International Moving Documents Checklist
Don't let missing paperwork delay your international move. This comprehensive checklist covers all documents needed for customs clearance worldwide.
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Start Early!
Document preparation should begin 8-12 weeks before your move. Attestation, visa processing, and obtaining clearances take time. Missing documents can delay customs clearance by weeks.
When planning an international move from Dubai, proper documentation is essential for smooth customs clearance. Requirements vary by destination country, but this comprehensive checklist covers the essentials for most international relocations.
Our experienced team helps verify all documentation before shipping to minimize delays and ensure your belongings clear customs without issues.
Essential Documents Checklist
Documents required for most international relocations
Identity & Immigration
- Valid Passport*
At least 6 months validity beyond move date
- UAE Residence Visa (copy)*
Or cancellation document if visa cancelled
- Emirates ID (copy)*
Front and back
- Entry Visa for Destination*
Work permit, settlement visa, or appropriate entry document
- Birth Certificates
For all family members, attested if required
- Marriage Certificate
Attested copy if applicable
Shipping & Customs
- Detailed Packing List*
Itemized inventory of all items being shipped
- Passport Copies*
For all persons whose goods are being shipped
- Proof of Residency at Destination*
Lease agreement, property deed, or job offer letter
- Bill of Lading (Sea) / AWB (Air)*
Provided by shipping company after dispatch
- Commercial Invoice
If shipping new or high-value items
- Insurance Certificate
Transit insurance for your shipment
Vehicle Shipping
- Original Vehicle Registration*
UAE registration card (Mulkiya)
- Export Certificate*
From Dubai RTA for deregistration
- Purchase Invoice*
Original or certified copy
- Passport Copy*
Of vehicle owner
- Ownership Proof
Clearance from bank if financed
- Emissions Certificate
Required by some countries (EU, USA, etc.)
Professional & Financial
- Employment Letter
From current or new employer
- Bank Statements
Last 3-6 months if required for customs
- Tax Residency Certificate
From UAE FTA if applicable
- Professional Certificates
Attested degrees, licenses if relocating for work
- Police Clearance Certificate
UAE PCC if required by destination country
* Critical documents - Required for customs clearance
Country-Specific Requirements
Additional documents required by specific destinations
United Kingdom
- TOR1 Form (Transfer of Residence)
- Proof of residence in UK (lease/purchase)
- Valid UK visa or settlement status
- Detailed inventory in English
United States
- CBP Form 3299 (Declaration)
- Valid visa (B1/B2, L1, H1B, etc.)
- Social Security Number (if available)
- Proof of US address
Canada
- B4 Form (Goods to Follow)
- Permanent Resident card or work permit
- Two copies of detailed inventory
- Proof of Canadian address
India
- Transfer of Residence (TR) Form
- Passport with valid visa or OCI card
- FRRO registration (if applicable)
- Proof of stay abroad (2+ years)
Saudi Arabia
- FASAH System Registration
- Iqama or work visa
- Employer NOC letter
- Detailed inventory in Arabic
Document Attestation Requirements
Many documents require attestation (official verification) for international use. The attestation chain typically includes:
Notary Public
Initial notarization of document
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA)
UAE government attestation
Destination Embassy
Embassy attestation in UAE (if required)
Destination Ministry
Final attestation in destination country
Documents Commonly Requiring Attestation:
Document Preparation Timeline
When to prepare each type of documentation
- Gather all personal documents
- Start attestation process
- Apply for destination country visa
- Complete attestation
- Obtain police clearance
- Finalize inventory list
- Submit documents to moving company
- Arrange vehicle export (if applicable)
- Get insurance quotes
- Receive shipping documents
- Final document verification
- Make copies of everything
- Organize travel documents
- Keep originals separate from shipped goods
- Digital backup of all documents
Pro Tips for Document Safety
Before Shipping
- Make 3 copies of all important documents
- Scan everything and store in cloud (Google Drive, Dropbox)
- Never ship original passports or IDs
- Verify all document expiry dates
During Travel
- Carry originals in hand luggage, not checked bags
- Keep bill of lading/AWB accessible for customs
- Have destination address proof ready
- Know your shipment tracking number
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Document FAQs
Find answers to common questions about our moving services
For most countries, you'll need: valid passport, visa for destination country, detailed packing list/inventory, proof of residence at destination (lease or property deed), and the bill of lading or airway bill. Some countries require additional forms like the TOR1 (UK) or Form 3299 (USA).
For English-speaking countries, translation is usually not required for standard documents. For non-English speaking destinations, official translations may be needed. We recommend certified translations for important documents like certificates and legal papers.
Standard attestation through MOFA and embassy takes 2-4 weeks. Express services are available for 3-5 business days at additional cost. We recommend starting 8-12 weeks before your move to account for any delays.
We strongly advise against shipping original documents. Always carry originals with you during travel. Ship copies only and keep digital backups in cloud storage. Lost documents can take months to replace and may delay customs clearance.
Returning citizens often enjoy duty-free import of household goods, but requirements vary. India requires 2+ years abroad, USA has no time requirement for residents, UK requires 12 months of non-EU residence. Check specific country guides for detailed requirements.
Yes, pet relocation requires: health certificate from UAE veterinarian, vaccination records (especially rabies), microchip documentation, import permit from destination country, and sometimes quarantine arrangements. Requirements vary significantly by country.
Missing documents can result in shipment delays, storage charges, and in some cases, items being held or returned. Ensure all required documents are complete before shipping. Our team verifies documentation before dispatch to minimize issues.
Need Help With International Documentation?
Our team handles document verification and preparation for international moves. Get a free consultation today.