15 Essential Steps for Relocating to a New Country

Whether you’re moving to London to study abroad for a year or working in Bali indefinitely, the process is entirely manageable.

Taking vacations to your favorite faraway destination just isn’t enough for you anymore. You need to be in the place you love full-time. You must consume your favorite foods, see your favorite sights, and be immersed in this place every single day. Therefore, it is time to pack your bags and move abroad. If you’re ready—and we mean really ready—to make that leap, we’re here to support you with a few logistics involved in moving to a new country.

There are indeed ways to make the entire process manageable. Consequently, we’ve rounded up nine steps every future expat should take before they leave their home country, no matter where their next destination may be.

Start saving for your move — and tack on an extra 10% while you’re at it.

Moving down the street can be expensive, but relocating across the world can be significantly more costly. Global living expenses include typical items like housing deposits, movers, and transportation, along with added costs such as visa documents, international insurance, and potentially legal assistance.

This is when the age-old advice of having six months’ worth of savings indeed becomes sound; however, that should be a minimum when moving abroad. Start by researching exchange rates and the cost of living in your new home, then work with your income to develop a budget that accommodates your move. Aiming to save six months’ worth of that budget before your relocation assures you’re ready for any surprises that come your way.

Apply for or renew your passport ASAP.

You must have a valid passport to apply for a visa. Some countries require that your passport remain valid for at least six months beyond your final travel date. If you do not have a set return date and your passport expires while you’re abroad, you can renew it at your local U.S. Embassy or consulate.

Find your new home.

Whether you know exactly which city you’ll be moving to or are keeping your options open, deciding on where to live is one of the most exciting elements of moving abroad. Research potential cities to understand their offerings. In addition to the lifestyle you desire, consider factors such as city size, public transportation, and healthcare infrastructure.

If you know your destination city, start by researching popular online listing websites and connecting with local rental agencies. Arranging a rental contract before you arrive can be challenging, so consider booking temporary accommodations like a hotel or Airbnb for your initial week.

Prepare your family for the move.

If your partner, kids, or pets are relocating with you, you have more work to do. Aside from the additional paperwork, consider job opportunities for your partner and schooling options for your kids before fully committing to the move. Research how to transport your pets, ensuring their transition is as smooth as possible.

Apply for a visa.

Obtaining a visa can be one of the most daunting aspects of moving abroad as approvals can be unpredictable. Therefore, check your destination’s official government website to understand the required supporting documents for your application. For instance, if you’re applying for a student visa in the United Kingdom, you’ll need to provide your offer letter from the university and proof of adequate financial support.

Accept that none of this will be easy.

If you find dealing with bureaucracy challenging at home, managing it in a foreign country could be more complicated. Although it’s possible to navigate the application processes yourself, conflicting information may arise about what forms are necessary. If you’re considering a permanent move, consulting with an immigration lawyer in your destination country could be beneficial.

Think about health care.

Healthcare systems vary significantly around the world, and access may depend on your visa type. Before departure, check if your current healthcare provider will cover you while abroad. Obtain your medical records and necessary immunizations; information about this can be found here. Ensure any prescription medications are permitted in your new country and plan accordingly if they are not.

Upon arrival, understand the local healthcare system based on your visa status. For example, in Portugal, you must obtain a residency card to access healthcare services.

Register with STEP.

Stay informed by enrolling in the U.S. Embassy’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This will ensure you receive important updates about your new country’s safety conditions and enable the U.S. Embassy to contact you during emergencies.

Do plenty of research.

Regardless of your familiarity with the destination, thorough research is essential. Some critical questions to consider include:

Shipping vs. Storage vs. Selling

Decide whether to ship your belongings, store them, or sell. Weighing logistics and costs is necessary, as moving expenses can skyrocket. If you plan to relocate with minimal belongings, explore local options for essential items like furniture and kitchen supplies.

Transportation

Evaluate if you will drive or use public transit. If you plan to drive, consider the costs and logistics of your options, like shipping your vehicle vs. purchasing a new one. Additionally, verify if you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for your destination country.

Culture

Familiarize yourself with the culture of your new home by learning its history and social norms. Reading relevant literature and studying the language can significantly ease the transition and help you integrate into your new surroundings.

Contact your bank.

It’s advisable to maintain your existing bank account to protect your credit score and manage ongoing bills. Inform your bank about your move and consider acquiring an international credit card to avoid foreign transaction fees. Research local banks to understand the paperwork required for new accounts.

Get a new phone plan.

Once abroad, staying connected is crucial. Instead of depending on public WiFi, unlock your phone to purchase a local SIM card for easier calling. If maintaining your original phone number is essential, consider using mobile virtual network providers.

Call your accountant.

It is important for American citizens living abroad to file their taxes annually, often in conjunction with taxes filed in their new location. Therefore, enlisting the help of a professional familiar with both tax systems is wise.

Make copies of important documents.

It’s vital to have backups of essential documents, including your passport and visa information. Store these copies securely, preferably using a service with two-factor authentication.

Throw a goodbye party.

Host a farewell gathering with friends and family to celebrate your upcoming adventure. As you say goodbye, encourage them to visit and experience your new hometown together.

Connect with your fellow expats.

The journey of moving abroad can feel overwhelming, yet remember you are not alone. Engaging with other expats can provide invaluable tips on navigating local systems and discovering supportive resources. Look for online forums or local expat groups in your new city to build connections and maybe even forge new friendships.