to leave up to the last minute.

The two types of visas required for moving to a country like the USA are immigrant and non-immigrant. Depending on your other reasons for moving, there are more visa types under the two broad categories.

If you are relocating from Uganda for temporary work and intend to get back before your visa’s expiration date, a non-immigrant business, and tourist, or specialist workers visa will suffice. However, for complete international moving involving permanent settlement, you will have to go through the lengthy process of acquiring an immigrant visa.

Relevant immigrant visas include;

•  Investor visa – for immigrants to the US willing to put up over $500000 to get it
• Employment visa – for immigrants employed in the US
•  Adoption visa – for those with adopted children
• Family visa – if you intend to move with your immediate family

Ensure you consult the state department or embassy for the country you are moving to for guidance on the right visas and work permits. You will present the visa alongside the passport.

2.    Cost of Living

Browse reputable websites where you can compare the costs of living to find out the price of basic commodities, transport, and housing in the new city you will be moving to. If you have friends or family already living there, it would even be more convenient to consult with them. If you are relocating from Uganda for work, you may be lucky enough to have pre-planned, temporary accommodation from your employer until you can learn your new city.

 

Understanding the cost of living in your host country will save you the expensive hassle of having to relocate because of a higher salary only to end up suffocating with bills. It is worth noting, however, that living costs in certain cities may be driven up by utility bills, healthcare, and groceries.

3.    Language and Cultural Differences

Understanding your host country’s official language is essential for signing paperwork in government offices and reading bills that may come in the mail. While you may be able to handle certain things with signs and gestures, it can get a little confusing when you have to sign contracts written in a language you can’t read and understand. You might have to consider an online translation service or hire someone to help.

It is worth knowing the cultural and religious traditions of the country you are moving to. For instance, some societies prohibit unmarried partners from living together, and others have outlawed same-sex relationships. If you know certain aspects of your lifestyle may not be acceptable, it is crucial to carry out due diligence or research before relocating abroad for work.

4.    Healthcare

Healthcare systems abroad vary greatly from what we’re accustomed to in Uganda where the government provides health funds. Insurance pays for healthcare, thus taking out private insurance is recommendable to cover medical expenses during your stay overseas. Even with an immigrant visa, it is imperative to get a policy in case your employer is non-compliant.

There is a state hospital system in France, for example. However, you must live in France for three months before you can use it. Keep in mind that national healthcare does not imply cheap healthcare. It is funded by taxation.

If you don’t have affordable and dependable insurance, medical expenses could wipe out a lifetime of hard work. Know your healthcare choices before moving overseas from Uganda for work, as well as how your citizenship or terms of residence may limit them.

5.    Education

If you plan to remain longer and want to continue your education or stay with family, do your research on the educational system and fee structures. Children in most foreign countries are required to attend basic education school (from age 5 to 12), secondary school (from age 16 to 18), and one or two extra years for a diploma.

Application processes differ from city to city, and you can make inquiries into international schools for your children well in advance. Consider enrolling your children in a nearby school if you are making a permanent transfer. Younger children can rapidly learn new languages and should adjust well to this setting. Alternatively, studying English in an international school ensures that your children can simply re-enter school if they return to their prior home country.

If feasible, take your children to the new school you’ve selected. They will have the opportunity to meet their prospective instructors and get a sense of what their new school will be like.

6.    International Moving Costs

The cost of international moving depends on the factors such as the mode of transport, volume and weight of goods, the route, speed and urgency of delivery, and shipping fees, including customs charges. Options include air and sea freight.

Since Uganda is a landlocked country, you are likely to incur charges for transport from your home to the sea or airport. Sea freight is more popular and efficient for international moving. Associated costs include container hire and transport fees – all variable depending on shipment weight and size.

While air freight is more expensive, it is faster. If you are moving abroad from Uganda for work on a tight timeline, air freight is the best guarantee to receive your property quickly.

