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.

British Citizen Returning To the UK From South Africa – What Things Should You Consider? part 1

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

In 2022, many British citizens living in South Africa will return to their home country of Great Britain. Many factors influence a British citizen who lives in South Africa to leave and return to their home countries, such as economy, safety, security, family ties, and lifestyle.

The United Kingdom is one of the most powerful and influential countries in the world, and many British citizens choose to live and work abroad in different countries. However, despite what could be seen as a successful life abroad in South Africa, British citizens will return to their home country for various reasons. 

Economic factors such as unemployment, GDP, inflation, economic growth, public debt, and exchange rates are the main reasons South African citizens choose to leave their country.  Many British citizens who live in South Africa see their home country as an attractive destination because the UK economy is growing despite the tough political decisions that elected officials have taken.

Post-Brexit, the United Kingdom will be a more attractive country for British citizens living abroad to return to their home country due to the Pound’s stronger exchange rate and lower cost of living. South African expats who want to relocate back to Great Britain may also find it significantly easier to return once they have obtained skills and qualifications in South Africa.

The United Kingdom is also seen as a safer place for British citizens to live because of its low crime rate and higher safety profile compared to South Africa. Today, we will walk you through what to consider about British citizens returning to the UK from South Africa. Would you love to get the full details? If that sounds like a yes, continue reading!

Things to Consider When Moving From South Africa to the UK

The government has announced that it will be ending the free movement of people from the European Union (EU) into the UK in 2022. However, if you are a British citizen, you will still move freely between South Africa and the UK.

Moving to a new country might seem like a lot of hard work, but some tips will help you on your way. Here are the things to consider when moving from South Africa to the UK as a British citizen in 2022.

1.    The Expenses

There is a lot of paperwork to move to a new country. One of the things you need to get is a certificate of your citizenship and everything else that proves who you are and where you live, such as bank statements. All this comes at a cost in South Africa, but in the UK, it will be free! However, keep in mind that you will need to pay for your flight and your time off work.

When you get there, the government recommends having at least £1 000 – £2 500 to support yourself until you find a job. This is just a recommendation, though, and there might be certain things they want you to buy, such as a local SIM card.

2.    Accommodation

Finding a place to live in the UK is not as simple as South Africa, especially if you have never been there before. Some companies help people find accommodation, and they advise you on what areas are best for work, completing your studies, and having affordable housing. It might take a while but finding a place to live is one of the most important things about moving.

3.    Finding a Job

Finding a job in South Africa is not as difficult as it can be in the UK because you have a lot more opportunities if you are from there. Some websites advertise jobs, and they look for companies that will help people find their first job. There are even websites that focus on helping you find a job if you have been living in another country before.

4.    Getting your Driving License

In order to be able to drive in the UK, certain things need to be renewed, and a South African driver’s license cannot do this. The good news is that it does not take too long to get your new driver’s license, and some agencies can help you with this. However, you need to be sure that your license is valid for driving in the UK before you go.

5.    Cultural Differences

Some things are different between South Africa and the UK, but none are extremely major or difficult to get used to. However, it is important that you know certain things before you move there so that you do not offend anyone or feel like an outsider right away.

6.    The Cost of Living

The costs of living in South Africa and the UK are very different, so be sure to do your research before you emigrate. You might find yourself in a lot of debt if you’re not careful. The biggest difference between the two is that in London, things are more expensive than they are in South Africa.

But if you move to Manchester or another big city, it will be cheaper than Cape Town. Additionally, there’s no need to buy water anymore because it comes out of the tap, and you don’t have to buy expensive liquor like Amarula.

7.    The Working System

In the UK, it’s easier to find a job because there are more jobs available and in different areas around the country. It is also easy to get working papers to work for yourself. This does not exist in South Africa anymore.

If you want to start your own business in South Africa, it might be a good idea to bring some of your skills from the UK with you. In terms of finding a job, it is always best if you have some experience and references from previous jobs. If you don’t know what you’d like to do for a living, get involved with internships to see if you like it.

8.    The Weather

The weather is an important factor when moving to a new country, especially for those not used to the cold. South Africa’s winter lasts from June until August, but in England, it can last until May or even June. Before you move, make sure you research what the weather is like in your area of choice so you get an idea of what to pack and which clothes you might need to get.

9.    The Lifestyle

Another thing to consider is that South Africa’s culture is very different from the UK, which might take some time to get used to. For example, do not be surprised if people are loud at night or start swearing in conversation. You will also see a lot of people on public transport! This allows you to travel around the city for less than £5, which is cheaper than in most places, so enjoy it!

