Moving Abroad Checklist: Everything You Need to Do

Moving abroad in 2026? This checklist runs the timeline from six months out to your first month in a new country. Work through it in order and most of the usual panic disappears.

Before you start packing, use our cost of living calculator to understand what your salary means in your destination city.

Six months out

• Research visa requirements - Know exactly what visa you need and application timelines
• Start saving - Most moves require 3-6 months of expenses upfront
• Research cost of living - Understand what your salary means in your destination
• Check healthcare requirements - Some countries require specific insurance or vaccinations
• Begin language learning - Even basics help immensely

Three months out

• Apply for visa - Don't wait; processing times vary wildly (see our Portugal visa guide)
• Gather documents - Apostilled birth certificate, degree certificates, background checks
• Notify your bank - Ask about international transfers and fees
• Research housing - Understand neighborhoods and typical rental processes
• Get health checkups - Dental, vision, any specialists while you have current insurance
• Sort out tax situation - Understand tax residency rules for both countries

One month out

• Book temporary accommodation - First 2-4 weeks while apartment hunting
• Arrange international money transfer - Wise, Revolut, or traditional wire
• Set up mail forwarding - Important documents may still arrive
• Cancel or pause subscriptions - Gym, streaming, anything location-specific
• Sell or store belongings - Shipping is expensive; consider what's worth it
• Say goodbyes - Schedule time with friends and family

Two weeks out

• Download offline maps - Google Maps allows offline areas
• Copy important documents - Digital copies of passport, visa, contracts
• Set up international phone plan - Or plan to get local SIM on arrival
• Prepare carry-on essentials - Assume checked luggage might be delayed
• Exchange some local currency - Enough for first day transport and food

First week on the ground

• Register with local authorities - Many countries require registration within days
• Open local bank account - Some require residence registration first
• Get local SIM card - Essential for apartment hunting
• Register with your embassy - Useful for emergencies
• Start apartment hunting - If not already arranged
• Explore your neighborhood - Find supermarkets, pharmacies, transport

First month

• Complete tax registration - Get your local tax ID
• Set up healthcare - Register with a local doctor
• Transfer larger funds - Once bank account is set up
• Build routines - Gym, cafes, local shops
• Join expat communities - Meetup groups, Facebook groups, sports clubs