The “Japa” phenomenon is not new among Nigerians or a new concept worldwide. People are constantly on the move for diverse reasons. Moreover, immigrants seek better job opportunities, security, family, education, or other reasons. Available data from the United Nations showed that about 281 million migrants moved across borders in 2020.
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, that was 3.6% of the then-global population. Immigration is prevalent among developing nations, including Nigeria, for primarily economic reasons. In recent years, Nigerians have been moving to practically any country with a glimpse of a promising future. It could be the US, UK, or Canada; perhaps you are the same.
But before you proceed with your “Japa” plans, you must read this article. First, you will find the most important questions to answer when picking a country. Then, how do you put your resources together, and how can you finance your journey?
Finally, this article will discuss the 10 most important things to consider before moving to another country.
General Information on Relocating
Relocating across borders can be exciting because it opens migrants to new experiences beyond their immediate environment. However, there are important issues to settle while planning to relocate. For instance, you should thoroughly research your destination, among other factors.
Rather than make assumptions or believe gossip, isn’t it better to have the assurance of the future ahead of your move? Are you planning on going through the job or academic route? The chances are that there are lots of positive things to hope for.
But do you have the right plans to maximize the opportunities ahead of you? How soon can you settle in the new country, and how easy is it to find a job? There is no doubt that you need to prepare for what lies ahead.
Your plan could also involve your family relocating with you; how soon can you settle in? Remember that you are moving from your comfort zone to a relatively new place. You must have a solid plan to make it count, as this is a huge decision for you and your family.
How much do you know about the new place? Can you raise funds for your relocation plans? If you are taking a loan, how do you plan to repay it? Check out our article for useful information and tips to consider before executing your relocating plans.
7 Essential Steps to Take Ahead of Your Relocation
When preparing to relocate abroad, there are specific preparations to make ahead of your trip. As a Nigerian, you want to ensure that whether you are travelling alone or with your family, all things are ready.
Moreover, preparing beforehand will ensure you get everything at the eleventh hour. Therefore, consider essential steps to take when you finally get your chance to ‘japa.’
- Validate all travel documents
When preparing to travel abroad, the first step is ensuring all your travel documents are complete and in place. For instance, check all travelling parties’ travel papers, such as visas, passports, and other documents.
Ensure you keep all these documents safe but close because you may be required to present them during your journey. Advisably, you should keep the documents safely in your hand luggage. Another vital thing to take care of is the validity of your passport.
Check all the validity dates ahead of your trip, especially if they are familiar. Your passports must have at least 6 months of validity after you must have arrived at your destination. Remember to read more about the requirements of your travel documents ahead of your trip.
- Get your tickets early
Many immigrants regard purchasing travel tickets as the last thing on the list. But the truth is, immediately after you have an approved visa, buy your tickets early because of the dates. The closer your travel date, the more expensive the tickets always are, and vice versa.
In addition, you will also prevent the case of falling victim to fake ticket sellers at the airport. Depending on your chosen airline, you can buy travel tickets online. When picking airlines to travel with, take note of the classes of the seat you are buying.
There are three classes; the first class, the business class, and the economy class. Also, there are one-way or two-way tickets; as an immigrant, the former is usually your choice.
- You may need to change your wardrobe
When leaving Naija, remember that the country you are moving to has an entirely different climate from ours. So, another vital thing to take care of is the kind of clothes you will need abroad.
Even visitors who only travel to a new country for a limited period must recognize the need for a comfortable wardrobe that fits the new country. How much more an immigrant? However, pick only essential clothing and not your entire wardrobe.
Ask questions about the prevalent types of clothes in Canada, the US, the UK, or any other country you plan to visit. Then, see if you can get one or two such clothes before departing Nigeria.
You will begin to experience changed weather right from the airport. So, you must immediately settle into the country before changing clothes. Get at least a cold-weather sweater when moving to a temperate region.
- Evaluate all your properties.
Before you finally leave Nigeria, ensure you allocate your belongings as you desire. Usually, you may need to liquidate some of your properties or belongings to raise money for your journey.
