Guide

Moving Abroad with Family

14 min read • Updated December 2024

Comprehensive guide for families relocating internationally. From schools and visas to healthcare and helping kids adjust, everything you need to know.

Family Visa Sponsorship

Dependent Visas

Most countries allow the primary visa holder to sponsor family members (spouse, children). Your family gets visas linked to your main visa. Duration and benefits match your primary visa.

  • âś“ Process usually requires marriage certificate, birth certificates, proof of financial support
  • âś“ Family members usually get work authorization equivalent to your visa
  • âś“ Processing times vary but often 2-8 weeks
  • âś“ Fees per family member (sometimes discounted compared to individual applications)

Important: Not all visa types allow dependents. Digital nomad visas often don't, while work visas typically do. Verify your specific visa before planning family relocation.

Schools & Education

Types of Schools

International schools, local schools, and homeschooling are options. Most expat families choose international schools for curriculum continuity and community.

  • • International schools: Typically English-taught, follow UK/US curriculum, expensive ($5000-$25000+/year), good expat community
  • • Local schools: More affordable, cultural immersion, language barriers, can be excellent quality
  • • Hybrid: International + local, mix of both benefits

Finding Schools

Research schools 6-12 months before arrival if possible. Look at: curriculum, accreditation, student reviews from other expats, teacher qualifications, facilities, and extracurriculars.

Most international schools have waiting lists. Apply early. Many host open days—visit if you can before committing.

Managing the Transition

  • âś“ Start school search early (6-12 months before)
  • âś“ Let kids video call future teachers/friends before arriving
  • âś“ Create continuity: familiar routines, sports/activities kids enjoy
  • âś“ Connect with other expat families—kids often make friends through parent networks

Healthcare for Families

Healthcare Quality

Quality varies dramatically by country. Research hospitals, pediatricians, and emergency services before moving. Some countries have excellent healthcare; others require private insurance and international clinics.

Insurance for Families

Get comprehensive family health insurance before arriving. Many countries require proof of insurance for residence permits. Coverage should include emergency care, maternity (if applicable), pediatric care, and dental.

Tip: Get all family members' medical records, prescriptions filled, and vaccinations up-to-date before moving. This simplifies healthcare transitions.

Budget for Families

Family costs are significantly higher than single expat. Budget additionally for school fees, larger housing, and activities for kids.

Sample Family Budget (2 adults, 2 kids)

  • Housing (family apt/villa): +40-50%
  • Food: +20-30% (school lunches, kids' portions)
  • Schools: +$10-20k/year
  • Healthcare: +$500-1500/month
  • Childcare (if needed): +$1000-3000/month
  • Activities/tuition: +$300-800/month

Reality check: Family relocation costs 2-3x more than single expat. Budget $50-100k total for setup costs plus $3-8k monthly depending on city and lifestyle.

Helping Kids Adjust

  1. 1

    Communicate openly

    Talk about the move honestly. Acknowledge it's big and different. Listen to concerns. Kids adjust better when they feel heard.

  2. 2

    Maintain routines

    Familiar bedtimes, meals, and activities provide comfort during change. New routines form naturally over weeks.

  3. 3

    Enroll in familiar activities

    Sports, music, art—if your kid did soccer in the US, find a soccer club abroad. Familiar activities reduce anxiety.

  4. 4

    Connect with other families

    Find parent groups, expat communities, school PTA. Kids make friends through parent networks. Expat communities are usually very welcoming to families.

  5. 5

    Be patient with adjustment

    Kids typically adjust within 3-6 months. Homesickness is normal. Regular FaceTime with grandparents helps. After 1 year, most kids thrive.

Family-Specific Considerations

Maternity & Pregnancy

If planning pregnancy after relocation, research maternity care and costs. Some countries have excellent maternal care; others require private hospitals. Health insurance usually covers maternity.

Childcare & Nursery

Costs vary widely ($300-$3000/month). Research early—many nurseries have waiting lists. International nurseries are more expensive but often English-speaking staff.

Emergency Contacts & Medical Info

Keep copies of medical records, vaccination certificates, allergy information, and emergency contacts. Share key information with schools and neighbors.

Citizenship & Dual Nationality

Children born abroad may have options for dual citizenship. Research if applicable for your country. This can be beneficial long-term.

Ready to relocate with your family?

Check destination-specific guides for family information and school listings

Dubai family guide →