Moving Overseas Checklist: Things to Do Before Moving Abroad

Whether you’re moving internationally for a job, study, or an adventure, having a moving overseas checklist to reference can make the process easier. To help you, we’ve put together the ultimate moving abroad checklist so you don’t forget anything — even your favorite health supplements and lucky rabbit foot.

A plan helps create a stress-free transition to your life in a new country. Check all the boxes on this moving overseas checklist, and you’ll be all set to focus on what matters: enjoying the experience of living abroad!

Moving abroad checklist for 6-12 months before the move

Your moving abroad checklist should give you ample time to prepare. You should start as much in advance as you can, preferably giving yourself a half year or more.

1. Research your destination

Learn as much as you can about the culture and language. Take language classes if necessary, as knowing at least some of the local lingo will help you tremendously.

You should also research the cost of living. Numbeo and Expatisan are two great tools for checking the cost of living data.

Next, research visa requirements and immigration rules. If you have a job offer, your company should be able to help you obtain a work visa. If you plan to work remotely in another country, try obtaining a digital nomad visa (check out our Digital Nomad Visas guide for more info).

• Tip: If you’re unsure of where to move, check out our list of the Best Digital Nomad Cities

2. Create a budget

After you choose your destination, estimate moving costs and figure out your monthly budget. Prepare about 3 months of living expenses in savings before departure. It will give you peace of mind.

During this time, you can downsize as well to obtain more money. If you have a car at home you won’t need, sell it. If you own a home, plan to lease it. You can also sell other items you can’t take abroad, such as your bike, furniture, etc.

• Tip: Read our Budget Guide for Digital Nomads

3. Gather the right documents

This is a vital step in your moving overseas checklist. Make sure to check all the boxes.

• Passport: Ensure it’s valid at least 6+ months after you move.
• Personal documents: Depending on your situation, you may need your marriage certificate, divorce papers, child custody papers, birth certificate, social security card, school records, driver’s license, etc.
• Medical records: Prepare your medical and dental records, immunization history, copies of prescription, and insurance card (if applicable).
• Financial records: Many countries want to see proof of sufficient funds. Prepare copies of bank statements and tax returns.
• Certificate of Good Conduct: Some countries want proof of good conduct from a law enforcement agency. Obtain this if necessary.
• Last Will and Testament: It’s a little gloomy to think about, but you need to set up your last will and testament before moving abroad. Family and friends need clear instructions for how to distribute your assets in the event of your death. Adding a Power of Attorney (POA) is also advised.
• Pet documents: If you’re bringing a dog or cat abroad, prepare all their health and immunization records. Also, look up what documents you need to fill out for your destination country. Note that some countries, such as Australia, have certain restrictions (can NOT bring an American Pit Bull Terrier, for example).

Moving abroad checklist for 3-6 months before the move

Now, you’re getting closer to the big move! With a lot of your documents and financial planning in place, this part of the moving overseas checklist is all about getting set up on the ground in your new country.

1. Secure housing abroad

It’s time to arrange accommodation abroad. You can have two options here:

• You can first live in short-term rentals found on vacation housing websites or stay at hostels / hotels. This route gives you a few weeks to a month to find suitable housing in your town.
• Book long-term rental right away. Most countries will require at least a 6-month to 1-year commitment on a lease.

2. Obtain healthcare insurance

Travel insurance may be able to cover the beginning of your move, but you should have adequate health insurance while living abroad. So, research your new country’s healthcare system and obtain health insurance from a local provider if needed. You can also consider international health insurance from major companies.

Note: If you have a job offer abroad, you may get health insurance through the employer or have access to the country’s national healthcare scheme. Check this in advance.

3. Sign up for schooling (if applicable)

If you have children or dependents moving with you, this is a crucial step of the moving overseas checklist. Research international schools and local schools, and apply to the one you feel is the best option.

Note: If you are moving during summer break, you should have time to tour schools. So, this step could be completed on the ground, after you’re settled.

4. Continue studying the local language and culture

Any moving abroad checklist should have this at every phase of the journey. It will make your move more seamless. I you already know the local language, disregard it and focus more on cultural study.

Moving abroad checklist for 1-3 months before the move

You’re almost there. You have much of what you need set up at your destination. The next phase of the moving overseas checklist will get you ready for departure.

