Before You Leave: A Preparation Checklist

Documents to Gather

• Passports and birth certificates for yourself and any family members traveling with you
• Copies of any immigration court paperwork, orders, or filings — keep the originals safe and bring copies
• Medical records and vaccination records, especially for children
• School records and transcripts for children who will continue their education abroad
• Marriage, divorce, or custody documents if applicable

Financial Steps

• Close out or arrange access to U.S. bank accounts before leaving, where possible
• Understand how you will receive money from family in the U.S. after you leave — see the Money & Banking category for transfer options
• Settle or make a plan for any outstanding debts, leases, or bills in your name

Property and Belongings

• Decide what to sell, store, or ship — shipping costs and customs rules vary significantly by destination country
• Cancel or transfer any vehicle titles, registrations, and insurance
• Update your mailing address where it matters (banks, government agencies, subscriptions)

Family and Communication

If you have children who are U.S. citizens or who are staying behind, planning custody, guardianship, and communication in advance matters enormously. See the Family Preparation Guide for a closer look at this specific set of decisions.

One More Time: Talk to an Attorney First

This checklist is about logistics, not legal strategy. Before finalizing any decision to leave, a licensed immigration attorney can review whether other options exist and what the specific consequences of leaving will be for your case.