Moving Overseas Checklist

A moving overseas checklist is often talked about among expats and international relocation professionals alike.

There are some relocation tasks that will apply to expats all over the world, and then there are others that are specific to a particular region, country or city.

We thought it would be fun and useful to enlist your help in creating an updated list for Expat Exchange.

We'll get the list started with the first five tasks then wait for your input as we continually expand and update the list. Feel free also to suggest changes to the list items we've created.

So please let us know what else should be on the list, or what you feel should be changed, by posting into the comments below.

1.) Consider Global Medical Insurance Options

If you are moving abroad, you will have to have some kind of international health insurance that you will be comfortable with while living abroad. If you have any kind of health condition it's important to understand how it can be managed in your destination country.

2.) Begin Process of Researching and Applying for Visas and Work Permits

Remember that visas and work permits are country specific. If you are being sent abroad for an employer, you hopefully will receive a lot of guidance on how to manage this critical process. If not, it is important to be exhaustive in your research to avoid lengthy delays or running afoul with the laws and regulations of your destination country.

3.) Find an International Shipping Company

If you are going to move overseas, you'll likely need to have at least some of your belongings shipped abroad by an international mover. Expats have a lot to consider in terms of moving their belongings overseas. Are there items that will help you settle into the new culture, but are hard to easily or safely ship abroad?

4.) Expat Mail

What will you do with your mail? Have it forwarded abroad and/or digitized by an international mail forwarding service? Have it sent to a relative's house?

5.) Plan a "look-see" or scouting trip to the Destination Country to which you are considering relocating.

These kinds of trips can have multiple purposes. It enables an expat to evaluate a country and city, explore international real estate options, and research international schools, among others.