British Citizen Returning To the UK From South Africa – amazing things you should consider? part 2

British Citizen Returning To the UK From South Africa – What Things Should You Consider? part 2 – Part one is here.

Ultimate Checklist for Expats Moving To the U.K

The United Kingdom is a multicultural country, globally known for its unique and diverse lifestyle. With such an enticing allure to the outside world, it’s no wonder why many people from different parts of the globe migrate or travel here.

The UK has been home to expats (or migrants) for hundreds of years because it offers more opportunities for people searching for a better life. As the country is filled with diversity, there are countless jobs to choose from and endless things to do.

So if you’re considering moving here in the future, it’s important that you fully prepare yourself before making this move. This article will provide you with some tips when relocating into the country.

1)    Gather Important Documents

The first thing you’ll need is to gather your important documents, such as identification cards and certificates. This includes things like your birth certificate, passport, driver’s license, or your college diploma.

You should bring all of these with you because it makes the process of settling down in the UK much easier. More so, you’ll need to provide these documents when you apply for a bank account, open an energy utility bill, or even in getting a SIM card for your mobile phone.

2)    Apply For National Insurance Number (Nino)

National Insurance Number (or Nino) is an important personal identifier given to all UK citizens, and you must have one. Furthermore, it will be used as a reference to determine your eligibility for state benefits and other UK services.

So if you’re someone who’s planning on working in the country, then this is required of you before you start looking for employment opportunities. To get your National Insurance Number (NINo), contact Jobcentre Plus.

3)    Prepare For Higher Cost Of Living

Living in the UK is expensive, especially regarding things like housing, energy bills, and food. While some areas offer more affordable costs in these necessities, there are still some parts where you’ll need to pay more.

So if you’re on a tight budget, you should prepare yourself for this change so it won’t be too overwhelming when the time comes that your expenses are not within your means. This way, you can easily adjust without compromising your quality of life or living below your standards.

4)    Make an Effort to Integrate

If you’re planning on living here in the UK for good, you should try to adjust and become part of society. More so, locals are much friendlier compared to other cultures. So it wouldn’t be considered rude or offensive if you initiate conversations or make small talk with strangers.

Another way for you to easily fit in is by learning the language. While English is widely spoken there, it’s not advised that you solely rely on this to communicate with people. This will only make you an outsider and won’t allow you to interact with locals as much as possible.

5)    Keep Yourself Updated

While living in the UK is generally safe, it’s always best to be aware of your surroundings. There are certain areas where people tend to avoid by themselves at night or if they don’t know anyone living there.

For expats looking for news or updates about the country, check out local TV newscasts and radio programs daily. This will help you stay informed of important events and changes in the country.

It’s also best that you sign up for newsletters online and social media to keep yourself updated with what is happening in the UK. If something happens, these are usually the fastest way to receive information.

Best Places to Resides In the U.K

Living in the U.K is a life-changing opportunity for many young people and students, offering unique experiences while testing one’s limits. This beautiful country has many areas to explore and quite a few surprises awaiting residents. If you plan on living or studying in the U.K, make sure to choose your new home wisely. Here are some of the best places to live in the U.K.

London, England

One of the most popular options for anyone who likes an urban lifestyle is London, England’s capital city. As one of the largest cities worldwide, London offers everything from entertainment and leisure facilities to various job opportunities – not to mention exquisite food and trendy events.

If you’re a fan of multiculturalism, London is a great choice for you. The city is home to people from over 180 nationalities and hosts almost 50 international organizations, in addition to being the largest financial center in Europe. London’s cost of living is well known, but that doesn’t stop foreigners from being mesmerized by the city!

Edinburgh, Scotland

Beautiful architecture and stunning green parks attract tourists from all over the world. Edinburgh, Scotland, is a phenomenal city with vibrant nightlife and various leisure activities such as golfing or horse riding.

Of course, many people love Edinburgh also thanks to its great educational institutions such as the University of Edinburgh. The university has more than 100 research centers and schools in Arts, Divinity, Law, Medicine, Social Sciences, and Science. It is also one of the most international universities in Europe, with many international students coming from worldwide to attend classes.

Cardiff, Wales

If you are looking for vibrant nightlife, Cardiff is where it is. This city is famous for its fantastic clubs and bars, located in Cardiff Bay. Cardiff also offers a variety of cultural events throughout the year, making it easy to spend one’s free time enjoying various activities such as theatre or classical music shows.

What makes Cardiff so unique is how passionate people are about sports. Rugby and football are very popular in Wales, and people often gather together to support their favorite teams. Cardiff has many museums as well, one of them being the world-famous National Museum Cardiff. This museum has a huge collection of art, artefacts, and natural history and welcomes approximately 1 million visitors per year.

Birmingham, England

Birmingham is one of the best cities in the U.K due to its great transport links and various universities. This city has a vibrant student life and offers plenty of entertainment options such as theatres, cinemas, and museums. Also, many popular musicians came from Birmingham, so it’s not surprising that the city hosts a fantastic music scene!

Brighton, England

Brighton is one of the most popular destinations for artists, writers, or anyone who likes an alternative lifestyle. This city is well-known for its eclectic vibe and unique architecture. From quirky designer shops to hip cafes and bars, Brighton will capture your imagination with its unique way of life.

Frequently Asked Questions about Moving Back to the U.K

What language do people speak in the U.K?

Although English is the official language of England, Welsh is spoken throughout Wales and Gaelic throughout Scotland. It’s best to brush up on your British spelling while planning your trip! Travelers may also be happy to learn that many other languages are spoken throughout the UK.

What is the cost of living?

The U.K has a high standard of living, and as such, it is relatively more expensive than other countries to live in. For example, an average price for a pint of beer starts at £3 or £4, depending on where you are. Food, clothes, and everyday items tend to be more expensive than in the USA.

Is it easy to drive?

Driving in the U.K can be a great and easy way of exploring this country, and there are plenty of car hire companies available throughout airports, major cities, and many other areas. It might take some time to get used to driving on the left side of the road.

What is the weather like?

The U.K has a temperate maritime climate which means that summers are warmer than most other regions in Europe, but the weather is generally changeable throughout seasons, with frequent rainfall and mild winters. Summers can range from 15 °C to 22 °C (60 °F to 72 °F). Winters are very cold, with maximum temperatures averaging 4 °C (39 °F) in the south.

What should I do before I move back to the U.K?

Just as you would in any other country, acquaint yourself with local customs and laws to avoid any surprises. It is a great idea to join a group for expats who can help you get a feel of what it’s like living there; this will enable you to compare notes with your fellow expats.

It is also beneficial to find out how the U.K. government handles common issues like taxes, visas, and work permits; having this information can prevent nightmares later on during your relocation process.

What are the ways of moving back to the U.K?

You can either join your family or friends or opt for one of the many international moving companies. A simple online search should give you several options to select from, and these worldwide movers can help you with everything from finding a place to stay in the U.K. to get a job that matches your qualifications and experience.

Conclusion

Moving to a different place as an expat or not can be challenging. But if you follow these simple steps mentioned in this article, it can make settling down in the UK much easier. It allows you to fit into your surroundings easily and become part of society.