Moving Abroad Checklist

Before moving abroad get informed first about your short-term eligibility for medical care and social security benefits in your destination country. Make the necessary arrangements that ensure your health is covered as required.

If you are moving to another part of Europe for a short amount of time, you should consider applying for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). For the long-term, you must integrate with the local social insurance system.

If you are intending on driving while in your new country of residence, ensure you know the local driving laws and regulations. There are many customs and laws which you need to be aware of, aside from the driving license requirements.

If you are heading outside of Europe, you need to request an international driving permit which you can do from the post office.

There may be things you could be paying unnecessarily because of currency fluctuations and transaction fees. To avoid this you should initially open an international bank account which is specifically designed to assist with the movement of money.

Moreover, it's sensible to open a bank account within your locality to help with day-to-day banking.

If you have an Individual Savings Account (ISA), a residential address is important for tax purposes so if you are planning to move abroad, you may not be eligible to carry on paying while you're away.

Instead, think about whether you want to keep your ISA while abroad, consider any payments that need attention before you move. In all else, get professional advice on your options to ensure you get the best return on your investments.

Things like mail packages need to be sorted out so that you don't miss anything important. There will be charges to organize this but the post office will be redirecting your mail for up to twelve months.

For utilities like gas and water, make sure to arrange that they need to be turned off. Let your local authorities know that you'll be moving, also inform your new residency's authorities.

Even as an ex-pat, you have an important role to play in the voting system.

The government policy of where you're from will affect you via taxation, immigration policy, and certain foreign affairs.