Moving to the UK from Australia

How to Move to the UK from Australia

With the number of Australian nationals choosing to emigrate increasing each year, the number of those moving to UK from Australia has also gone up.

For many Australians, the UK offers competitive study opportunities as well as more job prospects. This is especially the case for industries like Engineering or Healthcare. Depending on where in Australia you live, your visa application process may vary. For example, the process of emigrating from Adelaide or Hobart is different to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth or Canberra.

Whether you are interested in moving from Austrailia to the UK for business, work, study or family reasons, our team of specialist immigration advisers can help. The following information has been compiled to offer advice for those looking for advice on how to move to England or elsewhere in the UK.

Understanding Your Visa Options

While you’d only require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to enter the UK and stay for up to 6 months, as an Australian citizen, you must obtain a UK visa if you intend to remain in the UK for over 6 months. Choosing the appropriate visa to enter the UK from Australia depends on your situation and travel purpose. The following are key UK visa types that can allow you to enter the UK:

Skilled Worker Visa 

The UK government designed the Skilled Worker Visa to attract foreign workers with specialised skills to fill skill shortages and significantly contribute to the UK economy. You must obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK employer to apply for this visa. To qualify for this visa, you must meet several requirements, including the skill Regulatory Qualification Framework (RQF) level 6 threshold.

The Skilled Worker Visa allows you to enter the UK with your dependents (partner and children under 18 years old), provided they meet the requirements. This visa is valid for 5 years, but if you intend to remain in the UK, you need to renew this visa. After staying in the UK for 10 years, you may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) to remain indefinitely in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria for Skilled Worker Visa

To qualify for a Skilled Worker Visa, Australian citizens must meet the following requirements:

• Meet the English language proficiency requirement.
• Be assured to earn up to £38,700 yearly, or be paid above the market value for your role, whichever is more.
• Have up to £1,270 in your bank account to demonstrate that you can cover your expenses when you enter the UK.
• Your job must be on the list of eligible occupations.
• Have the Home Office licence.
• Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK-based employer, stating the criteria and expectations for your duties when you enter the UK.
• Have a job offer from your employer.

Youth Mobility Scheme

The Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) allows qualified youths from certain nations to spend up to 2 years (or, depending on their nationality, sometimes up to 3 years) in the United Kingdom. The program provides a more adaptable and accessible immigration path for younger workers than other UK work visas, as it does not require sponsorship, employment, or fulfilment of skill or wage requirements.

To participate in this programme, applicants must be 18 to 30 years old (18 to 35 years for some countries). This program is aimed at giving young people opportunities and encouraging cross-cultural exchange. During its validity period, this program can allow you to work and study in the UK. Australian citizens and citizens from countries, including New Zealand, Canada, Monaco, Andorra, India, Iceland, and more, can participate in this program.

Eligibility Criteria for Youth Mobility Scheme

Individuals intending to participate in the Youth Mobility Scheme must meet the following criteria:

• Be a British National (Overseas), British Overseas Territories citizen, or a British Overseas citizen. You can also come from Andorra, Monaco, Japan, Taiwan, New Zealand, Australia, San Marino, the Republic of Korea, Iceland, Canada, Hong Kong, India, or Uruguay.
• Have an educational qualification that matches the Regulatory Qualification Framework (RQF) level 6 or a job with 3 years’ experience for a professional role equal to a qualifying occupation in the Appendix Skilled Occupations list. Note, this requirement is exclusive to Indian applicants.
• Be 18 to 30 years old when applying for the program. Individuals from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the Republic of Korea can be between 18 to 35 years when they apply.
• Paid your application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
• Don’t have any child under 18 living with you or financially dependent on you.
• Have not previously entered the UK through the Youth Mobility Scheme program.
• Have an account showing that you have £2530 for 28 days within 31 days of applying for the program.
• Must have obtained the tuberculosis (TB) test certificate (if applicable).

UK Ancestry Visa

The UK Ancestry Visa can be obtained by Commonwealth citizens aged 17 years or above, whose grandparents were born in the United Kingdom. This visa allows holders to enter the UK to live and work because their grandparents are British citizens born in the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man.

