New to the Philippines?
Start Here in Order:
- Read the Checklist
- Review the Budget Guide
- Research Housing Options
- Learn About Healthcare
- Join the Email List
Philippines Expat Pre-Move Checklist
Moving to the Philippines can be exciting, but it’s easy to overlook important details before you arrive. Use this checklist to make sure you’re prepared before boarding your flight. Each section includes links to more detailed guides if you want to dive deeper into a specific topic.
Documents, Visas & Banking
☐ Verify passport has at least 6 months validity
☐ Research the visa that best fits your situation
☐ Make digital copies of important documents
☐ Bring multiple forms of identification
Helpful Resources:
Housing & Accommodation
☐ Decide whether to rent or buy initially
☐ Research your preferred city or region
☐ Understand lease requirements
☐ Budget for deposits and utility setup
☐ Arrange temporary accommodations if needed
Helpful Resources:
Money & Financial Planning
☐ Open a Wise account or transfer solution
☐ Establish an emergency fund
☐ Understand Philippine banking options
☐ Notify banks and credit card companies of international travel
☐ Plan your monthly Philippines budget
Helpful Resources:
Healthcare & Insurance
☐ Research health insurance options
☐ Bring copies of medical records
☐ Verify prescription availability
☐ Purchase travel insurance for arrival
☐ Locate nearby hospitals in your destination city
Helpful Resources:
• Philippines Healthcare Guide
• Prescription Medication Guide (Coming Soon)
Technology & Communications
☐ Set up an international phone plan or eSIM
☐ Download offline maps
☐ Enable two-factor authentication backups
☐ Consider a VPN before departure
☐ Save important contact information offline
Helpful Resources:
• Internet in the Philippines (Coming Soon)
Healthcare & Insurance
☐ Research health insurance options
☐ Bring copies of medical records
☐ Verify prescription availability
☐ Purchase travel insurance for arrival
☐ Locate nearby hospitals in your destination city
Helpful Resources:
• Philippines Healthcare Guide
• Prescription Medication Guide (Coming Soon)
Healthcare & Insurance
☐ Research health insurance options
☐ Bring copies of medical records
☐ Verify prescription availability
☐ Purchase travel insurance for arrival
☐ Locate nearby hospitals in your destination city
Helpful Resources:
• Philippines Healthcare Guide
• Prescription Medication Guide (Coming Soon)
Travel Planning
☐ Book flights
☐ Arrange airport transportation
☐ Reserve temporary accommodations
☐ Verify baggage allowances
☐ Confirm arrival requirements
Helpful Resources:
• Airport Arrival Guide (Coming Soon)
• Transportation Guide (Coming Soon)
Final Week Before Departure
☐ Confirm all reservations
☐ Back up important documents
☐ Pack medications and essentials
☐ Notify family and emergency contacts
☐ Double-check passport and travel documents
Helpful Resources:
• First 30 Days in the Philippines (Coming Soon)
• Philippines Arrival Guide (Coming Soon)
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