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COUNTDOWN

Countdown

You've decided to move to the UK but before you start packing your bags there are a few things you need to get sorted while you're still in Australia, New Zealand or South Africa. And don't think you can leave everything to the last minute. Here's our guide to what you need to do and when you need to do it, from applying for your UK work visa and opening a UK bank account to buying travel insurance and kissing your mum goodbye.

Before You Leave

Moving to the UK isn't as easy as hopping on a plane with some cash and a change of clothes. There are a lot of things you need to do first.

As soon as you decide to go
The first thing you need to do is get a passport, then organise a visa.

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Two months to go
Time to set up that all-important UK bank account.

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Six weeks to go
Make sure all your vaccinations are up to date.

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One month to go
Once your visa is sorted, you'll need to do some paperwork.

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Two weeks to go
Make sure you've bought some travel insurance.

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One week to go
It's time to pack those bags and say 'bye' to Mum.

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Checklist
Print

Use our interactive checklist to make sure you're on track for the big move

Check you have a valid passport
Apply for a visa
Book your flight

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Find somewhere to stay
Check your work status
Set up a UK bank account
Tidy your tax affairs

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Get vaccinated

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Source your medical records
Put together a CV and get letters from references
Appoint a power of attorney
Make a will

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Arrange your travel insurance
Start tying up loose ends
Retain your right to vote

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Clear up your stuff
Redirect your mail
Start packing
Say your goodbyes

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