United Kingdom
An overview to prepare your move
Since Brexit, no more free movement: you need a sponsored visa to work, with a high salary threshold and the health surcharge (IHS) paid upfront. In return, a dynamic job market, English as the only language, and an ID-card-free system built on digital status (eVisa).
Our services for United Kingdom
Each service below is adapted to the local procedures of United Kingdom.
Cost of living in United Kingdom
| 1-bed flat, central | €1,600/ month |
|---|---|
| Studio, outside centre | €1,200/ month |
| Utilities (water, electricity, heating) | €220/ month |
| Transport pass | €200/ month |
| Groceries | €300/ month |
| Restaurant meal, mid-range | €20/ meal |
| Coworking desk | €280/ month |
Local currency: GBP. Estimates for a single person, excluding extras. Sources: national statistics institutes and Rootovia surveys, updated quarterly.
Key administrative procedures
- 1
Sponsored visa and IHS
An employer holding a sponsor licence issues a Certificate of Sponsorship. The Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035/year) is paid for the full visa length at the time of application.
- 2
Digital status (eVisa)
There is no physical permit: status is proven online via a UKVI account and a “share code” given to the landlord or employer.
- 3
National Insurance number
Needed to be paid correctly and to contribute. The application is made online after arrival; the number may appear directly on the visa decision.
- 4
Bank account and right to rent
The landlord must verify your right to rent via the share code. A local bank account and proof of address (statement, contract) unlock most procedures.
Visa and right to stay
The Skilled Worker visa is the main route: an offer from a sponsor employer, a role at the required skill level, salary at least equal to the general threshold (about £38,700, with per-occupation floors) except reduced cases (shortage occupations, new graduates, health and education sectors). Global Talent (science, arts, tech, by endorsement), the Health and Care Worker visa and the Graduate visa (2 years after studying in the UK, no sponsor) are alternatives. The Youth Mobility Scheme is open to some nationalities by ballot, but not to France as of today. Budget for the IHS and proof of maintenance funds.
FAQ — United Kingdom
Verified review — United Kingdom
« Filtering for employers with a sponsor licence changed everything: I stopped wasting time on impossible offers. They helped me get the employer to cover the IHS, nearly £3,000 saved. »
« A Global Talent file via endorsement: they knew exactly what the committee expects and which documents make the difference. Endorsement obtained, then the visa. The IHS and proof-of-funds budget was clear from the quote. »
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