The weeks before departure set the tone for the first months in a new country. This checklist covers what to prepare, what to pack, and what to expect — practically and honestly.
Documents — the non-negotiable set
- Passport — the original, plus 4–6 photocopies of the bio-data page kept separately.
- Visa / work authorisation papers — the original and copies, kept with the passport.
- Employment documents — the signed offer/contract, and any employer contact details for arrival.
- Education and experience certificates — originals for verification, copies for daily use.
- Passport photographs — a dozen, white background, current.
- Medical documents — fitness certificate and any vaccination records required.
- A small notebook — write down every official reference number, contact and address.
Keep originals in one sealed folder in carry-on luggage; never put them in checked baggage.
Money
- Carry a modest amount of cash in small denominations for the first days, plus your bank/ATM card.
- Tell your bank you are travelling abroad so the card is not blocked.
- Do not carry large cash sums — they create risk, not convenience.
Phone and internet
- Activate international roaming before departure, or buy a local SIM on arrival (airport and city stores sell them).
- Keep WhatsApp active — it is the working channel for most coordination.
- Save important numbers on paper as well as the phone: employer contact, accommodation address, and your recruitment partner's office contact.
Packing — practical, not excessive
- Clothing — work-appropriate basics for the climate, including durable work trousers and shirts for manual roles; uniforms are usually provided by the employer.
- Footwear — one strong pair of work shoes; comfort matters more than fashion.
- Toiletries and medicines — a personal supply for the first weeks, with prescriptions for any regular medication (carry the prescription with you).
- Small personal items — photos, a few familiar things; they matter more than most people admit.
What NOT to carry
- No prohibited items in luggage — check airline and customs rules before packing.
- No original documents in checked baggage.
- No large cash, and no documents you were not asked to bring.
- No items that look like they are for resale — customs officers notice.
The first days — what to expect
Arrival is tiring and administrative: immigration, transport, accommodation, local SIM, opening a bank account where required, and completing any employer registration steps. Expect paperwork, not problems. If anything is unclear, ask your employer or partner's office directly — the contact numbers you saved on paper are there for exactly this.
The honest note
No checklist can guarantee a smooth relocation, but preparation removes most of the avoidable friction. The candidate who arrives with documents in hand, a small amount of cash, a working phone and realistic expectations has already solved the hardest part.
Note: This guide reflects the latest available official information as of the publication date. Travel, customs and entry requirements change; always verify current rules with the competent authorities and your employer before departure.