Settle naturally! Ease into working abroad with these 5 tips

According to a recent study by the Ministry of Tourism, about 27.27 million Indians went abroad in 2023, a 26.25% increase from the previous year. For most non-resident Indians (NRIs), working abroad feels like entering an entirely new world full of unexpected challenges.

But how do you adjust to this new culture? The key here is making cultural adaptations.

However, adapting is not just limited to saying "hello" instead of “Namaste”. Instead, it’s about understanding the heart of a culture and making numerous small adjustments.

Wish to know them? In this article, let’s check out five practical tips on how you, as an NRI, can easily settle abroad and blend into the foreign culture without losing your Indian identity. 

1. Learn about local languages and cultural diversity
 

When working abroad, it helps to learn the local language and culture. It helps you communicate better, connect with people, and integrate into another country.

Thankfully, there are lots of free resources available online. Moreover, pay attention to social norms, such as –

• How do people greet and thank each other?
• What are common dining habits?
• What are the most appropriate dress codes?

You can always seek advice from locals or colleagues to avoid unintentional mistakes. These efforts will make it easier to move abroad while respecting your Indian roots.

2. Manage your finances smartly when moving abroad
 

Once you are sorted with the local traditions, the next step is smart financial management. It gives you stability while working abroad, helps you save better and maximise returns on your foreign earnings.

To manage your finances, start by researching the cost of living in your new country. Be aware of the currency exchange rates and local banking rules. You can also use NRI Banking Services from IDFC FIRST Bank to make hassle-free transactions. It allows you to:

• Make international money transfers with zero processing fees and no hidden charges
• Open an NRI Portfolio Investment Scheme (PIS) Account and invest in Indian stocks and bonds
• Easily manage all your accounts and investments via the IDFC FIRST Bank Mobile Banking App

Furthermore, plan your budget carefully. Account for initial expenses (like rent and transport) and create emergency funds. This financial preparedness supports cultural adaptation and helps in building your new life.

3. Build a support network for easy cultural adaptation
 

When working abroad, you will need a strong support network. This not only accelerates your pace of cultural adaptation but also maintains your emotional well-being.

To begin with, try to join popular expatriate groups and cultural clubs. Here, you can meet like-minded individuals who understand your language and traditions. This will help you find valuable tips on how to settle abroad smoothly.

Also, consider volunteering in community programs. It is a great way to:

• Connect with locals
• Understand their way of life
• Form genuine friendships

These relationships make you feel more at home in the new culture. At the same time, stay connected with your family and friends in India through calls, messages, or video chats. This mix of local and old relationships makes cultural adaptation easier.

4. Observe the locals while working abroad
 

Observation is key when learning how to settle abroad. Pay attention to the little details in how locals interact. For example, you can notice:

• How do they shake hands, bow, or greet with cheek kisses?
• Are there unique phrases or gestures they use while communicating?
• Do they use chopsticks instead of forks or observe silence before meals?

Such observations offer valuable lessons. The sooner you accept and enjoy these differences, the easier it will be to feel like you truly belong.

5. Take part in local festivals and events
 

To quickly adjust while working abroad, start participating in local festivals and events. Festivals are the heart of any culture. By attending them, you get to know about local traditions and community values. Some common festivals you can attend are parades, fairs, or celebrations.

For example, if you’re living in Spain, you can participate in La Tomatina or local fiestas. Similarly, in Japan, you can join cherry blossom festivals. This participation will help you bond with locals.

Additionally, go beyond just observing and try to engage actively. Prefer dressing in local attire and celebrating with the locals. This will make you feel included.

Simplify working abroad with IDFC FIRST Bank
 

Adapting to a foreign country might take a lot of work, but managing your finances as an NRI should not be. With a dedicated Relationship Manager, digital access, and attractive interest rates, you’ll have one less thing to worry about with IDFC FIRST Bank. 

Start using NRI Banking Services from IDFC FIRST Bank today and smartly manage your finances!