WHEN YOUR PARTNER MOVES ABROAD TO BE WITH YOU AND WHAT TO DO TO HELP

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If you have ever been in a “same-race” relationship before then you know that compromises are just part of life. You will find though, that being in an interracial relationship requires more effort and more compromises to make the relationship work.

Be aware and appreciative of the sacrifices made by your partner

If your partner accepted to move abroad to be with you they’re probably very much in love with you. Whether they had to quit their job, leave their family behind, sell their house, give away their belongings, or say goodbye to their friends, it is going to be difficult for them to adjust to their new life and quite a few of them will experience a phase of sadness or depression.
Make sure that your partner knows how much you appreciate what they have given up to be with you, and be appreciative and compassionate.

Help them feel part of the community

Set your partner up for success and your interracial relationship will blossom!
Show them around and get them settled as soon as possible to make for an easy transition.
They need to feel supported. Avoid sugarcoating everything. Be honest and truthful – there are great things and not so good things about every country – just give them a true picture of what it will be like living with you before they decide to make the big jump!
You can organize get togethers, introduce them to your friends, encourage them to meet up with other expats or local people. If your significant other is not ready to work quite yet, suggest volunteering or joining an association. It is a great place to meet people and develop new skills.

Encourage them to learn the language

If your partner doesn’t speak or understand the language of the country, it is going to make things difficult for them. It’s extremely important for them to learn.

You can teach them the basics, or get help from the government, suggest online courses or tutoring. Being able to communicate independently and have some kind of social interactions will have a very positive impact on your partner’s self-esteem and integration.

Eventually, they will be able to manage their day-to-day life without you and create their own circle of friends, but until then, be there for them.