Moving to a new country? I get it – it’s equal parts exciting and terrifying!
After helping countless people navigate international moves, I’ve put together this comprehensive checklist to make your journey smoother.
Let’s break it down into manageable chunks.
Before You Even Start Packing
- Do Your Homework Start by diving deep into your destination. What’s the cost of living like? How does healthcare work? What are the local customs you should know about? This research will save you from culture shock later.
- Get Your Paperwork in Order Apply for visas and work permits at least 8-12 weeks ahead – trust me, bureaucracy takes time. While you’re at it, investigate tax implications and check if your professional qualifications will transfer over.
- Sort Out the Big Stuff Housing is crucial, so join Facebook groups and browse ExpatExchange.com for insider tips from other expats. If you have kids, research international schools early – they often have waiting lists and hefty price tags. No job lined up? Start browsing Indeed and LinkedIn now.
- Start Learning the Language Even basic phrases will make your life infinitely easier. The sooner you start, the more you’ll enjoy your new adventure.
- Money Matters Create a realistic budget for both your move and initial living expenses. Open a foreign bank account if possible, and grab some local currency for day-one expenses. Pro tip: Wise (formerly TransferWise) is fantastic for international transfers.
The Month Before You Leave
- Document Everything Gather all your important papers – passports, birth certificates, marriage licenses, medical records, immunization history. Make copies of everything and scan them to cloud storage like Dropbox or Google Drive.
- Handle the Logistics Cancel subscriptions, transfer insurance policies, and arrange utilities at your new place. If you’re bringing pets, research import regulations – this can be surprisingly complex!
- Choose a reputable international moving company for big items, or use services like “Send my Bag” for lighter loads. Set up mail forwarding or consider a virtual mailbox service.
- Get Travel-Ready Book flights using Skyscanner or Google Flights (Tuesday and Thursday flights are often cheaper!). Arrange airport pickup and purchase international health insurance.
Moving Day and Your First Week
- Stay Flexible International moves rarely go exactly as planned, so pack your patience along with your belongings.
- Pack Smart Keep essentials in your carry-on: toiletries, change of clothes, medications, and important documents. Don’t forget adapters for your electronics and some local currency.
- Tech Prep Download offline maps and translation apps. Notify your bank about travel plans to avoid card blocks. Take photos of valuable items for insurance purposes.
- First Steps in Your New Home Register with local authorities for your residence permit. Get that local driver’s license sorted and register with your home country’s embassy. Set up local banking, utilities, and a mobile phone plan.
Your First Six Months: Building Your New Life
- Get Connected Join expat groups and attend community events – Meetup and Facebook Groups are goldmines for this. Explore local transportation, healthcare facilities, and emergency services.
- Keep Learning Continue with language practice and consider taking local classes or workshops. This isn’t just about skills – it’s about making connections.
- Stay Grounded Monitor your finances carefully. I’ve seen too many people run out of money and have to return home unexpectedly. Regular budget check-ins are your friend.
Settling In for the Long Haul
- Be Proactive Nobody’s going to hand you a social life – you’ll need to create it. Explore your neighborhood, attend events, join clubs that match your interests.
- Maintain Connections Don’t underestimate how important staying in touch with home is for your mental health. Plan visits in both directions and consider starting a blog to document your journey.
- Think Long-Term Start exploring career advancement opportunities and consider how this move fits into your bigger life goals.
Final Thoughts
Remember, every move is unique. Use this checklist as your foundation, but adapt it to your specific situation and destination country. The key is staying flexible while being thoroughly prepared.
Moving abroad is one of life’s great adventures – embrace the chaos, celebrate the small wins, and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way. You’ve got this!
Note: I have no affiliation with any specific products or services mentioned in this guide.