Understand tax residency
Where you pay income tax usually depends on where you live and spend most of your time, and many countries use a day-count rule, often around 183 days a year. Rules differ and two countries can both claim you in the year of a move, so check the details and any tax treaty between the countries.
Compare your new net income
Use our net salary calculator to estimate take-home pay in the new country, and compare rent, transport and insurance costs before you decide.
Sort out health insurance and social security
Within the EU, social security coordination rules generally decide which country you pay into. Register with the local health and social security system when you arrive, and keep documents such as your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) until local cover starts.
Open a bank account
You usually need proof of address and identification. Some banks offer accounts for newcomers, so compare fees and card charges. If your income arrives in another currency, check the exchange rate with the currency converter.
Update your registrations
Many countries require you to register your address within a short time. Tell your employer, tax office and insurers, and keep copies of your documents. If you are a non-EU citizen without a residence permit, plan your stays with our Schengen calculator.