Life Abroad: What Every Indian Worker Should Know Before Their First Day on the Job

Getting a job abroad is a dream for many Indian workers. The thought of earning in foreign currency, supporting family back home, and building a better life is exciting. But at the same time, the first few days in a new country can feel confusing, overwhelming, and even lonely.

This blog is your guide to what to expect, how to prepare, and how to adjust to life abroad—so you can step into your new journey with confidence.

The First Reality Check

Most workers imagine life abroad as easy: big salaries, modern cities, and quick success. The truth is, while opportunities are real, the first few months often bring challenges:

• Cultural shock – Different language, food, climate, and habits.

• Workplace adjustments – Stricter rules, punctuality, and safety standards.

• Homesickness – Missing your family, festivals, and familiar surroundings.

The good news is: with the right preparation, you can handle all of this smoothly.

Essential Preparations Before You Leave India

Before you even board your flight, make sure you are ready:

1. Paperwork in Order

   • Keep copies of your passport, visa, contract, and certificates.

   • Share one set of documents with your family in India for emergencies.

2. Financial Safety

   • Carry some local currency for the first week.

   • Learn how to open a bank account abroad through your employer or embassy guidance.

3. Packing Smart

   • Pack clothes suitable for the local weather. For example, workers going to the Gulf will need light cotton clothes, while those heading to Europe may need warm jackets.

   • Carry medicines, small cooking items (like spices), and photos of family for comfort.

4. Mental Preparation

   • Be ready for long work hours, living in shared accommodation, and adjusting to new habits.

Workplace Expectations Abroad

Every country and employer is different, but some things are common:

• Punctuality is strict: Arriving late can lead to fines or warnings.

• Safety rules are serious: Wearing helmets, gloves, or safety belts is non-negotiable.

• Respecting hierarchy: Supervisors’ instructions must be followed carefully.

• Language barriers: Learn simple English or local phrases to communicate better.

Remember, professionalism is valued more than just effort. Even if your work is hard, doing it systematically and safely earns respect.

Adjusting to Daily Life

Apart from work, you also need to settle into your daily routine:

1. Food and Cooking

   • Food abroad may taste different. Many workers cook Indian meals in shared kitchens to feel at home.

   • Learn simple recipes before you leave—dal, roti, and rice can make a big difference on difficult days.

2. Accommodation

   • You may share rooms with 3–6 people. Learn to respect personal space and maintain cleanliness.

   • Divide chores fairly to avoid conflicts.

3. Transport

   • Some employers provide buses, others expect you to use public transport. Always keep your ID handy while traveling.

4. Community and Friendship

   • Find local Indian associations, temple/mosque groups, or cricket clubs. They can become your support system.

   • Making friends from other countries also helps reduce loneliness.

Coping with Homesickness

Almost every worker feels homesick. Missing your child’s birthday, Diwali with family, or just a home-cooked meal can be painful. Some ways to cope include:

• Regular video calls with family.

• Writing letters or keeping a diary—helps process emotions.

• Staying busy with work, hobbies, or learning new skills.

• Celebrating small wins—your first salary, your first successful project, etc.

Money Management Abroad

Remember, you went abroad not just to earn, but to save. Be smart with money:

• Avoid unnecessary spending on luxury items in the beginning.

• Send remittances through safe, legal channels.

• Start a small savings account for emergencies.

• Plan for your family’s future—education, house, or business back in India.

A Story of Adjustment

Take the example of Shabir, a mason from Bihar. His first month in Dubai was tough—long hours, language barriers, and adjusting to roommates. But he quickly joined evening English classes offered by a local community, learned to cook simple meals, and started playing cricket on weekends with other workers. Today, he not only earns well but also feels at home abroad.

The lesson? Adaptability is your biggest strength.

Final Word

Working abroad is a life-changing journey. The first days may test your patience, but with preparation and a positive mindset, you can turn challenges into opportunities.

Remember: you are not just earning money—you are building a future for your family, gaining global experience, and growing as a person.

So, when you pack your bags, pack confidence, patience, and adaptability too. They will be your best companions on this new adventure.

✨ Life abroad may not be easy, but it can be truly rewarding if you step in with the right preparation.