For instance, you may sell your house, cars, furniture, and electronics to raise money for the new country. Get the correct prices for these properties and consider all options. Apart from selling your properties to raise money, you can give them to family members or friends.
It is your choice what you decide to do with all your belongings. But it is an extra advantage to sell them, particularly if you still need to hold extra cash for your journey. Depending on your long-term plan, you may not sell assets like lands or companies that could appreciate over time.
- Start packaging your stuff.
The next thing to begin to do is to start packing your load. However, an essential part of this step is a load limit of two 24kg bags. Any additional load will usually cost you more. Therefore, to manage your resources, remove unnecessary items from your load and limit your baggage to that weight limit per travelling passenger.
This load limit is often met using a lightweight bag, not a regular travelling bag. So, go and get light bags to pack your stuff. Also, when arranging your items in the bag, be mindful of the fragile items and ensure that you pick all your essential items first.
Only when there is room can you begin to think of picking less critical things. Meanwhile, remember the weight limit.
- Arrange for transportation
Transportation is the item to tick off on your list when all items have been packed and set. It does not matter whether you have a car; arranging transportation for every traveller to the airport is essential.
However, you need to travel early ahead of your departure time to give room for unforeseen circumstances. Advisably, plan to enter your departure city a day before your flight. Furthermore, you should tag and label all your luggage so you don’t leave anything behind.
Transportation to the airport must be arranged and validated beforehand so you can settle there on time. Remember also that there is a process of checking in at the airport. This process may also take part of your time before departure. So, prepare ahead of that as well.
- Inform essential family members.
Finally, when everything is set, don’t forget to say a warm goodbye to your family members and close friends. This goodbye period may be very emotional, especially if you relocate permanently. You may not see some of these people again physically or at least for a long time.
So ensure you spend enough time with all who matter within your circle of friends and families. Depending on the number of people you consider to be essential and worthy of knowing, say goodbye to them. Getting family and friends to a party is compulsory if you can afford it.
Instead, it is an opportunity to say your goodbyes and catch as many memories as possible. Take pictures, make videos, and do everything that keeps your loved ones at heart.
10 Essential Factors to Consider When Relocating
There are various relocation packages for you to consider with different opportunities. Relocation can give you a better quality of life with career advancement opportunities. It is also one of the offers companies make alongside their relocation services.
Check the best option out of the relocation packages at your disposal. Below are 10 factors impacting your decision-making for an excellent job relocation plan.
Size of the City
If you prefer a small pond to the ocean, go for small towns rather than the bigger cities. A small town usually has different vibes than a large urban area. However, the cost of living in a pretty urban area is higher than living in the suburbs.
So, the first thing to consider when relocating is where you plan to live when you get there. Bigger cities have exciting social amenities like sports arenas, parks, cinemas, and large companies.
On the other hand, smaller towns promise a calmer life devoid of the hustling and bustling of the city. You can choose based on your financial capacity, personality, or, at times, the job or studies waiting for you abroad.
What should you do? Do thorough research on the best city or town you are moving to. For instance, what are the conditions for living in London or Paris? Or should you instead choose a suburb in the UK or France, respectively?
Are there standard schools for your children in the city, and how close will your selected city be to your workplace? Regarding your personality, do you prefer a quiet life or a life full of buzz and fun?
Would you prefer a city that favours art and music or one that favours farming? Online research and surveying online testimonials should give you the necessary information. Find out what the new country offers you when you arrive there.
Affordability
When moving to a new country, it’s also important to consider how much it costs to live there. For instance, can you afford the cost of relocation, and how do you plan to raise the money? Do you have any savings you could use, or can you liquidate some assets to finance your relocation?
On the other hand, you could be planning to take a loan; would it cover your entire trip? Finally, do you have enough funds to settle there? Your finances will determine many things about the future of moving to the new country.
To ensure you are well-prepared, you should get as many funds as possible in savings. In some travelling arrangements, you may be required to show evidence of these savings before processing your visa.
