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A Cool Girls Guide to Moving Abroad
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items Hi! so Ive lived abroad for over 8 years now- 3 countries and 2 citizenships later- I thought Id share what I know and how I did. Just FYI, moving abroad is COMPLICATED. This is just a snapshot of how to start
Sections
4
Step 1: Where Can You Go?
Step 2: Get Your Visa, Finances and Flights
Step 3: Organize Your Life
Step 4: Inspo
Step 1: Where Can You Go?
This section will mainly be focused on what countries Americans qualify for, so this may fit your situation perfectly. For example, you may have lineage, marriage etc that allows you to qualify for options that others cant. Make sure to check yoursel...
If you are below the age of 30, you can easily apply for a temporary visa to Australia- right now! And for cheap!
Immigration and citizenship Website
I made this video on how I moved to Australia- down to the visa numbers and prices! :)
Moving to Australia as an American: Why I Chose Melbourne & How to Immigrate from the US
Heres another great site for more working holiday visas that Americans qualify for
The Ultimate Guide to Working Holiday Visas for US Citizens in 2025
Another great option is citizenship by descent- this is just an example (Ireland) but if you have grandparents from Hungary, Italy etc - you may qualify!
Citizenship | Department Of Foreign Affairs
Another great option is the Au Pair visa for France- keep in mind this is for a max of 2 years and for under 30 year olds. But still!
Young au pair - France-Visas
Step 2: Get Your Visa, Finances and Flights
Okay you've picked where youre going. What now??
Okay this is a random example of an immigration lawfirm here in Australia but if you're hesitant (for any country), when in doubt- hire a lawyer!
Migration Lawyers Melbourne | Award Winning Immigration Agents
Okay everyone knows skyscanner (I think), but its a great way to quickly compare flight prices
Cheap Flights: Compare & Book Plane Tickets to Everywhere | Skyscanner
A completely random photo to attach BUT if you're exceptionally detail oriented, you CAN do visa paperwork yourself. You don't need a lawyer and I just wanted a way to show you that, but its not like I took a photo of my paperwork. So here have this ...
Catie Strigs on Instagram: "This caption has nothing to do with this picture but I got my Permanent Residency granted yesterday 🥰"
A great resource for americans abroad in general but they do great work
American Citizens Abroad
Unfortunately, one thing people often forget is the tax considerations. Dont get stung!
U.S. citizens and resident aliens abroad | Internal Revenue Service
Step 3: Organize Your Life
Visa sorted! Lets make some moves!
Now its time to move, well you need a way to get your stuff over duh! I just bought this exact set from Paravel and its roomy, environmentally friendly AND stylish
Paravel: The Ultimate Set
Well unless youve got free storage, its time to sell your stuff (I know, I know). Try and make some money for those flights!
Facebook Marketplace: Buy and Sell Items Locally or Shipped
Normally I wouldnt be treating myself to excessive luxuries right before a move but ya know what. Sometimes you need a little comfort. Especially if you've got a long flight ahead of you
Jet Lag Mask ® + Moisturizer - Summer Fridays
may as well make your passport stylish (and READY)
Passport Card Case - COACH® Outlet
Treat yourself to a small piece of home. Even if you don't live in NYC, Kate Spade has a new york collection that I love
On A Roll Zip Cardholder | Kate Spade New York
I love this bag not just for travel but for every day- I have it in green!
Everywhere Belt Bag 1L | Men's Bags,Purses,Wallets | lululemon
for maximising your packing so you dont need to completely rebuy your wardrobe!
TUBE Original Pillow - Extra Luggage Solution
I am a true believer, not onlyfor travel days but when Im home I keep them on my keys, my cat etc!
AirTag - Apple
If you do have some stuff you don't want to get rid of, consider storage. Of course you'll be paying a monthly fee which isn't ideal!
Storage Centers
I feel like this is self explanatory why you'll be needing this
Universal Adapter
Step 4: Inspo
Self Explanatory 💕
Amanda is an american expat in Paris! I believe she originally came on the Au Pair Visa
Amanda Rollins on TikTok
My complete travel youtube playlist so you can get inspired for your big move!
36 Hours in Brisbane Australia | Koalas and Cocktails
My Tiktok! American in Australia :)
Hi its Catie🇺🇸🇦🇺 on TikTok
I found this blog in the 2010s and fell in love with New Zealand!
Young Adventuress | The Solo Female Travel Blog