Moving to Australia from the UK is a significant life-changing decision, marked by a blend of excitement and uncertainty. In this article, we explore the essential aspects of this transition, offering insights and guidance to ease your relocation journey.
Moving from UK to Australia: checklist
- ‘Visa Application: Submit your visa application several months before your departure, considering the assistance of a visa agent for a smoother process. Choose from various visa options based on your qualifications and specific needs.
- Update Your Resume: Ensure financial stability by updating your CV with recent qualifications, experiences, and references. Prepare to apply for jobs in Australia to secure a source of income in your new home.
- Car Hire: Facilitate your mobility by hiring a vehicle upon arrival. Utilize your UK driving license for up to three months, but prioritize obtaining a local Australian driver's license within this timeframe.
- Passport Renewal: Renew your expiring UK passport promptly through the Online Premium service, allowing for an emergency passport appointment just two days after application.
- Gather Documents: Collect essential medical records for transitioning to a new healthcare provider in Australia. Additionally, compile necessary financial and tax statements for a seamless relocation.
- Accommodation Arrangements: Plan for temporary housing upon arrival and organize it before leaving the UK. Once settled, explore options for renting or purchasing a home by consulting with Australian estate agents.
- Medicare and Tax File Number: Apply for Medicare, available to Australian permanent residents, with a processing time of up to 8 weeks. Concurrently, obtain a tax file number for your financial transactions in the country.
- Local Driver's License: While you can drive in Australia with a UK license for three months, ensure a smooth transition by obtaining a local driver's license through completion of Australian driver tests before the expiration of this period.
Moving to Australia from UK: requirements
Before your move to Australia, it's crucial to compile essential documentation. This includes obtaining a valid visa and ensuring your passport is up-to-date. If you're planning to establish a business as a non-citizen, thorough research is necessary to understand all the required paperwork.
For those seeking employment, consider updating your CV to align with Australian standards. Opening a local bank account can streamline your settling process, and keeping an eye on exchange rates allows for strategic money transfers. Smart Currency Exchange, our recommended partner, offers excellent rates and is UK-based and FCA authorized. Opening an account with them is a quick process, enabling easy, fast, and secure international money transfers.
Additionally, completing a Customs Form for Unaccompanied Personal Effects is essential. Consulting with a specialized international moving firm can provide insights into the straightforward customs documentation required when shipping items to Australia.
For those seeking employment, consider updating your CV to align with Australian standards. Opening a local bank account can streamline your settling process, and keeping an eye on exchange rates allows for strategic money transfers. Smart Currency Exchange, our recommended partner, offers excellent rates and is UK-based and FCA authorized. Opening an account with them is a quick process, enabling easy, fast, and secure international money transfers.
Additionally, completing a Customs Form for Unaccompanied Personal Effects is essential. Consulting with a specialized international moving firm can provide insights into the straightforward customs documentation required when shipping items to Australia.
Moving to Australia from UK on Reddit
John from Northern Ireland says: "I'm 25 and recently moved to Melbourne from Ireland. Initially, the transition felt overwhelming, given the distance and time difference, and I missed my family and friends a lot. However, a few weeks into my new job, I found my stride, forged great friendships, and began to truly feel at home. Homesickness has faded, and Melbourne has become the best city I've lived in. My advice: give it time, especially once you start your job; you might make meaningful connections and grow more comfortable with your new surroundings. If it doesn't work out, there's no shame in returning home, knowing you gave something new a try."
Moving to Australia from UK: dentist, teacher, doctor, radiographer
Moving to Australia from the UK as a dentist, teacher, doctor, or radiographer involves a series of steps to ensure a smooth transition. Here's a brief overview for each profession:
Dentist:
Teacher:
Doctor:
Radiographer:
Dentist:
- Qualification Recognition: Verify that your dental qualifications are recognized in Australia. You may need to undergo a skills assessment by the Australian Dental Council (ADC).
- Registration: Apply for registration with the Dental Board of Australia. Registration requirements may vary by state.
- Visa: Choose an appropriate visa, such as a skilled migration visa, and ensure that you meet the specific criteria for your occupation.
Teacher:
- Qualification Assessment: Have your teaching qualifications assessed by the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL).
- Registration: Apply for teacher registration with the relevant state or territory education regulatory authority.
- Visa: Select a visa option suitable for teachers, considering skilled migration or employer-sponsored visas.
Doctor:
- Qualification Recognition: Get your medical qualifications assessed by the Australian Medical Council (AMC).
- Registration: Apply for medical registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
- Visa: Explore visa options for medical professionals, including skilled migration or employer-sponsored visas.
Radiographer:
- Qualification Assessment: Have your radiography qualifications assessed by the Australian Institute of Radiography (AIR).
- Registration: Apply for registration with the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia.
- Visa: Consider skilled migration or employer-sponsored visas for radiographers.
Advice for young couple moving to Australia from UK
Embarking on a journey to Australia as a young couple presents exciting opportunities, and proper planning can significantly ease the transition. First and foremost, ensure that your occupations are listed on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL) and that your educational qualifications align with Australian standards, necessitating assessments by relevant authorities such as ACS for IT and Engineers Australia for mechanical apprenticeships. Achieving a score of 6-7 bands in IELTS is crucial for visa applications like the 175/176, which grant permanent residence and include medical coverage.
Financially, while a substantial amount is not required upfront, having savings equivalent to at least six months' living expenses is advisable. Consider the costs of the visa application, assessments, and initial settlement. It's prudent to start this process while renting and saving in the UK.
Financially, while a substantial amount is not required upfront, having savings equivalent to at least six months' living expenses is advisable. Consider the costs of the visa application, assessments, and initial settlement. It's prudent to start this process while renting and saving in the UK.