10 Things to Know Before Moving to the UK

Britain was the leading global power during the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century, when it was the center of an empire controlling roughly a quarter of the Earth’s entire landmass. The so-called “Empire on which the sun never sets” slowly disintegrated throughout the 20th century, but its core, the United Kingdom, remains a significant power to this day. It is a highly developed nation with the sixth-largest economy in the world and an estimated 66 million residents. The UK consists of four constituent countries – England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

The official currency is the pound sterling (symbol: £; ISO code: GBP), and currently, for $100, you can expect to get around £76.40. Besides London, some of the most popular cities among expats are Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Liverpool, and Newcastle. Before you begin your British adventure, we’d like to share certain information about this glorious nation that any US expat trying to fit in should know. Let’s get started with some popular myths and interesting facts about Britain and Britons.

#1 A Quick Crash Course on the UK: Myths vs. Facts

It is estimated that there are around 200,000 US expats currently residing in the UK, and they have moved abroad for various reasons. Most Americans have relocated here to reunite with their partner or for work, and some came to study abroad. But none of this will prepare you for one realization – depending on the part of the UK you will be staying in, you’re in for different culture shocks.  So what are the myths and facts you should learn before relocating?

Myths debunked:

• Everything doesn’t stop for tea at four.
• Not all traffic rules are different.
• The food is not bad at all.
• The Queen doesn’t exactly rule.
• Great Britain, the United Kingdom, and England are not all one and the same thing.
• The class system doesn’t exist anymore.

Interesting facts:

• The driver sits on the right side of the vehicle.
• French was the official language for more than 300 years.
• Tea is an important part of every day.
• The UK doesn’t have a written constitution.
• Life expectancy is 80 years.
• There are over 170 museums in the capital alone.

#2 Can an American Citizen Live in the UK? You Will Need a Visa for Moving to the UK From the US

Can I move to the UK? If you are coming from the Schengen border-free area (with some exceptions), you’re in luck, as you are exempt from the visa policies and rules that are required from citizens from other countries. The process is also very convenient and straightforward for US and Australian citizens, as they don’t need an entry or resident visa for a stay of up to six months. Still, they can’t get a job or get resources from public funds without proper permits.

If you are planning on relocating here permanently, you will have to acquire important documents before moving abroad. The best way to get information on all the papers you are going to need and the legal steps you’ll have to take is to visit the UK Embassy in person or do thorough research on their website.

If you’re relocating for a job, your employer or your company’s legal department will usually complete all the necessary paperwork for your legal work and residence permit. What will be very important for your family when you move is how they can reside legally there. Luckily, this is one of the best places to live abroad with family. There is a family member visa they should all apply for before you leave. You should also inquire about the medical insurance for your family and the schools for your kids.

How Do I Permanently Move to the UK? Visa Requirements for Permanent Residency and Work Permit

According to the House of Commons Library, in 2021, there were around 9.6 million people in the UK born abroad. Although the popular belief is that US citizens don’t need visas for entering and staying in the UK, moving internationally to this nation will require you to obtain a certain visa. So, how long can Americans stay in the UK? You may, in fact, enter and stay up to six months without a visa, but only if you don’t intend to stay long-term.

But, how do I move to the UK permanently? You will need one of the visas and other documents needed to travel abroad in order to start your quest for permanent residency. The visas in question include those for skilled workers, intra-company transferees, health and care workers, international athletes, and one called Minister of Religion visa. Intra-company visas are reserved for workers with at least one year of experience in a multinational company in another country that want to be transferred to the UK branch.

You can apply for permanent residence in the United Kingdom and receive a Permanent Residence Card. Some of the requirements and grounds to get it are:

• You’ve lived with your UK or EEA (European Economic Area) family member for more than five years in a UK territory.
• Your family member is qualified for permanent residence.
• You’ve lived in one of the EEA countries for more than five years.
• Your family member is working in the UK with a valid work permit.

Different Types of UK Visas To Apply For

The UK offers several types of visas, including the Tier 1 (Investor) Visa, Tier 2 (General) Visa, Tier 4 (Student) Visa, and Spouse/Partner Visa. Each visa has specific requirements and conditions, so it’s crucial to determine which visa category aligns with your purpose of relocation.