With this visa, you can find employment or create one in the UK. You can also work at any skill level with this visa (unlike work visas). After obtaining and holding the ILR for the required period, you may qualify to apply for British citizenship.

Eligibility Criteria for UK Ancestry Visa

As an Australian citizen, you must meet the following requirements to qualify for a UK Ancestry Visa:

• Be 17 years or older.
• Demonstrate that your grandparent(s) were born in the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man.
• Intend to work in the UK.
• Apply from outside the UK.
• Have enough money to cover your expenses in the UK.
• Be a Commonwealth citizen.

Family Visa

As an Australian citizen, the UK Family Visa allows you to join your family member who is a British citizen or an individual who holds a settled (EU settlement scheme or ILR) status in the United Kingdom. To qualify for this visa, you must be related to the UK-based family member through a genuine relationship as a parent, partner, spouse, fiancé(e), dependent child or dependent relative.

Family visas are of different types, and the specific visa you should apply for depends on your relationship with the UK-based family member. For instance, if you’re a spouse to your family member who lives in the UK, you must apply for a Spouse Visa. Similarly, a Child Dependent Visa allows children under 18 to join their UK-based parents, provided they meet all the requirements.

Eligibility Criteria for Family Visa

Australian citizens intending to enter the UK via the Family Visa must meet the following requirements:

• Have a UK-based family member who is a British citizen or permanent resident.
• Be in a genuine relationship with a UK-based family member.
• Live outside the UK while your UK-based family member is in the UK. Or you can be in the United Kingdom on an eligible visa that can be switched to a Family Visa type.
• Meet the English language requirement.
• Have a clean criminal record.

Choosing the Right Visa Based on Personal Situation

As an Australian citizen, you must apply for the UK visa that aligns with your situation. Hence, your purpose or circumstance of travelling to the United Kingdom determines the specific UK visa type you should choose.

A Youth Mobility Visa would suit you if you’re young and independent and seeking to experience UK life and connect with your contemporaries from other countries. For those with specialised skills, seeking to enter the UK and work for a licensed UK employer long-term, a Skilled Worker Visa would be most appropriate.

Australian citizens whose grandparent(s) were born in the UK, seeking to reconnect with their ancestral heritage, can apply for the UK Ancestry Visa. Additionally, if you have a UK-based family member related to you as a spouse, parent (you depend on), or child, you can apply for family visas, such as Spouse Visa, Child Dependent Visa, or Parent Visa, respectively.

Application Steps and Average Processing Times

Australian citizens must follow this step-by-step guide in applying for UK visas that suit their travel purpose:

• Choose your visa type: You must select the UK visa that aligns with your travel purpose. For instance, if you intend to enter the UK to join a family member, you must apply for a Family Visa that matches your relationship with the individual. Should you not know the specific UK visa to apply for, you can contact one of our experienced immigration lawyers at IAS to analyse your situation and guide you in applying for the appropriate one. Call us today at +44 (0)333 414 9244 or message us online for instant support.
• Apply online: Complete the UK visa’s online application form on the UK government’s website using your correct details. Ensure that you complete all sections appropriately.
• Pay the visa application fee: UK visa application fees usually differ. Pay the appropriate application fee for your preferred visa type.
• Gather your documents: Provide all the required documents for your visa application. The details in your document must match the information in your visa application form. This proves the authenticity of your information and does not signal its misrepresentation, which could result in a visa refusal. The documents you may be required to provide depend on the visa type you’re applying for. These required documents can include:
  • Valid Australian international passport
  • Visa application fee receipt
  • Passport photographs
  • Your completed visa application form
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Bank statements
  • Your travel purpose
  • Invitation letter
• Attend a biometric appointment: You may be required to visit the UK visa application centre nearest you to submit your biometric information (digital copies of your fingerprints and photographs).
• Submit your application: After completing the steps above, submit your visa application form and supporting documents.
• Await decision: Your visa application will be processed after you submit it. The Home Office will decide on your submitted visa application and give you feedback.
• Collect your visa: If your visa application is successful, they will affix a visa sticker on your passport. You will be directed when and where to collect it.

