🌍Preparation for going to the diaspora - key elements of a successful start
apa guide — nature • knowledge • inspiration
Preparation for going to the diaspora is one of the most important life processes that requires clear, organized and well-thought-out steps. This ApA guide helps you understand the legal, financial, linguistic and psychological elements so that you can step into your new life with stability and confidence. Quality preparation for going abroad reduces stress and increases the chances of quick integration.
1. Legal and administrative steps — the foundation of every departure
Without legally regulated documents, the whole process can become more stressful than it should be.
Visas and permits for residence and work
- Determine the path: family reunification, work visa, Blue Card, Western Balkans, student visa…
- Check the official list of embassy documents — no guesswork.
- Prepare your passport, employment contract, diplomas, certificate of criminal record, photos.
Translation and certification of documents
Everything you carry must be translated by a court interpreter, and many countries require it Apostille.
This lasts — so start early.
Personal documents
- Passport valid for at least one year in advance.
- Keep digital and paper copies separately.
ApA advice: Bureaucracy is not an obstacle, it's a process. The more organized you are, the less you lose your temper.
2. Financial preparation — shock absorber for the first months
The first months in a new country are the most expensive. Whoever misjudges this, later falls into debt or stress.
Financial preparation for going abroad is especially important in the first months of life in a new country.
Savings and start-up costs
- A minimum of 3–6 months of safety margin.
- Deposit for an apartment = 2–3 months' rent in advance.
- Initial costs: furniture, transportation, telephone, documents.
Banks, transfers and taxes
- Check options: Wise, Revolut, banks.
- Some countries require a blocked account.
- Consult about tax residency and the possibility of double taxation.
ApA advice: Financial stability gives psychological stability. Without it, the journey in the diaspora becomes difficult.
“"Leaving is not an escape — it's taking responsibility for the life you want."”
3. Language and professional preparation — the key to integration
Without language, possibilities are limited. Everything opens up with the tongue.
Language learning
- For most jobs: B1–B2.
- For medicine and regulated professions: C1.
- Combine courses and conversation — grammar alone is not enough.
Professional documentation
- Update your CV according to the standards of the country you are going to.
- Find out if you need diploma nostrification.
- Builds a network of contacts through LinkedIn and professional groups.
ApA advice: the diaspora's biggest mistake is waiting to learn the language "when it gets there". Study before you go.
4. Accommodation and logistics — a reality that can be a challenge
Finding an apartment from abroad is difficult. Be prepared for the process.
How to look for an apartment
- Book temporary accommodation for the first 2–4 weeks.
- Consider the WG (shared flat) option — easier and cheaper.
- Landlords ask for an employment contract, pay slips and credit history (Schufa).
Moving logistics
- Sell the things you don't need.
- Bring only what cannot be replaced.
- Calculate transportation, customs and suitcase weight.
ApA advice: minimalism is your best friend at the beginning of the diaspora.
5. Psychological preparation — a hidden dimension of going abroad
Psychological preparation for going to the diaspora is often neglected, although it is just as important as documents and language.
No one prepares you for the emotional waves that are coming.
Culture shock
- Slow bureaucracy, new language, new rules — all of this creates stress.
- Expectations are not reality. Diaspora is not a movie.
Social integration
- Build a network of friends, colleagues, neighbors.
- Don't isolate yourself — man needs community.
- Diaspora groups are supportive, but don't let them replace your local culture.
Administration upon arrival
- Registration of residence (Anmeldung).
- Extension of residence / work permit.
- Health insurance and tax numbers.
ApA advice: emotional stability is just as important as legal. A person in the diaspora must guard both his head and his heart.
You can find more details about everyday life in Germany in our ApA guide to Munich, which is available on the page “Munich – A Guide to Living and Getting Around in the City”. https://apachannel.com/minhen-vodic/
A short message to the reader
Going to the diaspora is not a great act of bravery — it is brave stay calm, to be prepared i not to lose yourself in process.
If you are organized, informed, and mentally prepared, diaspora becomes a new opportunity, not a struggle.
For the most accurate and official information about visas, documents, and procedures, I recommend that you visit the official website of the German Embassy, where updated application instructions are regularly published. https://sarajewo.diplo.de/ba-sh
🔥 3 ApA questions for the reader
- What part of the diaspora worries you the most — legal, financial, or emotional?
- If you were to leave tomorrow, what would be the most important thing you would take with you?
- What is your biggest motivation for leaving — security, a better job, or a fresh start?
