The UK is home to some of the most beautiful countryside in the world. From Ullswater lakes to the beautiful rolling hills and green pastures of Lancashire, the UK is geographically unrivalled wrapped in a rich historical fabric. It of course can be a busy place too with London being the expat capital for Australians when looking to relocate overseas.
The UK is a popular destination for Australians looking to relocate or move for a change of lifestyle and new opportunities. Australia’s historical ties with the UK make it accessible for people from all walks of life. For Australians wanting to get a taste of Europe without the trials of learning a second language or being forced into a new culture, moving to the UK is the perfect choice!
Furthermore, The United Kingdom has great healthcare systems, schools and is in the perfect location to travel around Europe in your time off. Spending a weekend in Italy or Germany is considered the norm!
Palmers Relocations in Australia have conducted studies to show that the best way to combat homesickness when moving abroad through surveying 200 Australians who have relocated over to the United Kingdom. Studies and customer feedback have shown us that a great method to remove homesickness is to arrange your new environment with familiar content.
Setting up your new home with your sentimental household goods and personal effects is the best way to settle in and add a sense of nostalgia to your home.
Once you have decided to move to the UK, there is some important things that you will need to organise in advance.
Get or check your Passport
The first thing that you will need to do when moving to the UK is the make sure that you have a valid passport. If you are moving with family, be sure to check that they also have a valid passport (you would be surprised how often this happens).
If your passport expires shortly after you are due to leave Australia, then you should consider getting a new one.
Organise a visa
You will need to organise your UK visa prior to leaving Australia. Visas in the UK are managed by the Home Office. There are several different Visa schemes which are available, so you will need to consider which one is right for you. You can check which Visa you will require online.
When organising your UK visa, you should always check with the relevant government authorities, to ensure that you are following proper visa procedure.
Organise your banking
Opening a bank account in the UK is simple enough, however, you will need to provide them with two different documents – a proof of identity card along with a proof of address document. The proof of address document may come in the form of a utility bill. Palmers consultants can assist by offering additional information about opening a UK bank account.
Keep in mind that the Australian dollar is worth significantly less than the GBP (Great British Pound) so when considering the cost of living in the UK, make sure that you are taking this into consideration. There are several reputable currency exchange companies who can help minimise this impact as well. Talk to our relocation consultant for further information.
Health Care
The UK has similar health care systems to Medicare here in Australia, so there is no need to worry about the standard of health care that will be available to you. You will need to register with your local GP to be part of the NHS. This can only be done once you arrive in the United Kingdom. You can find out more about the NHS online or feel free to talk one of consultants.
It is important to be aware of the emergency services information of a country before you arrive. The emergency services number for the UK is 999. If you have a medical situation, however, it is not an emergency then you can call 111. 111 is a 24-hour helpline where you will be able to speak to a fully trained advisor.
Finding a property
Finding a place to live can be difficult in a new country which is why you should be prepared and do your research before you move from Australia. Knowing what you want before you arrive will help you to find the home that is right for you and your family. Know whether your current situation will allow you to rent or buy.
Once you have determined this, sit down with your family and have a conversation about what each member of your family would like to get our see in their new home. To help you with your home search, contact a local real estate agent or check online forums via social media. They will be able to help you find the perfect place to call home.
Planning the move
The first thing that you should do when moving to the UK is to book your removalist. Booking a reputable and accredited removal provider will help to ensure that your move to the UK goes as smoothly as possible.
Palmers Relocations can provide you with a moving experience that will leave you feeling calm and in control. We have been moving people for over 40 years and are the industry leaders when it comes to international moves.