Long-distance relationships can be really tough. Many people think they’re worth it though and can keep them up for many years before they’re ready to either be together with their partner or call it off. There are many reasons you might end up in a long-distance relationship, from getting together before life takes you in different directions to meeting online or meeting while traveling. However you end up in an LDR, you might one day decide you want to close the gap and start living together. The question is, how do you do it and where do you start?
Address Any Legal Issues
One big barrier you might have facing you is potential legal issues. If you live in different countries or have different citizenships, you have to work out how to overcome that. For some, this may be relatively simple. EU citizens, for example, can easily move between EU countries. But others will have more complicated questions to ask and answer, such as: what is a green card, do you need to get married, and what is the immigration process like? These legal issues will need to be addressed if one or both of you wants to move to a different country.
Think About Where You Want to Live
One of the hardest decisions, when you’re in a long-distance relationship, is where you should live together. How do you make a decision if you both like your current homes or neither of you likes the sound of your partner’s home? Sometimes this requires some compromise, such as choosing a third location that you both like or could grow to like. You’ll need to discuss what your requirements are in terms of your careers, lifestyles, support systems, finances, and more. It’s worth taking immigration issues into account too. Is it easier for one of you to move than the other?
Explore Financial Options
You’re going to have to think about the financial implications of moving somewhere new. Firstly, you need to consider your work options. Ideally, you would be able to find a job in a new location before moving there. On the other hand, it can be easier to find a job if you already live in the right location. You’ll also have to consider how to handle your finances. Will you be combining finances? If one of you is unemployed for a while, will the other provide financial support?
Be Prepared for a Period of Transition
Moving in together after a long-distance relationship can be tough. Even if you choose not to live together at first, your relationship can change a lot when you’re suddenly much closer together. It’s important to be prepared for a transitional period when you’re getting used to how things can change. It might take some time for you to figure out what your relationship looks like now and how to make it work for you.
Closing the gap in a long-distance relationship can be a tricky thing to navigate, but it could be a great decision.
