Things to Do After Moving to the United Kingdom

Your Ultimate Checklist:
Things to Do After Moving to the UK

Once you’ve arrived in the United Kingdom, follow this checklist to settle in and begin your new life smoothly:

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1. Register Your Address

• Council Tax: Contact your local council to set up council tax payments.
• Electoral Roll: Register on the electoral roll at your new address. This is essential for building your credit history.

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2. Set Up a Bank Account

• Choose a Bank: Visit a local branch or apply online for a UK bank account. Major banks include Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds, and NatWest.
• Required Documents: Provide proof of identity (passport) and proof of address (tenancy agreement or utility bill).

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3. Register for Healthcare (NHS)

• Find a GP (General Practitioner): Register with a local doctor for access to the National Health Service.
• Apply for an NHS Number: This is your unique identifier for medical services.
• Dental Registration: Find an NHS or private dentist, as dental services are not always free.

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4. Apply for a National Insurance Number (NI)

• If you plan to work, you need a National Insurance (NI) number.
• How to Apply: Call the NI helpline or check if one is issued automatically with your visa.

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5. Explore Public Transport

• Get a Travel Card: Purchase an Oyster card or contactless payment card for London transport.
• Rail Travel: Consider a Railcard for discounted train fares.
• Driving: If driving, check if you need to exchange your foreign license for a UK one.

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6. Set Up Utilities

• Electricity, Gas, and Water: Contact providers to set up or transfer accounts.
• Internet and Phone: Research broadband and mobile plans from providers like BT, Virgin Media, or Sky.

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7. Get to Know Your Local Area

• Grocery Stores: Locate nearby supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Aldi, or Waitrose.
• Local Amenities: Find libraries, gyms, parks, and community centers.

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8. Understand Taxes and Employment

• Income Tax: Ensure your employer deducts income tax and NI contributions.
• Self-Employment: If self-employed, register with HMRC to file taxes.

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9. Enroll Children in School (if applicable)

• Find a School: Research and apply for local schools or nurseries for your children.
• School Supplies: Purchase uniforms and supplies as required.

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10. Join a Community

• Local Groups: Participate in local events, clubs, or meetups to integrate into your community.
• Expat Networks: Join online forums or social groups for advice and support.

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11. Learn Local Laws and Etiquette

• Recycling Rules: Understand how to sort and dispose of waste in your area.
• Cultural Norms: Get accustomed to British politeness, queueing, and tipping practices.

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12. Open a Credit File

• Building your credit score in the UK is essential for future financial tasks like getting a mortgage or loan.
• Tip: Use your bank account regularly and pay bills on time.

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13. Start Exploring England

• Visit famous landmarks like the Tower of London, Stonehenge, and the Lake District.
• Discover local pubs, cultural sites, and festivals to immerse yourself in British culture.

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By completing these steps, you’ll be well on your way to settling into your new life in the UK!