1. Notify important parties of your move

You don’t have to do all these tasks, but some of the items are commonly missed on moving abroad checklists. See which ones you need to do:

• Notify your employer, landlord, school, etc.
• Notify your utility companies to disconnect service
• Notify friends and family of the best ways to contact you
• Set up mail forwarding
• Hire an international moving company
• Notify your bank you’ll be living abroad
• Consider storage for important belongings you can’t bring

2. Sort out finances & open a bank account

Cancel subscriptions and all other unnecessary recurring expenses. Also, set up international banking. If possible, open a bank account abroad; if you can’t do it online, plan to open one within days of arriving in your new home.

Also, remember to understand your tax obligations in your home country and new country. Make sure you pay taxes properly. Read our Digital Nomad Tax Guide for more information.

3. Organize documents

First, make digital copies of everything. Then, pack your passport, personal documents, financials, and all other documents you need.

4. See your doctor

You want to make sure you’re in good health before the move, have prescriptions filled for the first few months, and obtain any necessary vaccinations for you.

The same goes if you’re bringing a pet. Take your friend to the vet.

5. Sell or rent out your home

If you were renting, this step of the moving abroad checklist doesn’t apply. If you own a home, either sell or lease it at this phase of the journey.

6. Book your flight and accommodation

Now’s the time to book your flight. International airfare is usually cheapest 4-8 weeks before departure. Also, you can book your housing now if you haven’t already.

Moving abroad checklist for 1 month before the move

The countdown begins. For the final month, your moving overseas checklist is all about getting ready to go to the airport.

1. Get important health items

If you have health supplements you take, purchase a few months’ worth of supply. It may take you time to find a comparable product you like in your home country. Bring a first aid kit and common over-the-counter medications for pain, cold, allergy and other symptoms. Additionally, get your prescriptions ready.

2. Pack your bags!

Label boxes clearly if shipping things. Pack essentials, such as hygiene items and medicine, together. Carefully place all personal documents and cash in a safe inside pocket of a carry-on bag.

3. Arrange utilities disconnection

If you didn’t complete this in the last phase, do it now. Disconnect water, gas, electricity, and internet. If you’re leasing your home to a tenant, you can either disregard this or have them set up their own utilities.

4. Get a month-long international plan for your phone

You’ll need the data when you land and get settled. Once you get a local phone and SIM card, you can end the international plan.

5. Say your goodbyes

The last month is a good time to see friends and family you may not see for a while. Some may even start making plans to visit you abroad.

Moving abroad checklist for the final week before the move

We’re almost to the final phase of the moving overseas checklist. There’s just a few more things to do.

1. Confirm travel and moving plans

Confirm all is set: your flight, your accommodation, your health insurance, etc

2. Double check you have all your essentials

These include:

• Passport
• Visa
• Personal documents (certificate of good standing, marriage certificate, driver’s license, diploma, etc)
• Financial records
• Medical records
• Medicine (over-the-counter plus prescriptions)
• Cash and bank account
• Other valuables

3. Clean and move out of your home

It’s time to hand over the keys!

4. Double check customs regulations

You need to know what can and can’t be brought into your destination.

Moving abroad checklist for after arrival

Making yourself at home is a vital final step of any moving overseas checklist. After you overcome the jet lag, get yourself established in your new home.

1. Register with local authorities

This may or may not be required, depending on the country. Some countries want you to register with the local government that you’ve moved to the area, have the proper visa, and have a residence. They may even issue a temporary residence permit.

2. Set up local SIM card and internet

Get a local SIM card so you can call, text, and surf the internet locally. Get internet installed at your home so you can work, watch entertainment, call friends and more.

3. Find a doctor and dentist

This maybe can wait. But at some point, find a clinic or hospital you like and trust. The same goes for dental work.

4. Get transportation sorted

If you plan to drive, obtain a car. If you plan to use public transport, get a transit car. You can also look into getting a bicycle, e-bike, and scooter if that’s a popular way to travel.

5. Start exploring!

Find ways to meet locals and expats, such as through hobby groups and language exchange. Check out restaurants and sites in your town. In no time, you’ll be settled into your new life abroad!

Making our moving overseas checklist work for you

Our moving overseas checklist is designed to help you make a seamless transition to life abroad. Use it as a guide and customize the steps for your preferences, situation, and destination. It can be a great resource if making your move abroad successful.

Do you have anything you’d like to see added to our moving overseas checklist? Join our group on Facebook and start the conversation!

About the Author

Nick Callos has always had a passion for reading, writing, and discovering the new and unknown. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Nick holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English from Boston College. He currently splits his time between his hometown, Chengdu, China, and the open road. A full-time travel writer, Nick hopes his work can inspire others to explore the world more deeply and enjoy the digital nomad lifestyle.

Featured image by Stefano Intintoli on Unsplash