Summary: Kathy Dorf from Clements International has prepared a helpful international moving checklist for people preparing to move overseas.

• Investigate Your New Country's Rules

  Regulations and laws vary widely among different countries, so it is important to research these before moving abroad. Contact the appropriate embassy or consulate for information relevant to expatriates relocating to the country, including:

  • Visas and permits
  • Vaccines for family members
  • Restrictions or taxes on shipped household items
  • Taxes involved in shipping your car
  • Vaccines and quarantines for pets
  • Insurance

• File Applications for Passports, Visas and Permits

  Do this early, as this process takes time to complete. It is also wise to renew early if any of these documents is set to expire in the near future.

• Gather Important Documents

  Be sure to request official copies of important personal documents and allow at least several weeks to receive them. Suggested items include:

  • Birth and Marriage Certificates
  • Naturalization, Green Card, Proof of Citizenship, etc.
  • Social Security Cards
  • Vaccination, Medical and Dental Records
  • Insurance Policies
  • Academic Records and Diplomas
  • Employment Records
  • Proof of Residency (utility bill, statement, etc.)
  • Living Will and Testament

• International Moving and Shipping Companies

  Contact international moving and shipping companies to obtain quotes for transporting your belongings overseas. Since it could take over a month for your items to arrive, plan ahead when scheduling your shipment.

• Insurance

  It is critical to determine the exact insurance requirements and availability at your new destination as limits vary widely throughout the world.

• Auto Insurance

  Anyone planning to operate an automobile internationally will need to purchase an International Auto Insurance policy. Requirements vary among countries, so select an insurance provider with the expertise and resources to ensure the policy meets your needs.

• Property Insurance

  International personal property insurance, which can include transit and destination coverage, protects items damaged during the relocation process, while in your foreign residence or during shipping and transit. Contact an insurance provider specializing in expatriates for more information.

• Health Insurance

  Even if your destination country has a socialized healthcare system, you may not be eligible for coverage. If you are not covered under a group medical insurance program, individual policies can be purchased to protect you in a foreign country. These policies include worldwide medical protection and also can include evacuation services. Costs are reasonable and, in many cases, less expensive than stateside coverage.

• Bank and Credit Card Accounts

  Review your accounts and notify your banks that you will be overseas. Also consider online international banking, which makes it easier to transfer and manage funds between countries.

• Prescription Drugs

  If you or a family member takes prescription drugs, purchase additional quantities and obtain a copy of the medical file related to the condition. Keep them in your carry-on luggage in the event any bags are lost in transit.

• International Driving Permit

  Renew your driver's license if it is set to expire soon. Acquire an international driving permit (IDP) and take extra forms to renew it annually by mail. You can obtain an IDP at a local office of the American Automobile Association and the American Automobile Touring Alliance (through the National Auto Club). Remember to carry both your IDP and your U.S. state driver's license with you at all times.

• Tax Obligations

  Each country has distinct tax rules for foreign earned income. Determine your obligations and gather the necessary paperwork.

• Pets

  If your pet is moving with you, ensure it receives proper vaccinations and identify a pet carrier. If you have decided not to bring a pet, allow enough time to find it a new home.

• Flight and Hotel Reservations

  Make any necessary travel arrangements as soon as your travel dates are set.

• VOIP Phone Service

  Consider using VOIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone service, otherwise known as broadband phone service. This is an affordable way for expatriates to make local, long-distance and international calls, all for a monthly fee.

• Cancel Subscriptions and Forward Mail

  Cancel all publication subscriptions and complete the appropriate forms at the post office to ensure your mail is forwarded to your new address.

• Do Your Research

  Learn about the country's history and culture before you move, so you are prepared with the necessary knowledge to adapt quickly to your new home.

About the Author Kathy Dorf is the Marketing Communications Specialist at Clements International. She holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communications with an emphasis in public relations from the University of South Florida. One of her main responsibilities at Clements is building and maintaining relationships with expatriate organizations and publications around the world.

First Published: Jul 09, 2009