Moving to United Kingdom checklist: Visa requirements and application process. Health insurance and NHS registration. Local banking and financial services. Housing market and rental contracts. Public transportation options. Education system and school enrollment. UK tax system and filing. Cultural norms and etiquette. Emergency contact numbers. Job market and employment laws.
Visa requirements and application process
To apply for a UK visa, you must first find out if you need a visa and choose the right visa type for your travel needs. Once you have determined the appropriate visa, the next step is to complete the online application form and gather all the required documents. It is imperative to schedule a biometric appointment, which is typically done at a visa application center. At this center, you will need to provide your biometric information, such as fingerprints and a photo, and formally submit your application. For more detailed guidance on each step, you can visit the comprehensive [UK Visa Application Guide](https://visaguide.world/europe/uk-visa/how-to-apply-for-a-uk-visa/). By following these steps carefully, you can increase your chances of a successful visa application.
Health insurance and NHS registration
When moving to the UK, it is essential to ensure you have the appropriate health cover by either using the National Health Service (NHS) if you are ordinarily resident, or by opting for private health insurance to access quicker services. It is necessary to register with a GP practice, providing details such as your name, address, NHS number, and medical history. For a comprehensive guide, consider visiting the Moving to the UK Checklist on Expatica's website, which can help you navigate various aspects of your relocation process smoothly.
Local banking and financial services
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Banking in the UK for expats, including information on the banking system, opening a bank account, payment methods, banking fees, offshore banking, and security measures, as well as services offered by national and international banks in the UK. For those seeking more detailed insights, you can explore additional resources on the Expatica website.
Housing market and rental contracts
When moving to the UK, it is essential to ensure your rental contract includes the names of all parties involved, the rental price, and payment details, as well as deposit information, start and end dates of the tenancy, and clear obligations for both tenants and landlords. It's crucial that these terms comply with UK housing laws and regulations. For a comprehensive understanding of what you should include in a tenancy agreement, refer to the Tenancy Agreements: A Guide for Landlords. Ensuring all these elements are explicitly covered in the contract can help prevent future disputes and misunderstandings.
Public transportation options
The UK boasts a comprehensive public transport network, featuring rail services that link over 2000 stations, along with coach and bus services for both local and long-distance travel. Notably, the iconic London Underground facilitates easy movement within the capital. Additionally, the network encompasses ferry services and domestic flights, expanding the travel options available to residents and visitors alike. A key feature of this system is the utilization of Oyster cards or contactless payments for convenient travel in London. Importantly, there are various discount cards available to cater to students, the elderly, and disabled individuals, making travel more accessible and affordable. For more detailed information on these services, you can visit the Public Transport section of the Euraxess UK website.
Education system and school enrollment
The UK Education System is structured into primary, secondary, further, and higher education segments. Compulsory attendance for children spans the ages of 5 to 16, encompassing key educational stages and assessments, most notably the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) exams at age 16. When enrolling children in schools, parents must navigate the application process via their local council, ensuring they list preferred schools and adhere to specific deadlines to secure a place. For further information and a detailed overview, visit the UK Education System page.
UK tax system and filing
When moving to the UK, you must understand the tax system, which includes registering for UK Self Assessment by 31 October following your arrival if a tax return is required. You will be taxed on your worldwide income if you are a UK resident, or only on UK-source income if you are a non-resident, with the option to claim the remittance basis if not UK-domiciled. For detailed guidance, refer to this comprehensive Tax Checklist for Moving to the UK provided by Buzzacott.
Cultural norms and etiquette
In the UK, cultural norms and etiquette emphasize politeness, such as saying "please" and "thank you," respecting queues, avoiding personal questions, and adhering to dining etiquette like not talking with your mouth full and keeping elbows off the table. For a deeper understanding of these customs, the Cultural Atlas provides comprehensive insights into British culture and etiquette, offering valuable guidance for both locals and visitors wishing to navigate social interactions gracefully.
Emergency contact numbers
In the UK, key emergency contact numbers include 999 for urgent police, ambulance, fire, and coastguard services, 101 for non-emergency police issues, and 111 for urgent medical advice from the NHS; also, 112 serves as the pan-European equivalent to 999 for emergency services. Additionally, specific numbers like 0800 138 0990 are available for mental health support in certain regions. For more detailed information, including international emergency contacts, you can visit the International Welcome Hub provided by the NHS. This comprehensive resource offers guidance to ensure you have the necessary contacts during emergencies.
Job market and employment laws
The UK job market is experiencing a cooling trend, with job postings 11% below the pre-pandemic baseline and a significant decline in postings for remote-work sectors. Employers must navigate this market while adhering to strict employment laws, including right-to-work checks and compliance with the points-based immigration system. For a detailed analysis, explore the UK Labour Market Update, which provides insights into how these challenges are affecting the employment landscape.