​Why emigrating with children is a complex (and rewarding) decision?

Many Portuguese healthcare professionals dream of international opportunities, and this trend is only increasing. According to international reports, one in five doctors and nurses in OECD countries is a migrant, reflecting strong demand for healthcare professionals abroad and significant, diverse career opportunities.

However, when you have children, the decision to emigrate goes far beyond choosing a job. It is a life decision that involves the entire family. This is where the need for information, planning, and specialized support begins, exactly the type of assistance that Vitae Professionals provides throughout the entire process.

1. Education system and children’s adaptation

One of the main concerns for parents considering emigration is their children’s education. Before accepting a job offer, it is essential to understand:

• What is the primary language of instruction in schools?

• Are there language support programs for children?

• How does the educational system work, and how does it adapt to your children’s needs?

In many cases, international schools can be an option, especially in countries with large expatriate communities.

2. Language, autonomy, and integration

Learning the local language is a fundamental step for the entire family, not just the healthcare professional. Daily autonomy, such as shopping, dealing with doctors, or interacting with other parents, directly impacts the quality of adaptation.

Tip: if you don’t yet speak the language of your destination country, consider taking language classes before moving to accelerate integration.

3. Support network and family logistics

Having a support network in the destination country is crucial. This involves practical questions, such as:

• Who will accompany your children during their first days at school?

• What care is available in case of illness?

• How can work schedules be balanced with school routines?

Specialized support from a team like Vitae makes all the difference in addressing these questions before you move.

4. Legal and administrative aspects for children

Beyond your professional qualifications, there are legal steps involving your children, such as:

• Registration with local authorities;

• Residence permits;

• Costs associated with documentation;

• Custody situations in cases of separation or divorce.

Clarifying these issues before committing to an offer reduces surprises and helps plan the move with confidence.

5. Real cost of living vs. quality of life

Many professionals focus only on salary without considering the real expenses of family life, such as housing, schooling, transportation, and leisure. A good planning practice is to calculate not just your net salary, but also the purchasing power and quality of life that the move provides.

Consider questions such as:

• The rent of a family home in the city where you will work;

• Costs of extracurricular activities for children;

• Access to public services (transport, healthcare, recreational spaces).

6. Emotional support and family well-being

Moving to another country is exciting but can also be emotionally demanding. Studies on family mobility show that the adaptation of children and partners is one of the most significant factors influencing the success of international migration.

Having open conversations as a family, understanding each member’s expectations, and having specialized support, like what Vitae provides, ensures that the move is not just physical but a positive and sustainable transition.

How Vitae Professionals supports families of healthcare professionals?

At Vitae, we know that emigrating with children is much more than finding a job. That’s why we have a personalized support process, which includes:

• Comprehensive assessment of your family and professional situation;

• Planning each step of the move with a family-focused approach;

• Support with administrative and legal requirements;

• Strategies for smooth integration of children in the new country.

Emigrating with children is one of the most important decisions a healthcare professional can make and the difference between a stressful move and a successful new chapter lies in information, support, and planning.

If you are considering this step, remember: every detail counts. The good news is, you don’t have to do it alone.

Vitae Professionals is here to help, step by step. Explore the open opportunities for healthcare professionals in our destination countries: Belgium, France, Malta, Ireland, United Kingdom, Netherlands, and Saudi Arabia.

Have questions about the process? Get in touch with us!