The Ultimate Moving Abroad Checklist

Your Complete Moving Abroad Checklist

Moving to another country involves hundreds of details. Use this checklist to stay organized.

6+ Months Before

• ☐ Research destination countries thoroughly
• ☐ Understand visa requirements and timelines
• ☐ Check passport validity (6+ months required by most countries)
• ☐ Research cost of living and create budget
• ☐ Start learning the local language
• ☐ Research healthcare and insurance options
• ☐ Plan a scouting trip if possible
• ☐ Begin decluttering and deciding what to ship/sell/store

3-6 Months Before

• ☐ Apply for visa (if required)
• ☐ Get documents apostilled (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.)
• ☐ Get documents translated if required
• ☐ Obtain international driver's permit if needed
• ☐ Research international moving companies (get 3+ quotes)
• ☐ Notify employer and arrange remote work or resignation
• ☐ Research schools if moving with children
• ☐ Start selling items you won't take

1-3 Months Before

• ☐ Book international health insurance
• ☐ Set up international banking (Wise, Schwab, etc.)
• ☐ Notify banks and credit cards of move
• ☐ Forward mail or use virtual mailbox service
• ☐ Get medical checkups and stock up on prescriptions
• ☐ Obtain medical records and vaccination history
• ☐ Get pet documentation if bringing animals
• ☐ Cancel or transfer subscriptions and memberships
• ☐ Book initial accommodation (1-3 months)
• ☐ Research phone/SIM options at destination

2-4 Weeks Before

• ☐ Confirm all visa documentation
• ☐ Finalize shipping arrangements
• ☐ Cancel utilities at current residence
• ☐ File change of address with USPS
• ☐ Back up all digital files
• ☐ Scan important documents to cloud storage
• ☐ Say goodbyes to friends and family
• ☐ Pack essentials bag for first weeks

Final Week

• ☐ Confirm flight and accommodation
• ☐ Pack carry-on with essentials (documents, medications, valuables)
• ☐ Download offline maps and translation apps
• ☐ Print important documents as backup
• ☐ Notify bank of travel dates
• ☐ Charge all devices
• ☐ Get local currency or confirm ATM access

First Month After Arrival

• ☐ Register with local authorities if required
• ☐ Open local bank account
• ☐ Get local phone number/SIM
• ☐ Register with US Embassy (STEP program)
• ☐ Find permanent housing
• ☐ Set up utilities
• ☐ Register for healthcare
• ☐ Find local services (doctor, dentist, etc.)
• ☐ Join expat groups and start building community

Essential Documents to Bring

• ☐ Passport (and copies)
• ☐ Visa documentation
• ☐ Birth certificate (apostilled)
• ☐ Marriage certificate if applicable (apostilled)
• ☐ Driver's license and international permit
• ☐ Medical records and prescriptions
• ☐ Vaccination records
• ☐ Educational transcripts/diplomas
• ☐ Employment references
• ☐ Proof of income/bank statements
• ☐ Insurance documents