Real questions people ask us before moving abroad, answered honestly. Start typing below and see the closest answer instantly, or browse the full list.
How do I know if I’m actually ready to move abroad?
Readiness isn’t just about wanting to go, it’s about whether your finances, timeline, and Plan B can survive the move. Most people underestimate the runway they need. Our free Move Abroad Readiness Audit walks you through 27 honest questions and scores you as planning-ready or move-ready in about 10 minutes.
How far in advance should I start planning?
Give yourself 6-12 months for a smooth move. That covers researching visa requirements, budgeting, and health coverage early, then narrows down to passport renewals and document requests around the 3-6 month mark, and movers, insurance, and final paperwork in the last 1-3 months. Rushing this timeline is the single biggest cause of expensive last-minute mistakes.
What does it actually cost to move abroad?
More than most guides admit. Beyond flights and shipping, budget for visa fees, apostilles and certified translations, temporary housing, currency conversion costs, and a real emergency cushion, often $5,000-$15,000 all-in before you’re even settled. The Move Abroad Blueprint builds you a real, line-by-line budget and runway instead of a rough guess.
Do I need a visa, and how do I figure out which one?
Almost always yes, and the right category depends on your income source, age, and destination. We help you map out which visa path fits your situation as part of a Strategy Session or Blueprint, but for the actual filing we’ll point you to a licensed immigration attorney in your destination country. Visa rules change often and getting this wrong can end a move before it starts.
What about health insurance while I am abroad?
International health insurance typically runs $200-$800/month depending on age and coverage, and many countries require proof of insurance just to get your residency visa approved. Relying on local public healthcare alone can mean coverage gaps or long waits, so this needs to be locked in before you land, not after.
Should I keep my U.S. bank account, or open one abroad?
Most expats keep both. A home-country account keeps things like loan payments and direct deposits running, while a local account avoids foreign transaction fees on everyday spending. Call your bank before you leave to flag your travel and check your card’s foreign transaction fees, some are far worse than others.
Do I still have to pay U.S. taxes if I live abroad?
Yes, U.S. citizens are taxed on worldwide income no matter where they live. If your foreign accounts ever total more than $10,000 during the year, you also have to file an FBAR. This is real compliance work, so we’ll flag what applies to your situation, but for the actual filing we always recommend a CPA who specializes in expat taxes.
What is the difference between the $9.95 guide, the Strategy Session, the Blueprint, and Concierge support?
They’re four levels of the same plan, at different depths. The $9.95 Simplified Move Abroad Plan is a self-guided workbook. The $247 Strategy Session is a live 30-minute call to pressure-test your timeline. The $1,800 Move Abroad Blueprint is a full done-with-you plan covering budget, timeline, and Plan B. The $5,500 Concierge Transition Support adds hands-on help executing the plan, including vetted vendor referrals.
Can I bring my pets with me?
Usually, but import and quarantine rules vary enormously by country, some require blood titer tests done 6+ months in advance. If you have pets, this needs to be one of the very first things you research, not an afterthought a month before your flight.
What if I am moving with kids or need to think about schools?
School enrollment deadlines, curriculum differences, and visa dependents all add real complexity, and they change your budget and timeline math. This is exactly the kind of thing we build into a Blueprint or Concierge engagement so nothing gets missed.
Should I test it out first, or commit to a permanent move?
There’s no wrong answer, but you should decide on purpose rather than by accident. Many people do a 3-6 month trial stay on a tourist or digital nomad visa before committing to a permanent residency path. We help you think through which approach actually fits your goals and risk tolerance.
How is this different from just watching expat YouTubers or reading blogs?
Destination content is great for inspiration, but it rarely tells you what your actual runway, timeline, or Plan B should look like if things don’t go perfectly. We’re a planning-and-transition service, not a destination-vlog brand, our job is the logistics and the safety net, not the highlight reel.
Do you provide legal, tax, or immigration advice?
No. We help you plan the timeline, budget, and logistics of your move, and flag what to check with a professional. For visa filings, tax compliance, and legal questions, we’ll point you to a licensed immigration attorney or expat CPA. Treat anything here as planning guidance, not legal or financial advice.
How do I get started?
Take the free Move Abroad Readiness Audit to see where you actually stand, or skip straight to booking a free Strategy Call if you already know you want a plan built for you.