How To Move to the United Kingdom (2024 Guide)
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Moving to the United Kingdom offers exciting opportunities for career growth, educational pursuits, or a new adventure. With its rich history, diverse culture, and robust economy, the U.K. attracts many expatriates yearly. However, relocating to a new country requires careful planning and adherence to various immigration procedures. In this guide, we’ll help you streamline your move to the U.K., covering everything from visa requirements to settling into your new life.
Understanding United Kingdom Visa Requirements
Before you begin your journey to the U.K., you’ll need to understand the various visa options available. The visa you’ll need depends on your reason for moving, length of stay, and personal circumstances.
During the application process, you’ll apply for a specific visa type according to the reason for your move. After applying online, you can book a biometric appointment and visit an Application Support Center to provide biometric information such as fingerprints.
Here’s an overview of the main visa categories:
Family Visas
Family visas allow you to join a spouse, partner, parent, or family member who is a British citizen or settled in the U.K. To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be over 18 years old if joining a spouse or partner.
- Be under 18 years old and unmarried if joining a parent.
- Demonstrate sufficient financial means to support yourself.
- Pass an English language test in certain cases (not required for U.S. or Canadian nationals).
- Provide proof of your relationship.
A family visa application costs 1,258 pounds if you’re applying from inside the U.K. or 1,846 pounds if you’re applying from elsewhere. You may also need to pay the health care surcharge. You can access the National Health Service (NHS) once you receive your visa and pay the surcharge.
To apply for a family visa, you’ll need to submit the following items:
- Application
- Birth certificate if joining your parent
- Marriage or partner certificate if joining your spouse or partner
- Proof of finances
- Valid passport
Work Visas
You must obtain a visa to work in the U.K. The two most popular work visas are the Health and Care Worker visa and the Skilled Worker visa.
The Health and Care Worker visa allows medical professionals to work with the NHS, with an NHS supplier, or in social care. The standard application fee is 284 pounds for a visa that lasts up to three years and 551 pounds if you want to stay more than three years. The visa can last up to five years before you need to renew it. You must already have a job offer before applying for this visa, and you have to meet the following requirements to qualify:
- The Home Office must have approved your U.K. employer.
- You have to possess a certificate of sponsorship from your employer.
- You must be a doctor, health care professional, nurse, or social care worker.
- You must receive a minimum salary.
- Your job must be in an eligible health or social care role.
The Skilled Worker visa allows you to stay in the U.K. as you perform a job. This application fee ranges from 719–1,639 pounds depending on your circumstances and the health care surcharge is usually 1,035 pounds. You must meet the following requirements to qualify:
- The Home Office must have approved your U.K. employer.
- The job must be on the eligible occupation list.
- You must have a certificate of sponsorship from your employer.
- You must receive a minimum salary based on the type of work you’ll be doing.
Temporary Work Visas
Temporary work visas allow short-term visits for individuals who want to work in the U.K. Each visa has different conditions and fees, but you’ll have to pay the health care surcharge if you plan to stay for six months or longer. These are the different temporary work visas available:
- Charity Worker visa: For those who want to perform unpaid charity work
- Creative Worker visa: For those who have been offered work in the creative field, such as dancers, actors, or musicians
- Government Authorised Exchange visa: For individuals interested in attending an overseas language program or research fellowship
- International Agreement visa: For those who work in a field covered by international law, such as diplomacy
- Religious Worker visa: For individuals who want to do religious work in a nonpastoral role or religious order
- Seasonal Worker visa: For those looking to work in horticulture and poultry
Student Visas
If you plan to study in the U.K., you’ll need to obtain a Student visa and meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be at least 16 years old. You’ll need consent from your parents or guardians if you are 16 or 17 years old.
- Have an offer from a licensed education provider.
- Meet English language requirements.
- Prove you can support yourself financially during your studies.
Student visa costs and duration vary based on the length and type of course you’re enrolled in.
You can apply for a Graduate visa after you’ve completed your studies under a Student visa. A Graduate visa allows you to stay in the U.K. for two years after you’ve completed your coursework.
If you are younger than 18 years old, you may qualify for a Child Student visa. You must be between 4 and 17 years old and plan to study at an independent school. You must meet the following criteria to apply:
- You have access to enough financial support.
- You have parental consent.
- You possess an unconditional offer on a course placement.
Innovator Founder Visa
The Innovator Founder visa is an option for entrepreneurs looking to start a unique and scalable business in the U.K. You must be at least 18 years old and an endorsing body must approve your business idea. This visa costs 1,191 pounds for the main applicant and the same amount for each dependent if you’re applying from outside the U.K.
