Resources

Resources

Moving abroad isn’t one decision—it’s hundreds.

        Most expat guides focus on visas, housing, and logistics as if everyone processes change the same way. But for neurodivergent people, queer families, and those with complex needs, the how matters just as much as the what.

 

        This living guide is a growing collection of resources, tools, and hard-earned lessons to help make international moves more accessible, sustainable, and humane. Some sections are still in progress—because real life is in progress, too. 

 

        You don’t have to do everything at once. Start where you are.

Table of Contents

Planning & Decision Making

  • Is moving the right choice for us?

  • How can I break down overwhelming decisions into smaller tasks?

  • How can I manage my anxiety and executive function?

  • Where is the best place for me to relocate to?

Resources:

Numbeo compares the average cost of living for different cities 

This article from Cognitive Behavior Institute highlights the benefits of family therapy

Visas, Paperwork & Bureaucracy

  • How can I understand different visa times?
  • Are there ways to manage paperwork without burnout?
  • How do I navigate translations, apostilles, and timelines?
  • Do I have all the relevant information?

Resources:

European Commission walks you through European Union visas by country

Passport Index explains the differences between different visa types

Housing, Schools & Daily Life

  • What neighborhood is best for my neurodivergent family?

  • How can I navigate the school system and accommodations?

  • What sensory considerations do I need to think about when house hunting?

  • How do I set up banking, utilities, and other services?

Resources:

More resources coming soon!

Healthcare & Access

  • How do I access medical care abroad?
  • Will I have access to mental health support?
  • Are there disability accommodations?
  • How do I transfer medication, diagnoses, and medical records?

Resources:

More resources coming soon!

Neurodivergent Supports

  • How do I navigate new routines?

  • Are there executive function strategies I can use?

  • Can I prevent burnout during major change?

  • How can I plan for meltdowns, shutdowns, and recovery?

Resources:

More resources coming soon!

Identity, Safety & Belonging

  • How to incorporate LGBTQ+ safety considerations?
  • Will I be able to find affirming communities?
  • How will cultural differences and legal protections help me?
  • How can I navigate visibility, privacy and safety?

Resources:

More resources coming soon!

Comfort, Routines & Safe Things

  • Will I be able to find my safe foods or substitutions?

  • How do I rebuild routines in a new place?

  • Will I be able to find familiarity in unfamiliar systems?

  • How do I create “home” abroad?

Resources:

Neurodivergent-adapted bullet journaling is a great way to shape new routines. This video elaborates on how to learn this.

Transitions, Grief & Adjustment

  • How do I cope with culture shock and emotional whiplash?
  • Is it normal to feel grief for people, places, and routines left behind?
  • How can I manage mixed feelings about a chosen move?
  • How do I manage with stress, burnout, and uncertainty?

Resources:

More resources coming soon!

Community, Support & Connection

  • Can I find community abroad and online?
  • How do I build support systems in new places?
  • Will I be able to find peer-to-peer guidance and shared experiences?
  • How do I know when (and how) to ask for help?

Resources:

Whatsapp is the best way to connect across different countries. Whatsapp groups are also great resources for advice and support.

Meetup is a way to connect with new friends and social places

This guide is always evolving.
If something is missing, or if you’ve learned something the hard way, we’d love to hear from you.