Visa Fees and Associated Costs

The UK visa you’re applying for will determine the fees and associated costs you must cover. The visa fees vary depending on the duration of stay, purpose of visit, and location of your application. Depending on your situation, you may be required to cover other costs, such as:

• Certificate translations of documents that are not in the English language.
• Courier services: You may engage courier services to bring your visa package to your desired location.
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) covers your healthcare while in the UK. Some visa applicants, such as short-term Visitor Visa or Health and Care Worker Visa, are exempt from the IHS.
• Priority and super-priority services: You may opt for priority or super-priority services to expedite your visa application process before the end of 5 and 2 working days, respectively.

The following table shows some UK visas you can obtain from Australia and their application fees:

Apply for a UK Family Visa

If you have any relatives who currently reside in the UK with British Citizenship or Indefinite Leave to Remain, you may be eligible to make an application for a Family Visa when looking into moving to UK from Australia.

This visa lets you move to the UK for a period of six months or more, for a maximum of 33 months. After this time you can apply to extend your visa. The requirements for this type of visa are stricter than other visa types.

To be eligible, you must be:

• Over the age of 18
• Able to prove that your relationship with your relative is genuine and legitimate
• Living with the person during your stay (who must have enough space for you)

Apply for a Spouse/Partner Visa as an Australian citizen

If your spouse, civil partner or long-term partner is living in the UK, you may be able to join them with a Spouse/Partner Visa.

A Spouse Visa allows you to work when in the UK, provided you remain in the relationship with your spouse or partner.

To be eligible you must be:

• Able to prove that your relationship with your partner is ‘genuine and subsisting’
• Able to provide proof of your marriage or civil partnership, if you are a spouse
• Able to provide proof that you have been living together and in a relationship for at least two years, if you are an unmarried partner 
• Able to meet the minimum income requirement of £29,000 per annum.

Apply for a UK Work Visa as an Australian citizen

There are three primary types of Work Visa which will allow you to undergo the process of moving from Australia to UK for work.

Skilled Worker Visas allow you to enter the UK for permanent, skilled work for a maximum period of five years.

Temporary Work visa allow you enter the UK for temporary, skilled work for a maximum period of 24 months.

Both visa types are measured on the points-based-system. To make an application for either visa types, you will need:

• A job offer from a UK employment with a Sponsor Licence
• A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from this employer
• Proof that you have enough money to financially support yourself during your travels to the UK and before you receive your first paycheck

If you are a very highly-skilled individual, you may be able to enter the UK using a Global Talent Visa.

To be eligible for this type of visa, you will need to be exceptionally talented in your field of expertise and sponsored by a regulated institution, such as an arts body.

Preparing for the Move: What to Organise Before Leaving Australia

You must be ready to embark on your move to the UK from Australia by doing the following:

Applying for a Visa and Gathering Documents 

Begin your visa application early to allow time for processing. Ensure you assemble all the required documents, including your valid Australian international passport, bank statements, proof of accommodation, and more. Keep the physical and digital copies of your crucial documents.

Health Checks, Vaccinations, and Healthcare Considerations

You must stay updated with the current and standard medical requirements for entering the UK. Most UK visa applicants must book medical appointments at designated offices to ascertain their health conditions. If you’re on prescription medication, you must bring a copy of your prescription and a supply. As a prospective UK resident, you should understand how the National Health Service (NHS) and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) work.

Organising International Health Insurance

While the NHS is included in your UK long-stay visa, you may consider international health insurance for additional coverage, such as dental, optical, or private treatment. This may be a backup plan alongside the NHS, as it can also help to cover repatriation costs in emergencies.

