Moving Abroad: A Complete Checklist for Expats

Relocating to a new country is an exciting yet complex process. Whether you’re moving for work, retirement, or a new adventure, proper planning is essential. From the visa application process to real estate investments, every step requires careful consideration. This guide will walk you through the essential steps before relocating abroad, covering legal requirements, finances, housing, healthcare, and more!

Things to Do Before Moving Overseas

There are things to do before you move abroad! Before packing your bags, you must create a comprehensive checklist to ensure a smooth transition. What to consider before becoming an expat:

• Understanding the visa requirements (if necessary)
• Gathering the documents needed for international relocation
• Organizing accommodation in your destination country
• Managing finances, taxation, and banking
• Exploring job opportunities and education options for expat families
• Considering healthcare and insurance plans
• Researching cost of living comparisons for expats

Find Out the Visa Requirements!

One of the most important expat moving tips is understanding the visa and residence permit process. Every country has different regulations based on employment, investment, study, or retirement.

• If you plan on working abroad as an expat, ensure your employer provides the necessary work permit.
• For retirees, countries like Portugal and Thailand offer long-term residence visas.
• If you want to buy a home abroad, some nations grant residency through property investment, such as Turkish citizenship by investment real estate or tax-free property investment in Dubai.

Check the embassy or immigration website of your destination to understand how to get a residence permit abroad before making any commitments. You can also work with a professional consultant or lawyer who has knowledge of the country you want to go to. This will make the process easier for you.

Get Your Documents Ready

Moving abroad requires various legal documents. These typically include:

• Passport (valid for at least six months)
• Visa and residence permit documents
• Birth and marriage certificates
• Work contracts or job offers
• Education certificates (if applicable)
• Vaccination and medical records (especially for health insurance and if you’re bringing pets when moving overseas)
• University acceptance letter if going for educational purposes

Prepare Your Finances

Financial planning is crucial before an international move. Consider these key aspects:

Banking: Open an international bank account or check if your current bank operates in your destination.
Taxation: Research local tax laws, especially if you’ll continue earning income from your home country. It is always better to work with a tax professional. This way, you will reduce the risk of being penalized for a law you might overlook.
Living Costs for Expats: Living expenses vary significantly between countries and even cities. Compare housing, utilities, food, and transport costs in your destination.
Buying Property: If you plan to buy property in Spain or find new investment opportunities in other countries, consult local property laws and taxation policies. Working with an expert real estate consultant makes your job much easier when investing in foreign country.

Prepare Flight Arrangements & Accommodation

Once your visa is approved, book your flight in advance to secure the best rates. Also, arrange short-term accommodation for your arrival. If you are considering a permanent move, research expat-friendly countries and their housing markets.

Some of the expat-friendly countries: 

If you’re looking to invest in property as part of your relocation, you can consider these expat-friendly popular locations:

Spain: Popular for retirees and investors alike. Many foreigners live in Spain, known for its warm Mediterranean climate, beaches and low cost of living and they can adapt to the country quickly thanks to the hospitality of the Spanish people. Some of the best places to buy a house in Spain include Costa del Sol, Valencia, and Madrid.

Dubai: If you are looking for a luxurious lifestyle, Dubai is the place for you! You can find luxury real estate in Dubai. Also tax free property investment in Dubai offers lucrative opportunities for those seeking a profitable and hassle-free investment in a thriving real estate market

North Cyprus: If you want to buy a house in a Mediterranean country, you can consider real estate investment in North Cyprus! The country offers affordable homes and attractive rental yields! Some of the best areas to live in North Cyprus are Gazimağusa, Lefkoşa, Girne, Güzelyurt, İskele and Lefle!

Turkey: If you’re looking for luxury villas for sale in Turkey, locations like İstanbul, Antalya, and Bodrum offer great opportunities. Certain investments also qualify you for Turkish citizenship by investment real estate. Some of the best cities to invest in real estate in Turkey are İstanbul, İzmir, Muğla, Antalya, Aydın and Ankara!

Working & Education Options for Expats

Finding a job or enrolling in an educational institution is a top priority for many expats.

Education Options for Expat Families

For those moving with children, education is a major concern. Options include:

• International Schools: These offer globally recognized curriculums (IB, British, or American).
• Local Public Schools: Some countries provide excellent public education, though language barriers may be a factor. It is very important for families with children to enroll them in a private or public language course at an early age.
• Homeschooling: If allowed, this can be an alternative for families who frequently relocate.

How to Find a Job as an Expat

1. Search online job portals like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor for international opportunities.
2. Network with other expats via local business groups or social media.
3. Consider multinational companies that frequently transfer employees abroad.

If you’re self-employed or a digital nomad, research freelance or remote work laws in your destination.

Health Insurance as an Expat

Access to medical care varies by country, making it crucial to research international healthcare systems. Some key points to consider:

Does your destination offer public healthcare to expats?
Will you need private insurance?
Are there mandatory vaccinations?
How easy is it to find English-speaking doctors?

Some countries require expats to purchase private health insurance before issuing a visa. Compare different plans to ensure you get adequate coverage.

Bringing Pets When Moving Overseas

If you’re bringing a pet, check the regulations for bringing pets when moving overseas. Many countries require:

• Microchipping and vaccinations
• Pet passports or import permits
• Quarantine periods

Certain breeds may also be restricted, so confirm the local laws before making arrangements. For example, some airlines may not accept animals other than cats, dogs, and birds. So don’t forget to contact the airline you will be purchasing your flight ticket from!

Settling In: Banking, Taxes & Daily Essentials

Once you arrive in your new home, there are a few more things to take care of:

• Set Up a Local Bank Account: Some countries require a residence permit before opening an account.
• Taxation: Understand how local and foreign income is taxed. Consider hiring a tax consultant for expat-related issues.
• Phone Number & Internet: Get a local SIM card or an international roaming plan.
• Driver’s License: Some countries allow foreign licenses, while others require a local conversion.

Going overseas to live or work can be life-changing, but preparation is key to a smooth transition. Whether you’re looking to buy a home abroad, start a new job, or enroll your children in school, following this checklist will help you navigate the process efficiently.

From understanding visa requirements for moving abroad to comparing cost of living for expats, this guide covers all the major factors to consider. Whether you’re moving to Spain, Dubai, Turkey, or North Cyprus, taking the time to plan your relocation carefully will ensure a successful and enjoyable expat experience.

Are you planning to move abroad? As Tekce Visa, we provide services on various issues with our lawyers! Let us know your destination and any questions you have!