Moving to a new home is a big change, and even more so when that home is in a different country. You may be overwhelmed by everything you need to do, but you can find ways to make the transition a little easier. The key is creating a timeline and moving checklist to ensure you’ve covered all your bases when moving to another country. We’ll explain what you should know before moving internationally and when to complete your moving tasks.

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Preparing To Move Internationally: Several Months Before

Moving internationally requires a significant amount of time and preparation, and you’ll have a lot to do several months before your move. While it sounds like a daunting task, taking the following steps six to 12 months before the move can help ease any anxiety.

Secure Your Visas

Most individuals must secure a visa before they’re allowed to settle in a new country. Keep in mind it could take a while for authorities to approve your visa application, so start the process about six months before your move. 

Many people apply for work visas, but you’ll find other options as you research which visa type suits your situation. You’ll need to meet certain visa requirements before qualifying. Your new country of residence may require you to obtain a residence permit before you settle there. You can learn more about these guidelines by visiting the country’s official website. 

Create a Budget

Making an international move is expensive, but you can save money if you create a budget and stick to it. Moving expenses typically range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on your personal lifestyle and the country’s cost of living. Create your budget by determining the cost of:

• Flights
• Health care
• Housing
• International shipping expenses
• Passports
• Visas

You should also determine how much money you’ll need once you’ve settled in your new location. Estimate what you spend every week and roughly calculate how much more or less you’ll need to adjust your budget to your new country’s cost of living.

Update Your Passport

You will need a government-issued passport to visit a foreign country, so be sure your passport is up to date before your move. It takes six to eight weeks for the U.S. government to process your application, but it could take longer. You can request that the government expedite your application for an additional $60. You may also request a one- to two-day delivery service for $19.53.*

You can renew your passport by mail if you meet certain criteria. Otherwise, you’ll have to apply in person.

*Cost data via Travel.State.Gov

Collect and Copy All of Your Documents

Keep all your important documents in your carry-on in case you need to present them to the authorities during your travels. You may want to make copies in case one of them goes missing.

Carry the following documents with you during your move:

Start Learning the Language

You may not be fluent by the time of your move, but you can learn conversational language if you start studying before you leave. This will help you communicate with others and make the transition easier. You can enroll in online courses or in-person classes at a local community college or language center to start studying your new country’s language.

Decide What To Bring

Moving to another country could require you to pack light. Transporting fewer items is easier, and you won’t have to spend so much on shipping your belongings. Start decluttering your house at least six months before your move, and keep in mind that moving large items is expensive, so be discerning as you decide what to bring. You can donate or sell items you no longer need, or you can throw things out if they’re in poor condition.

Learn About the School System

You’ll have to learn about the school system if you have children and they’re moving with you. Planning ahead and understanding what you need to enroll your children in school will help you collect any necessary documents. 

Determine where your kids will attend school once you find a home, and work with school administrators to enroll your children and ensure they’re comfortable during the transition.

Plan Your Travel

Moving internationally often requires airline tickets, so keep an eye on prices and purchase them promptly when you see an affordable rate.

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Preparing To Move Internationally: One Month to One Week Before

There are a handful of tasks that you need to take care of one month to a week before moving. Learn more about them in the following sections.

Find Accommodations for Your Arrival

It can take several months to secure a permanent place to live. You can find a temporary place to stay in the meantime. You can stay in a hotel when you arrive, but you may also consider renting a home through an online service such as Airbnb if you need more room. These accommodations provide a short-term solution as you search for a permanent home.

Open a Bank Account

Certain governments require foreign nationals to open a local bank account before settling in their country. You may have to open an account while still living in the U.S., or you can use an international bank so that it’s easier to transition your account once you move. 

Notify your bank that you’re relocating, as well as other financial institutions, such as your credit card companies and retirement investors. Confirm with your credit and debit card companies that you won’t need to pay foreign transaction fees if you use your cards abroad, and cancel them if you do to avoid unnecessary charges.

Cancel Utilities and Subscriptions

Determine which utilities and subscriptions you can cancel just as you would for a local move. Consider what other subscriptions you need to cancel if they’re unavailable in your new country.

Get a Checkup

Your health is a top priority. Go to your doctor for a checkup and to refill any subscriptions. This is especially important if your new health coverage doesn’t start immediately or you don’t speak your new country’s official language. 

You don’t want to end up with a health problem in a new place when you don’t have health coverage or if there is a language barrier. The U.S. government also has some tips about your health abroad.

