Residents » Overview » Before You Arrive

The number of things you need to organise can seem daunting when you decide to move country, but if you make a plan of action you should be able to make the process as painless as possible. Things worth doing before you leave include:

• Passports - make sure your passport is up to date and all official documents and certificates are to hand. Stock up on passport photographs.

• Property - if you live in your own property, make arrangements to sell or rent it. Both storage and shipping are expensive so you may want to consider selling some of your less-precious belongings.

• Utilities - have your utilities disconnected or taken out of your name, make sure all bills are up to date and avoid leaving any debts or loose ends.

• Shipping - you could need to arrange shipping well in advance, depending on the distance you’re travelling. Transporting your possessions from Australia, for instance, may take up to 12 weeks.

• Finances - make sure your bank and other financial institutions are aware of your move. Consider switching to online banking to keep track of your accounts while moving around. Investigate what your situation will be in the UK regarding tax, national insurance and pensions.

• Research - Estate agents’ websites carry details of property to rent and buy, while websites aimed at newcomers, such as www.gumtree.com, will give you an idea of what is available on the flat-share front. If you are bringing children, schools can be researched via government website www.direct.gov.uk and the schools inspection service Ofsted, at www.ofsted.gov.uk.