Why international moves need 12 months of planning
Unlike a domestic move — where 6–8 weeks planning is usually enough — an international move involves visa applications that can take months to process, sea freight that takes 2–8 weeks in transit, financial and tax decisions with long-term consequences, and sorting out healthcare, banking, and administrative loose ends across two countries. Starting early reduces stress and avoids costly last-minute decisions.
The four critical milestones
12 months out — research and foundations
The year-before window is for research and strategic decisions: understanding your visa options, researching your destination (cost of living, neighbourhoods, healthcare, schooling), reviewing your finances, and beginning to declutter. This is also when to start getting ballpark shipping quotes — not to book yet, but to understand the budget.
6 months out — applications and bookings
Six months is when to lodge visa applications (working holiday visas can be done closer; skilled worker and points-based visas need longer), book international flights, open a bank account at your destination, research international health insurance, and start getting firm removalist quotes. You should also notify your employer of your intended departure date.
3 months out — confirm and organise
With three months to go, your visa should be approaching a decision. Book your removalist and confirm shipping dates. Book short-term accommodation at your destination. Redirect your mail, update your address with the ATO and Medicare, and get medical and dental checkups while you still have Australian Medicare.
1 month out — packing and admin
The final month is for packing, confirming all bookings, getting copies and apostilles of key documents, and handling all the small administrative tasks — returning library books, cancelling subscriptions, and booking your farewell dinners.
What your visa status means for your timeline
- Working holiday visa: Apply 4–6 weeks before departure. Simple process — most countries process within days.
- Skilled worker visa: Typically requires a job offer and qualification assessment. Allow 2–4 months from lodgement. Police clearances (AFP check) take 15–30 business days — start early.
- Points-based immigration (Canada, NZ): Profile submission → invitation → application. Allow 8–14 months for the full process.
- Citizen / no visa required (NZ): No immigration process. Focus purely on logistics.