Arriving in a new country: the first month

From the moment you make the decision to relocate to another country, to the moment you arrive, time often seems to pass in a blur. One minute you're sorting through your belongings and telling friends and family about your plans; the next you find yourself fresh from the plane and at the beginning of a whole new way of life.

This whirlwind of events also means that you arrive at your destination dazed and confused as to what to do next. Obviously things will differ from country to country, and are dependant on the support you receive from employers etc, but below we've listed a few tips on the important factors to remember during your first month of arrival.

When you first arrive
- Arrange a hire car and check into any temporary accommodation that you've organised.
- Contact friends and family back home to let them know you've arrived safely.
- Depending on the time you arrive and the difference in time zones, try and stay awake throughout the day to help you adjust as quickly as possible, and keep jetlag to a minimum.
- Consider buying a pay-as-you-go sim to put in your old phone, which will enable you to make local calls cheaply.
- Find the nearest internet cafe so you can stay connected.
- If you have a recruitment agency, keep in contact so they can provide you with help and advice in your first few days.
- Leave a few days free to recover from the journey and explore your new home.

One week in

- Register at your local embassy or consulate and make sure you get a tax file number.
- Install a land line and set up internet access if you are living in permenant property.
- If you have children, register them at a local school.
- Invite your new neighbours round for drinks and to socialise.
- If you are only in temporary accommodation, explore the areas you want to live in and meet with rental agents to research property options.
- Consider buying a car and setting up insurance.

One month in

- Review your financial situation and transfer more funds if needed.
- Research family trusts and pension transfer laws.
- Register with your local health services (doctor/dentist etc)
- Attend social functions and join clubs to meet new people and help you settle into your new life.

After the first month of living in your new country, you should hopefully begin to feel more settled and at home. Keeping yourself busy and meeting potential new friends is key to settling in as quickly as possible, so make sure these are high on your to-do list. For more information and advice, as well as a list of our current job opportunities, have a look at the Acorn Global website.

Helen Lock