Preparing to go Overseas

The following checklist is an abbreviated version of the first chapter of the Foreign Service Assignment Notebook: What Should I Do Now (2006 updates now online!) This list provides a general framework for the many tasks involved in an overseas move. 

LEARN ABOUT POSTS

Research is the first step to a successful overseas assignment. The Overseas Briefing Center offers many materials in the Information Center in Arlington and a helpful list of online resources. The State Department intranet has many additional materials, including the new Post Info To Go service, which contains all the electronic materials OBC has received from posts.

Investigate Family Member Employment

Research Schools

Verify Post Health/Medical Information

 Check Pet Entry Requirements and Living Conditions

MAKE PRELIMINARY PREPARATIONS

While you wait to find out your new assignment, get a head start on preparations. This will alleviate part of the last-minute rush as your moving date nears.

Obtain Moving Logistics References

Prepare Important Papers & Records

Confirm Banking Arrangements

Review Insurance Coverage

Consider Real Estate Options

Take Care of Medical Needs

Organize Household Effects

Plan E-mail and Mail Changes

Enroll in Related Training

DO ONCE YOU HAVE AN ASSIGNMENT

Now that you know where you will be going, you can dig into specifics about your new home. Don't make assumptions: ask as many questions as possible, no matter what you think you already know! 

Learn More about the Post and Language

Continue Medical/Health Preparations

Make Real Estate Arrangements

Schedule Pack-out

Continue School Planning

Go Shopping

Plan for Shipment of Automobile

Write Letters to Post

Change Address (and E-mail)

Check Absentee Voting Procedures

COMPLETE AFTER RECEIVING TRAVEL ORDERS

Apply for Diplomatic Passports (first-tour officers and family members)

Arrange Finances

Confirm Travel Arrangements

Prepare Luggage

Ship Automobile and Pack Out

TAKE A BREAK - You Deserve It!