Moving abroad can be one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make, especially if you’re seeking a more affordable, healthier lifestyle, more time freedom, and a better quality of life for your family. But here’s the truth most people don’t talk about:

Moving abroad without proper research can cost you thousands of dollars and months of unnecessary stress.

After relocating to Spain with my two daughters, now 6 and 11, and speaking with countless expats, digital nomads, and immigrant families, I’ve seen the same mistakes repeated over and over.

This guide breaks down 10 essential things you need to do before moving abroad to protect your money, your peace, and your future.

Whether you’re planning a move to Spain or anywhere else in the world, this post will help you move smarter, not harder.

1. Secure Your Income Before You Leave the U.S.

Before your visa application, before you book flights or sign a lease abroad, your income should already be handled.

Some realistic options include:

Starting an online business (I run a digital marketing agency) Offering remote services like virtual assistance or English tutoring (certification may be required) Improving your skills, updating your CV, and securing a fully remote job.

Relying on finding work after you arrive adds unnecessary pressure. Income stability gives you freedom to settle in properly and make better decisions.

2. Learn Basic Language Skills Before You Arrive

You don’t need to be fluent, but you do need the basics.

Simple phrases help you:

Avoid being overcharged.

Navigate daily life confidently.

Build respect and rapport with locals faster.

Even minimal effort goes a long way and shows you’re serious about integrating, not just “passing through.”

3. Know the Local Laws (Especially Rental Laws)

This is critical.

In many Spanish cities, it’s illegal for renters to pay a full month’s realtor fee, yet many foreigners are still charged because they don’t know their rights.

Learn:

Tenant laws

Legal rental fees

Required contracts and deposits

If something feels off, it probably is. Knowing the law protects both you and the local community.

4. Port Your Phone Number (Don’t Pay Twice)

Keeping a U.S. phone plan while adding a foreign plan is unnecessary and extremely expensive.

I personally used Google Voice, which allowed me to keep my U.S. numbers for a one-time cost of $20.

This keeps:

Banking access Two-factor authentication U.S. contacts intact, without paying monthly U.S. carrier fees.

5. Use Wise (or Similar) for International Transfers

If you’re transferring money abroad, never rely on ATM withdrawals from your U.S. account unless you enjoy paying excessive bank and exchange fees.

Use an intermediary like Wise, which:

Offers better exchange rates Charges transparent, lower fees Saves you hundreds (or thousands) long-term

This is one of the biggest money leaks I see new expats ignore.

6. Know What Locals Actually Pay for Rent

This one matters, a lot!

I’ve personally met expats in Alicante paying 15–30% above market value simply because they didn’t research local rental prices.

Overpaying:

Hurts your budget

Inflates housing costs for locals

Encourages unethical rental practices

Check local listings, talk to residents, and compare prices before committing.

7. Build Community Intentionally

You’re not on vacation, you’re building a life.

Go to:

The same café

The same gym

The same market every week.

Community doesn’t happen by accident. When you treat your new city like home, it starts to feel like one.

8. Don’t Rush Into Long-Term Contracts

Always start with short-term housing.

Give yourself time to:

Learn neighborhoods

Understand pricing

See how daily life actually feels

Committing too quickly is one of the most common (and costly) mistakes expats make.

9. Keep Copies of Every Document (Digital & Physical)

Spain, like many countries, runs on paperwork.

Always keep:

Digital copies (cloud storage) Physical backups

Losing a single document can delay residency, banking, or housing processes for weeks or months.

10. Budget Realistically for the First 3–6 Months

Yes, living abroad is often cheaper long-term, but the transition period can surprise you.

Plan for:

Setup costs

Deposits

Unexpected fees

Adjustment expenses

A realistic 3–6 month buffer gives you peace of mind while you settle in.

Final Thoughts: Move Abroad Smart, Not Blind

Moving abroad can absolutely change your life, but only if you prepare properly.

Research, planning, and patience will save you:

Money

Stress

Regret

For more moving abroad resources check out this link: https://stan.store/yourmomfriendv

You can start with my free moving abroad guide, or book a call with me for a more comprehensive plan.

Cheers to new beginnings!

xoxo

Violet💖