The first 30 days after you move abroad: a checklist
A week by week checklist for your first month in a new country: registration, ID numbers, banking, phone, healthcare, tax and building a life beyond paperwork.
3 min read Updated Sep 2026
Planning
Many landlords abroad ask that rent is no more than a set share of your income. Enter your monthly net income to see a comfortable and a maximum rent, and what landlords with a 3x income rule will accept.
Used for the 3x income rule common in North America.
Comfortable rent
$1,200
Comfortable rent: $1,200
| Result | Value |
|---|---|
| Comfortable rent | $1,200 |
| Stretch maximum (40% of net) | $1,600 |
| Maximum under the 3x rule | $1,833 |
How this is calculated
A week by week checklist for your first month in a new country: registration, ID numbers, banking, phone, healthcare, tax and building a life beyond paperwork.
3 min read Updated Sep 2026
The NIE number and the TIE card explained. Who needs which, how to get the elusive cita previa appointment, fees, forms and what to bring.
3 min read Updated Sep 2026
Calculate your monthly expenses in any city.
Try nowEstimate your net pay after tax and social contributions.
Try nowConvert between 25 currencies at reference rates.
Try nowCompare the cost of living between two cities.
Try now