You may prove that you can care for yourself and your dependents. Either way, your finance is a priority when relocating. Part of your affordability plans is the job opportunities and the projected expenses. Therefore, you should do a thorough estimation of how to cope financially.
In addition, weigh in the new currency of your destination, their tax policies, and if your partner would be working or not. Finally, you can project the cost of living from the daily expenses, including feeding, housing, and transportation.
What are your plans to find and live a comfortable life in the new country? How accessible are they? In comparison, some cities have low tax rates, which could make building wealth and harnessing other resources easier.
But, on the other hand, others have huge taxes that you must be aware of before you decide to relocate there. Also, are you aware of the overhead costs of living in that new city or country?
What are the tax credits and tax deductions you can access? Are there hidden costs of the relocation plans that you should be aware of? All these factors contribute to the standard of living of immigrants.
Employment Opportunities
Remember to weigh your employment opportunities when relocating to a new country. It is essential if you plan to “Japa” for economic reasons. Evaluate your level of skills and push for skilled or unskilled job opportunities there.
In some European countries, you can get an academic evaluation of your certificates and training before your visa application. You might even find an employer willing to sponsor your trip. Does your new place look like an excellent place to build a career you’re interested in?
Or would you instead pursue a completely different career path? Any job you find must be able to take care of your basic needs and help you achieve your goals. So before applying for a visa to the country, look into job opportunities there.
That experience will teach you many things, and you could land a visa-sponsored job. Sometimes, you may earn the opportunity to pitch yourself for great jobs. Jobs are easier to get on merit in developed countries with more stable economies.
Whatever plan you have, ensure you don’t lose focus on your vision of relocating. Consider what the job market offers during your relocation process, especially if you are planning a job relocation.
Housing Market
You also need to consider the housing market in your country of destination. As a basic necessity, you should settle your shelter when relocating. What the real estate market offers may differ from place to place, so you must get as much information as possible.
Ask questions of anyone living in the country directly or via social media forums like Quora. Read about the housing policies of the country and the options available to you. At the same time, developed countries have more organized housing systems for different categories of people.
For instance, residential areas are different from industrial or commercial areas. Housing for civil servants also differs from housing for government workers. Some countries also have separate housing plans for retirees, older populations, and war veterans.
So make sure you have the correct information before you travel. Irrespective of your reason for relocating, knowledge of the housing market is non-negotiable. So, first, research your target city and the average home rental cost.
Next, you should have an accredited real estate agent with the correct information about a new place. Finally, remember that renting a home comes before buying one. So, take it one step at a time.
Safety
One thing you cannot assume your destination has is safety. So, learn about how safe the country is on a general level. Then, determine the level of racism or other factors that may make the environment hostile.
For example, it is easy to assume that the crime rates in developed countries are lower than in developing countries. But the reverse is usually the case when you consider the statistics. As a result, you should understand the safety measures in this new country.
Learn about the crime rate of your country of destination from unbiased sources. Furthermore, if you have that liberty, you can compare cities within that country and choose the safest. In any case, plan for your safety when you travel to a foreign country.
As a Nigerian, getting used to a new place is natural, but you must also know the basics to stay safe. Many factors contribute to the safety of immigrants in a country. Be careful of sensitive issues in that country while learning about the culture. Culture is closely related to a country’s safety and crime rates. Adequate knowledge of safety will help you settle in quickly.
Proximity to Friends and Family
Man is a social being, and you are no exception. No matter how socially inclined you are, you will meet new people when you relocate. Preparing for the kinds of people among you will now be living is vital.
On the other hand, remember that you will still be leaving some family and friends here in Nigeria. So, as you leave some people behind, you meet new people in the new country as you adjust to the new life.
Part of your preparation now is to find right-minded neighbours, colleagues, and co-residents. It is also easier to connect with other Nigerians in the new country but watch out for those who may want to take advantage of you as a new immigrant.
For example, a young couple once took a cab from the airport upon their arrival in the UK. As they talked, they found out that the man was from Nigeria, which made them want to trust him immediately.