Applying for a UK visa involves gathering the necessary documents, completing the application form, and attending a visa appointment. It’s important to carefully follow the guidelines provided by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to ensure a smooth application process.

How to Become a UK Citizen

If you want to become a UK citizen, the process is a bit more complicated and longer. You can apply for citizenship on a few grounds, and the general procedure goes along these lines:

• You can become a naturalized British citizen after residing there for at least five years. As we’ve already mentioned, you have to have some kind of visa or permit for a legal stay. After that, you will apply for a permit to settle in the UK. A year later, you can apply for naturalized citizenship, and your criminal record and English competency will be checked.
• You can become a citizen through marriage. If your spouse is a British citizen and you’ve lived in the country for three years, you can apply. You’ll have to show a clean criminal record and proof of English competency.
• In any of the scenarios mentioned above, you’ll have to pass the “Life in the UK” test. Again, you would have to have some grounds to apply, for example, staying in the UK for work for a specified period or staying on a student visa.

Are There Special Requirements for Pets?

If you are relocating with cats or with your dogs, you should check in advance all the documentation you are going to need to get them into the UK. There is a list of vaccines they should get and the proof that you are the owner. However, not all pets are allowed in the country, so you should check the list of restrictions if your pets are a bit on the exotic side.

How Hard Is It for an American to Move to England?

While the whole of the UK has many things in common, you’re perhaps better prepared to live abroad in this nation if you know what region you’ll be settling in. So, before you invest in international moving services to get you all prepared to move to England, let’s start with getting to know a bit more about this part of the UK.

Although one of the overlooked benefits of relocating to the UK is the fact that breaking the language barrier is unnecessary, there are quite a few differences between British and American English. For instance, you should be careful when complimenting someone on their choice of clothes. Saying “I really like your pants” will get them thinking that you are talking about their undergarments.

#3 The Cost of Living in the UK Will Greatly Depend on the Location

The costs can vary greatly depending on which part of the Kingdom you are going to reside in. For example, if you choose the northern part of Great Britain, your expenses will be significantly lower than in the south. Of course, the capital will be the most expensive option, but even there, it’s possible to manage your expenses depending on the part of the city you choose to rent an apartment in. Some of the expenses that you will have to pay on a monthly or yearly basis are:

• Council Tax, which depends on how many people you live with and where. This tax funds trash collection, street maintenance, and police forces. It’s, on average, $40 per week.
• Utilities that are not included in the rent; water, gas, and electricity, amount to $60 per week on average.
• You have to pay for a television license in the UK. The mere privilege of watching television either on your laptop, tablet, or TV will cost $230 per year.
• A monthly pass for public transport is, on average, $70, or $185 in the capital.

Rental Costs in Different Residential Areas

If you want to rent an apartment in the capital, you would have to pay anywhere from $1,570 up to $4,000 a month, depending on the location and the size of your apartment. As for the rest of the UK, the average price for monthly rent goes between $930 for a one-room apartment and $1,600 for a three-bedroom apartment. The most expensive residential area in the whole UK is One Hyde Park, and the least expensive option is anywhere in Northern Ireland, or, if you want to stay in Great Britain, in Nelson, Lancashire.

How Much Money Do You Need to Move to the UK From USA?

International moving is known for being expensive, but the overall cost will depend on several factors. For example, the amount of stuff you’re shipping, oversized freight, distance from one port to another, and some additional services such as overseas car shipping or storage renting. However, if moving to England is your goal in 2020, you should check out some tips on how to reduce costs when relocating and consider downsizing.

Finding Accommodation in the UK

Finding suitable accommodation is a top priority when moving to the UK. Whether you choose to rent or buy property, understanding the housing market and researching different cities and neighborhoods will help you make an informed decision.

Deciding between renting and buying property depends on your long-term plans and financial situation. Renting offers flexibility, while buying provides stability and potential investment opportunities. Consider your budget, lifestyle, and future goals before making a decision.

