A Comprehensive Guide
It's easy to say, I'm leaving my country! The reality is that emigrating turns out to be a difficult, complex, and, for many, painful task. It is a decision that should not be taken lightly because it will forever mark, positively or negatively, the future of your life and that of yours.
While it is true that each experience is unique, it is essential to consider certain factors that will help you make an informed decision. Below, we will explore some of the key aspects that influence the decision to emigrate and what you should take into account.
As I expressed at the beginning, migration is a complex process that can affect the life of a person and their family profoundly affect their mental and emotional health and can have mixed consequences for the countries of origin. Depending on individual and social circumstances, each person in the immigration process must overcome the following:
Cultural Adaptation Culture shock: Adjusting to a new culture, language, and lifestyle can be challenging and lead to feelings of isolation and homesickness.
Legal and Immigration Aspects Legal and Immigration Challenges: Migration often involves navigating complex immigration laws and processes, which can cause stress. Make sure you have the necessary documentation to be legally in the destination country. This may include green cards, work visas, or special situations such as asylum or temporary protection. Consequences of Immigration Violations: Avoid overstaying time or committing immigration violations. Consult with a specialized lawyer before making decisions that may affect your immigration situation.
Financial Considerations Financial costs: Moving to another country can be expensive, with expenses such as visas, travel, and initial settlement. It is important to have savings before emigrating. Starting in a new country can be difficult, and having a financial background will help you adapt more easily.
Impact on Social and Professional Networks Social and professional networks: Leaving behind established social networks and professional connections can affect job opportunities and social support. Find out about the climate, cost of living, job opportunities, and living conditions in the country you plan to move to.
Linguistic Barriers Language barriers: If the new country has a different language, communication and integration may be more difficult.
In the economic sphere, the gea.lat website explains that on the one hand, we find that the brain drain can negatively affect the development of the country of origin. On the other hand, remittances help families and the local economy.
There are also personal challenges and benefits because although migration involves cultural adaptation, family separation, and emotional stress, it also offers the possibility of improving living standards and broadening horizons. Because economic migration is one of the most frequent reasons for migration and implies that people seek better economic opportunities. In other words, they seek to improve their financial situation and quality of life by changing location. 🌎💼
To successfully emigrate, the trick is that before migrating, it is vital to understand what is driving us to leave the country of origin because after overcoming so many challenges, you cannot expect to emigrate for three or four years with the idea of returning. Let's self-reflect:
What motivates me to emigrate?
Job difficulties
Family crises
Lack of employment opportunities
Unsafety
Political instability
Social crises: religious intolerance, homophobia, political persecution
War
What motivates me to stay?
The family
The legislation
The comfort of the known
The friendships
Job recognition
Social status
dream that in reality can be a nightmare. In the episode Tips to Overcome Migration, clinical psychologist Liora Schneider Mirmanas explains that those who migrate face great emotional challenges, including:
Farewell and Separation: Migration involves moving away from loved ones. Although technology makes communication easier, saying goodbye can be painful. Accepting the distance and saying goodbye properly is essential.
Identity crisis: We feel that our identity is linked to those around us. Immigrating can feel like letting go of a part of ourselves. However, we must remember that those around us are part of our history, not our identity. Changing this perspective helps me face this emotional challenge.
The feeling of Accomplishment: Although some may associate migration with defeat, it can be a victory. It is the beginning of a new cycle full of experiences and opportunities.
Uncertainty of the Unknown: Before leaving, uncertainty about the unknown can generate insecurity. Seeing change as an opportunity to explore something new helps face this challenge.
Loneliness and Lack of Social Support: Migration can lead to unwanted loneliness and the lack of a strong social support network. Adapting to a new environment can be challenging.
Changes in Identity: Migration can lead us to rethink who we are. Sometimes we feel like we are leaving part of our identity behind by abandoning the known.
Frustration and Moral Conflicts: Adapting to new cultural norms and values can lead to frustration. Furthermore, we face moral conflicts when comparing what we know with what is new.
Facing these emotional challenges requires psychological preparation and support. 🌎❤️
Ultimately, migration is a personal decision that should be carefully considered. Every experience is unique, and what may be good for one person may not be good for another. Therefore, considering these factors will help you make an informed decision. Good luck in your emigration process! 🌎✈️