Stepping off the plane in a new country is daunting but relocating to the United Kingdom can be trouble-free with the right information and some good planning.
Arranging as much as you can prior to taking off such as a UK bank account, National Insurance Number, mobile number and accommodation will help you stay ahead of the game.
Possibly the biggest hurdle to overcome is having employment secured for when you arrive.
myOE Australian Account Manager Jill Henderson says planning ahead maximises the likelihood of signing up the perfect job, especially in a slowing UK employment market.
“We have found it is taking on average eight weeks to get a job. This means it is vital to share your CV with some of UK’s recruiters well in advance of your departure date, as well as liaising with recruitment companies.”
Ms Henderson says the myOE website has a relocation guide that counts you down from 12 weeks to departure and lists everything that needs to be done for a hassle-free transition, as well as useful advice from people who have been there and know what the challenges can be.
“From researching where you plan to go, applying for a visa, updating your CV to the UK format and ensuring your passport is up to date, there is a multitude of detail that will help you prior to your departure,” says Ms Henderson.
It is also important to allow time for:
- Sorting out and packing up your belongings for storage while you are away
- Arranging shipping of items you don’t need in the short term
- Organising temporary accommodation for when you arrive (myOE has a London Shared House where members can stay)
- Selling your car
- Setting up/updating your LinkedIn profile
- Getting entry clearance from the British High Commission in your local country
- Organising relevant paperwork
- Visiting your health clinic for copies of prescriptions and important medical details
- Notifying the bank, tax office and other relevant companies that you will be away
- Arranging final bill readings
- Packing carefully to ensure you have the right clothes for the climate you are going to
- Purchasing currency for where you are going
Ms Henderson says that joining myOE means you become part of an international network that supports professionals with all aspects of relocating to the UK including job hunting, accommodation and networking.
“A personal UK account manager will introduce you to recruitment partners to help you find the right job for your skill base and can provide financial and immigration solutions to make the most of your earnings and your new location, leaving you time to enjoy all that the UK has to offer.”