Compare the Cost of Living in the Major Cities of the UK

Whatever your reasons to move are, and whether you plan on relocating abroad alone or with your family, some things are the same. To avoid making any relocation mistakes and pick the region of the UK solely based on what you like, you should also consider the costs in each region. The table below compares the costs and housing prices of the major cities in the UK.

#4 What You Should Know About the Healthcare and Educational System

The UK is famous for its great educational system. One of the oldest universities in the world, Oxford, is located here. If you are an English language native, your kids shouldn’t have a problem enrolling in some of the world’s most elite schools. It may be useful to note that education is free and compulsory for all children from the age of 5 to 16. That period is normally divided into two stages – primary from the age of 5 to 11, and secondary from the age of 11 to 16.

As for healthcare, the UK provides medical assistance to the citizens and foreigners alike. When residing in the UK on any kind of visa, you may be able to access basic healthcare, but it is best to check with your employer or consulate what your rights are. The UK healthcare system is mainly funded through income taxes, and according to some data, on average, UK citizens spend less on health per person than Americans in the US. However, many opt for additional private health insurance in the UK since the NHS doesn’t really cover all health-related services.

#5 What Are the Best Places to Live in the UK

A few factors should be considered when choosing the best places to stay in the UK: safety, average salary, cost of living, rent, educational institutions, environment, etc. Based on these criteria, here is a list of some of the best places to settle down in the UK:

• Salisbury, Wiltshire, England, is at the top of the list because it is very suitable for families. It’s a safe community with an exceptional environment, not that far from the capital. Housing prices are reasonable, and there are some great schools in the county.
• Edale, Derbyshire, England – If you are fed up with the city and want to run away from all the hype, this might be the place for you. It is a small village community, well known for its warm and welcoming locals.
• The ancient city of York is making a trend of providing better conditions for its citizens year after year. It is getting more popular among young professionals and transforming itself into the hipster epicenter of the UK.
• Hollywood in County Down, Northern Ireland, is one of the cities that has the healthiest work-to-life balance in the United Kingdom. It is only a 15-minute drive from Belfast.
• Dundee in Scotland used to have the reputation of a dull, industrial town, but it is gaining popularity as a creative and artistic hub. It is home to many world-renowned festivals, such as the Design Festival. The local government is encouraging the development of the gaming industry, invention, and arts.

Pay Attention to London and Other Cities in England You May Consider the Best

Although London is probably the city in the UK which has the highest cost of living, if you settle somewhere else, there are many things worth visiting the capital for. It’s home to the Big Ben – the great bell of the striking clock in the Elizabeth Tower, part of the Palace of Westminster. If you’re relocating to another country for the love of history, you will enjoy it here. The British Museum, Westminster Abbey, and other British landmarks are all located in London. It’s also considered the global center of art, music, theater, literature, and culture, but it’s also home to wonderful shopping opportunities and a cosmopolitan vibe.

Manchester, on the other hand, is considered the first modern city, and today it’s home to some of the most exciting architecture, like the Bridgewater Hall, Urbis, and the Imperial War Museum. It’s long considered a cradle for pop and indie music, and artists like The Smiths, Oasis and Simply Red all come from this city.

And when talking about pop music, we shouldn’t forget Liverpool – the home of The Beatles. But besides the most famous pop band in the world, Liverpool has other things to offer. Albert Docks area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its role in the maritime history of Britain. The only International Slavery Museum in the world is also found in this city.

Scotland Is Spectacularly Beautiful

When you look at the natural wonders of Scotland, you will be left breathless and get an immediate urge to get packing services, find a new residence, and come to live here. Wherever you look, your eyes might glimpse magnificent mountain ranges or dramatic coastlines. It has no shortage of fantastically looking forests – you may even begin to believe there are elves hiding between the branches. It has some of the most picturesque lochs (Scottish for a lake,) and it all makes this land spectacular, making adjusting to a new country a piece of cake. As for the opportunities to live and work here, keep in mind that the capital of Scotland is Edinburgh, and its largest city is Glasgow.

