Relocating to London requires sorting out visa status first — there’s no shortcut around the UK’s structured immigration system — but the practical setup afterward is straightforward.
Before You Arrive
Secure the appropriate visa (Skilled Worker, Youth Mobility, Global Talent, or other route) before travel — the UK does not offer a way to convert a tourist visit into work status from within the country.
Finding Housing
London’s rental market is competitive and expensive. Rightmove and Zoopla are the standard search platforms, and letting agents typically require proof of income (often 2.5x annual rent) or a guarantor for those without a UK credit history — a genuine hurdle for newcomers that services like Housing Hand can help bridge for a fee.
Registering and Banking
Opening a UK bank account is one of the easier steps — Monzo, Starling, and Revolut all offer app-based accounts that newcomers can typically open within days using just a passport and UK address, faster than most traditional high-street banks.
National Insurance Number
Required for working legally and paying tax in the UK — apply as soon as you have a confirmed UK address, as processing can take a few weeks.
The Bottom Line
Visa status is the real gatekeeper for moving to London — once that’s sorted, banking and basic setup are genuinely fast, though finding housing remains the most competitive and time-consuming step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a UK credit history to rent an apartment?
Most agents prefer it, but options like paying several months’ rent upfront or using a guarantor service can work around a lack of UK credit history for newcomers.