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.

When Is The Best Time To Repatriate To The UK?

People returning to the UK may also benefit from returning home to family or friends. This could be considered as ’emotional repatriation’ or a morale boost to be surrounded by people you know and who speak your language.

What’s also good about repatriating to the UK is because there’s a wide variety of interesting things to do, from history tours and heritage sites to festivals and sports matches. All these activities can help re-energize you after an extended period abroad.

If you’re wondering when the best is time to repatriate to the UK, ask yourself: Are you feeling burnt out and in need of a break? Are your colleagues and friends already pressuring you about starting a family? Or do you feel like having a change in your life?

If you feel like anything, it might be a good time to repatriate. However, if you don’t think that there’s a need for a change in your life or if you simply don’t want to make one, even though the conditions are right, keep enjoying where you currently live and work. After all, life is too short to be spent wondering what could have been.

If you are considering moving to the UK, or you are already in Great Britain but wish to return home for whatever reason, you may be wondering what the best time is to repatriate back home. Well, no matter where you are currently living in the world, there is never a perfect time for repatriation because there will always be some form of financial, political, or personal implications.

However, if you are looking to take a flight back home as soon as possible, you should consider the following five best times to repatriate to the UK.

February – March

This is one of the best times for those who wish to return home from the UK because during this time the weather will be mild and you will avoid the English summertime rain.

September – October

As with many countries within Europe, the autumn season brings about a gentle cooling of the weather, which is most pleasant for those suffering from the hot, humid months of summer.  November – March is also a good time to repatriate to the UK because the weather is still pleasant, and there is less chance of you having any snow or ice-related accidents.

April – May

If you are returning home during these months, be prepared for some rain, but it is warmer than February-March, making traveling somewhat more bearable. Also, there is less chance of you coming across any snow or ice-related accidents.

October – December

Repatriating in these months is a great idea because there are fewer crowds on the roads, which can help you get home quickly and safely. The days are also shorter, so you will not be forced to drive in darkness, and the weather is still nice, with milder temperatures than winter.

January – February

Although the coldest time of year, this is one of the best times to repatriate back to the UK. The weather will allow you to travel safely and without the worry of ice or snow; the roads are relatively quiet with few accidents. There is also not much rain, so you will be able to maintain your visibility at all times whilst driving.

5 Things to Know About Living in the UK

So you are thinking about moving to the UK or are already living here? Well, this section is for you! To make your transition easier, we have put together five things to know about living in the UK. Read them carefully and get ready for a life full of surprises!

●        Paying Bills in the UK

When you live in the United Kingdom, you will likely have to pay for a number of services and utilities. Knowing how and when you need to pay these bills is important if you avoid receiving letters from organizations requesting their money back.

In order to make sure your bills are paid on time, you will need to set up an account for the service or utility. This will be done by completing an application form and returning it to the organization you are paying. You may have to pay a deposit on some accounts, so you should check this before signing up.

When your bill is due, most companies now offer you the option to make your payment each month automatically. This means that you will not need to worry about forgetting when you pay but do remember that any changes or alterations to the account may mean that payments are missed, which could lead to further charges being applied.

One thing worth remembering is that it might be possible for you to change your payment due date to fit in with other bills you have. It is also worth noting that some companies offer discounts if you pay your bill early instead of waiting until it is due.

●        Checking Availability of Benefits and Applying For Them

When moving to the United Kingdom, there are a number of benefits that can be claimed by those who need them. Although some of these benefits are available to people who have not lived in the country for a certain time, it is worth noting that many others require you to have had UK National Insurance contributions for at least one year.

Before making an application for any benefits, it is advised that you visit the government website and check which ones you qualify for. You can then discuss your options with a welfare officer to determine whether the benefits will be better for you if they are claimed while living in the United Kingdom or if it would be easier to wait until you return to your home country.

If you need help making an application for any entitlements, several organizations throughout the United Kingdom can help. However, it is important to remember that any applications for benefits will need to be made from within the country as those who have gone abroad can no longer benefit from them.

