Relocating to another country is one of the most exciting — and complex — decisions you can make. This checklist ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
3-6 Months Before
- Research visa and residency requirements for your destination
- Begin gathering documents (apostilles, translations, background checks)
- Consult with a tax advisor about departure tax obligations
- Start the visa/residency application process
- Research health insurance options in your new country
1-3 Months Before
- Notify your current tax authority of your departure
- Set up a forwarding address for mail
- Research and open a bank account in your destination country
- Arrange housing (temporary or permanent)
- Book flights and plan your initial arrival logistics
2-4 Weeks Before
- Cancel or redirect subscriptions and services
- Notify your bank and credit card companies of your move
- Pack and ship personal belongings if needed
- Download offline maps and translation apps
- Prepare a folder with all important documents (physical and digital)
Upon Arrival
- Register with local authorities (if required)
- Activate your local phone plan
- Complete any biometric or registration requirements
- Open a local bank account (if not done remotely)
- Register for healthcare
Within First Month
- Obtain your tax identification number
- Set up utility accounts
- Register your business (if applicable)
- Find a local accountant and legal advisor
- Join expat communities and networking groups
Ongoing
- Track your days in each country for tax residency purposes
- File any required tax declarations in your old and new country
- Maintain your residency requirements (minimum stay, etc.)
- Review and optimize your international structure annually
Next Steps
Our relocation specialists handle all of this for you. From document preparation to in-country setup, we make sure your move is seamless.
