If you've arrived in the UK on a Global Talent Visa, congratulations! This is an incredible achievement and the start of a new chapter in your life. However, it can also be overwhelming and confusing to navigate a new country and its systems. Here are the top essential things you should do after arriving in the UK on a Global Talent Visa.
1. Register with a General Practitioner (GP): One of the first things you should do after arriving in the UK is to register with a GP. This is important for your health and well-being, as you'll have access to medical care and advice whenever you need it. You can find a GP in your local area by using the NHS website.
2. Open a Bank Account: You'll need a UK bank account to receive your salary and pay bills. Many banks require proof of address to open an account, so it's a good idea to bring a utility bill or rental agreement with you when you go to the bank. You can also consider opening a digital bank account, such as Monzo or Starling, which can be opened quickly and easily online.
3. Get a National Insurance Number: Your National Insurance (NI) number is a unique identifier used by the UK government to track your tax and social security contributions. You can apply for an NI number by calling the National Insurance number application line. You'll need to provide your personal details, proof of identity, and your current address in the UK.
4. Familiarize Yourself with Public Transport: Public transport is an essential part of life in the UK, and it's important to familiarize yourself with the different options available in your local area. You can use the Transport for London website to plan your journey on the London Underground, buses, and overground trains. For other parts of the UK, you can use the National Rail Enquiries website to plan your journey by train. You can also consider using a bike or electric scooter to get around, as these are becoming increasingly popular in cities across the UK.
5. Apply for a Driver's License: If you plan to drive in the UK, you'll need to apply for a UK driver's license. You can do this by exchanging your current driver's license from your home country for a UK driver's license. Alternatively, you can apply for a UK driver's license by taking a driving test.
6. Get a SIM Card for Your Phone: You'll need a UK phone number to stay connected with your colleagues, friends, and family in the UK. You can get a UK SIM card from any mobile network provider, such as EE, Vodafone, or O2. You can either buy a pay-as-you-go SIM card or sign up for a monthly contract.
7. Join Professional Networks: As a Global Talent Visa holder, you're part of an exclusive group of highly skilled professionals. It's important to connect with other professionals in your industry to build your network and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments. You can join professional networks, such as the Tech London Advocates or the Institute of Directors, to meet other professionals in your industry.
8. Research Accommodation Options: Finding suitable accommodation is essential for your wellbeing and comfort. You can research different options online, such as renting a flat or a room in a shared house. You can use websites like Rightmove or Zoopla to find available properties in your local area. Alternatively, you can consider short-term accommodation options, such as Airbnb or serviced apartments, while you look for more permanent accommodation.
9. Understand Your Visa Conditions: It's important to understand the conditions of your Global Talent Visa to avoid any issues with immigration authorities. Your visa will specify how long you can stay in the UK, what you're allowed to do, and whether you're allowed to work or study
In addition to these try making friends. It is important to make new friends in a new country. Moving to a new country can be challenging, and having a group of friends can provide a sense of social support. Friends can help you navigate the new environment, provide emotional support, and help you feel less isolated. Having friends in a new country means you can share experiences and explore new places together. This can make the transition to a new country easier and more enjoyable. Meeting new people can also provide opportunities for networking. Making connections with people in your industry or field can lead to job opportunities or other professional connections. Besides friends who have lived in the country for a while can provide valuable insights and tips on the best places to go, things to do, and how to get around. They can also introduce you to the local culture and customs.
Making friendships in the UK while on a Global Talent Visa may not be as challenging as one assumes. Below are some pointers to assist you in building connections.
1. Attend Networking Events: Networking events are a great way to meet new people, especially those who are in a similar profession as you. You can attend events such as meetups, conferences, and industry events. These events provide an excellent opportunity to network with other professionals in your field, exchange ideas, and learn about new trends and developments in your industry. You can find relevant events in your local area by using online platforms such as Eventbrite or Meetup.
2. Join Clubs and Societies: Joining clubs and societies is a great way to meet new people and develop new interests. There are numerous clubs and societies available in the UK, ranging from sports clubs to cultural groups. You can search for clubs and societies that interest you in your local area by using websites such as the Meetup, Gumtree, or local council websites.
3. Volunteer: Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, make a difference in your local community, and gain valuable experience. You can find volunteering opportunities in your local area by using websites such as Do-it, Volunteer Match, or the National Trust. Volunteering also provides an opportunity to learn new skills, which can be helpful in your career and personal life.
4. Join Social Groups on Social Media: Social media platforms such as Facebook and LinkedIn have groups dedicated to different interests, hobbies, and professions. You can join relevant social groups to connect with other professionals in your field, learn about new opportunities, and meet new people. You can search for relevant social groups by using the search function on the respective platform.
5. Attend Language Exchange Events: If English is not your first language, attending language exchange events can be a great way to practice your language skills while meeting new people. Language exchange events provide an opportunity to meet native speakers of English and practice your language skills in a relaxed and informal setting. You can find language exchange events in your local area by using websites such as Meetup or Eventbrite.
6. Attend Cultural Events: The UK is home to a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and attending cultural events is a great way to experience this diversity while meeting new people. You can attend events such as music festivals, exhibitions, and cultural events to connect with other people who share your interests. You can find cultural events in your local area by using websites such as Time Out or Eventbrite.
7. Join a Sports Team: Joining a sports team is a great way to stay active and meet new people. You can join a local sports team or a community sports club to connect with other people who share your passion for sports. You can find sports teams and clubs in your local area by using websites such as ClubHub, Go Mammoth, or Playfinder.
8. Attend Social Events at Work: If you're working in the UK on a Global Talent Visa, attending social events at work is a great way to connect with your colleagues and meet new people. Many companies organise social events such as team-building activities, after-work drinks, or charity events. Attending these events provides an opportunity to get to know your colleagues better and develop new friendships.
In conclusion, arriving in the UK on a Global Talent Visa is an exceptional achievement, but it can also be daunting and overwhelming to navigate a new country and its systems. The essential things to do after arriving in the UK on a Global Talent Visa are to register with a GP, open a bank account, get a National Insurance Number, familiarise yourself with public transport, apply for a driver's license, get a UK SIM card, join professional networks, research accommodation options, and understand your visa conditions. Building friendships in the UK can also be facilitated by attending networking events, joining clubs and societies, volunteering, joining social groups on social media, and attending language exchange events. By following these essential steps and building friendships, you can enjoy a comfortable and successful stay in the UK while exploring new opportunities in your profession.
