1) ​What should I know before moving to London?

London is one of the most exciting and interesting cities in the world. But as an overseas worker, there are a few things to keep in mind before you start planning your relocation to the capital.

2) What is Brexit and will it affect me if I relocate to the UK?

​Now that the UK has left the European Union (EU), if you’re currently overseas and looking for a healthcare or social work job, you might have some questions. So, what is Brexit? What’s the current status? And how could it affect you as a migrant worker?

3) What type of nurses are there in the UK?

Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system; their knowledge, skills and commitment form the basis of our high-quality patient care. There are several different types in the UK in both the public and private sector.

4) How do I open a UK bank account?

After securing your next health or social care job in the UK, as an international worker you will need to think about setting up a bank account. But what documentation do you need to open a UK bank account?

5) Which countries driving licence is valid in the UK?

Depending on where in the UK you choose to relocate to, part of your commute may require a car. Find out whether your driving license is valid or if you are required to retake your driving test.

​6) Do I get a pension and how does it work?

​As an international worker, you – like all people employed in the UK – are entitled to make a pension plan to help you save money for later life. There is the state 2nd pension scheme, personal pension plan and occupational pension schemes (OPS).

​7) ​What do I need to rent a property in the UK?

​In order to rent a property in the UK, you will need a selection of documents to prove your identity, employment status and that you can afford to pay your rent each month.

8) What qualifications do I need to be a nurse in the UK?

​Overseas nurses have the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. Find out more about the qualifications and experience you will need in order to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and practice as a nurse in the UK.

9) How can I get a British citizenship?

Many overseas workers eventually apply for a UK citizenship by naturalisation, but you can also apply for indefinite leave to remain (IRL) and permanent residence status depending on your circumstances.

10) How do you buy an Oyster card?

Oyster cards are reusable electronic tickets that can be topped up with cash to be used on different forms of public transport across London; the card can work on a pay-as-you-go basis. So, how do you buy an Oyster card and where can it be used?

11) ​How to compare utility prices?

Ensuring you get a good rate when paying your electricity, gas and water bills here in the UK is key to keeping your monthly budget in-check. Here are some useful ways to help you compare the deals out there, and keep the costs down as much as possible.

12) ​Does London have good public transport?

London is known to have one of the largest, safest and most efficient public transport networks in the world. It has integrated bus, rail, river and road systems spanning the city’s 32 boroughs, and beyond. The main ways to get around the capital is on the tube, DLR, bus and overground.

13) Can visitors in the UK use the NHS?

When visiting the UK from overseas, you may be charged for some NHS treatments and depending on how urgent it is, you will usually need to pay in advance. Only non-EEA nationals who have ‘indefinite leave to remain’ status are entitled to free secondary care.

14) What supermarkets are in the UK?

Grocery sales in the UK are dominated by the ‘big four’: Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons. Discount supermarkets Aldi and Lidl have also become hugely popular. Waitrose and Marks & Spencer are arguably the most expensive grocery stores in the UK but deliver on quality.

15) What attractions are free in London?

​For overseas workers who have recently relocated to the UK, London will probably be at the top of your list of places to visit. Here's five free attractions you and your family can enjoy in the city.

16) Can I use my phone in the UK?

When you relocate, it’s likely you’ll need to use your phone in the UK. Here’s everything you need to know about the UK networks, frequencies and roaming charges.

17) How can I get a UK work permit?

Before applying for a UK work permit, you must have a confirmation of employment, a certificate of sponsorship (CoS) and have passed the points-based assessment.

18) ​What documents do I need to work in the UK?

Information on UK visas and work permits for international nurses, social workers and allied health professionals looking to relocate.

19) Is the UK a good country to live in?

We’re getting happier! The seventh World Happiness Report 2019 (which asks 3,000 people from each country to score their happiness on a scale from 0 to 10) placed the UK 15th out of 156 countries surveyed, climbing four places since the previous year.

20) ​Do I pay tax if I work abroad?

If you're considering a move to the UK, it's worth considering how you are taxed if you work abroad and whether you pay UK tax on foreign income. We've provided some details on the rules and how to work this out.

21) Five must-have apps when moving to London

Food, transport and self-love! We recommend downloading Citymapper, Monzo, Uber, Deliveroo and Treatwell apps to anyone relocating to London.

22) Preparing for your move to the UK: 7 things to remember

​The day you travel will be full of excitement, so here is a list of things to remember before travelling.

Find out more about working for the NHS or requirements for overseas workers. For more specific queries, get in touch with Sanctuary International.