The Ultimate Moving Abroad Checklist: Everything You Need to Know
So, you’re finally fed up with Trump and the USA enough, and you’re packing it all up and GTFOH. Great, but there’s a few things you need to prepare before you actually leave. Whether it’s for work, love, lifestyle, or just the adventure of it all, moving to another country can feel SUPER FUN and OVERWHELMING at the same damn time. Trust me, I’ve been there.
Crazy enough, I never did this type of preparing when I moved. That’s why I wanted to create this list. Because I want to help you! You don’t necessarily have to follow everything. But its nice to see it all in one place to help you organize everything you need to do before, during, and after your big move.
From visas to housing to what to pack, here’s your step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Pre-Move Planning
The first step is making sure your paperwork is in order. You really can’t leave without doing this. You are literally LEAVING your country. You need to make sure you’re good to go… Every country has its own rules, so do your research early! Check out this blog for countries that don’t have strict visa policies.
Research visa requirements & residency permits for your destination
Check your passport validity (renew it if it expires within 12 months) — trust me on this one, I had a fluke here and it sucked!
Apply for visas/work permits if needed
Review tax obligations in both your home country and new country
Notify government agencies (IRS, SSA, DMV, etc.)
Set-up a virtual mailbox, I use this one
Step 2: Finances
Money can make or break your move, so get ahead of it… I personally moved with about 10K saved, but you don’t necessarily need to do that. Just research cost of living where you’re headed…
Open an international-friendly bank account
Order debit/credit cards with low foreign transaction fees
Set up currency transfer apps (Wise, Revolut, Remitly, etc.)
Create a budget for moving costs and living expenses
Notify your banks and credit card companies about your move
Step 3: Housing & Logistics
Where you live sets the tone for your experience abroad, so plan carefully. Pro tip: If you’re not able to find a place over the internet at first, try to reach out to friends that may be in town, to where you’re moving, have them tour the place. That’s what I did. A good way to figure out WHERE to live is Facebook Marketplace. A lot of other countries outside of the US strictly use Facebook and word of mouth to get rentals listed.
Book temporary housing for arrival (Airbnb, hotel, short-term rental)
Research neighborhoods for long-term housing (safety, culture, affordability)
Decide what to do with your stuff (sell, store, or ship)
Hire international movers (if needed)
Step 4: Health & Insurance
Don’t forget about your health—it’s one of the most important things when moving abroad.
Buy international health insurance
Check required vaccinations for your destination
Gather medical records, prescriptions, and eyeglass/contact prescriptions
Research the local healthcare system
Learn key phrases for medical emergencies in the local language
Step 5: Tech & Communication
Staying connected is crucial for both comfort and safety. I have an international plan with T-Mobile that runs me about $100 a month. So, I have yet to get a local SIM situation but I have definitely been thinking about getting a new situation with the phone so I am able to get better connectivity.
Unlock your phone for international SIMs
Research local SIM vs. eSIM options
Set up a VPN for secure browsing (I use Nord VPN, sign-up here for free months off)
Back up important documents digitally
Download essential apps (translation, maps, banking, ride-share)
Step 6: Packing Essentials
Smart packing will make your transition smoother and more efficient… Less drama!
Double-check airline baggage rules
Pack clothing for the local climate
Carry key documents in a travel folder
Bring adapters/voltage converters
Pack a small “arrival kit” (toiletries, a week’s worth of clothes, meds, snacks)
Step 7: Arrival Checklist
You’ve landed — thank god. I can still have flashbacks to when I finally get to Mexico. It was truly relieving… LOL! Now, its time to set up your new life, abroad...
Register with local authorities (if required)
Open a local bank account
Get a local phone number/SIM
Learn basic phrases in the local language
Connect with immigrant groups and communities
Step 8: Long-Term Settlement
Once you’re settled, start building your new more permanent life… Unlike me, I am not sure if Mexico is my forever home, so I’m not sure I need to do any of this yet. But just making suggestions that may be necessary:
Explore the job market or set up your business
Apply for a local ID/driver’s license if necessary
Build a local support network (neighbors, coworkers, new friends)
Stay on top of tax filings in both countries
Moving to a foreign country isn’t necessarily BRAVE…. per say. Its no more braver than the people living there living there lives. However, it can be challenging and life changing at the same time. I’m hoping this list helps you sort of figure out what you need to do to prepare for your move.
If you’re still stomped, concerned, need to talk to someone that’s done it, please book some time here, and I will be happy to help guide you!