Many Africans abroad move more than once. You might relocate for a new job, cheaper housing, better schools or to be closer to family and community. Moving within the same country seems simpler than your first international move, but it still involves a long list of tasks that are easy to forget.
Use this checklist to make your move smooth.
1. Check Immigration Implications
If you’re on a sponsored work visa, changing jobs may require a new visa or sponsor approval. Students may need to notify their university. Some residence permits are tied to specific regions or provinces. Confirm your immigration position before accepting a job or signing a lease.
2. Research Your New City
- Cost of living and rent levels
- Safe, convenient neighbourhoods
- Commute times and transport options
- Schools and childcare
- African communities, shops and places of worship
Visit before moving if you can.
3. Give Proper Notice on Your Current Home
Read your tenancy agreement for notice periods and end-of-tenancy requirements. Give notice in writing and plan the move-out date carefully. Book a final inspection and take photos to protect your deposit.
4. Secure Your New Home
Avoid paying deposits for properties you haven’t seen. If you can’t view in person, arrange a trusted friend or a live video tour. Confirm the landlord’s identity and sign a proper agreement.
5. Budget for Moving Costs
Costs can include:
- Removal company or van hire
- New deposit and first month’s rent
- Overlap in rent between homes
- Cleaning costs
- Furniture and household items
- Travel and temporary accommodation
Get quotes from several removal companies and check reviews.
6. Update Your Address Everywhere
This is where most people slip. Update your address with:
- Immigration authorities, where required
- Your employer and payroll
- Banks and credit card companies
- Tax authorities
- Health providers and insurance companies
- Driving licence and vehicle registration authorities
- Electoral registers, where applicable
- Subscriptions and online shopping accounts
Failing to update immigration or tax authorities can cause serious problems. In the US, USA.gov points to the official services for updating your address with government agencies, and immigrants may have separate address reporting duties. Other countries have their own procedures.
7. Redirect Your Mail
Postal services usually offer mail forwarding for a fee. This catches letters from organisations you forgot to update and protects you from identity theft.
8. Set Up Utilities
Close accounts at your old address and open new ones for electricity, gas, water, internet and council or property taxes. Take meter readings on moving day.
9. Transfer Healthcare
Register with a new doctor or clinic. Request copies of important medical records and prescriptions to ensure continuity of care.
10. Arrange Schools and Childcare
School places can be limited. Apply early and check whether you need proof of your new address before applying.
11. Protect Important Documents
Carry passports, visas, birth certificates and financial documents with you rather than packing them in removal boxes.
12. Rebuild Your Network
Moving can feel lonely. Find local African associations, churches, mosques, professional groups and community events early.
Moving Day Essentials Bag
Pack a bag with documents, chargers, toiletries, medication, a change of clothes, basic kitchen items and snacks.
Declutter Before You Move
Moving costs are often based on volume. Sell, donate or throw away items you don’t need before packing. Fewer boxes mean cheaper removals, faster unpacking and a fresh start in your new home. Many cities also have free collection services for unwanted furniture.
Final Thoughts
A domestic move abroad still takes careful planning. Check immigration rules, budget properly, update your address everywhere and rebuild your support network quickly. With this checklist, your new city can feel like home sooner.