The Basic Visa Checklist for Your Family’s Move Abroad

Let’s make the paperwork part the easiest step

The visa process probably feels like a maze if you’re anything like I was during our first international move. A long, bureaucratic one. With zero signs.

I get it.

Whether you plan to relocate for work, school, retirement, or a better quality of life, your visa is the gatekeeper. And the more you prepare on the front end, the smoother your journey will be.

Here’s a basic visa checklist to help you stay ahead of the process—and avoid the kind of mistakes that delay or derail a move.

1. Know Which Visa You’re Applying For

Start here. Different visas serve different goals. Know what applies to your situation:

• Work visa (employee, sponsored, or independent)

• Spousal or family reunification visa

• Student visa

• Retirement or residency visa

• Digital nomad/freelance visa

• Investor or entrepreneur visa

Pro tip: Some countries offer multiple pathways that may work for you—choose based on long-term goals (schooling, work rights, future citizenship).

2. Get Clear on the Requirements

Once you’ve chosen your visa type, research:

• Required income levels or proof of funds

• Health insurance requirements

• Criminal background checks

• Marriage or birth certificates (translated, certified)

• Housing documentation (lease or host letter)

• Employment or school acceptance letters

• Passport validity (usually 6–12 months minimum)

Pro tip: Requirements vary by country and sometimes even by consulate. Always double-check with the specific embassy you’ll apply through.

3. Get Your Paperwork in Order Early

You’ll need original documents, certified copies, and sometimes official translations. This part takes longer than you think.

Make a folder (digital and physical) for:

• Passports for each family member

• Marriage & birth certificates

• Proof of income or job offer letters

• Bank statements or tax returns

• Health insurance confirmation

• Visa photos (yes, they have specs)

• Anything with your name and address

Pro tip: Some countries require documents to be apostilled or notarized. Start this process early—it can take weeks.

4. Double Check the Timelines

Some visas must be applied for outside the country (like my UK spousal visa). Others allow you to switch while already abroad. Timelines matter:

• Application processing time

• Earliest and latest submission windows

• Interview or biometric appointment availability

• Entry deadlines once approved

Pro tip: Never assume a fast turnaround. I learned this the hard way. Build in buffer time—especially if you’re coordinating a job or school start date.

5. Plan for the Fees

Visa applications can cost anywhere from $100 to several thousand dollars per person. You may also need to pay for:

• Translation services

• Health screenings

• Immigration lawyer or consultant

• Apostilles, postage, or courier services

• Travel for visa interviews

Pro tip: Budget for both expected and surprise costs. Some countries charge extra for expedited processing or courier return of documents.

6. Stay Organized with a Tracker

Create a simple spreadsheet to track:

• What you’ve submitted

• What’s pending

• Appointments

• Deadlines

• Notes for each family member

You’ll thank yourself later—especially if you’re applying for multiple people or need to renew in a few years.

7. Join the Visa Summit

On August 2, 2025, I’m hosting a one-day virtual Visa Summit with five incredible experts from around the world—breaking down the most family-friendly visa options, real requirements, timelines, and the common mistakes that trip people up.

If you’re even thinking about moving abroad, this will give you a head start—without the stress of Googling at midnight.

👉 Join the Visa Summit Waitlist

We’re keeping this summit intimate—only 30 seats available—to make sure every attendee has space to ask questions and get real answers.

You don’t have to figure this all out alone.

Let’s make the paperwork part the easiest step toward building your life abroad.