Relocating to the UK is such a big step, not just for yourself but for your family and your entire future. Whether you are coming from Asia, Africa or America, there are a range of lifestyle changes, legalities and general information you would benefit from knowing before you even begin packing your bags for this whole shift.
As someone who has lived in different countries but is originally from the UK, I believe I have gathered enough information to give some real key differences that may be a culture shock to others but also help me give an accurate representation of what you are getting yourself into.
Introduction
Immigration is a hot topic around the world at the moment, especially in America and the UK so it’s important to know that a lot of these regulations and requirements for relocating can change at the drop of a hat, so I would like to remind you to stay updated daily on the UK immigration laws. They might not, in fact, tell you if you were moving with a job offer and so forth; however, it’s always important to stay aware of what could potentially impact you and your family’s lives.
Visa
As we were just on the topic of immigration law, it seems only right to start off with visas. There is an extensive list of visa types you can apply for, whether you are only temporarily relocating, visiting, moving for a job or with a company, working temporarily or maybe you want to rejoin some family or move back to your spouse’s home country. These are just a few examples of the type of visa, and each one has its own list of criteria.
As these criteria can change, so can the cost, acceptance process and application requirements, so these are all key factors that you should do your research on. I would only recommend that you get all the relevant information from the government’s official website or an immigration solicitor from the UK. These firms specialize in the UK visa types whether it’s spouse visa solicitors, British citizenship or business visa types they all have specialists within the firm who are able to help you through the application process if you need it.
Culture
The best part about the UK is that it’s already a very diverse country that provides facilities for a range of different belief systems and cultural preferences. For example, alongside Christian churches, there are mosques, prayer rooms, synagogues and so forth all around the UK so you are able to settle in a city without having to sacrifice your religious worshipping routine.
The UK, especially cities within the north, are very welcoming and friendly people and it’s a well-known part of our culture to be kind and support our communities. It encourages people to move here from all over the world because they will be taken care of.
Tax
When moving to the UK, there are many different legalities to consider, such as tax and how many types and how you pay tax. Luckily, tax is taken automatically from your wage and is paid by your employer so you don’t have to deal with that unless you are self-employed. There are other forms of taxation that you need to be aware of, such as council tax and stamp duty tax, if you plan on buying a house over the threshold amount.
They are key considerations that can help guide your decisions and help you avoid underpaying but also overpaying.
School
The UK offers free public schooling options, which is a relief compared to other countries where you pay from ages 4 to 21. While there are of course private schooling options that are rated outstanding, the public schooling system is still a good option for families migrating over to the UK.
Manage Your Finances
When moving to the UK, it’s essential you get all of your finances in order so you can land and have access to your money straight away. So establishing both short- and long-term finances is key, whether you exchange money in the airport or set up a UK bank account, there are many routes you can go down.
It’s also key you think about finances such as your pension and investments and if they can transferred to the UK, how will it affect you if you don’t transfer to the UK as you might have to pay a large tax sum which isn’t ideal. I would strongly recommend doing your research before making big financial decisions and ensuring that you are liable for a pension if you are able to apply for indefinite leave to remain.
Vehicle and Pets
A key consideration is are you bringing over your car? Finding a route and checking if it’s worthwhile bringing it over or selling before you come. Selling might be a more viable option as the UK is a left-driving country so would make things easier for you when going through this transition.
Bringing your pets over is not only a must for most people but something you need to do your research on from health checks and if you can meet the requirements the UK has set when importing over animals. It might be as simple as getting a couple of injections, or a passport and they are good to go but don’t assume and do your research.
We hope you found this blog post on Relocating To The UK: Everything You Need To Know, useful. If you want to learn other ways to make your relocation stress-free, make sure to check out our post on Why are People Really Moving to England? for more great tips!
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