Make sure you save some money if you plan on traveling. It’s expensive to go overseas, but with your working papers, there is no need for a tourist visa anymore. When you feel comfortable in your new home, start visiting other cities in the UK to see what they have to offer.

10. The Process

Moving to a different country can be challenging in itself. However, when you are moving between the UK and South Africa, it gets even more complicated. You need to have either two passports or citizenship in one of these countries so that you can travel easily between the two countries without your documents being questioned at customs.

For example, if you are South African and born in the UK, your passport will probably state that you are a British citizen. Because of this, when you try to enter the UK with just your South African Passport, they might suspect that something is not right and then question you or even refuse you entry into the country.

11. The Language

Knowing the language of a country is always great – especially when you are moving to a new one. If nothing else, it will give you an insight into the culture through slang and certain words that do not exist in South Africa. This is why it’s important to know that there are many differences between English as it is spoken in South Africa instead of English as it is spoken in the UK.

Types of Visas Available To Move with a Foreign Spouse

So you’ve met someone and fallen in love, now you want to make things more permanent and move back to the UK together. Moving back with a foreign spouse can offer challenges, but there are many paths to take. There are five types of visas available for couples moving back to the U.K together. If both parties have citizenship in different countries, this will impact which route you can take.

1.    Marriage Visa – Spouse Visa (M)

This visa is open to people who are married or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or an EEA national. The spouse must be over 18 years old, and the couple should have been together for at least two years. The visa is initially for 30 months, and after this expires, the spouse can apply to remain in the UK with a further settlement visa to continue living together.

2.    Spouse Visa

This visa is open to people who are not married or in a civil partnership but is in a long-term relationship with a British citizen or an EEA national. The relationship must be over two years, and both parties should have evidence to show this. This visa allows the applicant to come to the U.K for 30 months, after which they can apply to settle in the country permanently.

3.    Long Residence (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

This is an option for people who have lived in the UK with their partner or parent before and want to return after living abroad for three years. They must be able to show they were ‘ordinarily resident in the UK for 10 of the last 15 years. If they can demonstrate this, then they may be able to return to the U.K with their partner without having to make a separate application for a spouse visa.

4.    Unmarried Partner Visa

This visa is open to people in a long-term relationship with a British citizen or an EEA national and would like to move back to the U.K together but aren’t married or in a civil partnership. The couple must have lived together for at least two years and should prove this.

This visa allows the applicant to come to the U.K and stay for 30 months, after which they can apply to settle in the country permanently.

5.    Settlement Visa

This visa is open to people who have been in a relationship with a U.K citizen or an EEA national for five years or more and can provide evidence that they’ve lived together over the last two years. This visa allows the applicant to come into the UK without any time restrictions, but they will need to apply for settlement once they are in the country.

Before moving back to the U.K with a foreign spouse, it’s important to consult an immigration lawyer like Lawford Wilmot, who can help you decide which route is best for your situation. To speak directly to one of our professional advisers, call 020 3137 1500 or fill in our enquiry form, and we’ll call you back.

Benefits of Moving to the U.K

Moving to the United Kingdom can be a scary prospect. With all of the unknowns and potential barriers, it’s no wonder that people are reluctant to make such a large life change. Fortunately, plenty of evidence suggests that moving to the U.K has many benefits for expats and their families living elsewhere in the world. The following are five major benefits of moving to the United Kingdom.

1.    Education

Living abroad is a wonderful way to allow children to experience different cultures, but it also has drawbacks. When families move between countries, their children’s education becomes more difficult because it lacks continuity.

Allowing children to live in the United Kingdom allows them uninterrupted access to the British education system. Many schools in the U.K. are also world-renowned for providing top-quality education to expat children, so parents can rest easy knowing their children will receive high-quality instruction.

2.    Employment Opportunities

Moving to the United Kingdom often means that an individual will have access to much more job opportunities than when living elsewhere in the world. The U.K.’s economy is amongst the strongest in the entire world, so expats will often find that they have much more career opportunities than before they left their country of origin.

3.    Currency Exchange Rates

Because currency exchange rates between one currency and another currency fluctuate constantly, it can be difficult to keep track of how much a product costs if the individual lives in a different country. Fortunately, many companies make regular reports regarding currency exchange rates.

These regular updates allow individuals who are planning to move abroad to have a good idea of what they can expect their money will be worth when they arrive at their destination.

4.    Community and Culture

Moving to a new country can be difficult, especially if the new environment is vastly different from what an individual has experienced before. Fortunately, the United Kingdom provides expats with a wide variety of community and cultural events that help new arrivals feel as though they belong.

