Here’s a handy checklist to help you with the long (and sometimes scary!) process of moving your life to a new country:
Planning Your Move
- Research your destination: Learn about the culture, cost of living, and local customs of your new country. Also, research healthcare systems and insurance requirements.
- Visas and Permits: Apply for necessary visas and work permits at least 8-12 weeks in advance.
- Housing: Use websites like ExpatExchange.com and Facebook Groups to get the latest information about the best housing options for new immigrants.
- Schools: If applicable, research school options for your kids. Often, this will mean researching international schools – these can have long waiting lists (and high tuition costs!)
- Job Opportunities: if you’re not moving with an existing job offer, get a head start on your search by browsing listings on Indeed or LinkedIn.
- Language Learning: Start learning the local language – the sooner, the more enjoyable your experience will be!
- Investigate tax implications of moving abroad, including potential double taxation agreements.
- Create a budget for your move and initial living expenses.
- Check if your professional qualifications will be recognized in the new country.
Before Your Move
- Gather passports, birth certificates, and marriage licenses. Make photocopies of everything. Put scanned backups onto a cloud service like Dropbox or Google Drive.
- Obtain copies of your medical records and immunization history (as well as for anyone moving with you).
- Open a foreign bank account.
- Tip: Wise is great for money transfers.
- Obtain some foreign currency for initial expenses.
- Decide what to pack, store, or give away. You can use services like “Send my Bag” to ship luggage.
- Cancel or transfer any subscriptions, memberships, or insurance policies.
- Arrange for home services like electricity and internet in your new location.
- Research and purchase international health insurance.
- Pets: check pet import regulations and use pet relocation services if needed.
- Choose a reputable international moving company if you’re moving lots of belongings, furniture, etc.
- Notify your home country’s tax authorities about your move, if applicable. Arrange for power of attorney if needed for legal matters back home.
- Set up mail forwarding or use a virtual mailbox service.
- Sell or donate items you won’t be taking with you. Create a digital inventory of valuable items you’re moving with.
- Travel Arrangements: Book flights using Skyscanner or Google Flights for the best deals (pro tip: flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays are generally cheaper). Arrange for airport pickup or transportation at your destination.
During the Move
Remember to stay flexible and patient during the move, as international relocations can often involve unexpected challenges or delays.
- Confirm your flight details and check-in online if possible.
- Pack an essentials kit in your carry-on luggage, including toiletries, a change of clothes, essential medications, and important documents.
- Bring adapters and converters for electronics.
- Notify your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards abroad.
- Download offline maps and translation apps for your destination country.
- Take photos of your valuable items before packing them for insurance purposes.
- Double-check all your luggage tags and ensure they have your new address.
- Carry some local currency for immediate expenses upon arrival1.
- Keep important contact numbers (embassy, new workplace, accommodation) easily accessible.
- If moving with pets, ensure you have all necessary documentation and arrangements for their travel.
- Make digital copies of all important documents and store them in a secure cloud service (e.g. Dropbox, Google Drive).
- If possible, arrange for someone to check on your old residence after you’ve left.
First 6 Months After Moving
- If necessary, register with local authorities to obtain a residence permit.
- Obtain a local driver’s license or convert your existing one if necessary.
- Register with your home country’s embassy in your new location.
- Explore local transportation options and familiarize yourself with the system.
- Set up a local mobile phone plan.
- Familiarize yourself with local emergency services and healthcare facilities.
- Set up a local bank account and utilities.
- Start building a local support network through expat groups and community events.
- Attend local events to meet people and make some friends. Meetup / Facebook Groups is great for this.
- Language Practice: continue learning!
After the Move
- Explore your new neighborhood and city – be proactive in finding new events and meeting people (no one will do this for you).
- Consider taking classes or workshops to further immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Regularly reassess your budget and financial goals in the context of your new life.
- Participate in local events and join clubs or groups aligned with your interests.
- Monitor your finances carefully and adjust as needed. I constantly hear of people running out of money and needing to return back home – don’t let this happen to you!
- Regular check-ins: Stay in touch with family and friends back home. Don’t underestimate how important this is!
- Plan visits back home or arrange for family/friends to visit you.
- Start exploring career advancement or business opportunities in your new country.
- Consider writing a blog or journal to document your experiences and share with others.
Remember to adapt this checklist to your specific situation and the requirements of your destination country. Each move is unique, and flexibility is key when relocating abroad
Note: I have no affiliation with any specific products or services mentioned above.