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5 things you should know before moving abroad

5 Things You Should Know Before Moving Abroad

5 things you should know before moving abroad

I’m moving abroad! Now what? Here are 5 things you should know.

Moving abroad is a life-changing journey and having your ducks in a row will make it smoother sailing! Getting set up can be daunting, so plan ahead to ensure you are ready for take off. Before the big move, think about securing health insurance coverage and bank accounts. Being proactive could result in quicker success once you’re in a new country!

We Got You!

Fragomen has been there, and we get it! That is why we have put together this list of 5 things to consider before moving abroad.

5 things you should know about Moving Country Packing Boxes

Understanding visa and work permit requirements

Visa Requirements for Expats in Schengen Region

As you plan your journey abroad, it’s essential to consider the type of documentation required for entry. Your nationality, length of stay and purpose in country may call for work permits or visas – so be sure to talk with both HR at your organization and an immigration provider about timelines & necessary documents!

Many governments, require applicants to apply for a work permit approval before entering the country to work and live. Some governments require newly procured diplomas or birth certificates before applying for a work permit.  Understanding timelines are key when moving abroad.

Immigration professionals, such as Fragomen, can support in visa and work permit applications, help prepare documents, and provide advice throughout the application process.

As you plan your journey abroad, it’s essential to consider the type of documentation required for entry. Your nationality, length of stay and purpose in country may call for work permits or visas – so be sure to talk with both HR at your organization and an immigration provider about timelines & necessary documents!

Many governments, require applicants to apply for a work permit approval before entering the country to work and live. Some governments require newly procured diplomas or birth certificates before applying for a work permit.  Understanding timelines are key when moving abroad.

Immigration professionals, such as Fragomen, can support in visa and work permit applications, help prepare documents, and provide advice throughout the application process.

Visa Requirements for Expats in Schengen Region

Find out if you’re eligible to work

Once you understand that you may need a work permit to work and live in the country, it does not mean you will automatically qualify.

If you are planning to work in Germany, Austria or Switzerland, your skill set, salary level and even nationality can all be important factors when it comes time to apply for a work permit.

It’s best practice to have an immigration lawyer assess your individual situation and provide tailored advice on your eligibility requirements and the right type of visa that suits you perfectly.

Expats get work permit for Schengen Region

Choose a bank and open an account

5 Things You Should Know-Open bank account

Before moving to a new country, you should have some money in savings. In some cases and depending on your visa type and the country you are moving to, you might be required to show proof of savings with your visa and work permit application. Many governments offer cost of living calculators online, which can be a great resource for new immigrants.

When you arrive, you will also need to open a bank account. This can often be done online, however, in Germany some banks even have accounts specifically designed for newcomers and offer credit cards to help build credit history.

Review the options as it can take over 3 weeks to open a bank account and get the card and PIN number needed to receive money. An ideal Bank option for English-speaking expats in Revolut.

Before moving to a new country, you should have some money in savings. In some cases and depending on your visa type and the country you are moving to, you might be required to show proof of savings with your visa and work permit application. Many governments offer cost of living calculators online, which can be a great resource for new immigrants.

When you arrive, you will also need to open a bank account. This can often be done online, however, in Germany some banks even have accounts specifically designed for newcomers and offer credit cards to help build credit history.

Review the options as it can take over 3 weeks to open a bank account and get the card and PIN number needed to receive money. An ideal Bank option for English-speaking expats in Revolut.

5 Things You Should Know-Open bank account

Apply for healthcare or insurance

You might not be automatically eligible for health coverage in your destination country, even if it offers universal healthcare to citizens. Always check with the local government in your destination country to see what your rights are regarding healthcare.

Germany and Austria may require you to have health insurance before obtaining a work permit. If you are not eligible, due to your work permit status or application process – make sure you have valid traveller’s insurance to cover the time-period you are in the country and fully insured by the countries health care system. Your immigration team can provide you with the advice needed to ensure you are insured.

MW Expat Solution Services can help you compare insurances and help you find the best service provider.

