In some places, registering and making appointments for various things may take much longer than you're used to. This can be frustrating, but ultimately there isn't usually much you can do to speed things up. Try to accept this, and build in more time.
You should take multiple copies of all important documents and forms of identification, and keep electronic/scanned files of these for ease of access. You may also want to take a few passport-sized photographs, as you may need these to apply/register for things that you wouldn't need them for at home!
Key questions to consider:
- Will I be able to fulfil the visa and entry requirements of my proposed host country?
- Is my passport valid for the full length of my planned activity and any additional time, for visa and entry requirement purposes?
- Do I have any medical conditions I will need to manage while away? Will I be able to manage these when far away from family, friends and a healthcare system I am familiar with?
- Is there a formal registration process when I move to the city/country where I am on exchange?
- Do I need a residents'/registration number before I can open a bank account?
- Do I need a bank account before I can apply for accommodation?
- How do I matriculate at my host institution?
- What documents do I need to take with me?