Moving can be very stressful for anyone, whether it is moving away from home, moving to a new state or moving to a new country. Relocating to a new country may sound very difficult, but if you follow these steps, it will help make the move easier and less stressful.

1. Be Organized

Being organized beforehand is the first step someone should take when planning a move. Making a list of what needs to be done before the move and checking it off when it is completed is just one way to be organized. Dividing tasks into weeks and planning ahead is important so you aren’t stuck doing everything at once. Be sure to label all boxes well to make both moving and unpacking easier.

2. Research the Area

After you figure out what country, and more specifically what city you are moving to, spend time to research the country and city. Seeing what the culture is like will help prevent culture shock. Also, print out a map of the city and surrounding areas and locate where everything is. When you officially move, you will have a sense of where everything is at. Lastly, if you need to learn a new language, start now. Buy books and other materials to help teach you about the language so you can get around at the store or talk to a taxi driver.

3. Spend Time with Loved Ones

Before you move, take a lot of time spending it with family and close friends. Also, make sure everyone is set up to communicate with you when you move. The first week or two in a new place will be tough, but having a communication line with people back home will lower stress. Email, texts and video calls can all help make you feel like you are right at home with the people you love most.

4. Make Friends in the new Country

When you move, make friends at your workplace as fast as you can. Be outgoing and open to meeting new people. Go out to restaurants and other nightly locations and try to get accustomed to everyone there. Surrounding yourself with new friends will get you mind off any stress that you may have.

5. Keep up the Routine

Keep up whatever routine you may have had at home in your new home. Eat and sleep well, try to maintain the same patterns of eating and sleep as well. Those two little things are just one way to keep up the same routine.

6. Get Necessary Documents

It’s important to make sure you have all your paperwork and documents completed and handy well before your departure. This means getting a passport, visa and other information necessary to travel. If the move is permanent, be sure you have studied what you need to become a citizen. For example, you can find a Canadian citizenship study guide online to practice before taking the test. You may also need to take classes in order to receive a driver’s license where you are moving. Be sure to keep a copy of all your paperwork and get these documents well in advance to avoid any problems.

Lastly, just have fun. Moving to a new country should be exciting, so make the most of it. When you take steps to be prepared, you can enjoy the move and stay stress-free.