Part 6 of 31 Things Americans Should Think About Before Moving Abroad : Politics Abroad

If you're an American thinking about moving outside the United States, here's a question you might not have thought about yet:

What do you know about the politics in the country—or even the region—you’re planning to move to?

I’m Darien, a U.S. American who moved to the Netherlands in 2021, and this is Part 6 of my 31-day series: 31 Things Americans Should Consider Before Moving Abroad.

It’s Not Just About the U.S. Anymore

You might know the U.S. political system like the back of your hand. Maybe you can name your local council members, your governor, your senators, and track national policy daily.

But what about your destination?

Do you know who’s in charge there?
Is it a parliamentary system or something else entirely?
What are the major political parties?
What are the cultural attitudes toward immigrants… and toward Americans specifically?

Why Political Climate Matters as an Immigrant

Politics aren’t just theoretical. They shape real experiences on the ground, especially for immigrants.

A country’s political climate—especially toward immigration, cultural integration, or relations with the U.S.—can have a direct impact on how welcome you feel, how easy it is to navigate bureaucracy, and how secure your stay may be.

The Hard Truth: Many Issues Are Global

One common misconception is that you’re “escaping” U.S. problems when you move abroad. But the reality is, many of those issues exist elsewhere too:

Rising cost of living
Inflation and grocery price hikes
Housing shortages
Anti-immigrant sentiment

These aren’t just American problems. They’re global challenges—and understanding how they play out locally is essential.

Becoming an Informed Immigrant

Before you move, take time to read up on your new country’s political landscape. Look into:

The current party in power and upcoming elections
Public sentiment around immigration and diversity
Diplomatic relations between the U.S. and your destination
How political changes might impact your visa, housing, or social integration

You don’t need to become a policy expert—but a little knowledge goes a long way.

The more you understand your future home, the more empowered you’ll feel to make the transition successfully.

And when you’re moving abroad as a mid-career professional or with family, this kind of preparation isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

Did you find this helpful? Are you planning a move abroad? Work with me to make your move from a place of clarity and organization.