London Price Guide

Are you thinking about making the big move to the UK?  It is a good idea to organise as much as you can before you leave home.

To enter the UK you need to obtain a visa. 
British Passport – If you are lucky enough to be eligible for a British Passport you don’t have to worry about immigration for the UK or the European Union.

Right of Abode – This qualifies for a Certificate of Entitlement which remains valid for the life of your passport.  You are free from Immigration Control and are able to work in the UK for the life of your passport.

UK Ancestry Visa – this entitles Australasians with grandparents born in the UK, to work for up to 5 years in the UK

Working Holiday Visa – This will permit you to work for up to 52 weeks in the UK.  Be aware though that for every week or part week you work you are then on a count down from 52 weeks.

Tier 1 (General) Highly Skilled Worker – You are entitled to 3 years unlimited work in the UK.  You will need to pass a points-based assessment to be eligible to apply for this visa.

Banking - If you haven’t already heard, opening a bank account in the UK is not only a long drawn out process but it is also very frustrating.  Opening a British Bank account from home before you leave is a good idea plus will save you a lot of headaches! 

Money – it is a good idea to also change some money over before you leave home into Pounds Sterling (£).  As soon as you leave the airport you will need money to buy your tube fare to get to your accommodation.

Travel Insurance – If you are purchasing travel insurance, make sure that it covers you whilst you are travelling to the UK and at least the first few months you are in London.  You can then look into alternative means of cover for example, through your bank or through UK insurance companies once you are here as it tends to be cheaper and easier to arrange.

Passport photos – Take extra passport photos with you as they come in handy when joining memberships, such as transport, hostels etc.  It just means one less expense upon arrival in the UK.

Photocopy all your documentation – Make sure that you take copies of ALL your travel documentation including your passport, visa, flight tickets, insurance policy and any other valuable documentation.  Keep copies at home and also take some with you; this can save a lot of time and hassle in the event of stolen or lost documents

Suits - It is definitely worth while packing a couple of suits with jackets for interviews in London.  It is much cheaper to bring them over with you than to purchase in the UK, especially if you are still converting the currency.

Price Guide - this will give you a rough guide to everyday living prices in London