Is someone you know moving abroad? What exactly does that mean? This post will discuss the meaning of moving abroad and how you can be prepared to help a friend (or yourself!) who’s taking the leap!
So your friend, colleague, or family member just announced that they’re moving abroad.
What does that mean?
Moving Abroad Meaning
When someone “moves abroad”, it usually means that they leave their home country or country of residence to live in a different country.
It’s very different than just “traveling”. Some people travel even for extended periods of time.
In my case, I’m an American who moved abroad to live in China. Pretty simple!
However, there’s a LOT more to moving abroad than just packing a suitcase and getting on an airplane.
Why is Moving Abroad Such a Big Deal?
When a person moves abroad, if they have a spouse and kids, they may take their family with them. But sometimes, a person may even need to move abroad without their immediate family.
Furthermore, many people who move abroad go solo, meaning they have no one they know with them!
In my case, I was 21, single, and just moving abroad for a gap year after college (but it turned into 5 years, oops!).
Either way, when a person moves abroad, they will have to leave behind their friends and community in their home country. This is a very difficult thing to do, and emotionally exhausting!
Unless that person has already visited their new home country, they may have no friends or established life in the country they’re moving to.
All of this can be extremely difficult emotionally. If someone you know is moving abroad, staying in touch with them via texting or video calls can be a really big support!
Helpful Info If Someone You Know is Moving Abroad
It’s important to understand that moving abroad does not mean that your friendship is over!
Honestly, some of my friendships with people from my home got even stronger when I moved abroad. We had to be more intentional about the conversations we had and the time we spend on calls together.
Plus, I noticed that the distance made both my and my friends more willing to be open with each other, for some reason.
So here’s a quick list of some helpful do’s/don’ts if your friend is moving abroad!
Tips for When Someone You Know Is Moving Abroad
Do let you friend know that you’ll continue to stay in touch. And actually DO stay in touch!
Do find creative ways to keep your friendship alive! Send letters or packages in the mail, or have “coffee hangouts” where you both make a cup of something tasty and share your drinks over a video call!
Don’t feel badly when your friendship changes. You might not communicate as often, and that’s okay!
Don’t get upset at your friend if they aren’t as aware about your life as they were before. Remember that they have to focus on their new home country and new community, too!
Summary
Moving abroad is a big deal, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your friendship! With some extra time and effort, you and your friend will be able to continue ‘hanging out’ regardless of the distance between you.
Was this article about the meaning of moving abroad helpful? Do you still have questions? Let me know in the comments, I’m super glad to answer them!
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