Welcome Home

It may be daunting to think of all the things you need to do as soon as you arrive. Some things are common knowledge, like getting a UK phone number, but some are unique to your new home. We have compiled a list of things that you need to do as soon as you get settled.

Get a UK sim. You can get a pay as you go sim which can later be converted to a contract. We would suggest getting a sim only contract as soon as you are able to as this will assist you in building your credit rating. After a few months, you can upgrade your contract to include a phone if needed. Click here for more detailed information on this topic.

Register with a GP. You will need to complete a GMS1 form that you can get from your closest practice or download from the NHS website. If you enter your postcode on the website www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp they will tell you where your closest GP is. Phone them to find out whether they are accepting new NHS patients and deliver the forms. You will then be allocated a hospital number once accepted.

Setting up a bank account. This is much more complicated than it is in South Africa. If you do not have a proof of address and a payslip it is almost impossible. You can use a service like Monzo or Starling, but they do not contribute towards your credit rating. This is something that is imperative if you want to buy property or anything else on credit. I would suggest registering to vote, this will give you proof of address, getting a letter from your company will also help.

Register to vote. Once you are on the electoral register you will have proof of address and it will count towards your credit rating. It takes only 5 minutes to register. www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

Get a National Insurance number. You will need a National Insurance number (NI) in order to work. Visit the website for updated information and the latest rules. www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number.
You can make an online appointment by phoning 0800 141 2075. Do not use the online agencies that offer to make one for you it is a scam. You should not be paying to make an appointment.

Related.

I am an ex-teacher turned part time CV writer,  online educator, and blogger who moved to Ireland with my husband three years ago. We brought along 4 pets and too many books to count. After a year in Ireland we made the move to London. We love exploring new places and taking long hikes around Surrey where we live. All of which I exploit on my blog that mostly serves to amuse my mother and my best friends.