Your Guide on Moving to the UK from Singapore
With such a rich history, easy access to Europe and home to one of the most iconic cities, it’s easy to understand why more Singaporeans are relocating to the UK. Moving countries requires significant organisation, especially when relocating to a different continent. As moving experts, we’ve helped thousands of Singaporeans successfully relocate to the UK so we have created this handy guide on everything you need to know about moving.
British Culture
One of the most difficult things about moving to a new country is adapting to a new culture. The British are well-known for their love of the monarchy, ‘stiff upper lip’ and fierce support of football. Drinking alcohol is also a key part of UK culture, with many social catch-ups enjoyed at the pub. British humour is best described as ‘dry’ and can take some adjusting to so watching UK television shows and movies before you move is recommended.
What to know before moving to the UK
Ready to pack your suitcase and book your one way ticket to the United Kingdom? Living in a new country is a big transition so it’s essential you are well prepared. Here is everything you need to know before you arrive.
Visa
Relocating internationally means dealing with immigration and visas. Aside from ensuring that your current passport is up to date, you will also need to apply for a visa so you can work, study and live in the UK. If you are hoping to work in the UK, it’s best to receive a job offer before you relocate so you can be sponsored and apply for a Skilled Worker visa. There are some visas available if you don’t have a job offer, these include the Global Talent visa and the High Potential Individual visa. In the case of having family already living in the UK, including a spouse or partner, parent or child, you can apply for a Family visa. If you are moving to the UK to study then you will need to apply for a Student visa.
Climate
The climate of the United Kingdom is significantly different from Singapore. You’ll need to purchase some warm clothes as the winters will be a lot colder than you are used to in Singapore. Unlike Singapore where the temperatures tend not deviate throughout the year, London experiences average temperatures as low as 4 degrees celsius in winter and up to 23 degrees celsius in summer.
Cost of living
London is often named as one of the most expensive cities in the world, but how does it stack up against Singapore? On average, London is actually cheaper than Singapore. This largely due to the fact that it is more affordable to rent and purchase property in London. For a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre, you will likely pay around £901 GBP (or SG$1,454). Purchasing groceries in the United Kingdom is cheaper than in Singapore, however dining out is more expensive. Consumer goods like clothes, and entertainment are cheaper in the United Kingdom as well.
Money and taxes
In the United Kingdom, the official currency is pound sterling (GBP and £). At the time of writing, SG$1 is equivalent to £0.62. The United Kingdom and Singapore have a tax treaty to prevent double taxation. To learn more about the taxation rules involved in relocating to the UK, visit the International Treaties page or contact a professional tax agent.
Living in the UK
You’ve done your research and now are ready to make your move to the UK. But, what will life be like in the UK and what do you need to know about housing, work and healthcare. We break it down below!
Finding work
As mentioned before, it’s essential that you have the right visa to enable you to work in the UK. Some industries such as healthcare and agriculture have a high demand for workers so they can provide a great opportunity for foreigners looking for work. The UK Government has published a list of shortage occupations and if your skills fit, you can apply for a Skilled Worker visa. As the service industries, such as retail, hospitality, finance and business, dominate the UK’s economy, they tend to be larger employers and offer job opportunities. Contacting a United Kingdom based recruitment agency or looking for jobs on Linked In and other job portals are the easiest ways to find employment before relocating.
Housing
Housing in the UK usually consists of houses or apartments (known as ‘flats’). Renting tends to be popular among expats due to the high cost of purchasing in the more cosmopolitan areas. Sharing housing is a great option for students, single expats and those looking to save on housing costs. There are no laws restricting foreigners from purchasing property in the UK and the same taxes apply for both residents and non-residents, however it's best to consult a UK solicitor to understand the full ins and outs of purchasing property.
Transportation
Many UK residents get around by a car, however in the larger cities such as London public transport is highly convenient and efficient. You can transport your vehicle from Singapore to the UK, but keep in mind that they drive on the left hand side of the road.
Healthcare
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is recognised as one of the leading public health systems in the world. You can access the NHS if you are a resident, but if you have lived in the UK for more than six months you can still access the NHS and will need to pay a surcharge. However, regardless of your immigration status you can still receive free emergency care at NHS hospitals. Private health insurance is recommended for expats with specialised medical needs.
Ready to move from Singapore to the UK?
Now that you have a good grasp on what you need to know about relocating to the UK, it’s time to begin organising your move! Using experienced and highly reputable international movers can make your relocation a lot less stressful.
Allied has the right experience, training and equipment to ensure that your move from Singapore to the UK is as smooth and hassle-free as possible! Thanks to our expansive global network of movers, we will be there every step of the way, from packing up your old place in Singapore to unpacking in your new home in the United Kingdom. Learn more about our international moving services and contact us today!