Scandinavia is one of the best places to live in; for many Americans, it’s a dream come true. As one of the most prosperous regions in Europe, Scandinavia offers plenty of opportunities for those looking to start anew. Whether you’re a student, professional, or retiree, there are many great reasons to move from the USA to Scandinavia. Below you find 4 Great Reasons to Move to Scandinavia from the USA (and 5 Practical Tips).
1. Quality of Life
The region is considered one of the happiest and most livable places, with people enjoying many social benefits, such as free healthcare and education. Scandinavia offers an outstanding work-life balance, with shorter working hours than many other countries.
2. Cultural Richness
Scandinavia is home to some of the world’s most exciting cultures, with its unique blend of Nordic and Viking heritage. In addition, its vibrant cities offer plenty of modern attractions such as galleries, museums, and live music venues. Scandinavia also has a robust outdoor culture, with skiing and sailing popular in the region.
3. Stability & Safety
While the United States enjoys good safety standards, Scandinavia is known for its exceptionally high political and social stability levels. This is further enhanced by the region’s strict gun laws, which ensure that firearms are rarely used in criminal activity. For people with families or young children, this is a significant plus.
4. Nature
Think of the Northern Lights, and you’ll have a good idea of just how spectacular Scandinavia’s natural beauty can be. The region is full of stunning scenery, from its breathtaking fjords and snow-capped mountains to its beautiful forests and lakes. There are also plenty of wildlife reserves for those who want to experience nature up close.
4 Great Reasons to Move to Scandinavia from the USA (and 5 Practical Tips)… read on
5 Tips for Moving to Scandinavia
1. Research the Legal Aspect
Immigration and visa laws can be complex, so make sure you do your research before making a move. Find out what visas are available and what documents you need to apply for them. Work permits are also important to consider if you plan to find a job.
2. Learn the Language
Scandinavian countries have their languages, and English is not widely spoken. To make the most of your time in Scandinavia, learning at least one of its native tongues will be necessary. There are many programs available that can help you become conversational in no time.
4 Great Reasons to Move to Scandinavia from the USA (and 5 Practical Tips) … read on.
3. Hire a Moving Company
International moves can be hard to manage. It’s best to hire a professional moving company to handle the logistics of transporting your belongings. Make sure you ask for referrals from friends or family and read reviews online to select the best one for your needs.
4. Prepare Financially
Moving from one country to another can be expensive, so make sure you have sufficient funds to cover all costs before proceeding. Having an emergency fund set aside is also a good idea, just in case something doesn’t go as planned.
If you plan on moving on a tight budget, you may want to consider taking a personal loan. You can compare different rates of personal loans to find the best deal for you. Remember, this is a long-term commitment, so ensure you’re comfortable with the loan amount and terms.
Related: 5 Ways to Meet True Friendship in Scandinavia
5. Make Connections
Starting afresh in a new country can be daunting, so make as many connections as possible before you leave. This could mean joining local groups or events in the US that are connected to your new destination. You may also want to reach out to people who have already moved to the region and ask them for advice.
Moving to Scandinavia can be a rewarding experience if you plan and prepare for it. The region has a lot to offer with its high quality of life, stunning nature, and vibrant culture. Just make sure you take the time to research your options and understand what’s required before relocating.
4 Great Reasons to Move to Scandinavia from the USA (and 5 Practical Tips), written exclusively for Daily Scandinavian by Nadine Westwood. Nadine is a registered dietitian, travel blogger & fitness lover. In her spare time, she helps save stray animals. Nadine really does enjoy sharing her fitness journey with others who might need help with weight loss or finding a stress reliever.
Feature image (on top) © Pixabay