●        Living In the United Kingdom as a Student

One of the main ways many people choose to live in the United Kingdom as a student is through taking a gap year. This means they will spend one or more years not studying and instead gain work experience to help with their future career prospects.

As well as the opportunity to travel, gain new experiences and meet new people, those who take a gap year can also be eligible for benefits such as discounted railcards and special offers on mobile phone contracts. Depending upon the school or university you attend, it may also be possible for you to save money on tuition fees depending on your age and nationality.

Another benefit that students living in the United Kingdom can enjoy is a student loan which means that they will not need to pay during their time at college or university. However, it is important to remember that these loans will need to be paid back once you have finished your studies and make a certain amount of money each year.

If you choose to return home after your time in college or university, it is possible to pay back the loan by direct debit on a monthly basis. If you stay in the United Kingdom, then it may be necessary for you to make a lump sum payment every six months instead.

●        Unemployment Insurance

In the UK, you will pay National Insurance for a certain amount of time as you work, and after that time is over, in most cases, you are then eligible to receive unemployment insurance if necessary. To learn more about National Insurance contributions, kindly follow our updates on this platform.

However, when looking for employment in the UK, many positions will ask for your NI number when you apply. This is how they know what contributions to expect from you when you work there.

●        Hereditary Peerages in the UK

Although most people do not need to worry about hereditary peerages when living in the United Kingdom, there are some things it is worth knowing if you are planning on settling down for any length of time. One example of this, which is most common in England, is being appointed to the House of Lords.

These peers are called life peers, and they have no specific term limits, with some serving for more than 20 years at a time. It is worth noting that these titles are passed down through families, with the eldest son taking the title when his father dies or retires.

Conclusion

There are a lot of considerations to take into account when repatriating to the UK. These include where you want your permanent business address, whether or not you wish to be near family members, and how comfortable you will feel in a new environment. Many people choose their holiday time frame as the perfect opportunity to settle back down in England. But is this the best time to repatriate? Refer to this article to know better.

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 most cases, people have a life in the UK and elsewhere. For some, this may be due to government or military employment or by being posted abroad for work reasons. Military men and women may even find themselves repatriated following a tour of duty overseas. No matter your situation, a time will come when you find yourself wondering if you should repatriate to the UK.

What are some of the benefits of repatriating to the UK? Of course, taxes are one of them, especially for people who have an overseas assignment or were on a posting that can be considered as ‘foreign’ by HMRC. Even higher salaries may not be enough to counterbalance UK taxation rates against a possible scenario of a lower tax bracket abroad.

This is especially true for people who live and work out of the UK for more than six months a year. In fact, it also applies to those who spend less time outside their country of residence unless they have foreign income, which would make them eligible to be placed into a lower tax band due to earning income overseas.

However, it’s not just about taxes. While many countries have the potential to offer considerably better work conditions or salaries, living in the UK can also mean that you return home ready to relax without having to worry about the language barrier, cultural differences, or even time changes.

This is especially true if you are used to a certain way of life and find yourself in a country where this means of life is incompatible with the one you lead. So, if you’ve been surfing the internet to know the right time to repatriate to the UK, worry less. In this article, we will walk you through what you need to know.

10 Benefits of Repatriating To the UK

The term repatriation is defined as the return of citizens or residents to their country of origin.  Due to political instability, terrorism, violence, or natural disaster, it has become common for many immigrants to seek refuge in other more stable countries.

Many countries have strict rules which regulate who can enter their borders and how long one can stay for – and often, those rules can change without warning.  As a result, more and more immigrants are choosing to look into the benefits of repatriating back to their home country as opposed to continuing to live as an immigrant in another part of the world.

When you think of the UK, what do you envision? The traditional image of a family in front of the Buckingham Palace passing the Queen quickly on their way to work or school comes to many minds. However, with increasing numbers of expats returning home for an increased quality of life and business opportunities, this may be changing. Here are ten benefits of repatriating to the UK.