How to Transfer Money and Set up a UK Bank Account Remotely

Several UK banks (NatWest, Lloyds Bank, HSBC, and Barclays) offer online account opening, allowing individuals seeking to open a bank account to complete the application remotely. After setting up a UK online bank account, you must verify your identity as the account holder. When opening the bank account, you’ll be required to provide some documents, including:

• Your passport
• Driver’s license
• Utility bills
• Bank statement
• Tenancy agreement
• Tax residency status

Some UK-based financial institutions, such as Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC) and Monzo, offer individuals options to open or start an application for a bank account abroad. You can use international money transfer services or digital banks, such as Wise or Grey, to move funds with lower fees than banks. Additionally, these digital banks allow quick account setup and card access when you enter the UK.

What to Pack Vs What to Sell/Store

You need to bring essential things with you to help your transition to your new environment in the UK. You can bring the following:

• Important documents.
• Medication (in original packaging with prescription and doctor’s note).
• Clothes: sweaters, scarves, gloves, caps, and shoes.
• Toiletries: soap, toothpaste, shampoo, and other toiletries.
• British pounds (UK currency) for immediate expenses when you arrive.
• Electronics: Laptops, phones, and other electronic devices.

You may sell or donate bulky appliances or furniture to reduce the items you ship to the UK. Ensure you only bring crucial items because shipping personal items can be expensive. You can store valuable or long-term items at paid storage or leave them under the care of your family.

Budgeting and Cost of Living in the UK

You need to plan how to spend money before entering the UK from Australia. To do this, you must consider the following:

Cost Comparison: Sydney/Melbourne Vs London/Manchester

Living in London is more expensive than in Sydney or Melbourne, considering costs such as rent and transportation. However, cities like Manchester offer a lower cost of living, often comparable to or slightly more affordable than major Australian cities. While groceries and dining out can be cheaper in the United Kingdom, the UK housing and energy costs may be costlier for Australian citizens.

Housing and Rental Costs

When coming to the UK, you should consider housing and rental costs. You need to go for houses that suit your preferences and financial capabilities. Additionally, you should budget for other living costs, such as groceries, transport, and entertainment. Note that your location in the UK determines your cost of living. The table below shows an estimated monthly cost of housing in some cities and regions, as well as other expenses you should expect in the UK:

Hidden Costs Australians May Not Expect (TV License, Council Tax)

As an Australian citizen moving to the UK, you should prepare for hidden costs such as the TV license and council tax. You must obtain a license to view or record shows on TV, computer, or other devices while aired, and watch BBC shows on demand via iPlayer. For coloured TV sets, you should budget about £174.50 or more for a 1-year TV license in the UK. Or you can budget about £58.50 for a black and white TV license. 

You might qualify for a discount, provided you meet the requirements. When you enter the UK, you don’t need a TV license to:

• Watch videos or DVDs
• Stream services, such as Disney+ and Netflix
• Watch videos on websites, such as YouTube
• Watch Amazon Prime Video (on-demand TV)

Another hidden cost you should prepare for is the council tax. To determine the council tax you’re required to pay in the UK, you must understand the following 3 things:

• Your home’s valuation band is in Scotland, England, or Wales.
• The charges allocated to that band by your local council.
• Possibility of getting exemptions or discounts from the full bill.

Recommended Initial Savings Before Moving

You should have enough money to cover your expenses for the first few months of entering the United Kingdom. You need to have an estimated initial savings of up to AUD$8,000 to AUD$10,000 (not more than £5,000 or more than £5,000, whichever suits you better) to move to the UK from Australia. However, your expenses, lifestyle, and other factors will determine if the money you need will be enough for you to settle down within your first few months in the UK.

Finding Accommodation in the UK

As a part of your requirements for obtaining a visa to move to the UK, you must prove that you have somewhere to stay. As an Australian citizen moving to Canada, you must consider the following:

Renting Vs Buying: What Australians Need to Know

For new arrivals, renting an apartment could be a more practical option. It offers lower initial costs and flexibility to move to other locations, for family, work, or new opportunities. Renting a house in the UK (with flexible leases) means a long sale process, or a mortgage does not tie you down. Additionally, you may not cover maintenance costs to fix leaky roofs, faulty electrics, and broken boilers in a rented apartment, as the landlord covers them.

