Moving abroad for the first time is exhilarating, but it can quickly become overwhelming without a clear plan. From paperwork and packing to finding a home and preparing emotionally, there’s a lot to manage. That’s why I created the ultimate expat checklist with practical tips, to guide you step-by-step through a smooth, stress-free relocation.

Whether you’re moving alone, with a partner, or with your family, this checklist covers everything you need to do before you leave, as you arrive, and during your first months abroad.

1. Before You Leave: Essential Admin in Your Home Country

✔ Organise Your Passport and Visa Documents

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6–12 months beyond your arrival date.
• Apply early for work, student, or residency visas.
• Make physical and digital copies of all important documents: not only passports; include diploma copies, insurance documents, birth certificates etc.

✔ Sort Out Your Finances

• Notify your bank of your move to avoid blocked transactions.
• Check whether your debit/credit cards charge foreign transaction fees.
• Research international banking options or ask if your bank has global partnerships.

✔ Handle Taxes Before You Go

• Inform your tax authority that you’re leaving the country.
• Clarify whether you will still have tax obligations at home (e.g., income from property, investments, business, or pensions).
• If needed, consult a tax advisor experienced in expatriation.

✔ Healthcare and Insurance

• Request your medical records and prescriptions.
• Check if your destination requires specific vaccinations.
• Purchase international health insurance if your employer doesn’t provide it.

✔ Cancel, Update or Pause Subscriptions

• Phone contracts, internet, gym memberships, utilities. Expat tip, you can generally avoid cancellation fees when the cancellation is for a move abroad, share a copy of your work contract to prove the relocation.
• Update any mailing addresses (or set up mail forwarding).

2. Packing Smart: What to Bring, and What to Leave Behind

✔ Essentials to Pack

• Important documents (passport, certificates, contracts).
• A few months’ supply of medications.
• Electronics and universal adapters.
• Weather-appropriate clothing for your new climate.

✔ Items You Can Buy Later

• Bulky home goods and furniture.
• Most toiletries.
• Household appliances (as voltage may differ).

✔ Shipping vs. Storing

• Get quotes from international movers early.
• Decide whether to store items in your home country or ship them.
• Label everything for easier unpacking.

A relocation is an opportunity to declutter, plan some time to do so, this will reduce your storage costs and also puts you in the right mindset to start a fresh new life.

3. Preparing for Your New Country: Do Your Homework

Doing your research and homework by asking yourself the right expat questions will save you from hassle and bad surprises upon arrival.

✔ Research Your New Neighborhood

Before moving abroad, explore:

• Cost of living
• Public transport
• Safety
• Local shops and services
• Commute times
• Expat-friendly areas

Create a shortlist of neighborhoods that match your lifestyle, budget and needs. You can find the information on expat forums, blogs or go through a relocation agency who can help you get set up.

✔ Find Housing (Temporary or Long-Term)

• Start with temporary accommodation (Airbnb, co-living or serviced apartment) while you search locally.
• If signing a long-term lease, understand local rental laws, deposits, and fees.
• Confirm what utilities are included
• Compare furnished and non-furnished accommodations

✔ If You Have Children: Look Into Schools Early

• Research international, bilingual, or local schools
• Understand admission deadlines, many schools fill early
• Check if you need to live close to the school to be admitted and what are the transport options
• Prepare required documents (transcripts, immunizations, certificates).
• If you need a nanny or extra help, look through expat groups and forums that can point you towards trusted professionals

4. Local Paperwork to Prepare for Your Arrival

✔ Residency Registration

Many countries require you to register your address within a set timeframe. Do your research on:

• Required documents
• Appointments
• Fees
• Common delays

Do your research about the process and required paperwork. Make sure to double-check your sources, their reliability and if they still apply, keep in mind regulations change more often than we think!

✔ Open a Local Bank Account

Again, this may require some paperwork, so look at the steps you need to finalise before you open the bank account:

• Address proof
• Work contract
• Identification
• Tax number

If opening an account before arrival is possible, it will simplify payments and deposits.

✔ Get a Local SIM Card

Buy a local SIM card to facilitate communication and registration, this is usually very easy to set up and can even be done at the airport. A local mobile number helps you:

• Register for services
• Communicate with agents and employers
• Use local apps (transport, housing, banking)

5. Tax and Employment Considerations in The New Country

• Understand whether you must register for a local tax ID.
• Check your employment contract for benefits, payroll, and health insurance.
• If you’re self-employed, study local business regulations before working.

6. Emotional Preparation: The Part Most First-Time Expats Forget

Moving abroad isn’t just about the logistics and paperwork, it’s an emotional journey. Your mental preparation is key to a smooth transition, don’t forget you are closing a chapter of your life and opening up a completely new one.

✔ Expect an Adjustment Period

Most expats experience go through highs and lows:

• Excitement
• Culture shock
• Homesickness
• Adaptation
• A new sense of belonging

This is all normal, accept the process with an open mind and patience. You are on an exciting personal growth journey, that will lead to identity shifts. These will be disorienting but part are fully part of this beautiful journey.

✔ Build a Support System Early

Don’t isolate yourself, make sure to carve out some time to make friends abroad and build your support system. It takes time but it’s essential.

• Join local expat communities (online and offline).
• Attend meet-ups, language exchanges, and community events.
• Engage with local social groups on Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, or Meetup.

✔ Learn the Basics of the Local Language

Learning the language, even just simple phrases will help you not only feel more confident in daily life, but also open opportunities.

✔ Keep in Touch With Home Without Overdoing It

Maintaining ties is healthy, and of course you want to share your exciting new life, but be careful not to isolate yourself from your new environment. You may feel guilty for leaving, don’t let the nostalgia of your previous life takeover

Moving abroad is one of the most exciting decisions you’ll ever make, and with the right expat checklist, it can also be a smooth and empowering experience. Preparation is your best friend: the more you handle in advance, the more confident (and less stressed) you’ll feel once your feet hit the ground.

If you want help connecting with locals or fellow expats, discovering life abroad, or exploring real stories, head over to the podcast for more testimonials, expat tips, and real-life insights.