The expat checklist is a special checklist

The expat checklist is not just a checklist, but the beginning of a new chapter in your life! Once you have ticked off all the items, your previous life is officially belongs to the past and you can embark on a new adventure.

Our practical checklist lists all the important steps you’ll have to take. This allows you to prepare well and take care of all administrative, practical and personal matters in good time.

Read our checklist below!

Expat checklist

Still have some time left? Prepare 3 to 6 months before your departur

Administration

Ensure you have a valid passport that is valid for at least 6 months, or apply for a new passport
Apply for a work visa or residence permit
Gather important documents (certificates, marriage certificate, medical records)
Have documents translated/certified
Find out about taxes

Accommodation

Find temporary or permanent accommodation
Terminate your lease or sell your property
Gather information about utilities in your new country

Work and contract

Sign your employment contract
Find out about social security and pensions
Apply for a certificate

It's almost time, 1 to 3 months before your departure

Moving

Organise your move with an international removal company
Take out removal insurance
Sort your belongings and only take what you really need
Organise storage space if necessary
Plan the transport of your pets

Finances

Open a bank account in your new country
Check exchange rates and international transfer options
Inform your current bank about your move
Set up or cancel automatic payments

Health

Have a check-up with your doctor
Take out international health insurance
Request your medical records
Organise your vaccinations

The countdown is on: the final weeks before your departure

Communication

Cancel your subscriptions (internet, mobile phone, magazines)
Inform your telecommunications provider
Set up a local mobile phone subscription or eSIM

Change of address

Notify your local council, bank, insurance companies, employer, family and friends of your change of address

Children

Deregister your children from their current school
Find a new school for your children and enrol them
Request school reports and letters of recommendation

In Ihrem neuen Land

First administrative steps

Register with the local authorities
Apply for a local identity card
Open a bank account
Take out local insurance policies

Settle in

Furnish your flat
Explore your neighbourhood
Find the addresses of local service providers (GP, pharmacy, supermarket)

Download the expat checklist (.pdf — New window)

Your expat checklist

Do you have any other interesting or unusual items on your checklist? Feel free to share them with us at overseas@onss.fgov.be.

Would you like to share your travel experiences?

Are you an expat or do you know someone with an inspiring experience abroad? Please don't hesitate to contact us at overseas-expat@onssrszlss.fgov.be. And who knows, you might inspire future expats with your story.