Moving to another country is a big deal. It’s exciting, full of possibility, and sometimes a little overwhelming. Between paperwork, packing, and figuring out where to start, it’s easy to feel like your to-do list has its own zip code.
At Remitly, we know what it’s like to build a new life somewhere unfamiliar. Many of us have been through it ourselves, and we get how emotional, complicated, and rewarding the process can be. That’s why we created this guide to offer clear help for every step of your move to the UK in 2025.
Why Americans move to the UK
Every year, thousands of Americans decide to make the UK their new home, and it’s easy to see why. Moving somewhere with a shared language makes the transition feel a lot smoother, even if you have to adjust to calling fries “chips” and navigating roundabouts.
There’s also the lifestyle factor. The UK can feel comfortably familiar, but still different enough to be exciting. Travel is a huge perk. Europe is right there for city breaks and summer vacations, offering a wealth of cultural heritage at your doorstep.
Planning your move to the UK
In 2024, around 948,000 people made the move to the UK. While it’s a big life change, it’s completely manageable with the right information and a bit of planning.
Pick the place that feels right for you
Choosing where to settle depends on your lifestyle, job goals, and budget. Before you decide, think about what matters most to you: Do you need to be near schools or a job? Do you prefer big-city energy or quiet countryside?
Let’s take a look at some of the top destinations for expats looking to relocate to the UK.
London
It’s busy, dynamic, and full of opportunities. But it’s no secret that it’s expensive. If you don’t mind squeezing onto the Tube or paying a bit more for rent, you’ll never be bored here.
South East England (e.g., Brighton, Reading, Oxford)
Brighton has that cool, creative feel with the bonus of being right by the sea. Reading and Oxford are good choices if you want quick access to London without actually living in the middle of it.
South West England (e.g., Bristol, Bath, Exeter)
Bristol’s a favorite for a reason. Great food, independent shops, and a real sense of community. Bath is quieter and full of charm and history, while Exeter feels more low-key but still has everything you need day-to-day.
The Midlands (e.g., Birmingham, Nottingham, Leicester)
If you’re looking for somewhere more affordable that still has a lot going on, the Midlands could work well. Birmingham is big, diverse, and has great transport links. Nottingham and Leicester are smaller but still lively.
North West England (e.g., Manchester, Liverpool)
Both cities are full of personality. Manchester feels modern and creative, while Liverpool has a warm, welcoming vibe. The cost of living is more reasonable here, too.
North East England (e.g., Newcastle, Durham)
People are friendly, rent is lower, and you’re never far from the coast or countryside. Newcastle has a good mix of nightlife, jobs, and student life, while Durham is more relaxed and full of history.
Scotland (e.g., Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen)
Edinburgh is beautiful and full of festivals, while Glasgow has a more down-to-earth, artsy energy. Aberdeen’s quieter, but great if you’re into nature or work in energy or tech.
Wales (e.g., Cardiff, Swansea)
Wales is a bit more chilled. Cardiff has a growing mix of things to do and it’s easy to get around there. Swansea is smaller, but the nearby beaches and outdoor spaces are a huge bonus.
Northern Ireland (e.g., Belfast, Derry)
Belfast has been changing fast, and it offers a bit of everything, from history to nightlife. Derry is smaller and quieter but has a strong community feel. Plus, the landscapes are amazing if you’re into exploring.
Start planning early (your future self will thank you)
Getting ready to move to the UK includes making decisions that will shape your everyday life in a new country.
Building a timeline you can actually stick to
There’s no perfect timeline for an international move, but having a rough plan can make everything feel more doable. A good place to start is your intended arrival date. Then, work backward to figure out what needs to happen when.
Visa applications, job searches, and housing can take time, so try to start planning at least three to six months in advance. It helps to use a digital calendar or a moving checklist app to keep things organized.
Personally, I found it helpful to dedicate each week to one task, like sorting out housing or booking flights, so I wasn’t juggling everything at once. And yes, don’t forget to factor in time for things like farewell dinners or selling stuff you won’t take with you.
Get real about the costs
Costs can add up quickly, especially when you factor in visa fees, flights, deposits, and the first few weeks of settling in. Start by making a list of everything you’ll need to pay for, then add a buffer for unexpected expenses.
Think about what currency you’ll be using day to day (GBP), and try budgeting side-by-side in both that and your home currency to avoid any shocks. It also helps to plan ahead for things like mobile plans, furniture, or temporary housing.
Getting your UK visa sorted
Sorting out your visa is one of the first big steps toward making your move to the UK a reality.
Figuring out which visa works for you
Your visa depends on your reason for moving. The most common ones are:
- Skilled worker visa: Great if you’ve got a job offer from a UK employer. Your role usually needs to be on an approved job list and meet certain salary requirements.
- Student visa: For full-time courses at approved UK institutions. You’ll need proof of acceptance and enough funds to support yourself.
- Family visa: If your partner, spouse, or family member is already in the UK, you might qualify through them.
You’ll typically need your passport, financial documents, and sometimes proof of English language ability or a health check. The UK government website is your best friend here—it walks you through the steps and lets you apply online.
What to know if you’re applying in 2025
Immigration rules have changed quite a bit over the past few years, especially for EU citizens, who now follow the same process as non-EU nationals. Rules can change quickly, so it’s worth checking the latest updates regularly. Try to start your application as early as you can, as things like background checks or getting your documents together often take longer than expected.
Setting up essentials before you move
It’s not the most exciting part of moving, but getting the basics sorted before you go can make a big difference.