1.    Low Tax Rates for High Earners

The UK’s tax rates are low compared to other countries, especially with its European neighbors. However, there has recently been a small increase in taxes for top earners, but the changes only make the current system more competitive.

If you’re considering a career in investment banking or fund management, you should know that the UK has a top “additional rate” of income tax of 50% for those whose yearly earnings are more than £150K. This is marked as an exceptional tax, only to be paid by those who can afford it.

2.    A Growing Economy Means Opportunities for Expats

Unlike many economies worldwide, which are still struggling to find their feet after the financial crisis, the UK’s economy is growing steadily as it emerges from the mess. This makes it an attractive place for expatriates who want to be a part of a thriving economy.

More so, you can continue doing business with European neighbors like France and Germany. In addition to this, the UK’s economy is not based on a single sector but instead covers a wide range of industries. This means that no matter what your expertise, there will be opportunities for you in London.

3.    Increased Life Satisfaction and Quality of Life

It’s difficult to put a number or statistical evidence to this benefit of repatriating to the UK, but it’s something many expats value greatly. How happy you are in your home country is one of the most important factors when moving abroad. If it isn’t somewhere you could spend the rest of your life; then there’s little point in moving there for work or study reasons.

Expats who have lived in the UK say they have higher life satisfaction, regardless of how many more hours a day they work. The country’s first past post system for elections also means that you won’t have to spend your time arguing with people about who should run the country – whichever party gets the most votes runs it.

4.    An Expanding Community of Immigrants

As the UK continues to grow economically, there has also been an increase in immigrants since 2000. The country is now home to over 7.5 million foreign-born people, meaning that 22% of residents were not born in the UK. This gives expats who move back an excellent choice for places where they can meet like-minded people and where there are plenty of facilities for English speakers.

5.    A Great Place to Raise a Family

The UK is often described as one of the best places to live in the world if you want to raise a family. It has excellent life satisfaction scores across all ages, including children. The cost of living is also relatively low compared to other places, especially regarding education.

For expats looking for the best countries to raise a family, this could be one of your top choices. As a bonus, if you have children born overseas but are still citizens there, they can apply for UK citizenship after living in the country for just three years.

6.    An Improved Work-Life Balance

There’s no doubt that the UK has a fast-paced and competitive work environment, but its residents also enjoy one of the best work-life balances in the world. Those returning home after studying or working abroad often value this greatly.

At the same time, those who choose to stay can easily make time for themselves between their work and social commitments. Because of this, you can expect to see fewer burnt-out people in the UK compared to other places like Singapore or Hong Kong.

7.    English is Widely Spoken

If there’s one thing that makes it easier for expats moving to the UK, it’s the fact that many people speak English fluently. This means you’ll need to spend less time learning the language when you arrive and instead focus on getting settled in.

Besides, you will probably come across some words or phrases unique to the UK, but this is a pretty easy problem to overcome. The one exception, of course, is if English isn’t your first language – expats from non-English speaking countries should expect this to take up some of their time when they first arrive.

8.    Less Bureaucracy and More Efficient Government

There’s a lot to be said about the UK government. It’s known for its efficiency, something that leaders of other countries, including France and Spain, have begun to try and emulate. The English-speaking country also has relatively little bureaucracy compared with many others across Europe.

Also, you can buy a property in the UK within days of deciding you want to, for example. In fact, it’s been reported that several French citizens have been buying properties in England as a way around their own country’s red tape when finding somewhere to live.

9.    A Rich Cultural Heritage and Access to the EU Market

The UK has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its museums and architecture and is celebrated each year during the London Eye event. If you want to be a part of this, repatriating to the UK will allow you access to other European countries within the EU through membership in the single market. This gives you greater freedom to travel to any country which has signed up to it without having to apply for a visa.

10. The openness of the Country

The UK is one of the most multicultural countries in Europe, with people from all over the world calling it home. This makes it easy to settle into your new life there since you’ll find many familiar faces around you who can help you get used to things like paying taxes and driving on the left side of the road. Expats have also found that Britons are typically very open and friendly, which makes it easy to get settled quickly.