You might have shifted to the UK for work, or perhaps you have moved for personal reasons. Whatever the reasons may be, it’s important to know the nuances of shifting to a dynamic place like London or Manchester. It’s equally important to know what to expect, the challenges you might face, and how to overcome them.
Not being prepared for the changes might make you overwhelmed and anxious. This is where this article can help. We have put together a list of useful tips to help you settle in the UK. Read this article till the end, and thank us later!
Understand the Local Laws
It pays to know about the place you’re shifting to. Understanding the local regulations will keep you away from legal trouble, save time and help you settle into the new place better.
Consider these tips:
- Road rules: Learn which side to drive, how to use indicators, and other road rules. Parking: Find out if you need a permit to park your car in certain areas. If so, get one as soon as possible.
- Taxes: Pay attention to tax rates on goods and services when purchasing.
Learn About the Local Culture
You’d want to know the tradition and culture of your place. It will help you get along with the locals better, which is important if you’re planning to live there for a long time. The more you know about their culture, the more comfortable you’ll feel in your new surroundings. Learn about these things:
- The food: You’ll want to know the local cuisine, so you can get a feel for what’s available and be sure it’s safe to eat.
- The language: Learn the slang and nuances of the local language so you can communicate with people more effectively.
- Sport: Learn about popular sports in your new country, such as football (soccer) or cricket. This will help you fit in better with locals, who might invite you over for a game!
Get a Local Phone Number
If you’re planning to stay in the UK for more than a few weeks, it’s worth getting a local phone number. This will make it easier for people to get in touch with you and save you money on roaming charges.
There are a few ways to get a local phone number:
1. Buy a SIM card from a local mobile company. This is usually the cheapest option, and you can choose between pay-as-you-go or contract plans.
2. Rent a phone from a local company. This is a good option if you don’t want to commit to a long-term contract.
3. Use Skype or another VoIP service. This is a good option if you already have an international calling plan.
Consider Name Change
If you plan to marry your partner in the UK, you can consider changing your name and picking up something more local. Or you could merge names and go for double barrel surnames. You will need to order a deed poll, which is a straightforward process.
Here’s what’s involved in the name change process using a deed poll:
- Pick your new name- this can be anything you want as long as it’s not already in use by someone else or for an illegal purpose.
- Notify all the necessary organisations of your new name. This includes your employer, bank, and government agencies.
- Update your ID documents to reflect your new name. This includes your passport, driver’s license, and birth certificate.
- Start using your new name everywhere.
Final Word
We hope you found these tips helpful. Remember, everyone goes through culture change when moving to a new place. It’s normal to feel out of place and homesick at first. Give yourself some time to adjust, and soon enough, you’ll feel like a local! Good luck!
