Immigration: Twelve Reasons for Relocating to the U.K.

Many people worldwide have several reasons for relocating to the U.K. at some point. These potential reasons will likely differ from one such person to the next.

For instance, some find the U.K.’s reputation as a tolerant and socially liberal country a significant draw. In contrast, others may be especially attracted to its strong economy, cultural diversity, and proximity to wider Europe.

Relocating to the U.K. offers many benefits that can enhance your personal and professional life. It will open doors to a rich tapestry of experiences, opportunities, and amenities, making it an attractive destination for individuals and families.

Whatever your reasons for relocating to the U.K. are, whether for a high-paying job, world-class education, cultural richness, happening nightlife, or overall quality of life, the country offers a welcoming environment full of new adventures and possibilities.

In this article, we will take you through some reasons for relocating to the U.K. and some adjustments to make after relocating.

1. Standard of Living

The U.K. has diverse areas to live in and can cater to your desired lifestyle. Suppose you would like to be amongst the hustle and bustle.

In that case, London is the perfect place for you as it has an international culture, a captivating history, an exciting social scene, and excellent transport links.

If you prefer a quieter environment but still want to experience city life, there are many places to choose from, such as St Albans, Milton Keynes, and Birmingham.

However, if you’re an avid traveler, relocating to the U.K. will be fitting for you as there are many traveling opportunities across Europe, as it’s on your doorstep!

There are more than 40 airports to fly from, and because of its central location, you can fly anywhere at a reasonable cost. You can even do a day trip to Paris as it’s only 2 hours on the Eurostar.

2. Employment Opportunities

The U.K. has a high demand for social workers and healthcare staff, so there are plenty of job openings for those with the right qualifications and experience. You’ll also be able to apply for permanent residency after four years.

3. Education

The United Kingdom offers world-leading opportunities in education and has well-respected educational institutions. The government provides primary and secondary schooling of a very high standard and at no extra cost.

Apart from its university, the private education here is also excellent despite being extremely expensive. Eton College, Westminster School, and Winchester College are just a few.

If you have children and want them to receive the best education, these are places to go. Grammar schools, on the other hand, are also fabulous if you are concerned about money but still want to provide your children with a high standard of education.

They are state-funded but academically selected schools.

4. Strong Labor Laws

The U.K. has strong labor laws and offers generous employee benefits. For instance, those working full-time in Great Britain are entitled to a minimum of 20 days paid annual leave.

Sick and parental leave (paid up to 39 weeks) benefits in the U.K. are also fairly generous. While on Statutory Maternity Leave, your employment rights (including your right to pay rises and return to work) are protected.

5. Healthcare‍

The U.K.’s National Health Service (N.H.S.) is one of the world’s leading health services. Britain is also home to some of the world’s best hospitals.

Most immigrants must pay an Immigration Health fee when applying for a visa. The I.H.S. entitles you to use the N.H.S. and gain free at the point of use healthcare around the country.

According to the N.H.S. entitlement guidance, complimentary services include G.P. and nurse consultations in primary care, treatment provided by a G.P., and other primary care services. The free healthcare, however, does not apply to opticians or dentistry.

6. Career Growth

Industries, such as Fintech and E-commerce, are growing, particularly in the London market.

Therefore, it’s beneficial to join companies on the brink of the stock exchange, giving you substantial progression opportunities, unlimited growth potential, and greater autonomy.

It’s also a great way to gain international experience and the opportunity to be recognized purely for your skillset and what you can offer a company.

Diversity and inclusion are highly encouraged, and businesses are accountable for adopting inclusive hiring strategies. This implies that there is no bias involved in the recruitment process.

7. Work-life Balance

The U.K. is very progressive with employment packages, with options including holiday entitlement, mental health, and wellness benefits.

A general trend is that companies exercise the flexible/hybrid working approach, where employees are in the office 2/3 days a week, offering employees a positive work-life balance.

8. Geographic Location

The U.K. is ideally located for short trips if you want to explore the rest of Europe. Traveling outside Great Britain is easy with commercial airports, the Eurostar train, and ferry ports.

The growth of budget airlines makes it possible to travel without breaking the bank. For Global Talent Visa holders, traveling outside the country is possible and visa-free to numerous countries.

Mexico, Panama, Jamaica, Armenia, and Oman are some of the top 35 visa-free destinations for British talents.

9. Diversity

The U.K. is genuinely multicultural, welcoming people worldwide since it has a long immigration history. This is especially evident in its major cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh.

There are over 300 languages spoken in London alone, which is more than any other city in the world.

Everywhere in Great Britain, you decide to settle, from Glasgow to Leeds and Birmingham to Manchester, and there are different proportions of various ethnic groups depending on their histories.

For instance, Liverpool is home to an old Black community (the oldest in Europe) and the oldest Chinese community in Europe because of Liverpool’s trading ties with Shanghai in the 1890s.

10. History and Culture

The U.K. is bursting with history, art, and culture. You will be surrounded by thousands of years of history everywhere you look.

Walking down the street can become an impromptu history lesson while passing castles, historic churches, and homes. On top of that, you will have access to some of the world’s leading arts, culture, and sporting events.

Many international events are held in the U.K.’s major cities, which, along with an efficient transport network, will make seeing one’s favorite sports event or catching an international music tour possible.

11. Great Comfort Food

London and other locations across the country boast world-class cuisine to stand alongside the world’s food capitals. But the U.K. is also brilliant at casual comfort food.

Classic British dishes include Sunday Roast, Steak and Ale Pie, Shepherd’s Pie, and Lancashire Hotpot – just for a drizzly winter’s day.

12. Progressive Environment 

Compared to some countries worldwide, the U.K. has a very progressive environment.

If you’re looking to move to a place where you can be yourself without judgment or punishment for being part of the LGBTQ+ community, then London could be the perfect place for you!

London’s LGBTQ+ scene is one of the best in the world. Soho is home to many bars and clubs to explore. There is something for everyone! 

Some Adjustments Needed After Relocating

1. High Cost of Living

Housing, transportation, and utilities are expensive, especially in cities like London. Grocery prices can be up to 30% higher than in some countries. Like any other place, salaries don’t necessarily rise proportionally to match the cost of living.

2. Housing Shortage

Limited available housing, competitiveness of markets, and high rents make securing accommodation difficult, especially in desirable cities.

Landlords often require substantial proof of income, which is hard when you have just relocated to the U.K.

3. Weather Variability

Mild but rainier weather means constantly dealing with drizzle. Winters are dreary with short daylight hours, often causing a depressive emotional state known as the Winter Blue.

Summer heatwaves are rarer but can reach up to 40C. As a result, Brits are known to be obsessed with sunlight and often stay outdoors to enjoy sunbathing when the weather is nice.

4. Cultural Differences

Brits can be seen as more reserved. Unspoken etiquette rules exist for greetings, conversations, humor, and behavior.

As an immigrant, you stand out and may unintentionally breach unspoken norms. Make some local friends when you relocate to the U.K., and try to observe and learn from them to fit in.

5. Missing Home Country

Being far from family, lifelong friends, and all that is familiar is difficult. Flights home are lengthy and costly.

Overcoming homesickness while establishing a new support system takes time and effort. Ensure you make good use of technologies like Zoom or Skype to stay connected while you are still adjusting.

Conclusion

So, why not take advantage of the opportunity to relocate to the U.K. and embrace all these benefits and so much more?

But it’s also important to know that your relocation experience to the United Kingdom will be based on your needs, your personality, and how much you interact and associate with the outside world.