After they had settled in, they discovered that the man had overcharged them for their trip. It was very disappointing. The moral of the lesson is that even if it is easier to naturally connect with Nigerians abroad, take your time before you trust them.
Remember to treat all men equally and fairly as you acclimate to the new people in the new environment. Simply connect with people based on shared values and interests.
Weather and Climate
The extreme cold in Canada is a typical example of how weather and climate can affect you. Are you aware of the current climatic conditions of the country you plan to travel to? Temperatures in some parts of the world can drop to -40 °C.
It can be that bad, and you cannot ignore the weather and climate of your destination when preparing for “Japa.” Are you familiar with their peculiar weather conditions, such as hailstorms, snow, extreme heat, earthquakes, volcanoes, and other issues?
Get the emergency numbers to contact for safety procedures and emergencies. Also, to be prepared, learn about the seasons and the prevalent weather conditions each year. What is the average temperature throughout the year?
Then, study the prevalent wind type, the rainfall pattern, and the preventive measures. Don’t forget to consider how your family will cope with these conditions. By the way, buy the appropriate clothing ahead of time for the extreme weather conditions in these places, and don’t wait until you arrive.
Health
One factor that may also determine the success of your “Japa” story is your health condition. Your health will likely change when you move into a new environment, and you must prepare. What are the plans to cope with these changes in health in your new country?
What plans does the new country have for your family’s health? Start with the available healthcare facilities in the town; you need to understand the proposed location’s plan for healthy living. For example, what are the country’s plans for the healthcare of its citizens?
How close is the health facility to your new location? At the same time, consider the cost of health care services in the new country. What does your healthcare insurance cover, and how does it impact your family positively? Ask the residents about the health management system for individuals and families. You may also ask your new job place about their health management plans for staff.
Education or Study
It is crucial to consider the educational system of the new country when planning to relocate. For example, are you or your spouse planning to continue your studies in the new country? What options are there for your study?
In addition, what kind of schools can you find for your kids, and what is the average cost? Foreign education often provides a tremendous opportunity to add value to yourself and your kids, who represent your future.
Irrespective of your level of education before leaving Nigeria, you can always continue your education if you so wish. Studying abroad is also a good decision because of its flexibility.
Credible certifications allow you to work while studying and enrol in weekend, night, or part-time courses. Research some of these factors and explore the opportunities ahead before you move. Can you find access to schools in this new base?
In some cases, relocating on the premise of academic study can be very beneficial, and many Nigerians have taken that route. Find out from those who have tried this method and ask relevant questions.
Sometimes, you may need to write certification exams ahead of your relocation plans, such as IELTS or GRE. Financing education abroad can be challenging, but you are good to go if you get a scholarship.
Mobility and Transportation
As you prepare to relocate to another country, learn about their road network and the overall transportation system. In some countries, going with the public transport system is more economical and advisable.
On the other hand, it is easier and more convenient to use your car in other countries. For instance, the UK has a more effective rail system for travel between states than a private vehicle. Other countries may lower the cost of owning and maintaining a private vehicle.
Part of the mobility factor is the proximity of your home to your workplace and your children’s school. You will need to arrange that ahead of the relocation. As a result, it will be good for you and your spouse to learn to drive ahead of your relocation.
Being a proficient driver significantly gives you another advantage if you must drive when you get there. Find out from those in these countries if driver’s licenses from Nigeria are acceptable in other countries.
Conclusion – What are the next steps for you?
There is no wisdom in relocating without due diligence on the prevalent factors that can determine the future. Also, if you can provide workable solutions to the factors above, you can prevent having funny surprises when you eventually travel.
Every relocation plan has its share of challenges, but you can limit the additional challenges when you prepare well ahead of the relocation. Above are the ten most important things you must consider when relocating to another country.
Then, you can incorporate these factors into a checklist of things you must resolve as you plan to “Japa.” Getting the correct information makes your relocation journey smoother and more successful.
