Moving from Australia to London is a well-travelled and well-loved path for many Australians. Due to visa arrangements, language, and cultural factors, moving to London is extremely easy.
So if you too are looking at beginning the process of moving northward, then you may be wondering where to begin. We have compiled a list of what steps you need to take so that you can have a comprehensive checklist to help you on your journey.
Our team at Overseas Packers & Shippers have over 30 years of experience in the industry and are seasoned experts.
1. Obtain The Correct Visa
Depending on your reason for moving to the UK from Australia, you will find there are a few different visa options:
- If you are aged between 18-30 then the two year working visa is a popular choice. This allows any Australian citizen in this age bracket to live and work in the UK for up to two years without confirmed employment.
- If you are moving to London for a specific job that you have been hired for, then the skilled worker visa might suit your needs. This allows Australians to live and work in the UK for five years, but this can be extended if needed.
There are many other visas out there, which you can find out about on the UK government’s website. Just make sure you give yourself at least a few months to begin this process.
2. Research The City
The next thing you need to do is do some research on London. It is also a good idea to think about what you want from your living experience. Do you want to live in a family-friendly neighbourhood with good schools like Richmond, or do you want to be amongst all the best restaurants and bars in Shoreditch?
If you already have a job lined up, try to think about your commute. Do you want to cycle or catch the tube? Will you be travelling internationally frequently and does that mean you should live close to an airport?
Talk to anyone you know who has lived in the city as they will be able to give you the insider scoop.
3. Work out your budget
London is an expensive city, and moving overseas can also be an expensive process, so it is important that you are realistic about your budget. When talking to your international moving company, communicate with them clearly about what you can afford and what you need so you can arrive at a solution together.
It can also be a good idea to sell anything that you don’t need to bring with you as a way of funding the move. This is a good way to reduce the financial impact of the process.
4. Choose an international moving company
Choosing international removalists for moving from Australia to London is an important decision. The company should be reputable, reliable, and well-reviewed. Ideally the company will have a good history and a strong people-first approach. Always get an in home quote to avoid any billing surprises as well.
Overseas Packers and Shippers have been in the international moving game for over 30 years. We are motivated by a desire to make your moving process as seamless and stress-free as possible.
5. Moving your vehicle to the UK
Many people do choose to move their vehicle with them overseas for a multitude of reasons.
However, London is famed for its expensive parking, and tight roads. Think about whether your vehicle will suit London.
If you do want to move your car, then talk to your international moving company to organise a quote. This process is a little lengthy so get a head start, and also be prepared to put your car through any tests and procedures that the UK government requires.
6. Moving your pet to London
Your moving company will be able to provide you with all of the information that you need to move your pet with you to London. However, it will be up to you to think about that process and how it will suit you and your animal companion.
It is also good to think about whether your animal is allowed to enter the UK. You will need to prove your animal does not carry disease, is not being sold, and is not an endangered species.
7. Finding A Home
It is generally not recommended to pay any deposits or sign any contracts before seeing a property in person. London is a great city but is not exempt from rental scams, and international residents are the prime candidate for a stitch up.
Instead, we recommend doing research so you can get a lay of the land. We also recommend reaching out to a real estate agent to help begin your process. Having someone explain to you how the rental and buying process works could be very beneficial.
8. Secure Travel Insurance AND Moving Insurance
It is important that you secure the correct insurance for your move. Most moving companies will provide moving insurance, which protects your belongings in case of anything going wrong. This is very important as things can go wrong, and you should be compensated if anything happens.
However, just as a note, this is different to travel insurance, which insures you and the things that you are personally travelling with. It also insures you for any emergencies, like if you contract COVID-19 and have to go into isolation.
Moving From Australia to London: An Exciting Journey
There is a reason moving from Australia to London is so popular amongst Australians, and that is because London is a fantastic city. There is so much to see and do and no matter your circumstances, there is a place for you.
Get in contact with our team at Overseas Packers & Shippers today to start your process. We will do everything in our power to make sure this process is seamless and easy – so you can enjoy your exciting adventure.
