Checklist for moving outside the U.S.
From securing housing to getting your banking and finances in order, there’s a lot to consider. Follow our relocating abroad checklist as a starting point, then tailor it to the specific rules and regulations of your destination.
Checklist at a glance
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Get specific on where you’d like to move, build a relocation budget, start your financial planning and gather necessary documents
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Secure visa and work authorization, plan your health care, confirm any school transfers, begin tax and residency planning
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Finalize your housing, gather shipping or storage quotes, arrange a phone and data plan and set up local banking
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Book any services or travel logistics you require
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Check all final documents, confirm your banking access and close any relevant accounts in the U.S. you may no longer need
12 to 18 months before moving
Build a relocation budget
Once you know where you’re going to be moving to, it’s time to create a plan and a budget. If you’re relocating with an employer, you may have your relocation costs covered.
If not, it’s important to take these into account. Beyond flights and accommodation, be sure to consider the following when creating a budget:
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Rental security deposits (or a down payment if you’re buying property)
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Home furnishings
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Temporary housing (if your long-term home isn’t ready)
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Health care and dental fees
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School fees (if applicable)
Aim to set a financial or savings goal at least 12 months before your move, to make sure all these expenses can be comfortably absorbed. Further research into understanding the cost of living compared to living in the U.S. would also be very beneficial.
Explore: creating a budget
Gather essential documents
Begin to build a secure digital folder including copies of:
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Visa applications
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Passports (check they're valid)
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Birth and marriage certificates
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Driver's license
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Any academic or immunization records
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Employment letters
6 to 12 months before moving
Secure your visa
Some visa applications can be a lengthy process, so it’s a good idea to apply in plenty of time. Begin by visiting the official government website of your destination country.
Visit usa.gov for the most up to date advice on visa requirements for U.S. citizens
Confirm your employment
Whether you’re moving with an existing employer or taking on a new role in your destination, be sure to get contracts signed and finalized before investing in the relocation.
Health care planning
Think about how you’ll access health care in your destination, such as going public or private. Consider how you’ll access any ongoing medications, and if you’ll be able to bring extra medication in your carry-on bag when you travel.
Consider schooling and childcare
If you’re moving outside the U.S. as a family, you will likely need to confirm schooling or childcare. School admissions processes and childcare waiting lists can take place months ahead of a start date, so 6-12 months before moving is a good time to organise this.
Begin tax and residency planning
Moving abroad can affect your taxes, reporting and residency status. Rules vary widely and can be complex, especially for U.S. citizens and green card holders. Consider speaking with a qualified tax professional early so you can plan with confidence.
3 to 6 months before moving
Secure your housing
Housing is a timely aspect of moving abroad from the U.S. Begin by contacting realtors in your destination to get an idea of the local housing market and let them assist you in your property search. This way you can get a better understanding of the supply and demand for housing in your area.
Gather shipping and storage quotes
Storage may be required if you’re leaving large items behind, and you’ll likely also have some shipping costs for what you’re planning to bring with you. Aim to get multiple quotes to ensure you’re not overpaying, and always double check what the insurance covers.
Arrange a cell phone and data plan
Think about how you’ll continue to use your cell phone once you’re in your destination. It may be as simple as unlocking your phone to switch to a new network provider or taking out a new phone contract locally.
Alternatively, eSIMs are a great interim option for purchasing a bundle of data on arrival.
Set up an overseas bank account
When moving outside the U.S., it’s likely you’ll be dealing with payments and incomes in different currencies. By selecting a trusted and reputable banking partner, you’ll be able to use products and services that allow you to:
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Link international accounts together
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Make fee-free global transfers
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View live exchange rates for tranfers
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Ensure secure and automated transfers
1 to 3 months before moving
Book any services or travel logistics you require
Think about what professional and lifestyle services you currently have and whether they can be maintained or replicated in your destination. These might include:
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Cleaner or housekeeper
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Tutors or instructors
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Gardener
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Accountant
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Personal assistant
You may also need to book a one-off moving and packing service to assist with your move, as well as airport transfers and international flights.
30 days before moving
Check over all final documents and confirm your banking access
As your move approaches, you’ll want to double check all your documentation. It’s best to have original documents, certified copies and secure digital back-ups.
It’s also a good idea to get full access to any new bank accounts you have set up, before leaving the country. Download banking apps straight to your cell phone for easy access and face-recognition security.
Close any relevant accounts you may no longer need
30 days before you leave, do a review of any utility bills and recurring payments tied to your U.S. address. These might include:
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Gas and electric
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Water and sewer
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Solid waste
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Cable TV and internet
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HOA (Homeowners Association) fees
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Homeowners or renters insurance
Finally, review your subscriptions and memberships. It’s likely there will be at least a few you will no longer need once overseas, and many of these also require a notice period. These might include:
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Streaming services and subscriptions
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Memberships
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Insurance products
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U.S. cell phone plan
Wherever you’re relocating to in the world, early planning can allow for a smooth and stress-free transition. Use this checklist as a guide, and when you’re ready, HSBC can help you make any international move with confidence.
