We have highlighted some essential guidelines for US to Europe Immigrants. Are you considering a permanent shift from the United States to Europe? If so, it is your duty to maintain respect and diligently adhere to the rules and regulations established by European authorities.
Although there are many similarities between the United States and Europe, both are known for their power and position. This has led to a strong political connection between the two regions. Therefore, the way US and Europe maintain a political connection by having a visa-waiver agreement has made it possible for US citizens to get easy visas to Europe.
Therefore, you will surely have it easy to move on to Europe from the USA. Despite this, it is still concerning how you should behave and live in Europe as an immigrant.
<p>Check out my Website <a href="https://www.problogs.link/tech-tips-highlights-and-guides/10-helpful-tips-us-to-europe-immigrants/" target="_blank" rel="dofollow">website</a> for more information.</p>1. Cultural Values And Differences
As someone from the USA, you will see a strong cultural difference between USA and Europe. Europe is a less likely place for religious believers. Besides, its people have different cultural backgrounds that put them aside from USA’s people. Therefore, not all USA immigrants find it easy to live in Europe.
Here are some tips on how you should and should not behave after moving to Europe:
- No Loud talking: Europeans like it low and peaceful. They are more reserved in public than Americans. You could make them feel awkward or obnoxious talking loudly in public places.
- No personal space violations: Europeans value personal space more than Americans, and they will likely become uncomfortable when people stand too close. Keep a distance while talking and ensure you avoid touching without permission.
- Don’t cut in line: As someone outside of European culture, you should never cut in line with a European person. They are generally more orderly than Americans, and they may find it rude when people cut in line.
- Never Spit in public: Spitting in public could bring you trouble in Europe. If you have a habit of spitting in public areas, you have a serious problem knocking on your door. Such a habit is considered to be very rude in Europe, and it is illegal in some countries.
- Avoid Littering: Littering is considered a sign of disrespect in Europe, and it is illegal in most countries that comes with fines.
- Don’t Be Drunk in public: Keep it cool and remain active when you are in a public place. Being drunk in public places is considered to be uncouth and offensive in Europe, and it is possibly illegal in some countries.
- Get Yourself Used to Queuing: Europeans are used to queuing for things such as public transport or to get into a shop. They may find it rude or inconsiderate when people do not queue.
- Avoid Talking on the phone in public: Europeans generally find it rude to talk on the phone in public places, especially if they are talking loudly or if they are blocking people’s way.
- Don’t Be Overly Friendly: Don’t bring your overly-friendliness nature to Europe. Europeans tend to be more reserved than Americans, and they may find it overwhelming or intrusive when someone acts overly friendly or talks in a familiar tone with them.
- Remain Respective To Everyone’s Religious Beliefs: Eurobarometer survey 2019 shows that more than half of the population in Europe is a mix of different religions, while only 41% is associated with Catholicism. It could put you in an awkward situation when trying to connect with others religiously.
Also Read: 25 Passive Income Ideas To Help You Make Money In 2023
2. Different Food Choice
Ingredients: Usually, Europeans use simpler ingredients and tends to have less processed foods. It is more common to find fresh and local ingredients in European cuisine. Ingredients that are common in American food, such as high fructose corn syrup and artificial colours, are either restricted or rarely used in Europe. Therefore, you must adapt to different food tastes and choices.
Serving sizes: European food serving size is usually smaller than it is in America. It is a part of their culture which differentiate European culture from the USA. In Europe, it is more common to have multiple smaller meals throughout the day, while in the United States, it is common to have two large meals every day.
Flavour profiles: European food have more delicate flavours than American food. It is partly due to the use of fresh ingredients and less processed foods. Besides, their cuisine is influenced by a wider variety of cultures, which can lead to more diverse flavour profiles.
Dietary restrictions: European countries follow stricter regulations on food additives and allergens. It means you will see more food options available for people with dietary restrictions in Europe. For example, it is more common to find gluten-free and lactose-free products in European grocery stores.
Seafood options: Plates of seafood are more common in Europe than it is in the USA. Therefore, you will see verities of Seafood items on the menu. However, Sea Foods are also more expensive in Europe than USA. Hence, you may have more options in the menu card, but in an expensive price range.
3. Different Fashion Sense
How people dress in Europe is eclectic from how USA people dress. You will see a difference in how people chose to dress there.
Here are some of the most popular styles and trends in Europe:
Jeans: Jeans are a popular choice for both men and women in Europe. They can be dressed up or down, making them a versatile option for any occasion.
T-shirts: T-shirts are another most common choice for casual wear in Europe. They come in a variety of colours and styles, so you can find one to suit your taste.
Sweaters: Sweaters are a great option for cold weather in Europe. They come in a variety of weights and styles, so you can find one that is perfect for keeping you both warm and stylish.
Dresses: Dresses are a popular choice for women in Europe. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
Suits: The use of suits is a common attire in Europe. They are typically worn for work or formal occasions, such as weddings.
