How do I become an expat in the UK?

Hi Shantalie, thanks for responding. My reason for moving would be to give my children a chance at a better education. A better life for them and myself. I have been job hunting online, with no success yet.

I did do some reading on that page, I am within the age bracket to qualify for the work visa, BUT the hard part is getting a job.... and a sponsor... Even if I have to pay for my airfare I don't mind as long as i get a job.

I know that UK immigration policy is quite strict, so be ready for a long process of collecting all necessary documents. But it's worth it

Hi Juliana,

You are right - if an expat is legally resident in the UK, then their children can receive a free state school education (public school in the UK is a private school elsewhere!). 

What would your reason be for moving to the UK? Would you be able to secure a job in the UK?

Read more on the Visas for the UK page.

Shantalie

Hi Juliana,

What is your skill set? Whereabouts in the UK would you consider moving?

Shantalie

Hi Shantalie, Thank you for taking time to respond to my questions I really appreciate it. My skill set; Pre School Teaching, Clerical work and I dabbled a bit in Psychology. As to where exactly I would consider moving... am not sure, I've never been to England, so I don't know much about where to stay. I do have a friend living in West Midlands. I figured I'd settle in the area where the job is.

The state schools in England leave too much to be desired. Most have waiting lists, most have non-english speaking pupils which takes all the teachers attentions and others are children with special needs. The system is only geared to stressful testing of children from 5-16 and many children have mental health issues from it. After 10 years experience my daughter has left school for home education. Its very very difficult to settle financially and get a house in the West Midlands unless you have loads of money to buy, average house price £260,000 in half decent area. Rentals start around £700 but with no credit record you wont get one. Birmingham is also crime ridden where ever you go. Real life is not what people imagine but tough and even the English cant survive it. I would say think again.

I'm planning to move to Birmingham where I recently applied for a job in the IT business. The gross income will be 55K GBP. Is it enough to live there for a family of 4 people? Is it roughly around 3200 GBP monthly, right? Thanks a lot. D