The visa is stamped. The ticket is booked. The farewell parties are over.

Now, the panic sets in.

Moving your entire life from Sri Lanka to a new country is chaotic. You are worried about forgetting something crucial. I’ve been there. To save you the stress, here is the ultimate “Leaving Lanka” checklist to ensure you land on your feet.

1. The “Police Report” (Do It Early)

 

Even if you don’t think you need it, get a Police Clearance Certificate from Colombo. Many jobs abroad (especially in healthcare, childcare, or security) will demand it. It is a nightmare to get this once you have already left the island. Apply online via the Sri Lanka Police portal at least 4 weeks before you fly.

2. Cancel the “Recurring” Rupees

 

Don’t let your Sri Lankan accounts bleed dry.

• Dialog/Mobitel: Switch your package to a “Pre-paid” roaming plan or cancel the contract.

• Gym Memberships: Cancel them in person (they often require a signature).

• Insurance: Inform your insurance provider. Some life insurance policies have clauses about living abroad.

3. The Medical “Go-Bag”

 

Medical care in the UK/Australia is good, but it can be slow or expensive to access initially. Stock up on:

• Your prescription glasses (much cheaper in Pettah than in London!).

• Amoxicillin or standard antibiotics (you need a prescription abroad).

• Panadol (bring a few cards; foreign brands differ).

• Note: Keep the prescriptions for these in your carry-on.

4. Digital Banking Hygiene

 

Ensure your Sri Lankan bank accounts (HNB, Commercial, Sampath) have SMS Roaming enabled or are connected to your email.

• Critical: Go to the bank and tell them you are leaving. Ask for an “NRFC” (Non-Resident Foreign Currency) account status so you can save in Dollars/Pounds later.

5. Power Up

 

Sri Lanka uses the “Type D/G” plugs.

• UK: Same as Sri Lanka (mostly).

• Australia: Completely different (Type I). Buy a universal adapter in Pettah for Rs. 1,500 before you buy the same one at Sydney airport for $40.

6. Scan Everything

 

Do not rely on paper. Scan these and upload them to Google Drive:

• Birth Certificate (Original + English Translation).

• Marriage Certificate.

• Degree Certificates / A-Level Results.

• Vaccination Cards.

7. The “First Week” Cash

 

Do not land with zero cash. Your cards might get blocked for “suspicious activity” the moment you try to buy a coffee at Heathrow.

• Carry at least £200 / $300 in cash.

• Inform your Sri Lankan credit card provider that you are traveling so they don’t freeze your card.

8. Unlock Your Phone

 

If your iPhone or Samsung is “locked” to a Sri Lankan network, a UK SIM card won’t work. Call your provider to check.

9. Food for the Soul

 

You will get homesick. Pack the things you can’t easily find:

• Vacuum-packed Ambroseia or MD Maldive Fish.

• Proper Chilli Flakes (foreign “chilli powder” is basically paprika).

• Curry leaves (dried).

10. Download “Citymapper”

 

If you are moving to London, Sydney, or Toronto, Google Maps is okay, but Citymapper is better for public transport. Download it now so you are ready to navigate the moment you land.

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Ready to start your new life? Check out our guide on [How to Set Up Your First Bank Account in the UK]  to make sure you get paid as soon as you start working.