There are many clubs and associations available for those who wish to connect with others, so expats don’t have to go it alone if they don’t want to.

5.    The Number of Opportunities

Those who move to the United Kingdom are often pleasantly surprised by just how many opportunities there are in the new country. Businesses that were once considered small-scale enterprises can quickly become huge successes, so anyone who is interested in working for themselves should consider moving to the U.K.

Moving abroad is not easy, but there are plenty of reasons to consider doing so. Expats who are looking for a new beginning would be smart to move overseas and experience all that the United Kingdom has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions about Moving Back to the U.K

Is it cheaper to live in the UK?

The cost of living is generally higher than in other parts of Europe; however, you should be prepared for large wage differences. The average salary in London is £35k (compared to £22k outside of the capital), and expats who move with their family could potentially see an increase of 50% or more in their children’s standard of living.

Is healthcare expensive in the UK?

Public healthcare in the UK is generally viewed as one of the best services in Europe, if not the world. The NHS offers free treatment at the point of need to anyone who can prove that they have normally been residents in the United Kingdom for at least the previous five years.

Is it difficult to find work in the UK?

In comparison with other European countries, unemployment is relatively low, and there are currently millions of unfilled vacancies across a range of industries. In order to secure employment, an individual must have a National Insurance number and be able to prove their right to work in the UK. The job market is particularly competitive for employers in the finance, hospitality, and technology sectors.

Is it difficult to get a job in the UK?

The best way to find work is through networking, sending your CV, and going to interviews. One of the main attractions for foreigners moving back to the UK is that their qualifications should be viewed favorably. The relocation costs are high, but many British companies will give a return plane ticket, accommodation, and a small allowance to assist with the process.

Conclusion

You and your spouse have lived in the United States for a few years. The time has come to move back to the UK, but you’re not sure whether to take them with you or let them stay behind. Moving back to the UK with a foreign spouse isn’t as easy as it might seem at first glance. This way, refer to this guide for more information.

Moving Back To UK With A Foreign Spouse part 1 – that will be the topic of today’s article.

Before introducing this article, if you are interested in our core services which are expat financial, insurance and mortgages, you can contact me here. 

The best time to consider your financial situation is when you are moving to a new country.

Introduction

Many people from the UK marry foreign spouses every year. However, only a few realize what challenges lie ahead of them when they decide to move back to the UK with their spouse. The process is quite complicated as many couples do not realize this fact, and it’s often too late for them by then.

Things become even more difficult if you have children as there are different legal procedures to be followed depending on the child’s age. And if you’re a non-EEA national, obtaining entry clearance is going to be your biggest challenge. This article aims at giving you an overview of what it takes for a non-EEA national who wishes to move back to the UK with a foreign spouse.

If you wish to move back to the UK with a foreign spouse, you should plan well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications. If you are moving back with a foreign spouse, then we’ve got you covered on this platform.

We will talk about what steps need to be taken when planning such a move, what documents need to come with you, and what steps you need to take immediately before and after your arrival back in the UK. Have you been surfing the internet to get the right information about moving back to the UK with a spouse?

Well, worry less as we’ve got you covered today. Not only would you understand the step-by-step guide to relocate back to the UK with your spouse, but we will explain the benefits and the disadvantages. Would you love to know what it takes to move to the UK with your spouse? Read further to get the details.

Ultimate Guide to Move with a Foreign Spouse (UK)

For most British citizens, moving back to the UK with a foreign spouse is an exciting experience. It’s not easy, though – there are many things you need to figure out, some of which are unique to couples in your situation.

Before you start making plans about where exactly you’re going to move, consider these guides for moving back home with a foreign spouse.

The Points System

When you want to move home with a foreign spouse, there are many options. You could work in the UK before you return, or perhaps your spouse can obtain a Tier 2 Visa. It’s not always easy to break into the job market in the UK if you’ve been living abroad for years.

The employer generally handles the Tier 2 Work Permit, but few conditions are. Firstly, they must be able to prove that you do actually have a job offer before they can give your employer a Certificate of Sponsorship, and this is where it gets complicated for most companies. To help smooth the process, you might want to use an immigration lawyer to help you get a work permit.

Settling with Your Spouse

So your spouse is now in the UK, and they just started their new, exciting job! Now what? While it’s exciting that they’re independent and supporting themselves for the first time, it can be difficult if they’re not accustomed to the UK – and even more, if they don’t speak English.

If you want to prevent conflict, try to understand how your spouse is feeling. After all, the prospect of learning a new language in addition to living in a new country can be daunting! Be understanding and patient for the first few months, especially when your spouse needs their support.

