Moving to a new country is one of the most exciting and challenging experiences you’ll ever have but let’s be real—it’s not always easy. Between navigating cultural and racial differences, making new friends, and being accepted into the local community.
The good news is: fitting into a new country doesn’t have to take years. With the right mindset and a few practical strategies, you can quickly find your place.
Here’s my advice based on personal experience travelling the world and becoming an expat on how to make that happen.
1. Embrace the “Beginner’s Mindset”
When you move to a new country, you’re a beginner. That’s not a bad thing, but can be intimidating. Approach your new life with curiosity and pay attention to your surroundings. Ask questions, even if they feel silly. Try new foods, even if they look unfamiliar. Learn and try to follow the local customs, even if they seem strange at first.
2. Learn the Language (Even Just the Basics)
Nothing helps you fit in faster than speaking the local language. Even if you’re not fluent, making an effort to learn basic phrases can go a long way. Locals appreciate it when you try as it shows respect and a willingness to engage.
Start with everyday phrases like “hello,” “thank you,” and “how are you?” Use language apps, take a class, or practice with a language exchange partner. There are plenty of free online resources available on Youtube and other platforms.
3. Understand Cultural Norms, Etiquette and Offlimit Subjects
Every country has its own set of unwritten rules. What’s considered polite in one place might be rude in another. Take the time to learn about local customs and etiquette.
For example, in many cultures in Asia, it’s customary to take off your shoes before entering someone’s home or small business. In others, punctuality is a big deal while in others . Pay attention to how locals behave and follow their lead.
Another important consideration is knowing what subjects are controversial or dangerous to discuss in public. Examples of this is discussing the Royal family in Thailand in negative light is both culturally taboo and legally punishable under strict Lèse-majesté laws. Likewise in many Islamic countries, being outspoken on religion or discussing subjects like LGBTQ rights can quickly land you in hot water.
4. Build a Local Network
One of the hardest parts of moving abroad is leaving your support system behind. Building a new network takes time, but it’s essential for feeling at home and living long term in a country.
Start by connecting with other expats. They’re often in the same boat and can offer valuable advice and support. Join expat groups, attend weekly meetups and find a hobby such as hiking But don’t stop there, make an effort to connect with locals too such as joining a sports team or attending groups such as a language exchanges.
5. Connect with The Community
Moving into a new community is both strange for you and in many cases equally as unsettling to the local community depending how far off the beaten trail you’ve landed. Making an effort to integrate not only helps you feel at home faster but also builds goodwill and trust with your neighbors.
Start by engaging in everyday interactions. Shop at nearby markets, eat at local cafés, and attend community events. Even small gestures like greeting shopkeepers in the local language or complimenting them on how good their cooking is goes a-long long way in breaking down barriers and tensions.
Remember that as a foreigner you are often the centre of attention and can unknowingly be a controversial point of discussion discussion behind doors. Be mindful that your actions are being studied and try to follow the rules.
6. Stay Open to New Experiences
One of the best ways to fit in is to dive into the local culture. Attend festivals, try traditional activities, and explore your new city. The more you immerse yourself, the more you’ll feel like a part of the community.
Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Say yes to invitations, even if they’re outside your usual interests.
7. Manage Your Expectations and be Patient with Yourself
Fitting into a new country doesn’t happen overnight. There will be days when you feel frustrated, lonely, or out of place. There will also be bureaucratic red tape, cultural misunderstandings and moments of homesickness where you just want to give-up and hop on a plane.
Before you embark your new life, understand that there will be ups and downs, and that’s part of the game. Progress is not always linear and if comparing to other people, everyone’s journey is different.
8. Stay Connected to Home, but Don’t Overdo It
It’s important to maintain ties with family and friends back home, but don’t let it hold you back from fully embracing your new life or leave you hanging between two places.
Schedule regular calls or video chats, but also make an effort to be present in your new environment. Share your experiences with your loved ones, but don’t make it a habit of comparing your new life to what you left behind.
9. Take Care of Your Mental Health
Moving to a new country can be overwhelming and have its challenges. Pay attention to your mental health and seek support if you need it while it is still manageable. Be very careful with alcohol and recreational drugs even if legal as they can have severe effects such as inducing panic attacks or be the trigger to a downwards spiral.
I’ve found that maintaining a healthy lifestyle of eating well, getting enough sleep and going for a morning walk makes a big difference in how I feel overall.
10. Celebrate Small Wins
Adjusting to a new country is a journey, and it’s important to celebrate your progress along the way. Did you have a successful conversation in the local language? Did you navigate to your destination without the help of the GPS? Did you figure out how to renew your motorbike registration for another year?
These are all victories worth celebrating no matter how big or small. They’re reminders of how far you’ve come and that you are making progress settling in.
Final Thoughts
Moving to a new country will be one of the hardest things you will do in your life. It’s not always easy, but it can be worth it. By embracing the culture, building connections, and staying open to new experiences, you can quickly find your footings.