Moving Abroad2 min check

Relocation Readiness Checker

A 60-second score on your readiness to make the move — across the 8 dimensions that derail most relocations.

Short answer

A successful international relocation needs three readiness pillars: Logistical (visa, job/income, housing, schools), Financial (12 months of runway, FX strategy, UK property plan), and Emotional (partner buy-in, support network, plan for homesickness). Most failed moves trace back to financial under-budgeting or one partner being dragged along.

Step 1 of 10%

Calculation method, coverage and version

Inputs used: Visa / right to live in destination?, Income / job in place?, 6+ months expenses saved?, Housing arranged for first 30 days?, Healthcare cover sorted?, Family / partner aligned with move?, Language ability for daily life?, UK exit plan (Form P85, council tax, mail)?.
Calculation approach: The calculator applies the rules and assumptions described in “How it works” to the values you enter. Rounding can cause small differences from an official or provider calculation.
Coverage: Moving Abroad. UK nations, tax treatment, local rules and provider criteria can differ; check the official sources shown below before acting.
Content version: No page-specific review date is currently published. Treat the result as indicative and verify current rules independently.

Not included unless explicitly requested: personal circumstances not entered, provider discretion, future rule changes, professional fees and case-specific exceptions. Read the full calculator methodology.

How it works

The 25-point readiness check scores each pillar 0–100 and flags the weakest area. A score under 60% in any pillar is a red flag — most relocations that fail in year 1 had a clear pre-move warning sign that was ignored.

Worked example

A couple scoring 85% logistical, 70% financial, 40% emotional — strong on visas and money but the trailing partner has no job and no friends in the new country. Recommendation: delay 6 months and build their network/career plan first.

Who should use this

•Couples planning a move
•Solo movers checking blind spots
•Families with school-age children
•People who've done one move and are planning another

Common mistakes

×Moving without 12 months of runway in the new country
×Underestimating partner career impact (the 'trailing spouse' problem)
×Not visiting for 4+ weeks before committing
×Locking into 24-month leases before knowing the city

Frequently asked questions

How long should I plan for?▾

12 months minimum for serious moves. 18+ months for non-EU long-haul.

What's the most overlooked thing?▾

Returning. Always have a plan for what happens if you come back — UK property, schools, jobs.

Should I burn the boats?▾

No. Keep a UK address option for at least year 1.

Related calculators

Visa Eligibility Checker →Cost of Living Comparison →Tax Residency Checker →Moving Abroad Cost Calculator →