Moving to the UK can be an exciting experience, so it’s very easy to get caught up in the hysteria and leave yourself in a situation that you aren’t prepared for. You should always have a plan when you move to a new country, as you need to figure out where you’re going to stay, what you’re going to do for work and gain a better understanding of the county’s laws. You might even eventually want to apply for indefinite leave to remain to stay long term.

This guide will help you with setting up shop in the UK, as we advise you on the first courses of action you should take when you complete the move. Continue reading to find out more.

Legal and Financial

Visa Requirements

When moving to the UK, you need to get the appropriate visa. Skilled worker visas are the most popular for those looking for work in the country, as they gain eligibility to work for a UK employer in an eligible skilled occupation. If you need help with this, you should contact immigration solicitors London.

National Insurance Number

Applying for a national insurance number should be done as soon as possible, as it’s needed for working and accessing benefits like NHS free healthcare. You will also need this to ensure your employer can correctly deduct National Insurance contributions from your pay and report your earnings to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). 

Council Tax

Register with your local council for council tax payments, as you could land yourself in a lot of trouble if you miss these payments for a long period of time. Eventually, you will be summoned to court for mispayments.

Accommodation and Utilities

As you plan your move, focus on securing your accommodation, whether you’re looking to rent or buy a property. Once your living arrangements are sorted, you’ll need to arrange for essential utilities like gas, electricity, and water to be connected. Finally, if you’re bringing your belongings with you, don’t forget to organise international removals or transportation to get them to your new home.

If you’re looking for low-budget accommodation, the most recommended solution is to look for shared apartments or houses with others in a similar situation to you. This will help you to split bills and will result in less financial strain.

Healthcare and Essentials

When you arrive in the UK, sorting out your essentials is key so that you can fully enjoy the experience. Make sure to register with a local General Practitioner (GP) so you can access the National Health Service (NHS) for your healthcare needs. This is very important, as you’ll want to be fully covered for any serious health-related accidents that might occur.

You should also make sure that you get a UK SIM card for your phone. This will be crucial for staying connected and making arrangements for jobs and social events. Don’t forget to seek out local support groups and services too, as they will help you transition seamlessly into UK life. These can be invaluable for helping you adjust to your new environment, as highlighted by the Immigration Advice Service.