AfriForum Worldwide recently published an article “The things nobody ever tells you about emigrating”. Following that, we invited our readers to share their personal experiences and the unique challenges they encountered during their immigration processes. In this follow-up article, we explore some of the often unspoken realities about emigration and provide tips that will make it easier to deal with.

1. It is emotionally draining

No one tells you how emotionally intense the process of emigration can be. From saying goodbye to family and friends, to the uncertainty about your future in a new country – the emotional burden can be overwhelming.

Tip: Take time to process your feelings. Talk to someone who understands you, and take small steps to build your emotional resilience.

2. Your roots remain a strong pulling force

Even if you move for practical reasons, your origins remain a part of who you are. Many people experience a deep longing for their food, culture and people – even if they thought they were ready to leave it behind.

Tip: Find ways to integrate your culture and traditions into your new life. From cooking to music, small actions can help you maintain ties with your roots.

3. You loose your mainstay

Emigration can leave your support network thin. You lose the closeness of family, friends and even reliable service providers. It can feel as if you are on your own, without the people who normally help you through difficult times.

Tip: Start building a new network early. Find South African communities in your new country, join online groups and be proactive in making new friends. 

4. The adjustment process is slow

You often hear people say that they quickly felt at home in a new country, but the reality is that it can sometimes take years to adapt. You may feel as if you are floating between two worlds – not quite at home in South Africa, but also not yet fully part of your new community.

Tip: Be patient. Focus on small victories – like learning the local language or getting comfortable with the daily routines of your new environment.

5. Administration becomes a full-time job

Form visas and work permits to banking accounts and tax – emigration brings a world of paperwork with it. Many people underestimate how complicated it is to get all the administrative aspects of a new life up and running.

Tip: Create a centralised system for all your documents and important information. Get professional help where needed, and stay on top of deadlines and requirements.

6. You have to start all over again

If you were successful in South Africa, it can be difficult to start at the bottom of the ladder in your new country. This does not apply only to work, but also to your place in the community and your social status

Tip: Be willing to adapt and seize new opportunities. See it as a chance to rediscover yourself, even it is difficult at first.

7. You miss more than just people

No one warns you about the homesickness you will feel for small everyday things such as the smell of the rain, local dishes ,or even your favourite store.

Tip: Send parcels of your favourite products from South Africa, or find local alternatives. Acceptance of the longing is normal – give yourself space to process it.  

8. Your family must adapt – individually and together

Emigration affects not only your work or home, but your entire family’s dynamics. Children, spouses, and even older family members experience the change in different ways, and it can be challenging to keep everyone in unison.

Tip: Communicate regularly and support each other throughout the process. Be open about feelings and problems that arise, and work as a team to tackle them.

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Emigration is a complex process that requires more than just physical adaptation – it also requires emotional and spiritual adaptation. If you feel that you are struggling, remember that there are people and communities that can support you. AfriForum Worldwide stands ready to help you maintain your ties with South Africa, your culture and people, wherever you are.   

What other emigration challenges did you experience? Maybe you have a tip or two to share that can help others. Share your advice in the comments below or send an email to wereldwyd@afriforum.co.za.

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