By Setudown Ltd — Relocation Specialists (Lagos)

Moving to Nigeria from the USA: Step-by-Step Checklist

📍 www.setudown.com | 📱 Instagram: @setudown | X: @setudown1 | Facebook: Setudown

Relocating from the USA to Nigeria is a major transition filled with opportunity — but also logistics, planning and adjustment. Whether you’re moving for family, work, investment or returning home, this step-by-step checklist will guide you from preparation in the United States to settling comfortably in Nigeria.

1. Pre-Move Preparation

1.1 Understand your destination

Nigeria’s major relocation cities each offer unique advantages:

• Lagos — business capital, fast-paced living, coastal lifestyle
• Abuja — planned city, diplomatic district, quieter environment
• Port Harcourt — oil & gas hub with strong corporate presence

1.2 Prepare U.S. documents

• Passport & visa copies
• Medical records and immunization history
• Academic transcripts (for kids)
• Professional certifications
• U.S. driver’s license

1.3 Budget accurately

Account for housing deposits, power backup systems, school fees, customs fees, and temporary accommodation. Setudown can help estimate total costs precisely.

2. Visa, Immigration & Travel Planning

2.1 Choose the correct visa

Your visa type will determine how quickly you can settle. Options include STR visa, work permit (TWP), business visa, dependent visa and expatriate quota placements.

2.2 Booking your flight

Most flights depart from New York, Atlanta, Houston or Washington D.C., arriving in Lagos or Abuja. Setudown helps arrange Meet & Greet services on arrival.

3. Shipping & Customs

3.1 What to ship from the USA

Ship items such as furniture, appliances, sentimental items, and bulk clothing. Buy everyday household items locally to reduce freight weight.

3.2 Sea vs air freight

• Sea freight: 4–8 weeks, best for large items
• Air freight: 3–7 days, best for essentials

3.3 Customs documentation

• Bill of Lading / Airway Bill
• Packing list & inventory
• Passport copy
• Insurance documents

Setudown works with trusted U.S.–Nigeria clearing agents to ensure smooth customs processing.

4. Housing & Utilities in Nigeria

4.1 Finding the right neighbourhood

Lagos hotspots: Ikoyi, Lekki, Victoria Island. Abuja hotspots: Maitama, Wuse 2, Jabi. Setudown verifies landlords, inspects properties, negotiates leases and sets up utilities for newcomers.

4.2 Utilities you must set up

• Electricity (meter registration)
• Generator or inverter installation
• Water supply (borehole or tanker)
• Waste management registration
• Internet setup (FiberOne, MTN Fibre, Airtel Fibre)

4.3 Security setup

Many homes require CCTV, gate access control or estate security. Setudown partners with certified installers.

5. Banking, SIM & Daily Essentials

5.1 Banking setup

Open accounts with GTBank, Zenith, Access Bank or UBA. You’ll need passport, proof of address and passport photos.

5.2 SIM registration

Choose MTN, Airtel, GLO or 9Mobile. SIM registration requires your fingerprint and ID.

6. Schools & Healthcare

6.1 Choosing schools

International schools (American, British and IB) are popular among U.S. families. Apply early — spaces fill quickly.

6.2 Healthcare onboarding

Register with Lagoon, Reddington, Eko Hospital or Nizamiye Hospital. Consider expat-level health insurance with evacuation cover.

7. First 90 Days in Nigeria

• Register for NIN
• Open local bank accounts
• Sort utility and data subscriptions
• Secure transportation and emergency contacts
• Explore neighbourhood markets and centres
• Establish social support networks

Why Choose Setudown Ltd?

• Full relocation planning
• Visa and immigration support
• Door-to-door shipping
• Customs clearance assistance
• Vetted housing search
• School placement support
• Utilities and security setup
• Ongoing family and aftercare support