Finding a place to call home
Renting in the UK can feel fast-paced, especially in popular cities like London or Edinburgh, where good housing goes quickly. Most people start their search on websites like Rightmove or Zoopla.
Be prepared to show proof of income, pay a deposit (usually 4–6 weeks’ rent), and possibly go through a credit check. It also helps to understand how UK lease agreements work before signing anything.
Getting your bank account sorted
Opening a UK bank account will make your life so much easier once you arrive. Popular British banks like Barclays, HSBC, and NatWest all have accounts for newcomers, but you’ll usually need proof of identity and a UK address.
If that’s tricky right away, digital banks like Monzo and Starling are a lifesaver. They’re app-based, super user-friendly, and don’t always require a UK address to get started. Lots of expats use them as a first step.
Signing up for healthcare
If your visa is for longer than six months, you’ll pay a health surcharge as part of your application, which means you’ll be able to access the National Health Service (NHS) when you arrive. In the UK, the NHS is completely free. General Practitioner (GP) visits, emergency care, and hospital treatment are all covered.
Once you’re settled, it’s a good idea to register with a local GP. Some people choose to take out private health insurance, but the NHS is considered to be one of the best free healthcare services in the world.
Saying goodbye and preparing emotionally
This part can sneak up on you. Between packing lists and to-do lists, it’s easy to forget that moving away is an emotional shift, too. Take time to say real goodbyes, have dinner with friends, do a last walk around your neighborhood, or write a note to someone who means a lot.
And if you feel nervous or unsure about what’s ahead, that’s completely normal. Just remind yourself why you’re doing this, and give yourself some time to adjust once you arrive.
What to do when you arrive in the UK
Your first few weeks in the UK can feel like a whirlwind, but tackling a few key tasks early will make a big difference in helping you feel grounded.
Apply for your National Insurance number
If you’re planning to work, your National Insurance (NI) number is essential. It’s how you pay tax and access certain benefits.
You can apply online once you’re in the UK with proof of your ID, visa, and address. It’s pretty straightforward, but it can take a few weeks. Once you receive your number in the mail, keep it safe—you’ll use it for every job you have while you’re here.
Get your utilities and internet set up
Once you move in, it’s time to sort the basics: electricity, water, gas, and broadband. You might inherit the previous tenant’s provider, or you can choose your own. A quick call or online form usually does the trick. For internet, companies like BT, Virgin Media, or Sky are popular, and it’s worth checking for new-customer deals if you’re signing up from scratch.
Pick up a UK phone number
Having a UK number makes life so much easier. Many newcomers go for SIM-only plans or pay-as-you-go options, which are flexible and don’t require a long contract. Giffgaff, Tesco Mobile, and Lebara are affordable and easy to set up, even without a UK credit history.
Settling into work and daily life
Once you’ve landed and caught your breath, the next big step is figuring out how to balance work, family, and everything in between.
Finding a job
Job hunting in the UK usually kicks off with websites like Indeed, Reed, LinkedIn, or Totaljobs. Cover letters are still a thing here, and polite, professional language goes a long way.
When it comes to British workplaces, you’ll notice that they often lean toward punctuality, calm communication, and a bit more formality than you might be used to. Many companies are also becoming more diverse and inclusive, bringing together people from different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives.
School and study options for all ages
If you’re moving with kids, applying to a local state school is free and handled through the local council. School placements are often based on catchment areas, so the neighborhood you choose can directly affect which schools your child is eligible for. It’s worth checking local Ofsted ratings and admission criteria before you decide where to live.
Children typically start primary school at age 4 or 5 and move on to secondary school at 11. At age 16, students take important national exams called GCSEs. They can then choose between several options for the last two years of their schooling, including A-levels, vocational training, or apprenticeships. For adults, the UK has a huge range of world-renowned universities.
Getting around town and across the country
Getting around the UK is usually straightforward, especially in cities where buses, underground, trams, and trains are well-connected and run frequently. For travel between cities, National Rail and coach services like National Express or Megabus are popular.
If you’re planning to drive, keep in mind that cars drive on the left, and your foreign license might only be valid for a limited time. Consider checking the DVLA website to see if you need to exchange it or take a UK driving test.
The cost of living
The cost of living in the UK can really vary depending on where you live. London, unsurprisingly, is on the pricey side, while cities like Manchester or towns in the north can offer a much more manageable monthly budget. Besides rent, you’ll want to plan for things like council tax, groceries, utilities, and everyday transport.
If you plan to send money to family abroad, Remitly offers secure and low-cost transfers with real-time tracking. You can send funds directly to a bank account, mobile wallet, or for cash pickup in many countries.
Learning the local way of life
British culture might seem a little reserved at first, but once you settle in, you’ll find plenty of warmth, dry humour, and everyday kindness. Simple gestures like saying “please,” “sorry,” and “cheers” go a long way.
Yes, there are a few British stereotypes. Queuing is very much a thing, so try to embrace it. And don’t be surprised if people have strong opinions about how to make a proper cup of tea—it’s practically a national sport.
FAQs
Do I need a visa to move to the UK in 2025?
Yes, most non-UK citizens need a visa to live, work, or study in the UK. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and reason for moving.
How can I find affordable housing in the UK?
Use trusted websites like Rightmove and Zoopla to search for rentals. Consider cities outside London for better value and explore shared housing to reduce costs.
Can I access healthcare as an immigrant?
Yes, if you’ve paid the immigration health surcharge, you’re entitled to use NHS services. Some people also choose private insurance for added coverage.
What’s council tax and do I have to pay it?
Council tax is a local fee paid to your local authority to help fund services like rubbish collection, schools, and street maintenance. Remember to register with your local council when you move in.