The UK property market can be competitive, especially in London, Manchester, and Bradford. Buying a home in the UK without the intention of staying long-term may not be a good investment, because it involves legal processes, significant costs, including stamp duty, and solicitor fees. If you intend to reside in a specific location in the UK and have enough finances to cover taxes related to property ownership, buying a home may be a better option for you.

How to Secure a Rental Property Before Arrival

Renting an apartment in the UK without being physically there can be challenging. Reputable platforms like Zoopla, OpenRent, or Rightmove can help you secure accommodation before arrival. Consider short-term accommodation, such as Airbnb or serviced apartments, to stay for your first few weeks and determine the best spot to settle.

Key Documents Required

To rent a property in the UK, the documents you may need to provide include:

• Proof of identification (your passport and visa)
• Previous landlord references
• Proof of income or employment (payslips, bank statements, or job offer letter)
• UK-based guarantor
• Right to rent check confirmation

Tips on Avoiding Scams and Understanding Tenancy Agreements

The following tips can help you avoid scams and help you understand tenancy agreements when finding accommodation in the UK:

• Consult immigration solicitors at IAS to secure an apartment that suits your preferences and other concierge services to help your transition to life in the UK. Call us today at +44 (0)333 414 9244 or message us via our online chat box for immediate response.
• Don’t send money before seeing a property or verifying the letting agent.
• Confirm that your deposit will be protected in a government-approved Tenancy Deposit Protection (TDP) scheme.
• Always sign a written tenancy agreement after reviewing the terms, such as the deposit amount, responsibilities for repairs, and notice period.
• Seek recommendations or track records of property agents before engaging their services.

Setting Up Essential Services

The essential services you need to set up are basic services to ease your transition into a new environment, including:

Mobile Phone and SIM Card Options for New Arrivals

You can choose a monthly SIM-only contract or Pay As You Go (PAYG) as a new arrival in the UK from Australia. The monthly SIM-only contract allocates a monthly fee for a set amount of data, minutes, and texts for a set period, usually from 1 to 24 months. The PAYG allows you to credit your line and pay as you text, call, and use data services.

Several SIM card options exist in the UK. EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three are the major providers of SIM cards in the UK. You can choose from them or choose from other options like Voxi, SMARTY, iD Mobile, and more.

Internet and Broadband Setup Process

Broadband installation can take 1 or 2 weeks. You can subscribe with one of the popular providers, such as TalkTalk, BT, Virgin Media, and Sky. You need to compare their contract lengths, speed, and prices before choosing the one that suits your preferences.

Registering with Local Authorities

You should register with a local General Practitioner (GP) to access the National Health Service (NHS). It can help you access medical appointments and online services. Additionally, as an Australian national (Commonwealth citizen) living in the UK, you may qualify to register to vote in local and national elections.

Setting up Utility Bills

When you move into your new apartment in the UK, you can contact the existing utility suppliers or get new ones. You can set up gas and electricity via providers E.ON, British Gas, Scottish Power, etc. You may not worry much about water services; some regions fix and bill them separately. You’ll need to provide meter readings, choose a tariff, and set up payment via direct debit for electricity.

Accessing Healthcare in the UK

The National Health Service (NHS) provides free or subsidised healthcare to UK residents. If you’re an Australian citizen on a long-term visa (over 6 months) and you have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), you’re entitled to access NHS services, such as hospital treatment, General Practitioner (GP) visits, and emergency care. However, getting services like prescriptions, eye tests, and dental care may attract additional charges.

Health Surcharges for Visa Holders

As an Australian citizen entering the UK and intending to stay long-term, you must pay at least 1 year’s Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This payment covers the duration of your, allowing you to access full NHS services without additional insurance. The IHS is worth:

• £1035 (for adult applicants)
• £776 (for applicants under the age of 18)

How to Register with a GP and a Dentist

Adhere to the following steps to register with a GP:

• Find a GP surgery that serves your area via the NHS website.
• Check whether they’re accepting more patients.
• Complete their registration form.
• Put your details, such as name, address, medical record, and supporting documents (if required).
• Submit your registration form and receive a registration confirmation message from the surgery.

