Categories: Expat Life

Starting a new life in the UK

AUSTRALIA has become one of the most popular travel destinations among young Europeans and some of them never want to leave Down Under again once they have discovered its multifaceted flora and fauna. But there are also many Australians who are willing to leave their home country to start a new life on the Old Continent. The UK is a good choice for Australians since it offers one big advantage for them: the language. Moving to the UK from Australia is therefore easier than moving to any other European country. All the necessary bureaucratic matters can be handled in one’s mother tongue; an important aspect that facilitates the effort. By moving to Europe one is also given the possibility of discovering a continent that is influenced by many different cultures. Countries like Italy, France or Sweden can sometimes be reached from the UK in less than two hours and are therefore worth a weekend getaway.

Preparing to Move

People who are planning to move to the UK should be aware of the fact that the weather conditions in this country have nothing in common with those in Australia. It is less sunny but the temperatures also more temperate than those in Down Under. If the climate doesn’t put you off, you should inform yourself on how to apply for a visa. This depends on one’s plans and status: those who only want to stay less than six months can usually do this without applying for a visa. However, employees and students who are planning to stay longer should get more information from the British Embassy in Australia. Housing issues should be sorted out before leaving for the UK, especially for those who are moving with their whole family. For big cities like London it can be advisable to look for a place to stay once arrived on site. While paying the rent you can safely send money online to your landlord or agency instead of carrying too much cash with you.