Studying, Living and Working Abroad: A Handy Checklist!

Are you ready for a sabbatical and planning to spend a year travelling or working abroad? Or are you still studying and interested in studying abroad? Spending a year studying, living and working abroad can be incredibly exciting and liberating. But what do you need to arrange before you leave? Use the checklist below to prepare for living abroad.

✓ Admission to a School or Finding a Job

One of the first and most important things you need to arrange is admission to an educational institution or finding a job abroad.

If you want to study abroad, you will need to apply to a school or university in your chosen country. The application process can take a considerable amount of time, so make sure you start early.

If you want to work abroad, you will usually need to find a job before you leave. Alternatively, you could travel for a year and look for temporary work once you arrive. This makes the experience more adventurous. Many people travelling around the world find short-term jobs locally to help fund their trip.

✓ Apply for a Visa

If you are going to live or work within the European Union, you generally do not need to apply for a visa. For destinations outside the EU, you will usually need one.

The processing time for a visa depends heavily on the country you are travelling to. For some destinations, a visa may be issued within a day, while other applications can take several weeks or even months.

Make sure you carefully check which type of visa you require. Applying for the wrong visa, such as a tourist visa instead of a work visa, may make it difficult or even impossible to work legally abroad.

✓ Find Accommodation Abroad

Your overseas university or employer may be able to help you find accommodation. If you are studying abroad, you may be able to live on a university campus alongside other students.

You can also search online for suitable accommodation. Are you planning to travel between several destinations during a round-the-world trip? Many travellers use Airbnb and similar platforms to find convenient and affordable places to stay.

✓ Arrange the Right Insurance

When studying or living abroad, it is important to arrange suitable insurance.

Depending on your personal situation, the length of your stay and whether you will be working abroad, your Dutch health insurance coverage may change. Check the current rules carefully with your health insurer and the relevant authorities before cancelling or changing your policy.

You should also review your travel insurance. Standard travel insurance may not cover extended stays, studying or paid employment abroad. Special long-term travel insurance policies are available for people who will be living abroad for several months or longer. Some of these policies also include extensive medical coverage.

✓ Arrange Your Transport

In many cases, the earlier you book your journey, the cheaper your ticket will be.

Bear in mind that some countries require you to provide proof of a return or onward ticket when applying for a visa or entering the country. Check the entry requirements before booking your flights.

✓ Get the Necessary Vaccinations

You may not be protected against all diseases or health risks found at your destination. It is therefore important to find out which vaccinations you may need before travelling.

Contact your GP or a specialist travel vaccination clinic well in advance. Some vaccinations require multiple doses over several weeks or months, so do not leave this until the last minute.

✓ Decide What to Do With Your Home

The six points above will help you prepare for living abroad, but have you also considered what to do with your current home in the Netherlands?

Your mortgage or rent will usually continue while you are away, especially if you plan to return after your trip. One possible solution is to rent out your home temporarily, helping you avoid paying housing costs in two countries.

Many people choose to store their valuable and personal belongings at ALLSAFE Mini Storage while renting out their home. This could include jewellery, clothing, furniture, a mattress and other possessions you would prefer not to leave behind.

Storing these items separately helps keep them safe and in good condition. It also means you do not have to allow temporary tenants to use your personal belongings. At ALLSAFE, you can rent a storage unit from as little as €1.40 per week.

With these seven checklist points, you will be well prepared to study, live or work abroad temporarily. You can leave for your dream destination with greater peace of mind. Enjoy your time abroad!