To register with a dentist, you can do the following:

• Contact local dental practices near you using online search engines.
• Visit or call them to inquire about their registration and whether they accept more patients.
• Include your name, contact details, address, and NHS number.
• Attend a checkup to establish your dental care needs.

Private Healthcare Options for Australians

You can access some big UK private healthcare insurance providers, such as AXA, Vitality, and Bupa. These private healthcare options offer faster access, private hospital stays, and a choice of specialists. You may choose private healthcare insurance to supplement NHS care, especially for optical, dental, or specialist treatment. Costs for private healthcare insurance vary depending on the provider and coverage level.

Finding Employment in the UK

As an Australian citizen, you can find a job in several sectors in the UK, including:

• Finance: You can seek employment in finance for banking, accounting, and fintech roles.
• Education: You can leverage the job opportunities in the educational sector, as positions for qualified teachers are in high demand, especially in secondary education and special needs.
• Healthcare: The NHS employs nurses, doctors, and other health professionals to strengthen the labour market and fill shortages in the sector.
• Information Technology (IT): You can secure a job as an IT professional, as there is significant demand for software developers, data analysts, and cybersecurity experts in the UK.

How to Prepare a CV for the UK Job Market

Your CV needs to be 1 page or 2 pages (standard for most professionals), or 3 pages if you’re highly experienced or in research or academic fields. You must keep your CV concise by just highlighting the most relevant points of your information.

Always tailor your CV for each role you’re applying for, using keywords from the job description. Your CV should contain:

• A clear personal statement
• Reverse chronological work experience
• Education and qualification
• Skills and relevant achievements

Don’t include details such as your:

• Date of birth
• Photograph
• Nationality
• Marital status

Top Recruitment Agencies for Expats

Our immigration solicitors at IAS can assist you in getting a job in the UK through our expertise in navigating the UK immigration system, securing work visas and sponsorship for employers. Our immigration solicitors at IAS can help job seekers and employers abide by the UK immigration laws, to ensure they’re compliant with the immigration rules.

As an Australian citizen seeking to start life in the UK, we can help you transition to a new life after entering the UK. We also help recruiters with all the processes needed to bring foreign workers to the UK for work purposes. You can call us today at +44 (0)333 414 9244 or message us online for immediate feedback.

You can also engage the services of recruitment agencies to find jobs in the UK. These agencies include:

• PulseJobs: Healthcare recruitment for nurses, doctors, other health professionals.
• Hays: Recruits from several sectors, including IT, life sciences, construction, etc.
• Prospero Teaching: Recruits qualified teachers, support staff, and other education professionals.
• Michael Page: Serves several job opportunities in various sectors, including finance, technology, and manufacturing.

Work Rights and Protections Australians Should Be Aware Of

As an Australian citizen working legally in the UK, you’re entitled to the following work rights and protection:

• Paid holidays (minimum 28 days, including public holidays).
• Minimum wage of £12.21 per hour for adults aged 21 and above (as of April 1, 2025).
• Statutory sick pay and maternity/paternity leave.
• Protection against unfair dismissal, discrimination, and unsafe working conditions.

Adjusting to UK Culture and Lifestyle

While the UK and Australia share the same language (English) and many cultural similarities, such as legal system (common law), sports, and diversity, Australians may notice the following differences in the UK culture and lifestyle:

• Food and weather can be noticed.
• Regional identities and accents that vary across the UK.
• More formal communication styles are used in the workplace and customer service.
• More pronounced class distinctions are at the workplace and in traditional institutions.

Navigating British Social Etiquette and Work Culture

You need to be polite when communicating in the UK. You must also queue (wait in line), as it’s crucial in British culture. Also, ensure you keep to time and never be late for appointments or at your workplace.

Coping with Weather and Seasonal Changes

Be prepared for the UK’s seasonal changes, which involve weather conditions like cold, rain, and heat waves. Sometimes, there are short daylight hours in winter and long, mild summers. You need warm, waterproof clothing and quality footwear for the cold and rainy seasons.

