A Local Expert is someone who already lives in a city or country and is willing to share what they have learned about it. They offer one-to-one video sessions with people who are planning to move there, covering the practical questions that come up during a relocation: where to look for housing, how banking works, what the schools are like, how to get around, what the neighbourhoods actually feel like, and the dozens of small things that only become obvious once you have lived somewhere for a while.
What a session is
Sessions are conversational and built around your questions. You book a time that suits you, join a video call, and talk through the topics that matter to your move. A session might cover where to live, how to open a bank account, what the job market is really like, or how the school system works. It is practical, personalised guidance from someone who has already done what you are about to do.
How trust works
Every Local Expert completes identity verification through our payment partner, Stripe, as part of setting up their payout account. After each session, the Mover they spoke with can leave a public review, so you can read about other people's experiences before you book. Local Experts set their own session rates and their own availability, and they earn money for every session they complete. Local Experts keep 80% of the session price, minus a small processing charge, with 20% going to the platform.
Who can become a Local Expert
Anyone who has lived in a place long enough to help someone else settle in can become a Local Expert. There is no formal credential required, only a willingness to share honest, useful knowledge. Local Experts are residents speaking from personal experience, not necessarily relocation consultants, lawyers, or financial advisers.
Official Partners
We are building a directory of established organisations that provide professional relocation services, including immigration advisers, tax specialists, and moving companies. We add partners carefully, choosing organisations with a proven track record, and we keep the directory updated over time. If a session with a Local Expert points you toward a need for formal, professional help, the Official Partners section is a good place to look for providers that suit your situation.
Safety and risk
Relocate Bridge connects people. We facilitate the introduction and handle payment for booked sessions, but the interaction itself is between you and the other person, and you take part at your own risk. Sessions are informational and based on personal experience. They are not a substitute for professional legal, financial, tax, immigration, or medical advice. If your situation calls for formal advice, please consult a qualified professional. If you ever have a concern about a session or another user, you can report it through our Resolution Centre or the Report a Concern option on a profile.