Bali Relocation Checklist — 90-Day Plan
Every task organised into a logical 60-day countdown so you can prepare systematically without overlooking anything.
Your 60-Day Bali Relocation Countdown
Moving to Bali involves dozens of tasks across immigration, finance, healthcare, logistics, and lifestyle setup. Missing a critical step can cause delays, extra costs, or legal issues. This comprehensive checklist organizes every task into a logical 60-day countdown so you can prepare systematically without overlooking anything. Each item includes when to do it, why it matters, and links to detailed guides for more information.
This checklist assumes you’re using professional relocation assistance for visa processing and accommodation sourcing. If you’re handling everything yourself, add 2-4 weeks to the timeline for additional research and appointments.
Print this checklist or save it to your phone. Check off items as you complete them. If you’re using one of our relocation packages, your dedicated consultant will guide you through each step with specific timelines and support. The most common mistake we see is leaving visa applications too late — start early to avoid rushing critical paperwork.
60-Day Timeline Overview
Days 60-46: Research
Visa research, consultation booking, area selection, budget planning, document gathering. The foundation for a smooth relocation.
Days 45-32: Secure
Visa submission, accommodation booking, insurance enrollment, school applications, shipping arrangements.
Days 31-1: Prepare
Final packing, cancel home services, financial transfers, document copies, farewell gatherings, flight booking.
The Full Countdown
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01
Weeks 1-2: Research and Planning (Days 60-46)
Research visa options and determine the best type for your situation. Book a free consultation. Research Bali neighborhoods. Begin budgeting. Decide on your target move date and work backward from there. Start gathering documents: valid passport (needs 12-18 months validity), passport photos, financial proof. If your passport is close to expiry, renew it immediately — this is the most common cause of relocation delays. If you have pets, begin the pet import process immediately — this requires 3-6 months.
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02
Weeks 3-4: Application and Securing (Days 45-32)
Submit your visa application. Begin accommodation search. Secure health insurance. If you have children, begin school research and contact admissions offices. Set up international money transfer accounts (Wise, OFX) and test a small transfer. Organize shipping of personal belongings. Cancel or modify subscriptions and services that won’t be needed overseas. If applicable: arrange power of attorney, update your will, consult a tax advisor, and inform your bank of your planned relocation.
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03
Days 31-21: Confirm
Transfer initial funds to your international transfer account. Confirm accommodation booking and pay deposit. Confirm visa approval and print all relevant documents. Book flights. Arrange airport pickup service. Pack essential documents folder (passport, visa, insurance certificate, financial documents, medical records, prescriptions — carry these in hand luggage, never in checked bags).
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04
Days 20-10: Wind down
Cancel or suspend home country utilities, subscriptions, and services. Set up mail forwarding. Complete any remaining medical or dental appointments. Fill prescriptions for 3-6 months of medications. Get document apostilles or certifications if required. Farewell gatherings with family and friends. Final declutter and pack shipping boxes.
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05
Days 9-1: Final packing
Essentials suitcase (1 week of clothes, toiletries, electronics, important documents, medications) plus checked luggage. Confirm all bookings. Download essential apps (Grab, Gojek, Wise, Google Maps offline Bali, WhatsApp). Inform your bank of travel dates. Set up email auto-responder. Clean and close up your home. Take a deep breath — your Bali adventure is about to begin.
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06
Arrival Week: Your First 7 Days in Bali
Day 1: airport arrival and VIP handling, meet your consultant, drive to accommodation, neighborhood orientation. Day 2: immigration office for visa stamping, SIM card purchase. Days 3-4: bank account opening (BCA or Mandiri), international transfer configuration, motorbike rental. Days 5-6: health insurance activation, hospital registration, GP introduction. Day 7: comprehensive area tour and introduction to expat community groups.
Why Choose Bali Relocation
Nothing Missed
Comprehensive 60-day checklist covering every task from research to settled. No surprises, no forgotten steps.
Timed Perfectly
Each task placed at the optimal point in your timeline. Start too late and you risk delays; this checklist ensures perfect pacing.
Professional Support
Our packages handle the complex tasks (visa, accommodation, banking) while you focus on the personal preparations.
Bali, neighbourhood by neighbourhood
Each area has its own character, price range and pace. Explore the full guides to find the one that matches your life.
Explore All Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions answered
01How far in advance should I start planning my Bali relocation?
Minimum 60 days for a smooth process. Ideal is 90 days for complex relocations (families with school placement, business setup, pet relocation). Digital nomads with B211A visa can manage in 30-45 days if documents are ready. The most common regret: not starting earlier.
02Can I relocate to Bali in less than 60 days?
Yes, with professional assistance. Our Digital Nomad Package can set you up in 2 weeks from arrival. The 60-day checklist includes pre-departure preparation — if you’re willing to handle some tasks after arrival, the timeline compresses significantly. Our express service fast-tracks critical steps.
03What are the most commonly forgotten relocation tasks?
Top 5 overlooked items: passport validity check (needs 12-18 months), apostille of documents (takes 2-4 weeks), pet import paperwork (needs 3-6 months), tax advisor consultation about overseas residency implications, and international driving permit (useful for car rental in Bali).
04What documents should I carry in my hand luggage?
Essential carry-on documents: passport, visa printout, health insurance certificate, bank statements (3 months), return flight itinerary, accommodation confirmation, emergency contacts list, prescription medications (in original packaging with doctor’s letter), and digital copies of everything stored in email/cloud.
05Should I ship furniture to Bali?
Generally no. Bali villas come furnished, and locally made furniture is beautiful, high-quality, and affordable. Ship only irreplaceable personal items, sentimental belongings, and specialty electronics. Most expats ship 2-5 boxes of personal items and buy everything else locally — saving thousands on shipping costs.