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Moving to Minnesota from abroad

Thinking of becoming an expat in the USA? There are a few essential things which you will have to do before taking on this huge relocation. First, you will have to figure out your destination. We believe that Minnesota is a good choice. It is a state which offers both busy cities and a calm life in the country at an affordable price. So, moving to Minnesota from abroad is a perfect choice. And, as experienced long distance movers in St. Paul, we can tell you that you won’t be alone in your struggle with culture shock! But, aside from choosing your destination, there are a few more things you should know before you relocate… This is why we’re here!

A quick breakdown of moving house from abroad

A packed suitcase ready for the trip to MN.
Ready to move? Here are a few tips before you start packing!

In the USA moving house is a family business. So, with years under our belt of helping homeowners relocate we’re going to give you the top tips anyone should know before a move. Of course, we always direct our customers to our blog for more detailed tricks and specialized relocations.

But, here are the essentials we, as reliable movers in Twin Cities, always give:

  • Start early – even two months in advance is good! When moving cross-country in the USA this is the optimal timeline we give our customers when they ask. It gives you enough time for budget planning, downsizing and talking to different local MN movers. Though, when moving to Minnesota from abroad, you may need to add a bit more time. Think about the visa and other necessary legal processes which may take time to complete. Also, consider what kind of MN moving services you will need.
  • De-clutter – for an affordable MN quote on your relocation. Moving house is the perfect occasion to get rid of the clutter in your home. If you take it with you, it will simply raise the price of your relocation. After all, in the moving industry, weight is money.
  • Multiple quotes – to give you a clear picture. Did you receive an expensive estimate? Or is it too good to be true? With three to five quotes on your home, you will be able to tell. And, if you want to get a quote online, visit our homepage and test out our moving calculator.
  • A few moving day tips and hacks – where our blog can help! We give different tips to make your international relocation a smooth one.

Then, we want to give you some information about the legal aspects of moving to the USA from abroad

In our experience as long distance movers Twin Cities most people move here for work. And, this is, in fact, the easiest way to obtain legal residency in the States. By getting a USA employer to sponsor you they will be starting the process of getting a green card. This is done by applying through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Your employer will fill out the Form I-140 which allows you to stay in the States permanently. If you’re not moving to Minnesota from abroad for work, there is another option. A family member can help you file for permanent residency. Though, this usually takes more time than through an employer. Be sure to plan ahead for it so you can prepare for your relocation accordingly. Of course, there are a few other ways to apply for a visa. Some of them include the student, tourist, and non-immigrant visa. Be sure to look at the timelines and requirements for them thoroughly before starting the moving process.

Now, we also wanted to talk a bit about the difference between living in the USA and abroad

When you have the logistics of relocating from abroad to the USA figured out, there are some other things to think about. The difference in lifestyle is one of them. So, we wanted to give you some general information and put things in perspective. This way moving to Minnesota from abroad will become a relocation with well-set expectations.

A plane in flight for all expats moving to Minnesota from abroad.
Have you considered all the differences before relocating to MN?

Think about the difference in costs before moving to the USA

The States is seen as the land of dreams when you ask expats. And, there are plenty of reasons why. However, costs aren’t one of them. The USA is, after all, one of the richest countries in the world. With the dollar constantly on the rise in value daily expenses can be troublesome after moving to Minnesota from abroad. However, you’ve luckily chosen one of the most accommodating and affordable states to relocate to. While the rent or the purchase of a home is expensive, food and clothing won’t be. After you get a job in MN you will notice the worries about the costs falling rapidly.

Weather in Minnesota is another thing to consider before relocating

As experienced long distance movers in Minneapolis, we can tell you that weather can be traitorous here. While it’s mostly mild and has all four seasons, the winters can be rough. If you’re living outside of the city buy a shovel. You will need it to clean up the driveway and the sidewalk in the front. Also, prepare for the warm summers, too. There won’t be much rain, but, you should definitely prepare for the heat. Though, the biggest downside of the MN weather are the tornados. While not too frequent, they are quite worrisome to expats moving from abroad. However, we can assure you that the locals have protocols in place to keep you safe. Be sure to ask your new neighbors about them when you settle in. They will help you make moving to Minnesota from abroad a smooth and stress-free ordeal, as well.

When moving house to MN from abroad, language is another thing to consider

Of course, the main language is the States is English. However, there isn’t an official tongue in the USA. Hence, there are some cities where you will hear Spanish being spoken as the main language. Though, when moving to Minnesota from abroad, you won’t have to worry about that. Here, the language you will have to know is English. And, even if you struggle with some of it, the locals will be sure to help you.

