There are apps for everything nowadays, including helping you when you move abroad!
Whether it’s finding your way around a new city, making friends, or learning the local language, there are ways to make the transition to your new life smooth and simple. Here are our top ten apps to help make living in a new country easier.
Want to learn how to speak like an Aussie? Download the SBS Audio app and subscribe to
SBS Learn English, a podcast produced specifically for people migrating to Australia to improve their English and settle into life here. Each episode centres around a specific theme or situation, for example, speaking about visas or getting a haircut.
Finding your way around a new city is never easy. Google Maps gives you access to real-time navigation with traffic conditions and estimated travel time included. As well as up-to-date and well-designed maps, it also features photos and street view, comprehensive detail on footpaths, bikeways, and public transport. You can even discover local restaurants, events, and activities. With offline access, even if you’re low on battery or conscious of your phone data, you can easily search and navigate without an internet connection.
This app gives live exchange rates of more than 170 countries and can be used even without an Internet connection. The currency converter is particularly useful while you are still getting familiar with the currency in Australia.
When you first relocate abroad, it can be difficult to meet new people, particularly if you work long hours or don’t enjoy going to bars. Offering events like talks on topics that interest you, parties, markets and meet-ups for international students and migrants, Eventbrite is a great app for making connections in your new city.
If you find yourself missing your favourite foods from home, look on OpenTable for international restaurants in your area. Search by ratings, price, location and cuisine to find exactly what you’re looking for, and you can even make a booking through the app!
Moving to a new country can be stressful, so taking time for yourself is important. Mindfulness and meditation app Calm can help you remain centred and relaxed, offering guided meditations, sleep stories, and breathing exercises to ease anxiety and improve focus.
Looking for a room in a share house? Flatmates is Australia’s biggest platform for finding shared accommodation. With detailed profiles and search filters, you can find a place that suits your budget and lifestyle while connecting with similar people (and making new friends)!
The self-proclaimed ‘ultimate transport app’, CityMapper will help you get from A to B in your new city super efficiently. With real-time updates on train, tram and bus lines, quiet routes for cycling, and guided navigation, you’ll be walking the streets like a local in no time.
For spending money while you’re travelling and living abroad, Wise is your new best friend. With low fees and great exchange rates, Wise makes it easy to send, spend, and receive money in multiple currencies. Their debit card even works worldwide, so you don’t have to worry about foreign exchange fees.
For keeping in touch with family and friends, MyPostcard is a fun app that allows you to send personalised postcards straight from your phone. All you need to do is take a photo with your smartphone camera (or choose one from your Instagram or Facebook account) and with the click of a button, it’ll make sure a glossy high-quality postcard of your photo will drop through your loved one’s letterbox, with whatever 140-character message you choose.