You may also hire an international moving service to get help with packing your container before shipping. They also ensure your customs clearance credentials are on point. While hiring a reputable moving service may be more expensive than DIY, it’s essential to understand the following benefits;

• They are quick and effective because of years of professional moving expertise
• Insured protection from loss or damage
• The moving company offers packing supplies, such as bubble wrap, boxes, tape, and mobile lifts
• If necessary, the company can arrange storage services – with moving trucks at their disposal, they can facilitate transport from your home to the port in a single trip
• Professional movers significantly lower the tension of your international move by handling all associated tasks

  

 

7. Career and Business Opportunities

Your initial plans for moving abroad may change for different reasons, and it is advisable to remain open-minded about business and career opportunities. The best strategy is to keep updating your resume, invest in your skills and knowledge, and maintain good credit to facilitate the raising of capital if necessary.

In the long run, consider that your habits and attitude will shape your success more than your money and position.

8. Safety and Security

Relocating to a new country for work can be exciting as well as stressful; however, taking the necessary steps can keep you safe from commonly associated risks. Remember that the feeling of safety and security is something you will have to work on before your relocation plan goes into effect.

Researching online can also give you a good sense of your destination’s governmental security. You can also contact your home country’s foreign department to obtain correct information or even travel alerts in the event of a disaster.

While traveling may not be particularly risky, long-haul trips may adversely affect your health. You may wear flight hosiery and avoid sitting for long periods to prevent deep vein thrombosis. If you suffer from travel sickness even on brief journeys, ensure to bring the necessary medication.

You may arrive at your host country very early in the morning, or in the middle of the night. Make all the required preparations in advance, including hotel reservations, to avoid spending long hours at the sea or airport waiting for someone to pick you up.

Check the local news and stay up to speed to prepare for escape during natural disasters, such as earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanoes. Maintain flexibility in your travel arrangements and inquire about any warnings given by your native government.

9. Social Support

The stress of adjusting to a new country can best be dealt with by building a strong support network with family and friends. Many expats may have similar experiences and connecting with them to share yours can be reassuring.

While the value of a strong support network can easily be overlooked, it is among the most essential factors to consider when moving abroad from Uganda for work. According to a recent study, most expatriates wish they had prioritized establishing a support network over banking, transportation, and lodging.

One of the most difficult challenges for expats is adjusting to living in a distant nation. You will initially feel lonely and miss your friends and family back home. Thus, finding security and staying anchored is critical.

10.  Climate

The climate is frequently ignored, but it is a critical determining element when moving internationally. Knowing it ahead of time will allow you to better plan for your future living circumstances and ensure that you will live easily once you arrive.

When we talk about climate, natural catastrophes come to mind, and we neglect to consider their significance in our daily lives. Climate change, on the other hand, has a major effect on international relocation.

Your mood and health can be affected by hot summers, harsh winters, poor light, frequent rainfall, and other factors, so consider carefully before relocating. Things can get worse for children especially, who often don’t have an option and may struggle to adjust to their new environment.

Numerous reports show that people are becoming more conscious of their own environmental effects. Some people are already altering their journey arrangements to use less polluting modes of transportation, even if it takes longer.

11. Tax Obligations

Figuring out how to pay taxes in a foreign country may not be simple. Foreign countries collect taxes in a distinct way and you may want to research prior to your international move.

Many nations have tax tools available online. It is critical to use the government’s tool to obtain the most accurate number. You may be required to obtain a fresh social security number or PIN.

Finally, while residing overseas, you should be aware of your tax obligations in Uganda. When residing in a foreign nation, for example, the US, citizens must still submit a tax return each year.

Other factors to consider include;

• Banking and finance
• Pet relocation
• Your budget for home inventory
• Community and adjusting to life abroad

Moving from Uganda to Another Country for Work Soon?

These tips can help you make an informed decision if you are planning to move to a foreign country for work. Despite the challenges, keep in mind the immense benefits of working outside Uganda. The country has a wide diaspora network, so don’t be surprised when you meet fellow countrymen and women in your new host country miles away.

If you’re moving abroad from Uganda soon, consider a reputable international moving company in East Africa for cross-border relocation and shipments. At Nellions Moving and Relocations, we guarantee premium-quality moving services backed by our broad range of partnerships.

Contact us for more information and consultancy to ensure your paperwork and property are in order before the big move.

 

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