The UK is an attractive place for new migrants, with hundreds of thousands of people making their way into the country every year, via various means. If are moving to the UK, then there are several things you’ll want to be thinking about.
Moving to a new country can be exciting, but it can be challenging in many ways. By taking stock of those challenges, you’ll give yourself a better chance of meeting them in the right way.
What should you be thinking about?
Visa requirements
If you’re going to be staying in the UK, then the chances are good that you’ll need a visa. The situation has changed a little bit in the aftermath of Brexit, but for the most part, you’ll be choosing between a work visa, a student visa, a start-up visa or a family visa. If you already have relatives in the country, then the lattermost option might be the one that’s appropriate for your circumstances.
UK bank account
If you’re earning money in the UK, then it makes sense to have a UK bank account. Otherwise, you’re going to have to deal with the cost of sending money back and forth across borders, which will effectively give you a pay cut. To open a bank account in the UK, you’ll need to be able to prove who you are and where you live.
Cost of living
Inflation has been an ongoing problem in the UK, but then, it’s been a problem just about everywhere in the world. If you’re going to try and determine your budget ahead of time, then you’ll want to think about the cost of transport, utilities, tax, rent and food. If you’re in London, then you’ll be spending more – but then you might also be earning substantially more, too.
Transport
In the UK, we drive on the left. If you’re going to be driving on public roads, then you’ll need a licence – and the vehicle will need to have undergone an annual inspection, provided that it’s older than three years. You can book an MOT test online, and get it done by a qualified mechanic.
The sockets
Since the sockets in the UK are unique, you’ll need the right cables and adaptors for all of your existing appliances. If you know what you’re doing, you can rewire your plugs – but it’s usually a better idea to simply sell your old appliances before you move, and pick up new ones in the UK.
The weather
In the UK, the weather is famously temperate and unpredictable. You’ll want to pack clothes for a variety of conditions and be prepared to put a jacket on midway through any given trip.
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