Check Your Immunization Records

Ask for a copy of your immunization records while you get a checkup, and remember that some countries have vaccination requirements. You can learn if you meet these health guidelines by visiting the country’s official website. The World Health Organization shares its recommendations for immunizations and other health precautions when visiting a foreign country.

Secure Health Care in the New Country

Health coverage differs by country, and the U.S. health insurance system may not cover you in another country. Some countries require you to purchase a health insurance plan or buy into the public health system. Check with the health department to learn how far in advance you need to purchase insurance.

Have Your Mail Forwarded

Forward your mail to your new address. You can visit the U.S. Postal Service to update your address so you don’t miss any important notifications.

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What To Do When You Arrive

We’ll cover some actions you need to take after you arrive in the following sections.

Register With the Local Authorities

Certain countries require you to register with the local authorities once you’ve arrived. Reach out to your new local government to learn if you must register. You’ll also want to locate your new country’s U.S. Embassy. It will assist you in an emergency and answer any questions you may have about your new location.

The U.S. Embassy advises individuals to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates.

Find a Permanent Place To Live

Securing a long-term home is an important step if you haven’t already found a permanent place to live. To tailor your search, consider your situation before you start searching for a home. For instance, you’ll need to look for a smaller or larger home depending on whether you have family members moving with you. Reach out to a realtor once you’ve determined your living requirements or search for somewhere to live online. 

Locate the Nearest Necessities

You’ll need to tour the local area whether you live in a temporary or permanent home. Take the time to find the following essential locations:

• Banks
• Doctors’ offices
• Grocery stores
• Hospitals
• Pharmacies 

Find Employment

Many expats move because of a new job, but sometimes, individuals can obtain visas to find work. Start searching immediately after your arrival, and take in account that some countries don’t allow a foreigner to work without a visa. 

Purchase a Cellphone

Having a GPS in your pocket can be useful in a new city or town. Confirm if your cellphone is compatible with foreign SIM cards before you go. You can contact your wireless provider to learn more. Some cell plans don’t allow free international calls, so even if your phone will work, purchase a new plan if needed.

Make Friends

Making friends in your new country can make the initial experience better. Get to know the locals by:

• Attending expat social circles
• Finding a place of worship 
• Joining a club 
• Playing a sport

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Additional Considerations When Moving Internationally

A few other things to consider when moving internationally include the following:

Tax Laws

Living abroad doesn’t exempt you from paying taxes if you’re still a U.S. citizen. Your salary is subject to income tax, and you must file any foreign bank accounts with the U.S. Treasury. 

Social Etiquette

Moving to a new country is a learning experience. You can learn more by researching the country’s foods, language, and holidays, and immerse yourself in the culture by attending local community activities.

Moving With Pets

You can’t leave your best friend at home, so you’ll need to learn what your destination requires from pet owners. Each country has its own set of laws about pet ownership and vaccinations, so research the rules ahead of time. For example, the U.K. bans certain breeds of dogs that Spain doesn’t, so ensure you understand the laws for your new location.

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Hiring International Movers

Moving abroad can feel like a huge undertaking, but you don’t need to do it alone. International moving companies have ample experience helping American citizens move abroad. Research international moving companies two months before you move, and remember the following steps when looking for a mover:

1. Read online reviews and Better Business Bureau ratings to learn about each mover’s customer service.
2. Gather moving quotes to determine which mover fits your budget.
3. Ask for references after narrowing down your choice to two or three movers.
4. Visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website and the Federal Maritime Commission to ensure your mover has licenses and insurance.
5. Consider upgrading your moving insurance plan in case something gets damaged or goes missing during transport.

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Our Conclusion

Moving to a new country is an adventure, and an organized plan can alleviate some stress. To this end, we recommend you complete your must-do tasks for your international move earlier than later. Find a reputable international moving company and learn how to pack efficiently.

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FAQ About Moving Internationally

How much money should you have saved before moving abroad?

You should have between $5,000–$8,000* before moving abroad, but remember that you may require less or more than that depending on your lifestyle and familial situation. Review your finances and determine how much money you’ll need for six to 12 months and save that amount.

*Cost data via International Citizens Group

What is the best time of year to move abroad?

The best time to move abroad depends on your situation. You’ll want to move during winter or summer break if you have children, but if you don’t need to worry about school breaks, try avoiding a move during the region’s tourism season.

What is the hardest thing about moving to another country?

The hardest thing about moving to another country is the language barrier. You may run into problems understanding their vernacular even if you speak the language fluently.

What is the average cost of an international move?

The average cost of an international move is between $1,500 and $12,000*, but it depends on where you’re moving since certain international locations cost more than others.

*Cost data via International Van Lines

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