Plan Then Go

Safety & Legal Prep

Moving abroad requires legal and safety preparation that goes beyond what you’d need for a vacation. Taking care of these essentials before you go gives you — and your family — peace of mind.

  • Will and estate plan — update to reflect your new living situation; consider whether you need wills in both countries

  • Power of attorney — designate someone to handle financial and legal matters in your home country

  • Healthcare directive — a living will and healthcare proxy valid in your home country

  • Passport — renew if it expires within 18 months; some visa processes require 12+ months validity

  • Apostilled documents — many countries require apostilled birth certificates, marriage certificates, and background checks

Register With Your Embassy

Register with your country’s embassy or consulate in your destination. For US citizens, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This ensures you receive:

  • Safety alerts and travel warnings for your area

  • Assistance during emergencies, natural disasters, or civil unrest

  • Help if your passport is lost or stolen

  • A point of contact for your family in case of emergency

Personal Safety Abroad

Most popular expat destinations are safe for foreigners, but common-sense precautions apply everywhere:

  • Learn which neighborhoods to avoid, especially after dark

  • Don’t flash expensive jewelry, electronics, or cash

  • Keep digital copies of all important documents in cloud storage

  • Share your address and local contacts with family back home

  • Learn emergency numbers and the location of the nearest hospital

💡 Pro Tip

Create an “In Case of Emergency” document with all your critical information: insurance policy numbers, emergency contacts (local and home country), medication list, blood type, allergies, and embassy contact info. Keep a printed copy in your wallet and a digital copy accessible from any device.

Insurance Considerations

Beyond health insurance, consider these additional coverage needs: renters or property insurance abroad, liability coverage, and repatriation insurance (which covers the cost of returning you home in a medical emergency). Some international health insurance plans include repatriation; others charge extra for it.

Your Next Step

Schedule an appointment with an estate planning attorney to update your will and establish power of attorney. These documents are essential regardless of where you live — but they become critical when you’re living in another country.