Cost To Relocate to the United Kingdom
Moving costs can get expensive, especially if you’re moving across the pond. According to the moving company International Van Lines, the average cost to move from the United States to London ranges from $3,000–$7,000. The average cost varies based on your destination country—England has the lowest moving cost range and Northern Ireland has the highest. Here are some of the costs associated with this type of move:
- Airline tickets: The average cost of an international airline ticket is $1,400.*
- Car transportation: Shipping your car will cost between $1,000 and $5,000. It will cost more to ship it via air than by sea.
- Pets: It costs around $300 to travel with your small dog or cat in the plane cabin with you. However, transporting your pet in the cargo hold could cost up to $1,000.
- Visas: Visas differ in price, but applicants spend an average of $500 on visa and immigration fees.
U.S. cost of living may be comparable to the U.K.’s depending on where you live. In April 2024, Zoopla reported the average rent in the U.K. is 1,223 pounds, while London is the most expensive city to rent a place to live, at an average of 2,121 pounds.
*Cost data in this section was sourced from Angi unless otherwise noted.
Navigating the United Kingdom Banking System
The U.K. has a well-developed banking system, but be aware of the following when managing your international finances:
Opening a UK Bank Account
Opening a bank account in the U.K. is relatively straightforward, especially if you do it after arriving. Here’s what you need to do:
- Choose a bank and account type that suits your needs.
- Gather the necessary documents, including your passport or photo ID, proof of address, and employment details.
- Apply online or visit a local branch to set up your account.
Managing International Finances
When moving your finances to the U.K., consider these tips:
- Use a currency exchange service for large transfers to get better rates than banks typically offer.
- Keep your home country bank account open initially to manage any ongoing transactions.
- Research international credit cards that offer low foreign transaction fees.
Finding Housing in the United Kingdom
Securing suitable accommodation is one of the most important aspects of your move. The U.K. offers various housing options to suit different needs and budgets.
Renting vs. Buying Property
Renting is the most practical initial option for most newcomers. It provides flexibility and lets you familiarize yourself with different areas before committing long-term. The rental process typically involves the following steps:
- Finding a property through online portals or estate agents
- Providing references and proof of income
- Paying a security deposit (usually 4–6 weeks’ rent)
- Signing a tenancy agreement
If you’d rather buy property, be aware that the process can be complex for nonresidents. You may need to provide additional documentation and secure a larger deposit than U.K. residents.
Popular Areas for Expats
While London is a popular choice for many expats, the following cities offer great opportunities and potentially lower living costs:
- Birmingham: The U.K.’s second-largest city with a diverse economy
- Bristol: Popular for its creative industries and quality of life
- Edinburgh: Offers a blend of history and modern amenities
- Manchester: Known for its vibrant culture and growing tech scene
Preparing for Your Move to the United Kingdom
Proper preparation can significantly reduce the stress of your international move, especially if you’re moving with pets or have numerous belongings to transport.
Moving to the United Kingdom With Pets
It wouldn’t feel like home if you didn’t bring your pet. Your dog, cat, or ferret can enter Great Britain—which includes England, Scotland, and Wales—if they have the following:
- Microchip
- Pet health certificate
- Rabies vaccine
- Tapeworm treatment (if your pet is a dog)
Pets in Northern Ireland follow European Union (EU) guidelines, which include the following:
- Dogs must have a tapeworm treatment.
- Pets need to have microchips.
- You have to present an EU animal health certificate.
- Your pet needs a rabies vaccine and you must wait 21 days after your vet gives it a primary vaccine to travel.
The following dog breeds are banned in the U.K., and you cannot bring your banned dog into the country without a valid Certificate of Exemption:
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
- Japanese Tosa
- Pit bull terrier
Packing and Shipping Belongings
Consider the following tips when packing for your move:
- Account for climate differences when deciding what to bring.
- Label boxes clearly with contents and destination rooms.
- Start early and declutter before packing.
- Use sturdy boxes and proper packing materials.
For shipping, compare air freight (faster but more expensive) with sea freight (slower but more cost-effective for larger shipments).
Settling Into UK Life
Once you arrive in the U.K., you must take several steps to integrate into your new life.
Obtaining a National Insurance Number
You’ll need a National Insurance (NI) number to work in the U.K. and access certain benefits. You can apply for your NI number online once you arrive in the U.K. You’ll need to upload documents to prove your identity or attend an in-person appointment if you can’t upload this proof.
If you have a biometric residence permit (BRP) or eVisa, you may already have an NI number—look for it on the back of your BRP or by logging into your U.K. Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account.
Health Care Registration
Register with a local General Practitioner (GP) as soon as possible after arrival. This ensures you have access to medical care when needed. Follow these steps to register:
- Find a GP practice (also known as a surgery) in your area.
- Complete a registration form.
