Phase 0: Planning
Document Checklist
Last updated: 2026-03-07 | For: Engineers, Spouses
Get all your documents ready before departure. A single missing document can delay getting your driver's license, enrolling your children in school, or opening a bank account by weeks. Get translations done in Taiwan (cheaper and faster than in the US), and make digital backups of everything.
Immigration / Work Documents
- Passport (confirm at least 6 months validity remaining)
- Visa page
- I-797 approval notice
- Offer letter — print multiple copies
- I-94 arrival record (print from CBP website after arrival)
Identity Documents
- Birth certificates — all family members (English translation required)
- Marriage certificate (English translation required)
- Passport photos — US specification: 2x2 inches (different from Taiwan)
- Household registration transcript (backup)
Financial Documents
- Taiwan bank balance certificate (rental applications may require proof of funds)
- Taiwan credit report (for reference — it will not transfer directly)
- Recent tax filing records
Driving Documents
- Taiwan driver's license
- International Driving Permit (IDP) — get this in Taiwan before you leave; you cannot obtain one in the US
- English translation of Taiwan driver's license (backup)
Medical Documents
- Vaccination records — all children (US schools require specific vaccinations)
- Prescription medication information (use generic names, not brand names)
- Dental and vision records
- Most recent health checkup report
Education Documents
- Children's school transcripts (English translation) — used for grade placement
- Enrollment verification letter
- ESL assessment results (if available)
Translation Notes
The following documents should have certified translations completed in Taiwan before departure:
- Birth certificates, marriage certificate — certified translation required
- School transcripts — translation recommended
- Vaccination records — translation recommended
Digital Backups
- Scan all documents and store in the cloud (Google Drive / iCloud)
- Set up a password manager (you'll have too many important account passwords)
- Create an emergency contacts list (Taiwan + US)
- Physical copies: one set in checked luggage, one set in carry-on