Life Skills for Your Foreign Spouse

It’s not uncommon for foreign spouses to find it difficult to understand the ins and outs of everyday life in the UK, even if they speak English fluently. Try to teach your spouse some basic skills that everyone should know – like cooking a proper meal with meat instead of just boiling pasta, how to use the washing machine, and more.

Understanding UK Banking

If you’re planning on moving back to the UK with your Canadian spouse, that means they’ll need a bank account. Most Canadians can also open a joint account with their partner since banks in Canada offer banking services for couples as well.

However, it might be a little more difficult for you if you and your Canadian spouse decide to open separate accounts. Remember that the UK financial market is vastly different from Canada’s, and it can take some time to get used to them!

Planning Ahead

If things are going well after living in the UK together for a few years, it’s highly recommended to make sure you and your spouse plan for the future. Consider getting a joint mortgage and ensuring that your Canadian spouse obtains UK citizenship if they don’t have it.

It can be scary to jump into such major life decisions but consider the benefits of doing so – after all, there’s no sense in living together in the UK when your spouse doesn’t have access to all the benefits British citizens do.

Taxation

When you move back home with a foreign spouse, there are many tax implications that you need to consider. Many of these are more difficult than they seem, so consult an expert about your options before you make any decisions.

You should know that if you’re moving back with a foreign spouse and earn over £62000 per year, they’ll have to pay Income Tax. If your earnings drop below this point, you can claim a Married Couple’s Allowance.

If you earn over £100000 per year each, you won’t be able to claim anything at all. You should also bear in mind that if your foreign spouse moves home with you, they might not access the benefits system due to UK immigration laws.

Help With the Cost of Moving Home

If you’re moving back with a foreign spouse, you’ll have to deal with many expenses in addition to the move itself. Not only that but your earning potential decreases in the UK because your skills are not in high demand anymore. These combined factors can make it very difficult for you to afford life in the UK, even if you’re planning to save money from your pay packet.

Things to Know When Moving Back to the UK

Moving to the UK is a daunting task for anyone, but moving with a foreign spouse (or having your foreign spouse move back with you) adds an extra layer of complexity. Your family will be joining you in their new home, and they will need to quickly become comfortable with the process of settling into their new life.

To help this transition go as smoothly as possible, you should take into consideration the following things.

1.    Know Your Spouse’s Current Situation

If your spouse lives in their home country, then they are likely to have a job and family that ties them down. They will not be able to pack up and leave on a whim – although you would love nothing more than to have them join you, they may not be able to right away. You need to know if they can leave their job or family behind without causing too much issue.

If you’re not sure, then try to find out. You should also investigate what moving back would mean for them. Their visa regulations will be different than yours, and they may need to apply for a new visa to live in the UK – this can take months without any guarantee of success.

2.    Prepare your family’s documents

There are many different documents that your spouse may need to join you in the UK. These will vary depending on their country of citizenship and where they come from but should include passports, visas, marriage certificates, and birth certificates. The process of obtaining these documents can be time-consuming for both your spouse and their embassies

However, you need to make the process as smooth as possible. If you have been in contact with your spouse’s embassy, they will let you know what should be done and when it needs to be done – if not, contact your spouse directly and ask them for a list of documents that they think will be needed.

3.    Prepare Yourself Financially

You must support your spouse financially if they are not currently working. If they’re able to continue their job in the UK, then this won’t be an issue, but if not, you can expect increased costs for food, housing, and utilities.

It will also be more difficult for them to find a new job once they arrive – especially if they do not speak English, which is very common for people moving to the UK. If you’re financially stable enough to support your spouse while they find employment (and deal with all of the challenges that brings), then it’s worth considering this option before making any plans on how to get them settled in with you.

4. Get a Job in Advance

If your spouse is unable to find employment in the UK, then you may need to get a job yourself. If they can keep their current job in their home country, then this option might not be necessary, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

The best thing about this option is that you can decide whether or not to take a job independently from your spouse – it doesn’t even have to be in the same field! Once they join you in the UK, they will have more time to focus on finding a new job in their field, which could help reduce issues that arise when both partners are unemployed.

4.    Prepare Yourself for the Transition

Moving to a new country with your spouse is exciting, but it can also be intimidating. There are bound to be issued when you first move in together, so try to prepare yourself for all possible outcomes. These issues might not even have anything to do with moving back – they could just be related to being in a relationship with your spouse.

Just know that you are not alone if issues arise during these first few weeks or months – almost everyone experiences bumps in the road when moving to a new country. It’s just part of the transition, and it will get easier over time. The most important thing is to remain positive throughout all of this and prepare yourself for anything.