Glossary
Key terms for emigrating
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.
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.
Driving Licence Exchange
After Brexit some EU driving licences need to be exchanged. The Netherlands has an exchange agreement with the UK. Apply at the DVLA.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
Self Assessment (Tax Return)
The British tax return for self-employed and people with additional income. Deadline: January 31 after the tax year. File online via HMRC's Government Gateway.
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.
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.