Apply for health insurance Germany

Don’t forget about the little things

5 Things You Should Know-Moving Abroad Expats remember home

When moving abroad, we tend to focus on the big things – like housing, work, and healthcare. But there are lots of little things to think about, too! Remember to:

  • Make appointments for your utility accounts, such as internet and electricity, before leaving home.
  • Unlock your mobile phone so you’ll be able to use a local SIM card and get a power plug adapter for your charger if you need one.
  • Check the COVID-19 requirements, as travel regulations change quickly. Keep up to date on what you need to do before and after arriving in the destination country.

And most importantly, this goes without saying. Bring a few things that remind you of home and that you will not be able to buy abroad. Bringing your favourite face wash or snack food can also make a big difference when you’re just starting out.

When moving abroad, we tend to focus on the big things – like housing, work, and healthcare. But there are lots of little things to think about, too! Remember to:

  • Make appointments for your utility accounts, such as internet and electricity, before leaving home.
  • Unlock your mobile phone so you’ll be able to use a local SIM card and get a power plug adapter for your charger if you need one.
  • Check the COVID-19 requirements, as travel regulations change quickly. Keep up to date on what you need to do before and after arriving in the destination country.

And most importantly, this goes without saying. Bring a few things that remind you of home and that you will not be able to buy abroad. Bringing your favourite face wash or snack food can also make a big difference when you’re just starting out.

5 Things You Should Know-Moving Abroad Expats remember home

Overall, getting a head-start on your travel preparations and understanding the timelines will help you. Speaking with an immigration legal professional will help reduce stress and ensure a smooth transition when moving to a new country. Fragomen is here to be your trusted immigration advisor!

Fragomen offers English-speaking Immigration Law services. They are the largest exclusive immigration and visa service provider in the world. With a team of German and English-speaking experts, as well as an additional 19 language capabilities, they are ready to serve clients from all backgrounds and nationalities. Whether you are driven by lifestyle reasons or looking for new opportunities, Fragomen is here to provide comprehensive solutions and a smooth immigration experience for you and your family throughout the world’s 170 countries.

living in Zurich city guide things to do

Living in Zealous Zurich – A City Guide

Welcome, let’s find out what is its like living in zealous Zurich!  Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland, located in the heart of the country. It is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and outdoor activities to suit all tastes. Whether you are looking to explore its historic sights, go shopping, or simply enjoy its beautiful scenery, Zurich has something for everyone. From its bustling city centre to its charming old town, Zurich is sure to captivate and delight you. Whether you’re visiting or living in Zurich, with our city guide, you will get the run down of the best insider tips to make the most of your time here. Let’s get exploring!

living in Zurich city guide things to do

Must-Sees in Zurich

 

Zurich is a stunningly beautiful city filled with a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors to explore. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out or an action-packed adventure, Zurich has something for everyone.

Zurich

A must-see in Zurich is the Old Town, a charmingly preserved historical quarter filled with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and plenty of boutiques and restaurants. Another must-see is the Grossmünster, a breath-taking Romanesque-style church with a distinctive twin tower façade. Other highlights include the Fraumünster, a church with beautiful stained glass windows, and the Kunsthaus Zurich, a renowned art museum.

The Schanzengraben, connecting the train station with Lake Zurich, offers an opportunity for a relaxing stroll along the canal and its many boats, often called “the venice of Zurich”. Don’t forget to take a boat ride on Lake Zurich, the largest body of water in the city, and explore the Uetliberg, a hill with spectacular views of Zurich and the surrounding mountains.

Getting around in Zurich

Zurich is an incredibly walkable city, with plenty of pedestrian-only areas and well-marked bike lanes to make getting around easy. The city’s public transit system is also excellent, with a wide network of trams, buses and trains that can take you almost anywhere in the city. If you’d rather get around on two wheels, there are several bike-sharing options available, as well as plenty of rental shops. Taxis are also available if you’d like to get to your destination quickly. No matter what your preferred mode of transport, Zurich has something to offer! Find our more about the Zurich City Pass.

zurich food

Local Food in Zurich

Zurich is a city that is known for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. But one thing that is often overlooked is its local cuisine. Zurich is home to a variety of unique dishes that reflect the city’s diverse immigrant population.