As a native English speaker, you might be taken aback the first time you encounter a Scottish accent and even some Gaelic. However, don’t let the accent discourage you, because it’s something you will easily get used to, especially if you find work in a Scottish company, instead of an international one. The Scotts are a friendly bunch, and even if you can’t grasp what they are saying, they will always gladly repeat it. What we’re saying is that you won’t feel the need to find expat communities – you will fit right in, especially if you like going to pubs for a pint or two and enjoying some live music.

From the Language to Culture – Wales Is Uniquely Different

Before you move to Wales, you should know that besides hearing the English language, you will also be hearing (and reading on signs) the Welsh language. Luckily, most signs are written in both languages, so you won’t have any trouble finding your way around. While you’ll probably mostly be interested to work or study in Cardiff (the capital and largest city,) make sure you wander around this beautiful country and experience all the natural beauty it offers.

One of the most interesting facts for explorers is that it’s no surprise Wales is called the Land of Castles because there are 427 of them. The most well-known is the Cardiff castle, but for those that aren’t afraid to go on an adventure, there are so many standing or in ruins that you’ll have to explore for a long time. Keep in mind that when you move to another country with a car, you should learn a thing or two about the roads. A new thing for every American is that the backroads in Wales which you’ll be driving on are shockingly narrow. So, get a GPS and enjoy the roads through picturesque hills.

Prepare for the Friendliness of People in Northern Ireland

Living in Belfast for work or study will require some relocation tips as this region of the UK is somewhat different from the rest. While you may be expecting the attitude of average city dwellers, you will be surprised by the genuine friendliness of the Belfast residents. Bear in mind that the people here will often be heard speaking Irish Gaelic.

If you follow the waterfront trail, you will get to enjoy historic sites and see the St Joseph’s Church and Clarendon Buildings. The natural beauty of Northern Ireland has inspired C. S. Lewis’s Narnia, and the scenery can also be seen in the popular show Game of Thrones. Here, you’ll get to visit the site where the Titanic was built, or you can take a walk through time to a place from 2,000 years ago in the Iron Age dwelling of the Navan Centre and Fort.

#6 MORE THAN 170,000 US EXPATS LIVE IN THE UK

If you know someone that lives in the UK, contact them when you start planning your move. It is vital to have some first-hand knowledge when you are moving internationally. Fellow expats will be able to provide you with some useful information regarding the costs, how to get a job in Europe as an American, what are work permit or visa requirements, and what the whole relocation process is like. Be aware though, their experience doesn’t have to be the same as yours, so take everything you hear with a grain of salt, whether good or bad. So, before you think about getting packing services, get some information on the nation you are about to become a part of.

If, however, you don’t have any friends or acquaintances that are locals or have lived there, you can find many expat communities online that will be more than happy to assist you and give you real answers to your questions.

Best Cities for Expat Citizens

Aside from all the other categories, one of the most important sources of information for expats is the expat community in the city they want to move. The UK has a few very strong expat communities in some places, and they are well established and adjusted so they can help with some useful advice to the newcomers.

Edinburgh is very attractive to expats because it has a lower cost of living and not that much lower income index than LDN. It is also a very vibrant and lively city.

London is, of course, the number one choice for people from abroad. It is, without a doubt, one of the oldest, most attractive cities in the world.

Bristol has had a booming economy in recent years, and this is a perfect place to find a job if you are looking for one.

#7 Make as Many Living Arrangements as Possible Before You Move

It is essential to organize and prepare on time. The smartest thing to do if you’re going to rent an apartment may be to find one beforehand instead of booking hostels or hotels for a few months. The best way to go about it is to visit the place you’re interested in as soon as you start figuring out how to move abroad and see a couple of options in person. If that is not an option, you can always ask a friend or a family member to do it for you, or contact a real estate agency and state your requirements. The agency will surely find the perfect fit for you and go through all the legal documentation considering a rental contract and deposit. Real estate agents should be your first choice if you want to buy real estate because they know all law regulations and how to protect your interests.