Raincoats: Raincoats are a must-have for any European wardrobe. They come in various styles, so you can find one that suits your body shape.
Of course, these are just a few of the many types of clothes that are common in Europe. The specific styles that are popular vary from country to country and from city to city. But overall, European fashion tends to be more understated and classic than American fashion. Europeans often prefer clothes that are well-made and timeless rather than trendy.
4. Can’t Pet Hyacinthine Macaws
Hyacinthine Macaws are legal as pets in the US but not in Europe. Therefore, many locals in the USA love to keep them as a pet. However, it is possible that the European country you are immigrating to has banned this species as a pet or personal keep. Most famous countries in Europe have illegalized Hyacinthine macaws as a pet. Thereby, you must leave your pet behind before shifting to Europe.
Also Read: Hyacinthine Macaws: Everything You Need To Know!
5. Certain Dog Breeds Banned In Europe
Dog lovers may find it difficult to accept it; some species of dogs are banned as a pet or as personal keep. Here is a list of dog breeds you can’t own in Europe:
- American Pit Bull Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
- Tosa Inu
- Japanese Tosa
- Cane Corso
- Dogue de Bordeaux
- Bullmastiff
These breeds are banned in some European countries because they are considered unstable or aggressive by nature.
6. Higher Cost Of Living
Here are some European countries with a higher cost of living than the United States:
- Switzerland
- Norway
- Denmark
- Iceland
- Sweden
- Germany
- France
- United Kingdom
- Netherlands
Living in any of these countries means you will likely have less disposable income than you would if you lived in the United States. It is because the cost of goods and services is generally higher in these countries. For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in central London is \$2,500 per month, while the average rent for a similar apartment in New York City is \$1,500 per month.
7. Challenging Job Opportunities For US To Europe Immigrants
When you immigrate to Europe, be prepared for the possibility that your educational qualifications and skills may not be enough to get you a job. This is because many unemployed European citizens are prioritized over immigrants when it comes to job opportunities. Additionally, the job market in Europe can be sensitive to the political climate, and some parts of Europe have become more unfavorable to immigrants in recent years.
Here are some specific examples of how the job market in Europe can be challenging for immigrants:
- In some countries, immigrants are required to have a work permit to legally work. This can be a lengthy and complicated process, and it may not be possible to obtain a work permit if you do not have a specific job offer in place.
- Even if you do have a work permit, you may still face discrimination in the job market. Some employers may be hesitant to hire immigrants, even if they are qualified for the job.
- The job market in Europe can also be cyclical, meaning that there are periods of high unemployment and periods of low unemployment. If you immigrate to Europe during a time of high unemployment, it may be more difficult to find a job.
- If you are considering immigrating to Europe, it is important to do your research and understand the challenges that you may face in the job market. Prepare yourself to be more flexible and adaptable, as the job market can change quickly.
Here are some additional tips for immigrants looking for jobs in Europe:
- Network with people in your field of work. It can be a great way to learn about job openings and to get your foot in the door.
- Be prepared to relocate. The job market in Europe can vary from country to country, so you may need to be willing to move to a different country to find a job.
- Learn the local language. It will show employers your seriousness about living and working in Europe.
- Be patient. It could take some time to establish your career in Europe. So don’t give up hope.
8. Three Time Zones In Europe
When immigrating to Europe, you will have fewer time zones. People who live in the USA have to deal with nine time zones. Meanwhile, there are only three time zones available in Europe. Here are the time zones followed by Europe:
- Western European Time (UTC+0) in Ireland, Portugal, and the westernmost parts of France, Spain, and Italy.
- Central European Time (UTC+1) for most of the European Union, including Germany, France, Italy, and Poland.
- Eastern European Time (UTC+2) for Greece, Romania, Bulgaria, and the easternmost parts of Russia.
As someone who wants to immigrate to Europe, you will fall under any of the above time zones. It means that if you live in a Europe country, you will have to adjust to a maximum of two hours difference in time rather than up to nine hours (USA).
9. Expensive Avocados
As a fellow USA citizen, you must be familiar with avocados, native to North America. They are healthy and versatile fruit you can eat in different ways. Besides, avocados are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins. However, It doesn’t grow in other countries due to weather conditions, for which Mexico (North America) is the major exporter of this fruit.
Meanwhile, Europe is highly dependent on the Netherlands to fulfil the demand for avocados in its countries. The Netherlands is the second or third largest exporter after Mexico. Hence, you are guaranteed to find avocados in Europe; but the price is higher.
10. Pickpocketing: A Growing Problem In Europe
Pickpocketing is the worst thing you would expect from Europe. It is a common crime seen to occur in both US and Europe. However, Europe has a greater percentage of this crime. According to a 2023 analysis by Quotezone.co.uk, an estimated 5.2 million people experience pickpocketing in Europe every year. That’s 13,700+ encounters each day. Therefore, you must prepare yourself for the worst possibility.
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