If you’re looking to try the most popular local food, go for the Zürcher Geschnetzeltes, a veal dish with a creamy sauce and Rösti. Another local specialty that many people don’t realize has its origin in Zurich is Birchermüsli. The breakfast classic was originally invented by Maximilian Bircher-Benner, a doctor from Zurich, and has since made its way around the world in many variations. For those with a sweet tooth, the Luxembourgerlis – similar to macarons – are an indulgent treat that are sure to satisfy anyone’s cravings.

Zurich and the surrounding area is a great wine region known for Pinot Noir and Riesling-Silvaner and also for Räuschling – a local white wine which can’t be found anywhere else, making it the ideal souvenir! Be sure to visit one of the many local restaurants on your next visit to Zurich to experience the local flavours. You won’t be disappointed!

Cost of Living in Zurich

Zurich is a beautiful city, with a high quality of life. Although living in Zurich can be expensive, it is still a desirable destination for many people. The cost of living in Zurich is higher than many other cities in Switzerland, with rent being particularly expensive. However, the salaries tend to be higher as well, and there are numerous ways to save money. If you are looking for a good quality of life, Zurich is a great choice. Additionally, the city offers plenty of activities and attractions, making it an ideal location for tourists and expats alike.

Cost of Living in Zurich
Living in Zurich

Living in Zurich

From its beautiful lakeside setting to its vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone living in Zurich. The city is known for its high quality of life and is rated as one of the most liveable cities in the world. With a growing economy and a diverse cultural scene, Zurich is an ideal destination for people of all ages. The city offers a variety of activities, from outdoor sports to cultural attractions, and is home to many international companies. With its excellent transportation network, it’s easy to get around Zurich and explore all the city has to offer.

Whether you live in Zurich or are just dropping in to visit, it is an amazing city. From its iconic landmarks to its vibrant cultural life, there is something for everyone in Zurich. So enjoy your time here in the heart of beautiful Switzerland!

Interested in moving to Switzerland? Find out more about what life is like in Geneva for Expats.

Living in Geneva view of the city

Living in Geneva – A City Guide

Located in a South-Western protrusion of Switzerland and right at the Southern tip of Lac Léman (Lake Geneva) lies the city of Geneva. Living in Geneva has become increasingly popular amongst expats as it is a very international city. Many large companies and organizations are based here, among them many banks, the headquarters of Europe’s United Nations and the Red Cross.

However, Geneva has lots more to offer than just that: surrounded by the Alps and Jura mountains and with an incredible view of the largest Alpine lake in Europe, beautiful vineyards nearby and well-maintained parks throughout, the city is a picturesque poster child of what Switzerland has to offer.

Geneva is a captivating city, hugely influenced by its French roots; this influence can be seen throughout the city and most clearly in the language – as out of Switzerland’s four official languages (French, German, Italian & Rumantsch), French is much more commonly used within Geneva.

Must Visits When Living in Geneva

Visiting and living in Geneva, you’ll have access to a wide variety of historic and cultural sights and activities. Here are the most popular places to check out!

 

Lake Geneva

Obviously, Lac Léman (or Lake Geneva) is a major focal point of the city. Not only does it offer an incredible view, but it’s also a great place for a swim in the summer, renting boats or meandering along the lakeside promenades. Explore more about Lake Geneva here.

Lake Geneva

Jet d’Eau

The water fountain in the middle of Lake Geneva has become the most famous landmark of Geneva. Shooting about 500l of water per second 140 meters into the sky, it’s the tallest water fountain in the world, adding a striking feature to the skyline.

 

Old town

Stroll around the cobbled streets of old town, explore the architecture and walk around the Place du Bourg-de-Four, where charming cafés and restaurants invite you to stay awhile.

Cathédrale Saint Pierre

A prominent building in Geneva is the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre de Genève. You can climb up the 157 steps to the tower to enjoy an incredible view over the city, or check out the basement where you can see remnants of the original cathedral’s foundation.

