Moving from one country to another is always quite a challenge, no matter how well prepared you are for it. When you decide to move your life from England to Poland, you may face a number of difficulties, from the language barrier to cultural differences to formal issues around housing and employment. In this post, I will share my personal experiences of moving and the strategies that helped me overcome the obstacles I encountered.
1. Language barrier after relocation
One of the biggest challenges for people who are not fluent in Polish is the language barrier. Although English is widely spoken in many countries, in Poland you cannot always count on it, especially in smaller towns and when dealing with the administration.
How to overcome this challenge?
- learning Polish: although it may sound like an obvious thing to do, investing in language learning is key. Enrolling in a language course or using a language learning app can make everyday life much easier;
- support from an interpreter: in more difficult situations, such as dealing with official formalities, it is advisable to use an interpreter or ask a friend who speaks both languages for support;
- using translation apps: translation apps can help in day-to-day situations, allowing you to quickly translate a text or conversation in real time.
2. Cultural differences
Moving to another country always involves adapting to new customs and social norms. In Poland, some aspects of life may be very different from what you are used to in England.
How to overcome this challenge?
- openness to a new culture: The key to adapting to a new country is to be open to its culture. Participating in local events, learning about Polish history and traditions will help you better understand and accept the differences;
- connecting with local people: building relationships with Polish people is a great way to understand the culture from the inside. Talking together, going out or attending local events can help you adapt faster;
- understanding differences in communication: in Poland, directness and honesty in communication are more common than in England. Understanding and accepting these differences will help avoid misunderstandings.
3. Bureaucratic issues and formalities during the move
Moving to another country involves a lot of paperwork, from registering, to setting up a bank account, to health insurance. In Poland, the bureaucracy can be particularly complex and the procedures time-consuming.
How to overcome this challenge?
- careful preparation of documents: before you start the paperwork process, make sure you have all the necessary documents. They are often required to be translated into Polish, so it is worthwhile to plan such translations in advance;
- use of local advice bureaux: in larger cities there are advice bureaux that help foreigners with paperwork. Making use of their services can speed up the process considerably;
- patience and perseverance: bureaucratic issues can be frustrating, especially when you encounter unexpected difficulties. It is important to be patient and consistent in your actions.
4. The search for housing after the move
Finding a suitable place to live in Poland can be another challenge, especially if you are not familiar with the property market in a particular city. The differences in housing standards and the availability of offers can be surprising.
How to overcome this challenge?
- using the services of an estate agency: estate agencies have access to a wide database of offers and can help you find a flat that meets your requirements. It is worth using their services to save time and avoid problems;
- prior market research: before moving, it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with the property market in Poland in order to have realistic expectations of prices and housing standards;
- negotiating with landlords: in Poland, it is often possible to negotiate the terms of the rent, such as the amount of rent or rules regarding pets. Don’t be afraid to talk to your landlord and present your needs.
5. Differences in the education and health system
If you have children, moving to Poland also involves enrolling them in school or kindergarten and understanding the education system. In addition, using the Polish healthcare system can be another challenge.
How to overcome this challenge?
- familiarise yourself with the education system: before enrolling your child in a school, it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with the Polish education system to better understand what options are available. Some cities have international schools, which can be a good option;
- registering with the National Health Fund: in order to benefit from public health care, it is necessary to register with the National Health Fund (NFZ). It is also worth considering additional health insurance to access private medical services;
- seek support in groups for foreigners: many cities have support groups for foreigners that can help you understand local systems and offer practical advice.
6. Adaptation to the new climate and living conditions after the move
Poland has a different climate to England, with marked seasonal differences. Moving may involve adapting to colder winters and warmer summers.
How to overcome this challenge?
- prepare for weather changes: investing in appropriate clothing and preparing your home for the colder months can help you adapt to a new climate. It is also worth learning about local seasonal activity habits, such as winter skiing;
- enjoying your new surroundings: Poland offers a variety of landscapes, from the mountains to the beaches of the Baltic Sea. Take advantage of this to discover new places and enjoy the opportunities your new surroundings offer.
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Moving from England to Poland is a challenge that comes with many difficulties, but at the same time offers many opportunities and new experiences. The key to success is to be open to change, be prepared and use the tools and support available. Remember that every difficulty is an opportunity to learn and develop new skills, and over time life in a new country will become more comfortable and rewarding.