Building Social Networks and Joining Australian Expat Communities

To help you transition to life in the UK, you must join expat groups to connect with other Australian citizens. Attend local events or sports clubs to meet people with shared interests. You can ask questions or share your experiences through social media groups and forums to get local tips on navigating a problem you may have.

Driving and Transportation in the UK

As an Australian citizen, you can drive in the UK for your first 12 months. You must exchange your Australian license for a UK license or pass a driving test in the UK if you wish to continue driving.

How to Exchange for a UK License

You must do the following to exchange your Australian driving license:

• Meet the residency requirement by staying in the UK for at least 185 days in 1 year.
• Obtain application Form D1 from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) website or a post office offering DVLA services.
• Complete the D1 form with all the required information.
• Gather required documents, such as
  • Your current, valid Australian driving licence.
  • A passport-sized photograph that meets the DVLA requirements.
  • Your passport or any acceptable ID.
  • Proof of residency in the UK, like a bank statement, utility bill, etc.
• Submit the completed application form, the required documents and pay a fee worth £43.
• Await your new UK driving licence in 3 weeks, after the DVLA has processed your application.

Public Transport Overview (Oyster Cards, Railcards, Buses, Trains)

Commuting to and from work or school daily in the UK requires planning. Hence, you should consider:

• Oyster card: With this smart card, you can pay for transportation in London, UK.
• Rail card: This is a discount card that helps residents save significantly on train travel in Great Britain.
• Buses: These are abundant and affordable in the UK. If you live in London, you can benefit from a flat fare, and transfers within 1 hour are free.
• Trains: Trains can be used for regional or long-distance travel. Note that peak-time fares can be high. Therefore, book in advance to save money.

Cost of Owning a Car and Insurance Requirements

Owning a car in the UK requires several financial commitments, including the following:

• Insurance
• Repairs and servicing
• Fuel costs
• Road tax
• Park fees

Long-Term Plans: Settlement and Citizenship

As an Australian citizen on a long-term visa, such as a Skilled Worker Visa or Family Visa, you may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 10 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK. ILR allows you to live and work in the UK for the foreseeable future.

Requirements for British Citizenship as an Australian

After holding ILR for 12 months in the UK (or immediately after getting married to a British citizen), you can apply for British citizenship when you meet the following requirements:

• Prove your English language proficiency
• Meet residency requirement
• Have a valid ILR status
• Be of good character
• Have a good knowledge of British life
• Prove you have sufficient finances to cover your expenses.
• Intend to continue living in the United Kingdom

Timeline and Costs Involved

The Home Office can take 6 months to process an ILR application. However, the timeline varies depending on the complexity of your application and whether you used priority or super-priority services to expedite your application process. The ILR application fee costs £3,029 for each applicant, but you can include your child and partner in one application if they’re eligible.

The Home Office can process citizenship applications between 12 and 18 months. As an Australian citizen, you must naturalise to obtain dual citizenship. Hence, you must pay £1,605 to apply for UK naturalisation (British citizenship), provided you have met all the requirements.

Dual Citizenship Implications Between Australia and the UK

Australia and the UK support dual citizenship. If you have a dual citizenship, you can enrol to vote in Australia and the United Kingdom simultaneously. You don’t need to renounce your Australian citizenship before obtaining UK citizenship. Australia and the UK also have a double taxation treaty that prevents citizens from being taxed twice for income earned in either country.

Moving Your Belongings from Australia to the UK

Deciding how you’ll move your belongings from Australia to the UK depends on the size, quantity, distance, delivery speed, and budget. At IAS, we offer several concierge services to cover your relocation needs. Our immigration solicitors can assist with arranging for the relocation of your belongings from Australia to the United Kingdom. You can choose from the following options:

• Sea freight: This is very cost-effective and a better choice for huge quantities of goods.
• Air freight: This option is faster but costlier for smaller cargo.

