Expat Setup Checklist: A Step-by-Step Guide
A practical checklist covering the key steps to prepare for your move abroad, from documents to finances to logistics.
Moving abroad involves many moving parts. This checklist provides a general framework to help you organize your preparation. Your specific situation may require additional steps or a different order—use this as a starting point and adapt as needed.
Before You Commit
Research and Planning
- Research visa options for your destination country
- Understand basic tax implications (consult a professional for your specific situation)
- Research cost of living in your target city or cities
- Connect with expat communities online to gather firsthand experiences
- Consider healthcare requirements and insurance options
Financial Preparation
- Review your current banking situation and international access
- Research banking options in your destination country
- Consider multi-currency accounts or international transfer services
- Build an emergency fund that accounts for exchange rate fluctuations
- Understand how you’ll access money during the transition
3-6 Months Before Moving
Documents
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay
- Gather documents you may need (birth certificate, marriage certificate, educational credentials)
- Research apostille or authentication requirements for your documents
- Start the visa application process if required
- Obtain copies of medical records and prescriptions
Logistics
- Decide what to do with your current residence (sell, rent, keep)
- Begin sorting belongings—what to ship, store, sell, or donate
- Research shipping and moving options if applicable
- Notify relevant parties of your upcoming move (employer, bank, subscriptions)
1-2 Months Before Moving
Final Preparations
- Confirm travel arrangements
- Arrange temporary accommodation for your first weeks abroad
- Set up mail forwarding or a virtual mailbox service
- Download offline maps and translation apps
- Notify your bank of your travel plans to prevent card blocks
- Arrange travel insurance for the journey
Healthcare
- Schedule any needed medical or dental appointments
- Obtain sufficient supply of prescription medications
- Get copies of prescriptions with generic drug names
- Research how to find doctors in your destination
Upon Arrival
First Week Priorities
- Register with local authorities if required
- Open a local bank account (requirements vary by country)
- Get a local SIM card or phone plan
- Familiarize yourself with the neighborhood and essential services
- Register with your home country’s embassy (optional but recommended)
Settling In
- Start the process of obtaining a local ID or residence card if applicable
- Register for healthcare services per local requirements
- Set up utilities in your name if renting long-term
- Find a local doctor, dentist, and pharmacy
Important Reminders
This checklist is general guidance based on common expat experiences. Every country and personal situation is different.
- Visa requirements change frequently—always verify current information with official government sources
- Tax situations are complex—consult qualified professionals for advice specific to your circumstances
- Healthcare systems vary widely—research your specific destination’s requirements
- Timelines are approximate—some processes may take longer than expected
Planning ahead gives you flexibility when things don’t go as expected—and something usually doesn’t. Build buffer time into your schedule.
Important: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Requirements and procedures may change. Always verify current requirements with official sources and consult qualified professionals for individual circumstances.