Livelihood – Moving to another city or country for work

פרנסה – מעבר מקום בשביל פרנסה

The Rebbe's guidance on moving to another city or country for work or a better livelihood:

Look into it thoroughly before moving. A move for livelihood is a major life change; investigate every aspect carefully, weigh the practical options, and don't rush (IK 848, 1068, 5849). Emigrating involves real material challenges, so consider it carefully (IK 1013). Settling in a new country takes connections and patience, and one should weigh seriously what one would be leaving behind (IK 4153).

Often, the better path is to look for opportunities locally first. In several letters the Rebbe advised against moving abroad for financial reasons, given the uncertainties involved, and encouraged seeking opportunities where one already is (IK 1253, 5833, 8070).

Where to go: weigh above all the Jewish environment, especially the children's chinuch; settle in a community with proper Torah observance and a kosher mikveh (IK 912, 9410). Wherever one goes, build Chassidic life there (IK 948).

Leaving Eretz Yisrael for work is a halachic question to bring to a rav first, and if there is any doubt, one should not leave (IK 9287, 10551).

See also: Livelihood – Choosing a career or job.

Shiurim in this topic

848. Guidance on Relocating and Employment Opportunities הדרכה על העתקת מקום מגורים ואפשרויות תעסוקה

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912. Guidance on Relocation to South America versus the United States הדרכה על העתקת מגורים לדרום אמריקה לעומת ארצות הברית

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1013. Guidance on Emigrating to Canada הדרכה על הגירה לקנדה

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1068. Relocation Choices and Shidduch Name Issue אפשרויות העתקה וענין שם בשידוך

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948. Guidance on Immigration and Building Chassidus Abroad הדרכה על הגירה ובנין חסידות בחוץ לארץ