Relocating to Australia is an exciting life decision filled with promise, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. This comprehensive article provides an essential checklist and practical guidance for anyone moving to Australia in 2025. Whether you are migrating for work, study, or a fresh start, following this step-by-step guide will help make your transition smooth, efficient, and hassle-free.
Please note: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase at no extra cost to you. You may actually receive a discount!
Step 1: Secure Your Passport and Visa
Before anything else, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your expected arrival date. Depending on your purpose, you will need to apply for the appropriate Australian visa. There are many visa options, depending on the purpose of your visit, the country you are from, and your circumstances. However, the most popular visas can be placed in three categories:
- Skilled Migration Visa: For qualified professionals in high-demand occupations.
- Student Visa (Subclass 500): For international students enrolling in an Australian institution.
- Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417/462): For young adults wishing to work and travel in Australia.
Important: Always consult a registered migration agent for immigration advice. We do not offer immigration services.
Step 2: Financial Preparation
Open an Australian bank account online before your arrival. Major banks like Commonwealth Bank and Westpac offer services for new migrants and just require your address, IDs and a VEVO (which you will receive via email once your visa is granted).
Additionally, to avoid high international bank fees and transfer money from your country to Australia and vice versa, it is smart to use a reliable international money transfer service with super low fees like Wise:
You might also consider a multi-currency account to manage expenses stress-free and visit your country or travel around the world when on holiday.
Step 3: Health & Insurance
Australia’s healthcare system, Medicare, may not be immediately accessible for new migrants, even though some countries have a health agreement with Australia. Securing health insurance coverage before arrival is crucial and compulsory if coming to Australia to study:
- Overseas Visitor Health Cover (OVHC)
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) (mandatory for student visa holders)
Depending on the city you are visiting or living in, I would suggest that you get a jug filter to drink tap water, a special shampoo to treat dandruff you might experience, and stay healthy by supporting your body with high-quality nutritional supplements. We recommend Gruns Health Products as a reliable brand for daily wellness.
Step 4: Plan What to Pack
Australia has stringent customs and biosecurity laws. Make sure to avoid packing:
- Food, plant, and animal products
- Wooden goods and untreated outdoor gear
Essential items to include:
- Universal Travel Adapter (Type I plug)
- Voltage Converter for electronics
- Weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses and suncreen
Make sure to declare everything when completing the Incoming Passenger Card (IPC), which will be provided to you on your flight or at the airport. You must tick “YES” if you are carrying food, plant material, or animal products. This declaration is a legal requirement. If you declare food, you will be directed to an inspection point where a DAFF officer will assess your items. Omitting is still considered an offence, and on the IPC is specified that you must tick yes if unsure or in the event of not understanding the language. Failure to abide by the biosecurity laws normally results in a warning or a fine.
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Step 5: Organise Your Housing
It is advisable to book temporary accommodation for your initial weeks. Do not underestimate this step because there is a housing crisis in Australia, and it is difficult to secure accommodation if you do not plan ahead!!! Options include:
- Airbnb
- Hotels
- Budget-friendly hostels
- Shared accommodation on Flatshamates.com.au or Gumtree.com.au
Once in Australia, use property sites like Domain or Realestate.com.au to explore long-term rental options. Beware of scams and always ask for a tenancy or lease agreement, read it carefully before signing it and subsequently you will have to proceed to pay the bond (generally 2 weeks’ worth of rent) plus 2 weeks of rent in advance to get the keys.
Step 6: Prepare for Connectivity & Security
This step is often skipped because underrated, but believe me, I had no fun at all when I scanned the QR code at the pub to get a drink directly from my table, and my bank account was hacked. I had to wait until the following Monday to call the bank, and I spent over an hour on the phone to request a new debit card.
Hence, stay connected and safe online. Set up a VPN for secure browsing and check out the protection tools here below:
Protect your passwords and sensitive data:
Step 7: Build a Digital Presence (Optional)
If you are planning to freelance, start a blog, open a business or simply have a flexible source of additional income, you will need a reliable web hosting:
It’s affordable, beginner-friendly, and comes with a free domain in many packages. You can also use the AI for free to build your website!
Step 8: Transportation Options
Depending on where you live, you can:
- Use public transport (buses, trams, trains) with a ticket or even better with a SmarRider card
- Apply for a local driving license if eligible
If you wish to drive or ride a motorised vehicle, it is highly recommended that you get an international driver’s license before you come to Australia. Also, you might want to check with your state’s licensing authority to see if your overseas license is valid or if you will need to take tests.
Even so, the best way to stay fit, save money and avoid getting stuck in traffic is to use the bike paths available. Do not forget to wear a helmet if riding a bicycle or a scooter, and be mindful of the speed limits not to incur in hefty fines.
Step 9: Get Your Documents in Order
Bring multiple certified copies in English of:
- Your birth certificate
- Academic qualifications
- Employment reference letters
- Vaccination and medical history
This will save you heaps of money, time and frustration, especially if you decide to permanently settle in Australia later. Furthermore, it is significantly advantageous to get your overseas qualifications officially recognised to potentially benefit from a substantial salary increase, according to the award that regulates your future occupation. You will need to submit an Overseas Qualification Assessment application and provide your employer with the Advice Letter once successful. For more information, please visit https://www.education.gov.au/international-education/recognise-overseas-qualifications
Step 10: Use Always Tools & Discounts to Save Money
Thank you for having made it so far. A little reward for you 😊. Take advantage of offers for new users:
You might as well explore Temu for Affiliates if you are a content creator planning to monetise your move.
If you would like to know more about Australia and receive some extra tips, I posted a YouTube video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ha8PUaAgvmk&t=2s