- Provide proof of address and ID only if your surgery requests secondary documentation. You are not required to provide these things to register with a GP.
Education System Overview
If you’re moving with children, familiarize yourself with the U.K. education system. Keep the following in mind:
- Education is compulsory for children aged 5–16. In England, however, a child who leaves school between the ages of 16 and 18 must attend a college, start an apprenticeship, or work or volunteer on a part-time basis until they turn 18.
- Public schools (known as state schools in the U.K.) are free to attend.
- The school year typically runs from September to July.
- You can apply for school places through your local council.
United Kingdom Permanent Residency and Citizenship
Moving to another country and making it your permanent home requires careful planning. Below, we’ll cover the paths to permanent residency and U.K. citizenship.
ILR
Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) allows you to permanently settle and work in the U.K and you may be eligible for certain benefits. You qualify for ILR if you meet the following criteria:
- You have family in the U.K.: Your spouse, partner, or child must be a British citizen or have ILR. You qualify even if your spouse or partner has passed away or if your relationship has ended due to domestic abuse.
- You have lived in the U.K. for 10 years: You must have lived in the region legally and meet certain criteria, such as continuous residence.
- You work in the U.K.: You must hold a work visa and live and work in the U.K. for five years or less depending on your visa type.
- You’re returning to the U.K. after having ILR: You may requalify for settlement depending on your circumstances.
Right of Abode
The right of abode means you may live and work in the region without immigration restrictions. All British citizens and some Commonwealth citizens have the right of abode.
The government recognizes that you have the right of abode as a Commonwealth citizen if you meet all of the following criteria:
- One of your parents was born in the U.K. and was a Britizen citizen when you were born or adopted.
- You are a Commonwealth citizen.
- You have continuously been a Commonwealth citizen since December 31, 1982.
You can also qualify by marriage if you’re a female Commonwealth citizen married to someone who has had the right of abode since before 1983.
Citizenship
You’re a British citizen if you were born in the U.K. and meet certain guidelines. If you were not born in the U.K., you can apply for citizenship if one of the following applies to you:
- You have a British parent, another type of British nationality, or a parent with British overseas territories citizenship.
- You have ILR.
- You’re married or are in a civil partnership with a British citizen. You must already have ILR to attain citizenship.
- You’re stateless, or you previously renounced your British citizenship.
You must request permission to remain in the U.K. after you’ve applied. Before becoming a citizen, you must prove your knowledge of the English language and take the Life in the UK Test, which costs 50 pounds. Book this exam at least three days in advance.
Factors To Consider When Moving to the United Kingdom
Applying for visas and opening a U.K. bank account aren’t the only things you need to consider when moving to the region. You’ll also have to take the following steps:
- Determine what your move entails: You may want to hire international movers that have experience moving clients to a new country while offering competitive pricing.
- Find housing: Renting a home or apartment is common in the U.K. due to high housing costs in many areas.
- Get an NI number: You’ll pay NI contributions to receive benefits and the state pension. You can apply for your NI number if you live, work, and have the right to work in the U.K. Your number will be on your paychecks and will never change.
- Receive your BRP: A BRP confirms your identity, right to study, and right to public services and benefits. You’ll need a BRP to stay in the U.K. for more than six months and to apply to settle. Your visa decision letter will tell you where to collect your BRP after you arrive in the U.K. However, most BRPs will expire on December 31, 2024 because the U.K. is replacing BRPs with eVisas, which you can access online via your UKVI account.
- Sign your child up for school: You can apply to primary or secondary school through your local council. You may need to provide proof of address to show that you’ll live in the area at the start of the new school year.
Our Conclusion
Moving to the U.K. is an intimidating but exciting adventure. You’ll have a smoother transition if you hire a reputable international mover and apply for the right visa. We recommend completing certain must-do tasks for moving abroad, requesting and comparing quotes from at least three moving companies, and creating a budget to manage your finances effectively once you’ve settled in.
FAQ About Moving to the United Kingdom
Is it worth moving to the U.K. from the U.S.?
It’s worth moving to the U.K. from the U.S. if you’re looking for proximity to European countries, a stronger health care system, and a better work-life balance.
What are the disadvantages of moving to the U.K.?
Some disadvantages of moving to the U.K. include the high cost of living and the competitive job market. Its exit from the EU in 2020 has also led to increased uncertainty for some expats living in the U.K.
How much money do you need to move to the U.K.?
Most visa types require you to show proof of financial stability to demonstrate that you can support yourself after moving to the U.K. You should also budget for the fees associated with your visa application and up to $7,000 for moving costs.
What jobs are high in demand in the U.K.?
Jobs that are high in demand in the U.K. are in the health care, technology, and retail industries.
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