The Must-Have Papers for Your Move Abroad

The visa application process is the single biggest hurdle between you and your new life abroad. It can feel overwhelming, with complex rules and a mountain of paperwork. But here’s the secret: while every country and visa type has unique requirements, a core set of documents is almost universally required.

This checklist is your baseline—your foundation for getting organized. By gathering these documents first, you’ll be 80% of the way there, no matter where you decide to move.

CRITICAL DISCLAIMER: This is a universal guide. It is not a substitute for official information. You MUST check the official embassy or consulate website for your chosen country to get the specific, up-to-the-minute requirements for your visa application.

Part 1: The Core Four — Your Personal Identity

These documents prove who you are. They must be pristine, valid, and exactly to spec.

1. Your Passport

• What it is: Your most important travel document.
• The Details:
  • Validity: Must be valid for at least 6-12 months beyond your intended date of entry.
  • Blank Pages: Must have at least two to four blank pages.
  • Condition: Must be in excellent condition, with no tears or damage.
  • Action Item: Make high-quality color photocopies of the information page. Keep them separate from your passport.

2. Passport-Sized Photos

• What they are: Not just any photo. These must meet very strict government standards.
• The Details:
  • Age: Taken within the last 6 months.
  • Background: Almost always a plain white or off-white background.
  • Appearance: No glasses, no hats, neutral facial expression.
  • Action Item: Don’t try to print these at home. Go to a professional service (like a post office or pharmacy) that guarantees they meet visa/passport specifications. Get at least 4-6 copies.

3. Proof of Marital Status (if applicable)

• What it is: Legal proof of your current relationship status.
• The Details:
  • Documents: Certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or death certificate of a spouse.
  • Certification: These documents will also likely require an Apostille.
  • Action Item: If you are moving with a partner or spouse, you will need these to prove your relationship.

Part 2: The Financial Foundation — Prove Your Stability

Consulates need to know you can support yourself and won’t be a financial burden on their country.

4. Bank Statements

• What they are: Official proof of your financial resources.
• The Details:
  • Timeline: Most consulates require 3-6 months of statements.
  • What they look for: A stable balance, consistent income, and proof you meet the minimum financial threshold for your visa. This is not the time to make large, unusual deposits.
  • Action Item: Download official, multi-page PDF statements. Some consulates may require the statements to be physically stamped by your bank.

5. Proof of Income / Ongoing Funds

• What it is: Proof that you have a reliable source of money.
• The Details:
  • For Remote Workers/Freelancers: Remote Work Authorization from your employer, Offer letter or Business Registration documents .
  • For Retirees: Social Security benefit statements, pension statements, or proof of lifetime income.
  • Action Item: Gather documents that paint a clear picture of your financial stability and ability to meet the monthly income requirement for your visa.

Part 3: The Character Check — Prove You’re a Good Citizen

Countries want to ensure they are welcoming responsible, law-abiding individuals.

6. Criminal Background Check

• What it is: An official document detailing your criminal history (or lack thereof).
• The Details:
  • For Americans: This is typically an FBI Identity History Summary Check.
  • Recency: The check must be recent, usually issued within the last 3-6 months.
  • Certification: This is another key document that requires a federal Apostille.
  • Action Item: Start the FBI background check process early. It can take several weeks to get the results back, even before you begin the apostille process.

7. International Health Insurance

• What it is: Proof you have comprehensive health coverage that is valid in your destination country.
• The Details:
  • This is not short-term travel insurance. It needs to be a long-term plan.
  • It must meet minimum coverage amounts (e.g., €30,000 in the Schengen Area) and often must include repatriation and emergency evacuation coverage.
  • Action Item: Research providers like SafetyWing, Cigna Global, or GeoBlue. Get a letter of coverage that clearly states your name, coverage dates, and what is covered.

What is an Apostille? (And Why It’s So Important)

An apostille is a form of international certification. It authenticates the seals and signatures on official documents, so they can be recognized in foreign countries. Think of it as a notarization for international use.

• Documents that commonly need it: Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate, FBI Background Check.
• How to get it: For state-issued documents (like a birth certificate), you get it from the Secretary of State of that state. For federal documents (like an FBI check), you get it from the U.S. Department of State. This process takes time and has a fee. Plan for it!

Organizational Pro-Tips

• Create a “Visa Binder”: Use a physical binder with sheet protectors to keep all your original documents safe and organized.
• Scan Everything: Create a digital backup of every single document and save it to a secure cloud service like Google Drive or Dropbox.
• Follow Instructions to the Letter: If the application asks for a blue pen, use a blue pen. If it asks for a date format of DD/MM/YYYY, use it. Do not deviate.
• Start Now: The single biggest mistake people make is underestimating how long it takes to gather, certify, and apostille all these documents. The process can easily take 2-4 months.

Gathering these documents is your first major step in the relocation process. By tackling it with organization and patience, you’re building the foundation for your next best life abroad.