Moving to the UK opens the door to a world full of exciting experiences and opportunities. The UK thrives with rich history, diversity in culture, and a modern lifestyle. Whether you’re keen on the eclectic energy of London or the peaceful landscapes of the English countryside, the UK has a bit of something for everyone.
Similar to Singapore, the UK is a very multicultural society with people from all walks of life. This diversity can make your transition smoother, as you’re likely to encounter communities with shared experiences and backgrounds. The UK also provides a high standard of living, blending tradition with contemporary convenience.
Here’s why moving to the UK from Singapore might be the right choice for you, and how it compares to life in Singapore.
Varied Seasons and Mild Weather
The UK’s climate is quite different from Singapore’s tropical weather. If you like warmer winters, you may be more suited to migrate to UK in the southern parts of England, like Devon or Cornwall.
High Quality Education
The UK has a reputation for an excellent education system, making it an attractive destination for students and families. The UK is home to some of the world’s most renowned universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. These institutions attract students from around the world, creating a rich and diverse academic environment.
If you have kids, research local schools and consider visiting them before making a decision. Each school has its own unique strengths and atmosphere.
Housing & Accommodation
The UK has a broad smorgasbord of housing options, ranging from sleek city apartments to quaint cottages. The rental market, particularly in London, can be competitive, so start your search early.
While first starting off when you migrate to UK, you may consider hotels or Airbnb for affordable short-term accommodation.
When searching for a long-term place to stay, consider factors like how close it is to your workplace or school, access to public transport, and amenities. Websites such as Rightmove and Zoopla are commonly used for finding rental properties. You might also consider house sharing, such as on SpareRoom website, which can be more cost-effective and a good opportunity to meet people.
Cost of Living: A Mixed Bag
The cost of living in the UK can vary widely depending on the region. London is one of the world’s most expensive cities, but other parts of the UK, such as Manchester or Leeds, are more affordable. For a more budget-friendly option, consider living outside of London and commuting to the city for work. For example, Reading, Woking, and Brighton offer a balance of accessibility to London and a more relaxed pace. Public transport in the UK is quite extensive and reliable.
Here’s a rough estimate of monthly living expenses in the UK (including rent, food, bills, transportation, and other essentials):
- London: £4,000-£6,000 for a family of four, £2,000-£3,000 for a single person
- Other major cities: £3,000-£4,500 for a family of four, £1,500-£2,500 for a single person
To save on groceries, shop at supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, or Aldi, and explore farmers markets.
Navigating the Visa Process When you Migrate to UK
Moving to the UK requires obtaining the appropriate visa. Whether you’re moving for work, study, or familial reasons, it’s important to understand the visa requirements and start the application process early.
The UK offers several visa options, including the Skilled Worker Visa, Student Visa, and Family Visa. Each visa type has specific requirements, so gather all necessary documents and plan ahead.
After living in the UK for long enough, you may be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), which can eventually lead to UK citizenship.
Consider consulting with an immigration advisor who can help ensure you dot the i’s and cross the t’s for visa requirements and avoid potential delays.
A Bustling Job Scene
The UK offers a diverse job market with opportunities across various industries. Whether your expertise is in finance, healthcare, engineering, or the arts, the UK has a broad range of career options.
The UK government regularly updates its immigration salary list, which highlights the minimum salary to qualify for a visa for skilled workers. This can make it easier to secure a work visa if your skills are sought after.
Networking plays a crucial role in the UK job market. Attending industry events and connecting with professionals in your field will enhance your job search efforts.
While London is a hub for finance and business, other cities like Edinburgh, Bristol, and Manchester are growing rapidly in industries like tech and media.
Moving to the UK from Singapore: Make it Smooth and Stress-Free
You’ll have a lot to organise after you’ve decided to move to the UK.
Aside from finding work and going through the immigration process, your top objectives will be determining where you want to live, locating housing, resolving financial and banking issues, and, if you have children, locating the finest schools for them.
Not to mention packing and moving all your material belongings!
Let Classic Moving ease the relocation process.
Our team of international movers specialise in all areas of the relocation process, covering all your needs from start to finish. We also pride ourselves on our premium customer service, so rest assured your move will be stress-free.
Contact us today to know more!
