Before moving, organize your finances

• Set up banking and finances – Open local bank accounts if possible, and plan for currency exchanges and international transfers. Make sure you can access your money easily.
• Know your taxes – Even if you live overseas, you’ll likely still need to file with the U.S. and possibly your new country. Understanding tax rules in both places will help avoid surprises.
• Prepare for emergencies – Keep a list of local emergency contacts, embassy information, and know your options if you need to leave quickly.
• Update your estate plan – Review your will, powers of attorney, and health directives. Some countries have different inheritance laws, so it’s good to be prepared.

Become familiar with local laws and business practices

• Check legal and residency requirements – Look into visas, residency permits, or long-term stay options. Know what’s required to live legally in your new home.
• Plan for health care – Research local medical care, insurance options, and whether any U.S. coverage (like Medicare) applies. Consider travel insurance for the first months abroad.
• Understand local property laws – Each country has different rules about property ownership for foreigners. Some may restrict purchases to certain areas or types of property, so research carefully. If buying, consider how easy it will be to sell the property if you decide to move elsewhere later.
• Utilities and services – Check availability and cost of water, electricity, internet, waste disposal, and other essential services.
• Lease agreements and contracts – If renting, ensure you understand lease terms, deposits, renewal options, and any clauses that could affect your stay.

Do your homework to find the right community

• Consider Cost of Living - Compare rent or property prices, groceries, utilities, healthcare, and transportation costs across different communities.
• Evaluate local safety - Research crime rates and emergency services. Reach out to locals and expats living in the area to discuss safety concerns.
• Transportation and getting around – Consider whether you’ll need a car, how public transportation works, and local driving laws.
• Visit Before Committing - If possible, take a short exploratory trip to potential cities or neighborhoods. Spend time walking around, visiting markets, restaurants, and local amenities.
• Check the Infrastructure - Make sure the community has reliable utilities, internet, drinking water and access to essentials like supermarkets and pharmacies.
• Understand local customs and social norms – Learn about greeting etiquette, dining manners, public behavior, and holidays. Understanding cultural expectations helps avoid misunderstandings and makes it easier to build friendships.
• Understand local culture and find social circles – Learn about greeting etiquette, dining manners, public behavior, and holidays. Understanding cultural expectations helps avoid misunderstandings and makes it easier to build friendships. If you have hobbies or interests that are niche, find out whether there are expat groups or local communities that share them.
• Check for cultural events and venues – Look into theaters, cinemas, music festivals, museums, and local markets. Engaging with the local culture keeps life exciting and helps you feel at home.