Despite the continuing fallout from May 2016’s Brexit vote, which saw the UK vote to withdraw from the European Union, working in England is still one of the best options out there for anyone looking to relocate professionally. As the 5th largest economy in the world and a global leader in the finance, engineering and pharmaceutical industries it offers excellent professional opportunities. That’s on top of the chance to explore a historic culture and the birthplace of some of the greatest names in global literature and science.
So, what do you need to know if you’re thinking about moving to the land of Shakespeare and Newton? We’ve gathered together a few inside tips to get you started:
- Find out what kind of visa you would need
While EU citizens (for the time being) have the freedom to work and reside in the UK, the situation can be quite different for non-EU nationals. It is worth checking out the government website on the matter to investigate your options. For professionals seeking to move, there are high-value skills and sponsored visa options to apply for. There are also possibilities for getting a visa if you have a partner, parent or grandparent who is a UK national.
- Check out your employment options
Having a position ready to walk into can make all the difference when adjusting to a new country. It can be a great idea to get in touch with specialist recruiters in your field who will be able to advise you on your prospects and working conditions. You can also try browsing employment websites, such as Monster, Reed or Indeed.
- Take a trip to the UK
For anyone thinking about working abroad, visiting the country before moving your whole life there is a sound investment. By taking a holiday or signing on for a work trip you can get a good insight into the culture of the UK. It is not renowned for its nice weather and the cuisine can be quite heavy, but there may also be elements of its culture or atmosphere that you fall madly in love with. Experiencing things first hand is the best way of finding out.
- Look for advice
There’s no need to reinvent the wheel when it comes to working in England. Lots of people have made the move before and written about their experiences. Just like if you want to read about the latest in project management you’d look up those particular blogs, when it comes to becoming an expat you can do exactly the same.
- 5. Apply for important items before leaving
While you may not necessarily need extensive project management tools to help you relocate, it’s always good to have a healthy plan in place. This should include completing as much of the process as possible before leaving. For example, to start working in England you will need a National Insurance Number and a bank account. Investigating the local housing situation and your future commute to work would also be beneficial when you get closer to the move.
Overall, working abroad can be a very rewarding experience, allowing you to live in a different culture and see a different approach to professional and civil life. If you are thinking about doing so make sure to plan ahead and put yourself in the best possible situation to succeed with your big move. Good luck!
