Moving abroad is often a mix of excitement, stress, and big plans. You already dream about the new city, the cafés you’ll discover, the people you’ll meet, the change of pace… but before boarding the plane with your whole life packed into suitcases, there are a few essential steps not to forget.
Here are 20 important things to do before leaving your home country to start this new adventure more peacefully.
1. Check your passport validity
It may sound obvious, but many people realize too late that their passport expires in a few months. Some countries even require at least 6 months of validity after your arrival.
2. Complete all visa procedures
Student visa, work visa, working holiday visa, temporary residence… every country has its own rules. It’s best to check everything in advance and keep digital copies of all important documents.
3. Scan your important documents
Passport, ID card, driver’s license, diplomas, insurance, contracts, medical prescriptions… Having digital copies accessible anywhere can save you in many situations.
4. Inform your bank
Some banks block payments abroad if they haven’t been notified. It’s also a good time to check international banking fees or consider a bank more suited for expats.
5. Set aside emergency savings
Even with a job or housing planned, the first months abroad often cost more than expected: deposit, transport, furniture, administrative procedures, unexpected expenses…
Having a financial cushion helps reduce stress significantly.
6. Check your health insurance
Depending on your destination, medical coverage can be very different. It’s important to check:
- whether you’re still covered abroad
- if you need expat insurance
- or if local insurance is mandatory
7. Have a medical check-up
Doctor, dentist, optician… it’s best to complete all appointments before leaving, especially if the healthcare system abroad is more complex or expensive.
8. Sort through your belongings
When preparing to move abroad, you quickly realize you own too much. Decluttering before leaving helps you travel lighter and start a new life with less physical and mental weight.
9. Decide what to do with your housing
Ending a lease, subletting, selling, storing belongings with relatives… this step often requires more organization than expected.
10. Cancel unnecessary subscriptions
Gym, phone, internet, streaming platforms, insurance… Many payments can continue for months if you forget to cancel them.
11. Plan your first days on arrival
Book temporary accommodation, check transportation, list useful addresses, download important apps… The first days feel much calmer when everything isn’t improvised.
12. Learn about the local culture
Habits, lifestyle, social codes, and even small etiquette rules vary greatly from country to country. Understanding the culture helps you integrate more easily.
13. Learn a few basic phrases
Even a few simple words can make a big difference:
hello, thank you, sorry, how much, where…
It makes communication easier and shows respect for the host country.
14. Prepare a list of important contacts
Family, friends, bank, insurance, embassy, landlord, employer… Keeping all key numbers in one place is essential.
15. Check plugs and electrical equipment
Adapters, voltage, phone plan, international SIM card… small details that become very important once you arrive.
16. Say proper goodbyes to loved ones
Moving abroad is a big change, both for you and for the people you leave behind. Taking time to see important people before leaving makes the departure more peaceful.
17. Accept that everything won’t be perfect
Even the most dreamed-of expat experiences include moments of doubt, fatigue, or loneliness. This is completely normal. Adjustment takes time.
18. Research the cost of living
Rent, groceries, transport, healthcare, leisure… Some destinations seem affordable on vacation but much more expensive in daily life.
19. Mentally prepare for change
Moving abroad isn’t just changing scenery. It also means stepping out of your comfort zone, rebuilding habits, and sometimes rediscovering yourself.
20. Enjoy your last moments in your home country
We often forget to enjoy simple things before leaving: a family meal, your favorite coffee, a walk in your city, your native language all around you…
When you move abroad, some everyday things suddenly become very precious.
Moving abroad, an experience that deeply changes you
Moving to another country is an incredible experience, but it also requires preparation. The stronger your foundations before departure, the easier it is to fully enjoy your new life once you arrive.
And even if everything doesn’t go exactly as planned, it is often within these big life changes that the most beautiful experiences, the strongest connections, and the memories you keep for a lifetime are born.