Moving to the UK Checklist in 2025 – A Complete Guide for Newcomers

Moving to the UK Checklist can be a transformative experience—filled with opportunities, rich culture, and a high standard of living. Whether you’re moving for work, study, or to join family, having a clear and detailed checklist is important

to ensuring a smooth transition.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to do before, during, and after your move in 2025. This checklist is especially curated for individuals, students, and families planning to relocate to the UK from abroad.

Moving to the UK Checklist

1. Secure the Right UK Visa

Before anything else, identify the visa that best matches your reason for moving:

Skilled Worker Visa – For those with a job offer from a licensed UK employer. Learn more
Student Visa – Required for international students attending a UK university. Read official guidance
Partner or Family Visa – If you’re joining a spouse or parent in the UK.
Global Talent Visa – Ideal for leaders in academia, arts, and technology.

Tip: Use the UK Visa Eligibility Calculator on our website to check your options.

2. Plan Your Budget

Relocation costs can add up quickly. Here’s a rough breakdown:

Visa and IHS fees: £1,000–£3,000
Flights: £300–£800
Initial rent deposit: 1–2 months’ rent
Monthly expenses: £1,000–£1,500 for a single person in London; lower in other cities

Explore our Cost of Living Guide to better understand average monthly expenses in different UK regions.

3. Gather Required Documents

Organise all essential paperwork before you travel:

Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
Visa approval or vignette
Academic transcripts and professional certificates
Birth/marriage certificates
Immunisation records and prescriptions (if needed)

4. Find Accommodation

Decide whether you’ll rent or buy. Renting is the most common choice for newcomers. Platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla offer extensive listings.

Need help understanding tenancy contracts? Check out our Renting in the UK Guide.

5. Arrange International Shipping

If you plan to bring belongings, use an international mover with good reviews and customs clearance services. Compare options early to avoid last-minute stress. Some popular movers include:

Seven Seas Worldwide
Pickfords
Anglo Pacific

6. Register with a GP

Once in the UK, register with a local General Practitioner (GP) to access the NHS (National Health Service). Use the NHS GP Finder to locate practices near you.

7. Open a UK Bank Account

Major banks like Barclays, Lloyds, and NatWest offer accounts for non-residents. You’ll typically need:

Proof of ID (passport or biometric residence permit)
Proof of address (tenancy agreement or utility bill)

You can also consider app-based banks like Monzo, Starling, or Revolut.

8. Apply for a National Insurance (NI) Number

If your visa doesn’t automatically issue one, apply via gov.uk. This number is essential for working, paying taxes, and accessing benefits.

9. Set Up Utilities and Internet

Once you have housing, set up the following services:

Electricity & Gas: Octopus Energy, British Gas, E.ON
Water: Supplied regionally—check your local provider
Internet: BT, Virgin Media, Sky, Plusnet

See our Utilities Setup Guide for full steps and best providers.

10. Understand UK Taxes and Council Tax

Most tenants or homeowners must pay Council Tax, which funds local services. Your local council will provide a bill based on the property’s valuation band.

Use our UK Income Tax Calculator to estimate your income tax obligations for 2025–26.

11. Enrol Children in School (If Applicable)

Use the Find a School tool to locate nearby primary or secondary schools. You must apply through the local authority.

12. Settle Cultural Differences

While English is the dominant language, you’ll encounter various regional accents and diverse cultures. Learn about:

UK etiquette (queuing is sacred!)
National holidays: Bank Holidays, Christmas, Bonfire Night
Local customs (Sunday roasts, pub culture, tea-time!)

13. Transport and Driving in the UK

Public transport is reliable in major cities. Get an Oyster Card in London or local travel cards elsewhere. If you plan to drive, check if your license can be exchanged via the DVLA.

14. Get a TV Licence

If you plan to watch live TV or use BBC iPlayer, a £169.50/year TV Licence is legally required. More info is available at tvlicensing.co.uk.

15. Connect with the Community

Relocating can be lonely—connect with fellow expats via:

Meetup.com
Facebook expat groups
Language exchange meetups

You can also explore our growing UK Community Hub for forums and tips.

Final Thoughts

Moving to the UK in 2025 is a rewarding experience—if well prepared. From securing your visa to finding housing and integrating into the culture, this checklist provides the essential roadmap to start your journey on the right foot.

For more resources, visit our UKBloom Resource Centre.