Palais de Nations

The United Nations headquarters in Geneva is one of the most important diplomatic centres in the world. There are many guided tours to take, for example about the activities of the United Nations, or just stroll around to bask in the history and meaningfulness of the place.
Right next to the building you can also visit the Broken Chair sculpture, which was designed to symbolise opposition to land mines and cluster bombs.

Carouge 

Carouge is the spot for a unique, one-of-a-kind experience in Geneva. Explore its bohemian atmosphere and enjoy strolling around some of the most stylish boutiques and art studios or hit up bars to check out Carouge’s exciting nightlife scene.

Parc de la Grange & Parc des Eaux-vives

Known for being a very green city, Geneva also offers great parks. Check out Parc de la Grange and the adjacent Parc des Eaux-vives for incredible views over the lake and the surrounding mountains.

They are also a great place for a nice walk, for picnics or barbecues in the designated areas, or for a visit of the beautiful rose garden.

During summers, you can even find sheep in the park, or attend one of the many free concerts held at the Théâtre de Verdure!

Getting Around While Living in Geneva

If you’re living in Geneva, you’ll have an easy time getting around. Geneva is a very walkable city and great for bikes, as it is very flat. Another great way to get around is the modern and well-established public transportation system by the tpg (transports publics genevois), made up of buses, trams, trains and the Mouettes Genevoises, which are the yellow and red water buses for crossing the lake. Tickets are valid across all types of transport.

A big plus for tourists and visitors is the fact that anyone arriving at the Geneva airport can get a free ticket to their place of stay, valid for 80 minutes. When staying at a hotel, youth hostel or campsite, you also receive a free Geneva Transport Card, valid for the entirety of your stay!

Local Food

When thinking about food in Switzerland, many people think of fondue and chocolate. And well, what can we say – you can definitely find these delicacies in Geneva as well! Cheese fondue in Geneva is usually served with morrels or mushrooms. As for chocolate, one of the biggest and most popular chocolatier companies of Switzerland, Favarger, is actually located very close to Geneva and has stores in the city, so we encourage you to give them a visit and check for yourself if the hype holds up!

Geneva foundue

Try something unique and authentically Geneva with Longeole! This pork sausage is flavourful, seasoned with fennel seeds, pickling salt and white pepper. Enjoy it alongside the classic pairing of potatoes for an unforgettable experience. Vegetarians might opt for another local delicacy called cardon genevoise. Cardon is an interesting plant that thrives in the region, boasting a taste similar to artichokes. Enjoy its unique flavour by preparing it as a delicious gratin with béchamel sauce.

Enjoy Geneva’s gourmet atmosphere when exploring the city and its delicious dining scene. From world-class cuisine to classic Swiss dishes, your taste buds will be delighted by all of the incredible flavours!

Geneva City at Night

Cost of Living

Overall, Switzerland is known for its vibrant cities and opulent lifestyle. Geneva, particularly so – while it may seem expensive at first glance considering the high costs of living here compared to London or New York City. However this can be duly offset by both a higher level of income and quality life amenities available in this swanky locale!

We hope our guide gave you a better idea of what kind of city Geneva is. Whether you plan on living in Geneva or just visiting, you’ll surely have a wonderful time in this beautiful and well-maintained city. Before we let you go, check out these French phrases to keep in your back pocket for some local small talk!

Local Phrases

Ça joue?”
The Swiss French equivalent to Ça va?, meaning “how’s it going?”

avoir une gonfle au pied | “j’ai une gonfle au pied!”
Walked around the city too much? Use this phrase, meaning “I have a blister on my foot!”

faire un clopet | “je vais faire un petit clopet”
All that exploring would leave anyone tired – this sentence is perfect for that. Translation: “I will take a quick nap.”

“Service!”
Where the French say “de rien”, you can use this Swiss French phrase as a polite way to say you’re welcome.

Want to learn more phrases or polish up your old French skills from school? Try Babbel! Psst, our registered users can also benefit from an amazing discount!