Moving Abroad Checklist (Free PDF Download)

Cancelling services, preparing documents, packing, and registering in your new country—there’s a lot to keep track of. That’s why we’ve created a practical checklist divided into three phases: before the move, during transport, and after arrival. At the end, you can download the entire list as a clear and printable PDF.

Before the Move: What to Take Care of at Home

Before you pack the first box, there are plenty of formalities and practical matters to deal with. This section will help you get everything ready on time—without stress.

• Make sure your passport or ID card is valid
• Check visa or residency requirements in your destination country
• If needed, de-register your permanent residence
• End any contracts with tenants, employers, or schools
• Cancel services (utilities, internet, insurance)
• Prepare documentation for your health insurance
• Check how to re-register your vehicle or change license plates
• Find accommodation and check what documents are needed for moving in
• Notify key institutions about your address change
• Collect important documents (birth certificates, vaccination records, diplomas)
• Plan the move—dates, transport, who handles what
• Start packing and labeling boxes
• Arrange insurance for transported belongings

Before you pack the first box, there’s a lot to get done. Want to know what’s coming? Read our article: How to Move Abroad

During Transport: What to Keep with You and What Not to Forget

Moving day can be intense. It helps to know what to have on hand—and what to prepare ahead of time.

• Make sure you have all essential documents with you
• Take any medications you use regularly
• Carry cash and a payment card
• Double-check toll stickers, toll systems, and transport paperwork
• Ensure everything is safely loaded and insured
• Pack basic essentials for the first night (toiletries, clothes, food)
• Keep contact info for the moving company or any travel companions
• Back up important data (documents, photos, emails)

After Arrival: What to Take Care of in Your New Country

A fresh start also comes with some paperwork. Here’s an overview of the most important tasks.

• Register your residence with the local authority
• Enroll in mandatory health insurance
• Open a bank account (if needed)
• Register your vehicle and insure it locally
• Register with the local tax office
• Set up utilities, internet, and insurance contracts
• Enroll your children in school or kindergarten
• Arrange translations or recognition of key documents (diplomas, driver’s license)
• Register for local waste collection, taxes, and other obligations
• Explore the area—find a doctor, shops, and other key contacts

Want the Full Checklist in One Place?

Download our clear, step-by-step checklist as a printable PDF. It will save you time, help you stay organized, and make sure you don’t forget anything important.

Don’t Want to Handle the Move Alone?

Moving abroad comes with a lot of moving parts. If you’d rather not spend days planning and managing every detail yourself—we’ve got your back. We’ll help with packing, transport, paperwork, and local coordination. Everything will be prepared so you can stay focused on what really matters.

Want to get an idea of the cost? Check out our moving price list or simply fill out a non-binding inquiry. We’ll prepare a custom quote—then it’s up to you whether we move forward together.