In some companies, it is pretty common for some of the more valued and experienced employees to be given a transfer abroad, work in a different branch, or be the international face of the brand. This is a great career opportunity that most people jump for joy at – a whole new life in a new country, with moving and relocation costs paid for by the company in most cases, and quite often, a big pay rise to compensate for the upheaval to family life.
It is something that, for most families, is a great opportunity, but it really does affect everyone. If it is your husband or wife who has been given this chance, you are probably over the moon for them, but a bit concerned about how much your life is going to change – and that is a perfectly valid way to feel.
You may not have the same job opportunities available to you, and you may not even be able to speak the same language. You will be leaving all of your family and friends behind. While your spouse is at work, making new friends and immersing themselves in the new culture and language, you may be staying at home, becoming increasingly isolated.
Here, we look at a few tips to make following your husband or wife abroad for work a little easier on you.
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels CC0 License
Check you are eligible to move with them
Depending on where you are relocating, you will need a visa. In some countries, such as Australia, you need a visa before you even attempt to enter the country unless you are a citizen. Some allow you to stay a few weeks on a tourist visa, but any longer than that, you need a different one. Your spouse’s workplace should help you organize and sort out this, but if you are unsure, get in touch with a firm of reputable immigration lawyers and solicitors.
Learn the language
If you are moving somewhere where a different language is spoken, it can be difficult. It can lead to feeling cut off and isolated, but the best way to overcome this is to immerse yourself in the language and learn it. You can start before you go – perhaps take a course of language classes as soon as you know where you are moving to, or download an app such as Duolingo to learn the basics. However, you will find once you are surrounded by the language day in, day out, you will find it much easier to learn.
Make time for you
When you follow a spouse on such a big move, it can feel like it is all about them. You re leaving everything behind to support them, but where does that leave you? You must make time for you in your new country of residence – take up some hobbies, join an ex-pat group, and see if you can find a job for you. The best way to be a supportive spouse is to be a happy one.