Moving Abroad? Here’s How to Prepare for an International Move

13 September 2025

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and move to another country? That’s amazing! Whether it’s for work, love, or just a craving for adventure, an international move is one of the most exciting (and slightly nerve-wracking) experiences you’ll ever have. But don’t worry—you’re not alone!

Moving abroad is a massive life change, and like any big move, preparation is key. The more organized you are, the smoother your transition will be. From paperwork to packing and everything in between, let’s break down how to prepare for an international move without losing your sanity.

1. Do Your Research – Know What You're Getting Into

Before you start packing your bags, take some time to get familiar with your new home. Every country has its own customs, laws, and way of life, and understanding them beforehand will make your transition way easier.

✔ Culture & Lifestyle – What’s the local language? How do people socialize? What’s considered polite—or rude?

✔ Cost of Living – How much do rent, groceries, and transportation cost? Are utilities expensive?

✔ Weather & Climate – Is it sunny year-round, or will you need winter coats?

✔ Healthcare System – How does medical insurance work? Will you need vaccinations?

✔ Job Market & Economy – If you’re moving for work, great! If not, what are the job prospects?

Try joining expat groups on Facebook or Reddit, and follow local influencers or blogs. Real-life stories from people who’ve already made the move will give you firsthand insights.

2. Visa, Passport & Legal Documents – Get Your Paperwork in Order

This part isn’t the most exciting, but it’s super important. Without the right paperwork, your dream of moving abroad could turn into a bureaucratic nightmare.

✈️ Visa & Residency Permits

Different countries have different visa requirements, and the process can take months. So, start early!

- Check visa requirements for your destination country.
- Find out if you need a work permit, student visa, or residency permit.
- Apply as early as possible to avoid last-minute stress.

🛂 Passport Validity

A lot of countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. Double-check yours and renew it if needed.

📑 Important Documents

Make copies (both digital and physical) of:
✔ Birth certificate
✔ Marriage certificate (if applicable)
✔ Academic records and diplomas
✔ Driver’s license
✔ Medical records & vaccination history

These might come in handy when setting up a bank account, healthcare, or even applying for a job.

3. Money Matters – Handle Your Finances

No one wants financial stress after moving abroad, so let’s get your money sorted before you go.

💳 Open an International Bank Account

Research the best banking options in your new country. Some banks require proof of residence, so check what documents you’ll need. Meanwhile, an online or international bank (like Wise or Revolut) can help you manage your money across borders.

🏦 Notify Your Current Bank

Let your bank know that you’re moving abroad to avoid frozen accounts due to "suspicious activity." Also, ask about international transaction fees—those can add up fast!

💰 Budget for Your Move

Moving expenses can creep up quickly. Consider:
✔ Visa fees
✔ Flights & shipping costs
✔ Temporary accommodation expenses
✔ Security deposits for rent
✔ Initial living costs before your first paycheck kicks in

Have some savings as a safety net—moving abroad isn’t cheap!

4. Packing – What Should You Take and What Should Stay?

Time to tackle the beast: packing. You can’t bring everything with you (unless you have a magic bag like Mary Poppins). So, be ruthless!

🎒 Essentials First

✔ Important documents (passport, visa, contracts, etc.)
✔ Medications & prescriptions
✔ A few weeks’ worth of clothes (consider the climate)
✔ Electronics (laptop, phone, chargers, adapters)
✔ sentimental items (photos, personal treasures)

📦 To Ship or Not to Ship?

Shipping overseas can be expensive, so think twice before sending that giant couch or your 30 pairs of shoes. If it’s cheaper to buy new furniture after you arrive, do that instead.

❌ What to Leave Behind

✔ Bulky furniture
✔ Home appliances (unless you’re attached to your coffee machine)
✔ Seasonal clothes you won’t need
✔ Anything that won’t fit in your new space

Pro Tip: Airlines have strict baggage limits, so weigh your suitcases before heading to the airport to avoid surprise fees!

5. Find a Place to Live – Set Up Housing

Will you rent? Buy? Stay in a hotel or Airbnb while searching? Sorting out your living situation before arrival can save a lot of stress.

🏠 Research Housing Options

✔ What’s the average rent in the city?
✔ Which neighborhoods are safe and convenient?
✔ Do you need to sign a long-term lease right away?

If possible, avoid committing to a long lease before seeing the place in person. Scammers prey on expats, so be careful!

🤝 Consider a Short-Term Rental

Many expats stay in short-term rentals or Airbnbs for the first few weeks while they search for a long-term home. This gives you time to explore different areas and find the best fit.

6. Healthcare – Stay Healthy Abroad

A new country means a new healthcare system. You don’t want to find yourself in an emergency without knowing how things work.

✔ Do you need health insurance? Some countries require private insurance for expats. Check your options before you go.
✔ Find a doctor. Research English-speaking doctors or clinics in your area.
✔ Bring medical records & prescriptions. Some medications may not be available abroad—stock up if needed.

7. Learn the Local Language (At Least the Basics!)

Even if your destination country speaks English, learning some local phrases makes life so much easier.

✔ Download apps like Duolingo or Babbel.
✔ Learn basic survival phrases (how to ask for directions, order food, or get help).
✔ If possible, take a short language course before moving.

Speaking the local language opens doors socially and professionally—plus, it’s just polite!

8. Stay Connected – Set Up Communication

You don’t want to be stranded without internet or phone service in a new country. Avoid that by prepping ahead.

✔ Get a local SIM card or an international phone plan.
✔ Check if your phone is unlocked (some carriers lock phones to specific networks).
✔ Set up a VPN, especially if moving to a country with internet restrictions.

9. Embrace the Adventure!

Last, but most importantly—have fun! Moving abroad is a life-changing experience, and while it comes with challenges, it’s also incredibly rewarding. Stay open-minded, be patient, and enjoy every moment.

Expect some culture shock, but don’t let it discourage you. Homesickness might creep in, but trust the process—you’ll soon feel at home in your new country.

So, take a deep breath, and get ready for this incredible journey. The world is waiting for you!