Settling In The UK From UAE: Everything You Need To Know
Moving to the United Kingdom can be a daunting experience, especially for those from Asia. However, the cultural, climatic, and linguistic differences can overwhelm the transition.
Therefore, it’s important to be understanding and patient with these challenges as they settle into a new way of life.
Nevertheless, UAE nationals increasingly choose the United Kingdom for job, school, investment, or family reasons.
The UK also provides countless possibilities and world-class educational institutions, but the UAE’s distinct culture and customs might make the transition difficult. However, with the appropriate help, relocating to the UK from the UAE can become easy.
The UK also boasts sizable Asian expat communities, notably in London, simplifying settling.
This article will guide you in planning and settling your move from the UAE to the UK.
Applying For Visa
UAE nationals require a UK visa for more than six months to relocate to the UK, with many types available based on their situation.
A work permit is necessary for anyone wanting to work in the United Kingdom.
The most prevalent work visa in the UK is the Skilled Worker Visa. It requires a job offer from a registered UK Sponsor firm and satisfaction with the job type’s minimum income requirement.
To apply, UAE residents must be in the UK with a visa that permits them to transfer to a Skilled Worker Visa.
The UK ETA
Another way to begin your settlement journey in the UK is through the ETA UK travel permit. This digital permit allows you to transit through or visit the UK for up to six months.
If you’re a UAE national, you can apply online by paying the UK ETA fees of £55. This is one of the simplest processes where you can readily get your UK ETA within three working days from your day of application.
Therefore, most citizens of the UAE opt for the UK ETA to avail a hassle-free entry in the UK and start planning their settlement.
Sort Your Purpose
UAE students are rapidly studying in UK universities, with a growing number already enrolled.
To study in the UK, you must apply for a Student Visa, which includes an offer for an educational course in the UK and proof of funding for both the course and living expenses.
The UK Study Visa application procedure normally takes three weeks. Therefore, applicants should apply three weeks before the course begins.
Once accepted, they can enter the nation a week before the training starts. Returning to the UK after years of living and working abroad confers British citizenship rights.
Still, paying taxes and registering for a self-assessment is necessary to examine records and compute taxes. If you have spent the last five years outside of the UK, your wages are not taxed; only income from investments and other assets is.
Find Your Accommodation
Finding a place to stay in the UK when you first arrive can be challenging.
You can plan your accommodations before the first week of arrival. However, the scarcity of accommodations may force you to stay in a vacation rental or serviced apartment until you find a place.
Holiday rentals are available across the country and can often be the best option for housing outside of major cities.
Serviced apartments offer a home away from home without the hassle of renting. Alternatively, for a permanent solution, you must look for a rental house or apartment in the UK.
However, costs vary greatly around the country, with London being the most costly. Major cities often have cheaper costs, whereas smaller villages are more economical.
Before purchasing a home in the United Kingdom, conducting extensive research on the local real estate market is critical.
Moving With Your Family
A UK Family Visa is for those who have British citizenship, settlement, or refugee status in the UK. It provides up to six months of stay, with the option of extending after 33 months. The visa requires applicants to be at least 18 years old, have a real connection, desire to stay, and have enough living space.
When migrating with family, it is essential to prepare where to live since it may become more appropriate after six months.
It is also vital to determine whether there are any local schools or institutions, if the neighborhood is safe for children, and if the town is varied enough. Most UK visas demand a decent grasp of English.
Open Your Bank Account
Consider creating a UK bank account to help you settle in during your first week in the UK. This account makes shopping, paying utility bills, and getting a UK SIM card easier.
Alternatively, you may set up an account with a building society such as Nationwide or Yorkshire Building Society.
The most convenient way to create an account is to visit your local branch, but some branches offer online sign-up options.
Mobile banking is also accessible in the United Kingdom. If you need to transfer money from home, try using money transfer services such as CurrencyFair and Wise.
Find Your Commute
When settling into life in the UK, it is critical to plan transportation.
Large cities like London and Manchester have easy access to public transportation, but Cambridge promotes a sustainable lifestyle.
However, many communities need more public transportation infrastructure, making driving the sole choice.
Newcomers must research the rules and regulations of the United Kingdom before arriving.
Some may require an International Driving Permit, while others prefer a local license, particularly for extended periods. New entrants may use their existing license on UK roads.
However, some may require an International Driving Permit or an application for a local license.
Arrange Your Utilities
When relocating to a new property in the UK, organizing utilities such as gas and electricity is important. British Gas, EDF, and SSE are three of the UK’s major energy firms.
Create an account with your local water provider. Some rental properties may already have these connections, while flatshares may require you to split utility expenditures.
Setting up internet, home phone, and TV in the UK is pretty simple, especially if you already have a phone line connected.
However, the UK market is competitive, so choose the best solutions for your needs.
Internet service providers include BT and Sky, while TV packages enable access to the top channels from the UK and beyond. Consider your alternatives for specialty channels, such as sports or international programs.
Enjoy Your Stay!
Enjoy your new surroundings and see the local attractions to prepare for your first week in the UK.
Several activities are available, such as visiting museums, hiking, or trying local tipples at a pub.
When arranging your relocation to the UK, think about shipping firms and choices such as sea and air freight.
Traveling light and buying what you need when you get to the UAE may be more cost-effective than bringing everything with you. This will allow you to enjoy your new life in the UK.
