Financial information

There are new regulations around security procedures when opening up a bank account in the UK, this is leading to delays for immigrants who are attempting to open an account on arrival and it is getting problematic to open a UK bank account whilst overseas.

It may be best for you to open a bank account in your country of origin, that has a UK branch there, or leave your existing bank account open until you have managed to open a new one in the UK, normally you will be asked to show proof of residence such as a utility bill.

Having a reference in English from your original bank will help you open your new UK account. Your find each individual branch of bank is autonomous when deciding whether or not to accept a new customer. It is important to remember that transferring funds from abroad to the UK takes a few days.

Currency

There are 4 UK notes - £5, £10, £20 and £50 and 8 different coins - Ip, 2p, 5p, lOp, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2.

Credit cards

These are accepted in all but the smallest businesses. There are ATMs everywhere linked to major credit cards along with Cirrus, Maestro and Plus cash networks.

You will find that Most English Banks accept travellers cheques, however International Airport bureaux charge less and cash pound sterling cheques for free. It is always best to have sterling travellers cheques in order to avoid changing currencies twice.

Although everyone in Britain is entitled to free emergency treatment at Accident and Emergency Departments of National Health Service (NHS) hospitals, it is always best to make sure you have travel insurance as it will cover emergency repatriation and will offer greater choices as to where and how you're treated.

Insurance

Regardless of nationality, anyone will be able to receive free emergency treatment at Accident & Emergency departments of NHS (National Health Service) hospitals. Travel insurance is still advisable as it offers greater flexibility over where and how you're treated, and covers expenses for emergency repatriation.

Taxes

Property Taxes/Council Tax
This kind of tax you will find, can either be paid by direct debit or in monthly instalments. The amount you pay is based on property value and the number of occupants.

Income Tax
Income Tax is automatically deducted from your pay and is a flat tax. You will only have forms to fill in if you are self employed. The rules can be a little complex for people not living permanently in the UK.

You will be able to obtain relief from double taxation if your overseas income is subject to tax both in the UK and another country. If you're unsure to whom you pay what? Your be wise to hire a tax consultant who will be able to help in the first instance.

Sales Tax (VAT) and Other
Value Added Tax, or VAT, is a tax that applies to most business transactions involving the transfer of goods or services. Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged at 17.5% children's clothes are exempt.