🏠 Moving Abroad? Here’s a Complete Checklist for UK Expats (2025 Guide)
By Aviva Visas • Thursday, October 30, 2025
✈️ Planning to Move Abroad from the UK?
Dreaming of a new life overseas? Whether you’re relocating for work, study, or a lifestyle change, moving abroad is both exciting and challenging. From securing the right visa to sorting finances, there’s a lot to organise before you board that flight.
To help you stay on track, Aviva Visa has prepared this complete relocation checklist for UK expats in 2025 — practical, up-to-date, and easy to follow.
📄 1. Check Your Visa and Residency Requirements
Before packing boxes, confirm the type of visa or residence permit you’ll need for your destination country.
- Research visa categories (work, student, family, investor, or long-stay).
- Check processing times and start early.
- Gather supporting documents (passport, proof of income, employment letters, etc.).
- Verify whether you’ll need biometrics or interviews at the embassy.
💡 Tip: Aviva Visa can help you assess eligibility and prepare documentation for smooth approval.
💰 2. Review Finances & Tax Obligations
Relocation can affect your taxes, banking, and savings.
- Notify HMRC that you’re leaving the UK.
- Understand tax treaties between the UK and your destination country.
- Open an international bank account or a local account once you arrive.
- Plan for currency exchange, savings transfer, and pension access.
💼 Consider hiring an expat financial advisor to avoid unexpected charges or double taxation.
🩺 3. Arrange Health Insurance and Medical Records
Healthcare systems vary across countries, so get insured before you go.
- Purchase comprehensive travel or expat health insurance.
- Request your medical records from your GP.
- Check vaccination requirements.
- Find out how to register with a local doctor or clinic abroad.
🏡 4. Find Housing & Secure Accommodation
Start with temporary accommodation while you search for a long-term home.
- Explore rental options online before moving.
- Check neighbourhood safety, commuting routes, and local facilities.
- Always verify property listings to avoid scams.
🏠 Many expats prefer renting short-term apartments until they get familiar with local laws and costs.
📦 5. Plan Your Shipment and Packing
- Decide what to ship, sell, or store.
- Hire a trusted international mover and get quotes early.
- Label boxes clearly for customs inspection.
- Keep important documents, electronics, and valuables in your carry-on.
🧾 6. Sort Out Documentation
Here’s a quick list of essential documents to carry:
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- Visa/residence permit
- Birth and marriage certificates (original + copies)
- Degree or work certificates
- Medical and vaccination records
- Rental or job contracts
- Travel insurance papers
📑 Keep scanned copies online for backup — it can save you during emergencies.
📞 7. Notify UK Authorities and Service Providers
Don’t forget to update your contact details:
- HMRC (tax) and DVLA (driver’s licence)
- Banks, pension, and insurance providers
- GP, council tax, and utility companies
- Electoral register
Cancel or redirect mail and subscriptions to your new address.
🌐 8. Stay Connected Abroad
- Set up international SIM cards or eSIMs before you leave.
- Download essential travel apps: maps, translation, currency converter, emergency contacts.
- Join expat communities and Facebook groups — they’re great for tips and networking.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Moving abroad is a big step, but with the right preparation, it can be the adventure of a lifetime. Staying organised, informed, and proactive helps you settle faster and avoid unnecessary stress.
At Aviva Visa, we’ve helped thousands of UK residents plan their global journeys — from visa guidance to documentation support.
🌍 Ready to make your move?
Start with expert visa assistance from Aviva Visa — your trusted partner for smooth, stress-free relocation.
📍 Contact Aviva Visa
Aviva Visa UK
📞 Phone: 020 8099 6657
📧 Email: avivavisa@visaenquiry.co.uk
🌐 Website: www.avivavisa.com
🏢 Address: 341 B, Regents Park Road, Finchley Central, UK
🌍 Aviva Visa — Your trusted partner for global travel, work, and relocation.