Estimated Costs and Delivery Timelines

Seasonal demands usually change the costs of shipments. The following table shows the estimated costs of moving your belongings from Australia to the UK and the period it can take:

Customs Regulations Australians Need to Know

If you’re eligible, you may be exempt from paying UK import duty and Value Added Tax (VAT) on your used personal belongings. You need to know the following in shipping items from Australia to the UK:

• Apply online for a Transfer of Residence (ToR) reference number before shipping.
• Declare the content of your shipment accurately.
• Don’t include prohibited items in your shipment. These items can be:
  • Controlled drugs
  • Fireworks
  • Endangered species of animals
  • Weapons

Items Better to Buy New in the UK Instead of Shipping

You must not ship all your belongings from Australia to the UK. While you need to ship essential items to the UK, you can buy new ones at a more affordable price rather than shipping them for a lump sum. It’s better to buy the following items in the UK than ship them from Australia:

• Electronics 
• Large furniture and appliances
• Clothing
• Bedding and kitchenware

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Starting life in a new environment can be difficult. You may face the following challenges in adapting to a new life in the UK:

Homesickness and How to Stay Connected to Australia

You need to battle homesickness by:

• Staying in touch: Schedule time to maintain a connection with your friends and family via calls, messaging apps like WhatsApp, or FaceTime.
• Finding local communities: Attend social events in your UK neighbourhood, or join expat groups to connect with people.
• Adapting to festivals in your area: Mark important days of celebrations, such as Halloween and Valentine’s Day, to keep a sense of home.

Navigating Bureaucracy and Administrative Hurdles

You must understand how the UK system works to avoid penalties or sanctions. You need to be updated with the latest changes in UK immigration laws, and ensure you don’t default to the conditions under which you’re allowed to stay in the UK. To navigate bureaucracy and administrative hurdles, you can ensure you:

• Have all required documents.
• Keep digital and physical copies of your crucial documents, such as proof of address, visa, and ID.
• Research the UK website for updated information.
• Ask questions or seek help from expat forums or immigration solicitors.

Dealing with Financial Stress During the First Few Months

Come with your savings to cover at least 2 to 3 months’ living expenses while settling in the UK. Budget carefully and track your expenses by prioritising spending on transport, rent, and food over entertainment. While searching for a permanent job as a newcomer in the UK, you may take up a temporary one to cater to your needs.

How IAS Can Help with Your Move to the UK

Moving to the UK from Australia involves several steps, from choosing the appropriate visa to settling into a new life. At IAS, we offer the following immigration services to ensure your relocation to the UK is hassle-free:

Visa Advice and Application Support Tailored for Australians

We offer expert guidance on UK visa options that suit your situation. We can assess your eligibility for UK visas whether need a Skilled Worker Visa, Family Visa, Youth Mobility Visa, etc. Our evaluation of your circumstances will help us get the most appropriate visa for you. We can also ensure your application is complete and meets the Home Office’s standards to maximise your chances of success.

Assistance with Appeals and Complex Immigration Cases

If the Home Office denies your visa application, we can represent you in challenging the decision through the best means necessary, whether it requires an appeal, administrative review, judicial review, or legal advice. Our experienced immigration lawyers have helped several Australian citizens resolve their complex cases successfully.

Corporate Services for Australians Securing Employment Sponsorships

If you’re moving from Australia to the UK with a job offer, we can support you and your UK-based employer with sponsorship licence and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) applications. We can also ensure your UK-based employer complies with UK immigration rules when hiring you as a foreign national from Australia. 

Guidance on Settlement and British Citizenship Applications

Whether you’re applying for ILR or British citizenship, we provide step-by-step assistance to ensure you meet all residency requirements, take the required tests, and submit complete documentation.

Personalised Consultations to Plan the Move and Minimise Risks

We provide specilised immigration support to Australian citizens moving to the UK. We can examine your circumstances to determine your eligibility for various UK visa options. You can work with us at every stage, from pre-departure planning to post-arrival support. For more information on how we can help you fulfil your dream of moving to the UK from Australia, call us today at +44 (0)333 414 9244 or message us online for immediate support.