If you are relocating for a job, your employer might help you when it comes to renting arrangements. In fact, that could be a part of your contract and the employee relocation package. Some employers provide temporary housing for their foreign employees, others can find you an apartment before you arrive, and some may leave it all up to you. It is important to be clear when you are negotiating and know what relocation questions to ask your employer. Make sure to ask about your obligations towards the company, and what they will provide you with to help you adjust to the new environment.

#8 Everyday Life in the UK Doesn’t Revolve Around Tea Time

Since the United Kingdom was a major colonial power back in the day, it attracted people and cultures from all over the world. The nation is diverse, culturally, and demographically, and it embraces all those influences while keeping its rich heritage at the same time.

Life here is very much colored by national pride, tea, and full breakfast. All jokes aside, you wouldn’t need that much of an adjustment to daily life, especially because there’s no need for breaking the language barrier. More likely, you are going to need a few tips on how to get around and where to find what.

Pub culture is more of a national staple here. This is where you get a fresh pint, some fish and chips to go with it, watch a game, relax after a day at the office, or go on a casual date.

Even if you are not a fan of tea, you should get a sip of it at four, at least once. It is so much more than your regular tea – you can enjoy some delicious pastry, scones with jam and clotted cream, savory sandwiches, and rice cakes. It’s more of an experience than a quick meal.

While people may seem a bit cold and distanced at first, don’t worry. They do need some time to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you’ll be a part of their crowd. Social etiquette is a bit different than in the US, but the Brits, especially Londoners, are used to people from various backgrounds.

What Is the Weather Like

It’s possible that you might have a wrong picture of the UK’s weather. After all, it is always depicted as a gloomy, foggy, and rainy place. It is not quite like that. Remember that the UK is not a small piece of land – you will find many different climates across the island. Although the general climate may be classified as temperate maritime, because the temperatures are moderate (winters are not freezing, and summers are not scorching hot), some parts have above-average precipitation. But there are certain drier parts of the island, as well.

June, July, and August are the warmest months, with a pleasant 89°F, and rain rarely falls in the south. Winter temperatures range from 14°F to 59°F.

As for the rain, it is most abundant in the northern and western parts of the Island, such as Wales and Scotland, while the driest parts are East Anglia, Norfolk, and Suffolk, including London.

Transportation and Getting Around the UK

Efficient transportation is key to navigating the UK’s cities and exploring its diverse regions. Whether you rely on public transportation, drive a car, or prefer rail travel, understanding the transportation options will make your daily commute and travel experiences seamless.

The UK has an extensive public transportation network, including buses, trains, trams, and underground systems. Research the transportation options available in your city of residence, understand ticketing systems and fares, and consider purchasing travel cards or passes for cost-effective commuting.

The UK boasts a comprehensive rail network that connects major cities and picturesque regions. Consider purchasing a railcard for discounted fares and explore the various rail passes available for flexible and cost-effective travel within the country.

Driving and Obtaining a UK Driver’s License

If you plan to drive in the UK, you may need to obtain a UK driver’s license. Check the requirements for exchanging your current license or applying for a new one. Familiarize yourself with UK road rules, parking regulations, and vehicle registration processes.

Insider Tips on What to See and Do if You Are Moving to the UK

In a country that is as old as this one, and with such a rich cultural heritage, there is no shortage of things to see and do. You may come across another problem though – a lack of spare time to visit all those amazing places. Here is a very reduced list of things to do and see in the UK:

• Visit London’s museums for free. Hand in hand with its long history, the British capital, is home to many great museums, and you can visit many of them free of charge. To name just a few: Science Museum, Natural History Museum, Tate Modern, National Portrait Gallery, British Museum, and so on.
• Visit Stonehenge. It is a common mistake that the Pyramids are the oldest large man-made structures in the world; it is actually Stonehenge that is more than 5000 years old. While its exact purpose remains a mystery, it is believed to have been a religious altar made for Druid rites.
• Search for the Loch Ness Monster. Nessie may be the most famous monster in the world. There are still faithful believers that flock to this picturesque Scottish lake in hopes of spotting this creature. But if nothing else, you’ll have the chance to admire the beauty of Loch Ness on a boat tour.
• Notting Hill Carnival is one of the largest street festivals in the world, with over two and a half million visitors annually. It is held every August Bank Day on the streets of the Notting Hill area of London, and it lasts for two days. The second day is a family day, and the performances are adjusted to that. It is lively, colorful, and with a lot of great music.
• Head to Glastonbury if you want to experience one of the biggest music festivals in the world. It takes place in Somerset county in South West England and features a lineup of some of the most famous music artists.
• Warner Bros Studio Tour LDN: The Making of Harry Potter. For all Harry Potter fans out there, do not miss the opportunity to drink butterbeer at this permanent exhibit located in Leavesden in southeastern England.
• Visit Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world that is held every August. Laugh your heart out with some of the best performances by well-known stand-up comedians as well as jugglers and mime artists.
• Visit Shakespeare’s home town, Stratford-upon-Avon. There, you can see some of his famous plays in the Elizabethan-era style for only $5.
• Drink traditional afternoon tea at The Ritz. You may run into a few celebrities while you are there because they are well known for their afternoon tea experience.

#9 What British People Do Differently Than Americans

We might share the same language, but that’s where all of our similarities end. Jokes aside, there are a few facts that might surprise you while you start getting to know Britons and their culture. We already shared some interesting facts and tips, but here comes more:

• They drink tea during summertime
• Often you might encounter that bathroom and toilet are two different rooms with different equipment
• They write the date before the month
• They put their washing machines in the kitchen
• They spell some words differently
• Their humor might not be your cup of tea

Your Guide Through the Legal System

The UK legal system is not that different from the one in the US. After all, the US law is largely derived from the UK common law system. However, there are some differences:

• UK law is not based on any written constitution or comprehensive codification. It is instead derived from statutory legislation and judicial decisions known as precedents.
• While England and Wales share the same legal system, Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own legal systems.
• There is no “right to bear arms” in the UK. While you can own certain firearms with an appropriate license, all handguns, automatic, and semiautomatic weapons are strictly prohibited without a special provision.

In any case, you should always have your embassy’s contact if you run into any legal problems on the Island. One of their obligations is to mitigate and resolve any legal problems that their citizens may encounter on foreign soil.

#10 Cultural and Language Barriers Are Not as Considerable as in Some Other Countries

Although we already established that Brits may come as a bit stiff at first glance, they are actually very warm and welcoming once they get to know you. In the country that has a long tradition of courtship and nobility, it is only normal that social etiquette is a bit more refined.

As far as the language differences go, don’t forget that the US English originated as a variation of UK English, so you might have slight trouble understanding every word, but it is easy once you get the hang of it. After all, it is mostly an accent that is different and a few posh words here and there.

Jaywalking in the UK vs US – One of the Major Differences Between The Countries

Unlike some other countries, such as the United States, the UK does not have specific laws that make it illegal to cross the street outside of designated pedestrian crossings. Pedestrians in the UK are generally free to cross the street as long as they do so safely and do not cause a hazard to themselves or others. However, it’s important to note that pedestrians in the UK are still expected to follow traffic rules and be aware of their surroundings when crossing the street to ensure their own safety.

It’s also worth noting that drivers in the UK have a legal obligation to yield to pedestrians who are crossing the street, regardless of whether they are using a designated crossing or not. If a driver hits a pedestrian who is crossing the street legally, they may be subject to fines or other penalties, as well as legal liability for any injuries or damages caused. And a pedestrians who crosses the street in a reckless or unsafe manner may still also be subject to fines or other penalties.

How to Polish Your Accent Before Relocating

You might not need tips for learning a new language, but if you feel like practicing a bit and adjusting your accent, take a look at this video that points out some of the major differences in pronunciation.

Don’t Let Brexit Stop You From Moving to the UK as an American

Brexit is one of the most significant things that happen in 2020, and it certainly made many people reconsider their relocation. Some newcomers are even thinking about going back and moving to the USA from UK. However, although the UK is still in the process of transition, there is no way back now, but that doesn’t mean you should not move forward with your plans. Stay updated and regularly check the latest information on the official website of the embassy, we are sure you won’t have any problems to start fresh in the UK so feel free to schedule a free in-home estimate.