Finally, there are the job opportunities when moving to Minnesota from abroad to think about

Going to the USA without a solid plan for your career isn’t a good idea. However, when moving to Minnesota from abroad, you won’t have to worry even if you do. With it being one of the best states in the USA to get a job, you should be able to easily place in the job market. The most popular careers with available job opportunities in MN include those in business, accounting, and health. These are the spots which continuously open up and are great chances for any looking expat. With the unemployment rate of 4%, is there anything else we should say?

But, moving to Minnesota from abroad isn’t good only because of the abovementioned reasons

A park in MN where you can relax while working, too.
While it may be infamous for its farm country, it doesn’t lack in city scenery either.

As movers in the Twin Cities, we’ve seen a number of homeowners choose our state as their next destination. So, we asked them to give us a bit of insight as to why they chose MN. And, when we compiled all of these stories and reasons we created a short list as to why Minnesota is the perfect choice for expats. Of course, we wanted to share it with you.

Minnesota is a state which will definitely offer friendly neighbors and new friends

If there’s one thing which every American knows, it’s that people in Minnesota are among the kindest you will meet. So, if you’re a social butterfly moving to Minnesota from abroad is a great idea. The locals will readily welcome you and help you settle in. And, if you’re moving house to MN alone, you won’t stay that way for too long. Making friends is an easy business here. Our advice, as a moving company who’s seen a number of lone wolves relocate, is to take initiative. While friendly at heart, people in MN may not have the courage to start up a conversation. So, to all expats moving to Minnesota from abroad it’s time to take matters into your own hands when talking to people is concerned. And, if you’re not certain where to start, try the local spots or festivals which we’ll mention a tad later.

Plenty of lakes and vast farm country allow for a good time for every active newcomer

There are many reasons why Minnesota is a good choice when moving to the USA. And, one of them is definitely the active lifestyle available. If you enjoy the outdoors, you’ve chosen the perfect state. Minnesota offers a large farm country which can be perfect for raising a family quietly. Or, if you’re among the millennials who prefer to stay near a Wi-Fi source, the Twin Cities are a great choice. During the weekend, be sure to take the time to visit the numerous lakes in the state which are just a short drive away. There are opportunities for hiking, cycling, and canoeing which will help you both stay fit and healthy. Long story short, moving to Minnesota from abroad is the perfect chance for a true American road trip experience with new friends.

Minnesota lakes - an infamous destination for every expat moving to Minnesota from abroad.
There are a lot of lakes to explore after moving to MN.

Moving to Minnesota from abroad means embracing the good education the state offers

If you’re choosing to move to MN from abroad you should know that the locals pride themselves on their good education. If you’re looking to start a family or already have children, you’re going to love what MN has to offer. From a young age to college, the education system is one of the best in the country. And, if you’re looking to further your own education, be sure to check out some of the MN colleges online. This should provide you with a good idea what you want to see when you move to Minnesota from abroad.

There are plenty of fairs and festivals in MN to check out, even for the locals

Aside from work and studies, there is also fun in Minnesota, we promise. Throughout the year there is a rich calendar of events nearby to see. For everyone moving to Minnesota from abroad the locals will have more than one suggestion. So, after getting settled into your new home either ask your neighbors what they suggest or do some Google detective work. Pretty soon, your agenda will be completely full!

If you love coffee moving to Minnesota from abroad is definitely for you

A coffee cup with a bit of cinnamon on the side - be sure to try out the local MN brews.
For all coffee lovers, this is the land of dreams!

Between the infamous Starbucks and wonderful Dunkin’ Donuts on the East Coast, you might get a bit blindsided. But, we assure you, you shouldn’t only stick to these two companies in MN. In fact, if you did, it would be a shame. Every expat moving to Minnesota from abroad ought to try the Caribou Coffee. This a local chain which is the first love of every single MN businessperson. Of course, there are plenty of local shops in cities which can surprise you with a great brew, too. But, we always say – in MN Caribou Coffee comes first!

This is a state which has become more diverse throughout the years

A globe in the sea - just like your trip to MN from abroad is.
Minnesota is a melting pot of cultures – enjoy the diversity!

We’ve already mentioned that moving to Minnesota from abroad won’t leave you alone. There have been more and more expats in the state from all over the world in the recent years. So, it is quite a diverse state with the heart of traditional USA. If you’d prefer a quiet life in the countryside you may not get to experience the level of diversity, though. Most expats have settled in the cities or smaller towns in the state. But, if you’re here for work or college, you will definitely enjoy the traditional melting pot of cultures which we’re proud of. However, while you’re experiencing Africa, Asia, Europe, and America all at once, we’d like to remind you to share, too. Here, we’re always eager to learn about your culture and origins. Soon enough, you will find yourself less of an expat and more of a member of one huge country. Then, moving to Minnesota from abroad won’t seem like such a daunting task!