Relocating Abroad from Pakistan 2026 — Moving Guide
Moving to another country is a major life decision. This comprehensive checklist helps Pakistani families and professionals plan their relocation smoothly, covering documents, finances, shipping, and settling in.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Documents
- Valid passport with work/residence visa
- NADRA NICOP or POC (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificate
- Educational certificates (attested by HEC and MOFA)
- Marriage certificate, birth certificates (attested)
- Medical records and vaccination certificates
- Driving licence (for international driving permit)
Financial
- Open a Roshan Digital Account for remittances back to Pakistan
- Inform your Pakistani bank about international transfers
- Carry sufficient foreign currency (check limits — currently $10,000 without declaration)
- Set up a bank account in the destination country (some allow remote opening)
- Cancel or redirect Pakistani utilities and subscriptions
Shipping & Moving
- Get quotes from international moving companies (sea freight is cheapest, air freight fastest)
- Customs declaration for personal effects (duty-free allowance for emigrants)
- Sell, donate, or store items you are not taking
- Ship important documents separately (do not put in cargo)
After Arrival
- Register with the local authorities (council/municipality registration)
- Register with the nearest Pakistan embassy for consular services
- Open a local bank account
- Register for healthcare (NHS in UK, Medicare in Australia, provincial health in Canada)
- Get a local SIM card and phone plan
- Apply for a national insurance/social security number
- Register children in local schools
- Join the local Pakistani community for support and networking