Overseas Relocation Costs in 2026: Visas, Flights, and Housing Deposits

Once you decide to move abroad, the first thing to understand is your initial costs. Beyond monthly living expenses, you'll face significant upfront spending. Here's a 2026 breakdown of major cost categories.

1. Visa Application Fees

Costs vary significantly by country and visa type:

• Work Visa (Malaysia): ~$350-1,050 (sometimes employer-paid)
• MM2H (Malaysia Long-term Visa): Application fee + fixed deposit (~$35,000+)
• Work Visa (Thailand): ~$200-700
• Working Holiday (Australia): ~$350-500

Using an immigration agent may cost an additional $700-2,100.

2. Flights

One-way economy ticket estimates:

• Southeast Asia: $200-550
• Europe: $550-1,400
• North America: $550-1,250
• Oceania: $350-850

Multiply by family size. Don't forget excess baggage fees and pet transport costs.

3. Housing Initial Costs

Most countries require deposits similar to Japan:

• Malaysia: 2-3 months rent deposit + 0.5 month utilities deposit
• Thailand: 2 months rent deposit
• Singapore: 1-2 months rent
• Germany: Up to 3 months rent (Kaution)

Furnished properties save on furniture costs but tend to have higher rent.

4. Other Costs

• International moving: $1,400-5,600 (depends on volume and distance)
• Health insurance: $700-2,100/year
• Setup costs: Furniture, appliances, SIM card, bank account ($350-1,400)
• Japan-side procedures: Moving-out notification, pension/insurance procedures

Using MoveWorth

MoveWorth's simulator lets you input "initial savings." Subtract the above costs from your actual savings for a more realistic asset projection. Selecting your destination country provides default living cost data as reference.

Accurately understanding initial costs is the first step to a secure relocation plan.