10 Best Pieces of Advice You Need Before Working Abroad
You’re thinking about working abroad but not sure if you’re ready to take the leap? We get it. It’s exciting, yes, but also full of unknowns. That’s why we’ve pulled together our best tips to help you make a confident, informed decision. All tested and approved by the thousands of international talents we've supported over the years.
Whether you're a recent graduate ready to kickstart your career or a professional looking to step out of your comfort zone, working abroad remains one of the most rewarding career moves in 2025. With international hiring stronger than ever, especially across Europe, companies are actively seeking multilingual talent to join their diverse teams.
But let’s be honest starting a new life in a foreign country can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this updated list of the 10 best pieces of advice to help you prepare for your move abroad and make the most of it, wherever your journey takes you.
1. Research your destination thoroughly
Before applying, understand the cost of living, job market demand, visa regulations, and cultural expectations in your target country. In 2025, tools like Numbeo, Expatica, and local expat Facebook groups are essential to get an accurate picture.
2. Budget wisely
Living abroad often involves upfront costs, housing deposits, relocation, visa fees. Make a realistic budget that covers your first two months of expenses without income. Also, check if the country offers public healthcare or if private insurance is mandatory.
3. Learn the local language basics
Even if your future job doesn’t require local language fluency, knowing essential phrases helps immensely. Apps like Duolingo or Babbel can be great starters. It shows respect for the local culture and eases daily tasks.
The European market in 2025 still favors candidates who apply in advance, especially in Spain, Portugal, Greece, and Germany. Working with international recruitment agencies like Blu Selection gives you access to vetted job offers and relocation support.
5. Prepare for cultural differences
Culture shock is real. Be open-minded about new working styles, communication habits, and social norms. Patience, curiosity, and humility are your best allies.
6. Build a local and international support network
At the beginning, you’ll be glad to speak your own language and hear familiar accents. That’s totally normal. Look for groups, both online and in person, where you can meet people from your home country or other expats who’ve been through the same move. They’ll help you settle in, share tips, and often become your first circle of friends in your new city. Use platforms like Meetup, Internations, and Facebook groups to meet both locals and fellow expats. This helps you settle faster and find reliable recommendations for housing, activities, and even future jobs.
7. Stay connected with home
Your support system matters. Keep in touch with friends and family to keep morale high, especially during the early stages of your new adventure.
Adjustment takes time. Whether it’s language, bureaucracy, or just feeling "at home," allow yourself the grace to adapt without pressure.
9. Say yes to new experiences
You’ll learn as much outside of work as you do within it. Say yes to that afterwork tapas night, hiking trip, or conversation with someone from a culture different from yours.
10. Make it enjoyable
Don’t forget: this is your life, not just a job change. Working abroad is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Take photos, write a journal, or simply soak up the moments—you’re building more than a career.
Working abroad in 2025: Your next move?
We’ve helped thousands of multilingual talents relocate and thrive across Europe. From Barcelona to Athens, Lisbon to Berlin, we’ve seen how powerful and life-changing this experience can be.
If you’re thinking about working abroad but still hesitate, you’re not alone. Many of the candidates we talk to feel the same way at first. Leaving what’s familiar can be daunting—but also incredibly enriching. Starting a job abroad means more than just a new role. It’s discovering new ways of working, meeting people from around the world, and proving to yourself that you’re capable of so much more than you imagined.
You don’t have to figure it all out alone. We’re here to answer your questions, help you navigate every step of the process, and support you from the first interview to your first day in your new city.
Ready to land a job abroad? Explore our current openings across Europe and take the first step toward your international career.
