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Expat guide: United Kingdom
This expat guide offers information and advice if you are moving to the UK. Click on the different tabs to find out about anything from tax rules and banking to education and cultural highlights.
You can also read our city guide to London.
Download this guide as a pdfMoving to the UK
With its diverse economy and liberal immigration policies, the United Kingdom is perhaps the most popular expat destination. Hardest to adjust to is the relatively high cost of living, poor weather, and urban congestion in London, to where the vast majority of expats move. However, for most expats moving to the United Kingdom is a seamless transition from their home country, with few surprises in store.
Until the recent global economic crisis, the United Kingdom had abundant opportunities for work, particularly in London where the city competed with New York for the title of financial capital of the world. Jobs are tighter now, as is the availability of work visas, but for those with skills and determination, the UK remains charged with exciting prospects.
The schools are decent, public transport comprehensive, and the infrastructure of the highest quality. There is also an incredible wealth of historical and cultural attractions available in a relatively compact space. Additionally, the UK is well positioned for easy and affordable travel to Europe and beyond.
The United Kingdom has been strengthened and enriched by decades of immigration, and despite recent economic woes, it remains a welcoming environment for expats from all corners of the globe.
Shipping and removals
There are many reputable companies offering removal services and shipping to London. Costs will depend on the volume of goods and the length of time involved in shipping. Air freight is the quickest option but will cost far more than sea freight.
Goods shipped from the USA and Canada will take around four weeks, with extra time added for customs clearance.
Bringing pets to the UK
Shipping pets to the UK is a lot easier now thanks to the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS). Provided the animal has a veterinary certificate and all inoculations are up-to-date, they can be freely brought into the country without undergoing quarantine. See full details here:
http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/pets/travel/index.htm
Links
Air and sea freight:
www.excessbaggage.com
Freight company:
www.anglopacific.co.uk/index.htm
Sea freight:
www.shipit.co.uk
Pet shipping:
www.petrelocation.com
This content is provided by www.expatarrivals.com, copyright © 2009 Globe Media Ltd. All rights reserved. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Neither Globe Media nor Bupa International can be held liable for any errors or omissions, or any loss, damage, illness and/or injury that may occur as a result of this information.
Bupa International is not responsible for the content of external websites.
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