First 90 Days Budget

Most expats need 3-6 months of living expenses saved before relocating. Our calculator breaks this down into exact figures for your destination. For affordable cities in Latin America or Southeast Asia, you may need $3,000-$6,000 for the first 90 days. For Western Europe, budget $8,000-$15,000. Always add a 15-20% buffer for unexpected costs.

The two biggest costs are temporary accommodation (hotels/Airbnb for 2-3 weeks while apartment hunting) and your rental deposit (typically 1-2 months rent upfront). Together these often account for 50-60% of your first-month spending. Other significant costs include furniture basics if renting unfurnished, health insurance, and initial groceries.

For stays under 1 year, furnished is usually more cost-effective despite higher monthly rent. Unfurnished apartments require $800-$1,500+ for basic furniture and household items. However, for longer stays (2+ years), unfurnished can save money over time. Many expat-friendly cities offer fully furnished apartments at modest premiums.

Keep at least $2,000-$5,000 as an emergency fund separate from your moving budget. This covers unexpected medical bills, last-minute flights home, or gaps between planned income. Some visa types require proof of savings ($5,000-$20,000 depending on the country), so check requirements for your destination.

Common overlooked costs include: visa application fees ($50-$500), document apostille/translation ($100-$300), SIM card and initial phone plan, coworking space deposits, local health insurance, currency exchange fees, shipping personal items, and the premium you pay on temporary housing before finding a long-term apartment.