DirectEmigreren
Chapter 2 of 15

Regions

London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Birmingham, countryside

Summary

The United Kingdom consists of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each has its own character, culture, and partly its own legislation. The choice of region has an enormous impact on your costs, employment, lifestyle, and even your healthcare. London is the most expensive but most international option. Cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Edinburgh offer strong alternatives with lower costs and high quality of life.

What you need to know

London (Greater London)

🔒

Read the full chapter

This is a preview. Buy the complete guide to receive all 15 chapters as PDF.

Buy — €29.95
Previous chapter

1. Why the UK?

Next chapter

3. Cost of Living

Buy the full guide

Complete Emigration Guide United Kingdom

Buy — €29.95

Knowledge Base

Glossary
  • Settled Status (EU Settlement Scheme)

    The residence right for EU citizens in the UK after Brexit. Settled Status (5+ years residence) gives indefinite right to remain. Pre-Settled Status (< 5 years) gives temporary residence right.

  • National Insurance Number (NIN)

    The British social security number, comparable to the Dutch BSN. Required for working, taxes and access to government services. Apply by phone or online.

  • Council Tax

    The British municipal tax on your property. Amount depends on the value band (A-H) of your property and your council. Paid monthly to your local council.

  • NHS (National Health Service)

    The British public healthcare system. Free for all residents. Register with a local GP (general practitioner) as soon as you have an address. Wait times can be long.

  • GP (General Practitioner)

    The British family doctor. You must register at a local GP surgery. The GP is your first point of contact for medical care and refers to specialists.

  • HMRC (Revenue and Customs)

    The British tax authority. Here you file tax returns (Self Assessment), register as self-employed and handle all fiscal matters. Much online via the Government Gateway.

  • Right to Rent Check

    Landlords are legally required to check your immigration status before renting to you. You must prove you are legally in the UK (settled/pre-settled status, visa).

  • BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)

    The biometric residence permit for non-EU citizens. Contains your photo, fingerprints and residence conditions. EU citizens with settled status have digital proof instead of a BRP.

  • PAYE (Pay As You Earn)

    The British payroll tax system: your employer directly withholds tax and National Insurance from your salary. Comparable to the Dutch payroll tax system.

  • Tenancy Deposit Protection

    Landlords must protect your deposit via an approved deposit protection scheme. If they fail to do so, you can claim up to 3x the amount back.

Privacy PolicyTerms & ConditionsLogin