Moving back to the UK from Europe: A quick guide
Get some handy tips for when you move back to the UK after spending some time abroad in Europe.
Moving to Europe is a great idea and there are currently around 800,000 Brits living in Europe, not including those in the UK. However, it doesn’t always work out, whether that is because of work, how your family settles in, or simply because you feel drawn back to the green pastures of the UK more than you want to stay in beautiful Europe.
Whatever your reason for starting a brand new chapter back in the UK, here are some handy tips to help you get settled in quickly after moving to the UK:
Make sure you’re paying what you legally should be
When you move back to the UK permanently you are a UK resident, which means you pay all the same taxes that you did before. It gets a bit more complex when you have income coming in from foreign property and jobs, and when you have moved home after 5 years in Europe. Your pension can be moved across too, but again, it can be a complex process. It might be a good idea to speak to a financial advisor or accountant about what you need to do about your taxes, at least to gain an initial understanding.
Don’t immediately sell-up and buy in the UK
It makes sense to rent in the UK and then look to buy, rather than buying whilst you live overseas. This is because it is easier to look for a home when you are inside the country and it can sometimes take a long time to buy a property. Making the most of temporary accommodation makes sense to give yourself longer to find the perfect permanent home.
Tie-up any loose ends
It is important to ensure everything is paid off properly in your home in Europe. That could be healthcare bills, utility bills, rent or driving charges. Nobody wants extra fees building up on minor outstanding debt, let alone those costs following you to another country.
Have healthcare details sent to the UK
It is important to have your health and dental details sent back to the UK so that the NHS can have them on record. You may need to have them translated though if they are in another language, as they NHS won’t accept them unless they are in English.
Speak to the school your kids are moving from
The school your kids are moving from will have information on your child’s learning styles, strengths and weaknesses. It makes sense to take this information from them and provide them with an address for you should they need to send you anything. When it comes to your kids starting school in the UK, do allow plenty of time. Ideally, having them start at the school year beginning will ensure they are going to have the best chance of settling in well.
Make the most of established connections
Where possible, make the most of established connections you have in the UK. Moving can be stressful and just like when you moved abroad, there will be an adjustment period. The best way to get settled back in is to make the most of your connections. See friends and family as much as possible to get back into the swing of things in your local area. Soon enough you’ll feel like part of the community again.
Moving back to the UK is likely to come with some challenges, or stresses. However, it will be worth it when you’re settled back in, making memories in the country you’ve returned to for a brand new chapter. Pack and Go can take some of the stress out of the move, and have over 20 years’ experience.
