Relocating to London from the US : Your ultimate guide

Learn how to move to London as an American, from visa selection and budgeting to connecting with American expat communities.

Angelina

5 minute read

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13 Nov 2023

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Moving

Relocating to London from the USA is an exciting adventure, with the British capital offering a vibrant culture, rich history, and abundant opportunities. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through all the essential aspects of moving to London as an American, covering topics such as visas, housing, and cultural adjustments.

Moving to London as an American can be relatively straightforward, thanks to strong US-UK relations and a common language. However, ease of relocation can vary depending on factors such as visa type, job prospects, and housing availability. Planning and research are key to a smooth transition.

London is an amazing place to call home as an American. You'll find a vibrant cultural scene, diverse communities to connect with, and many job possibilities. Just keep in mind that the beginning might bring a bit of culture shock, but with a solid support system in place, you'll quickly settle into this fantastic city.

Here are 11 potential cultural shocks for Americans in England:

1. Driving on the left: In the UK, they drive on the left side, which can be confusing for Americans used to the right side. Crossing roads and navigating roundabouts may be tricky initially.

2. Different accents: The UK has a variety of accents and dialects, even in London. Understanding them can be challenging, and you might find yourself asking, "What did they just say?"

3. Tea culture: While Americans love coffee, the British have a strong tea culture. Afternoon tea, high tea, and daily "builder's tea" are common customs.

4. Healthcare system: The NHS (National Health Service) offers free and universal basic healthcare services, including doctor's visits and hospital care. You may still face modest charges for services like prescription medications, dental care, and vision care. These costs are typically lower than in the US, but you may consider private health insurance for additional coverage and quicker access to non-NHS services.

5. Metric system: The UK uses the metric system for measurements, like Celsius for temperature, meters for distances, and kilograms for weight. Americans might need to get used to this.

6. Slang and expressions: The British use a lot of slang and expressions that can be puzzling for newcomers. Phrases like "taking the mickey" (making fun of someone) or "getting the hump" (being annoyed) might leave Americans puzzled.

7. Queuing: The British take queuing very seriously. Cutting in line or not following the unwritten queuing rules can lead to disapproving glares.

8. Overcast weather: London is known for its often overcast and drizzly weather. The lack of sunshine can be a cultural shock for those from sunnier parts of the US.

9. Class and hierarchy: The UK has a stronger sense of class and hierarchy than the US. People might still refer to each other as "sir" or "madam" in certain situations.

10. Football vs soccer: In the UK and most of the world, "football" refers to what Americans call "soccer". The rivalries and passions surrounding football matches can be intense.

11. No A/C: While some newer places have in-unit A/C, keep in mind that over 90% of UK dwellings lack air conditioning, which might be a surprise during warmer months.

If you're a US citizen moving to the UK for more than 6 months, you'll need a visa and residence permit.

Here are 2 common visa options for US citizens moving to London:

1. Student visa:

• Eligibility: For students accepted by a UK institution, with study programs over 6 months. You’ll also need proof of finances to support your stay.
• Duration: Up to 5 years, matching your study program length.
• Application: Apply from outside the UK 6 months before studies start. You need a valid passport and a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
• Settlement: Not available.

2. Skilled workers visa:

• Eligibility: You must have a job offer from a UK employer. The role must require a degree, be managerial/administrative, or involve a skilled trade.
• Duration: Up to 5 years.
• Application: Apply online 3 months before your job contract starts. Required documents include a valid passport, employer-issued sponsorship certificate, job details, and employer information.
• Settlement: Yes, after 5 years.

Once your visa application is all set, it's time to apply for a biometric residence permit (BRP) that matches your visa and the length of your stay. When you touch down in London, keep an eye out for a letter telling you where to pick up your BRP.

When moving from the US to London, you need to take into account relocation costs and living costs when preparing your budget.

How much does it cost for an American to move to London?

The cost of relocating from the USA to London typically falls in the range of $1,300 to $14,787. This cost can vary based on factors like your visa type, flight expenses, and whether you choose to ship your belongings overseas.

Let's delve into the specifics of the expenses involved:

• Visa fees: $631 for students staying over 6 months; $926-1828 for skilled workers
• Healthcare surcharge: $593.35 (£470) per year for students, $787.77 (£624) per year for other visa types
• Flight tickets: $700 – $1,000
• Shipping costs: $4,000 – $10,000 (dependent on the volume of items being shipped)

How much money do you need to live in London?

Living in London comes at an average monthly cost of around $1,315, although your total expenses will significantly depend on your choice of accommodation.

Here’s how the average monthly living cost in London compares to major US cities:

What's the typical rent in London?

London boasts a diverse range of housing options, from apartments to shared houses, each with its unique characteristics and pricing that can vary significantly based on your choice of accommodation type and London neighbourhood.

Here's a table presenting the average monthly rents for various types of accommodation in London:

If you're looking to cut costs during your move, consider exploring furnished apartments or purchasing second-hand furniture in London.

Explore rental homes in London.

Are dollars accepted in London?

While some larger retailers and tourist-oriented businesses in London may accept US dollars, it's not a common practice, and you may receive an unfavourable exchange rate.

The official currency in London is the British Pound (GBP), and it's widely used for all transactions. To ensure you get the best value for your money, you should exchange your US dollars for British Pounds at banks, official exchange offices, or ATMs in London. Using the local currency will make your transactions smoother and help you avoid unnecessary currency conversion fees. That’s why we recommend looking into opening a bank account in the UK.

To meet fellow Americans in London, you can join American expat groups on platforms like Meetup.com, use social media and blogs to connect, or even consider living in areas where many Americans reside, like Islington, Kensington, Notting Hill, or St John's Wood.

And, of course, don't forget to explore London's fantastic attractions, from museums to London’s vibrant nightlife, to increase your chances of bumping into fellow Americans.

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