Best Ways To Relocate To UK In 2024

What is the easiest way to migrate to the UK and How much money is needed to relocate to UK? These are common questions most people ask us through email. However, relocating to the United Kingdom is a dream for many people seeking new opportunities, a better quality of life, or access to world-class education and healthcare. However, the immigration process can be complex and daunting without the right guidance. From skilled workers to students and entrepreneurs, the UK offers several visa pathways to suit different needs. Knowing which route is best for you is crucial in making your relocation seamless.

In recent years, the UK has adjusted its immigration policies post-Brexit, making it imperative for potential immigrants to stay informed about the latest regulations. With the new points-based system, visa types such as the Skilled Worker Visa, the Student Visa, and the Innovator Visa have been streamlined, each catering to specific categories of migrants. In addition, there are options for family reunification, intra-company transfers, and more. Understanding the eligibility criteria and documentation requirements will increase your chances of success.

This guide will walk you through the best ways to relocate to the UK, focusing on various visa routes, eligibility requirements, the application process, and useful tips for settling in. Whether you’re looking for employment, seeking higher education, or planning to join family members already in the UK, this guide will help you navigate your way to a smooth relocation.

1. Skilled Worker Visa

One of the most popular ways to relocate to the UK is through the Skilled Worker Visa, formerly known as the Tier 2 Visa. This visa allows skilled professionals to live and work in the UK for an approved employer. To qualify, you must have a job offer from a UK-based company that holds a valid sponsor license.

Eligibility requirements

To be eligible for the Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet specific criteria, including:

A valid job offer from a licensed UK employer.
A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer.
The role must meet the skill and salary thresholds, which generally require an annual salary of at least £26,200.
You must meet the English language proficiency requirements.

How to apply

Once you’ve secured a job offer, your employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship. You can then proceed to apply online for your visa. Supporting documents such as your CoS, proof of English proficiency, and financial evidence may be required. The application process generally takes 3 to 8 weeks, depending on your location.

Benefits of the Skilled Worker Visa

You can bring family members (spouse and children) to the UK.
After five years, you may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), leading to permanent residency.
The visa is renewable and can eventually lead to British citizenship.

2. Student Visa

For those looking to study in the UK, the Student Visa (previously known as the Tier 4 Visa) is a great option. The UK is home to some of the world’s best universities, and studying here could be your gateway to long-term residency.

Eligibility requirements

To qualify for a Student Visa, you must:

Have an offer of a place on a course from a licensed UK educational institution.
Provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses.
Meet the English language proficiency standards required by the institution.

Application process

The application process begins once you’ve been accepted by a UK educational institution. The university will issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), which you’ll need for your visa application. Supporting documents, including proof of finances, passport, and English language test results, are also required. Once granted, the visa will allow you to stay in the UK for the duration of your course.

Post-study work opportunities

The UK offers a post-study work visa called the Graduate Route. After completing your degree, you can stay in the UK for up to two years (three years for PhD students) to find a job. This is an excellent opportunity to gain work experience and eventually transition to a Skilled Worker Visa.

3. Innovator and start-up visas

For entrepreneurs and business professionals, the Innovator and Start-Up visas offer an exciting path to UK relocation. These visas are designed for individuals who want to establish or operate a business in the UK.

Innovator visa requirements

To qualify for the Innovator Visa:

You must have an endorsement from an approved body, confirming your business idea is innovative, viable, and scalable.
You need a minimum of £50,000 in investment funds.
Meet the English language and financial requirements.

Start-up visa requirements

The Start-Up Visa is a bit more accessible as it doesn’t require an initial investment, but it also requires an endorsement from a recognized body. It’s designed for early-stage entrepreneurs who wish to start a business in the UK but may not yet have the resources to invest significant capital.

Both visas require you to submit a detailed business plan, which should demonstrate the innovation, viability, and scalability of your idea. Endorsements are typically provided by universities, business accelerators, or other approved entities. Once you receive an endorsement, you can proceed to apply online.

Benefits of innovator and start-up visas

Both visas allow you to bring family members to the UK.
Innovator Visa holders can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after three years, while Start-Up Visa holders can transition to the Innovator Visa once their business becomes established.

4. Global talent visa

The Global Talent Visa is designed for individuals who are recognized as leaders or emerging talents in specific fields such as science, engineering, medicine, humanities, arts, and technology.

Eligibility criteria

To apply, you must be endorsed by an approved UK body as a leader or potential leader in your field. Endorsements are typically from organizations such as Tech Nation (for tech professionals) or the Royal Society (for scientists).

Why Choose the Global Talent Visa?

No job offer is required, giving you the flexibility to work for different employers or even freelance.
You can apply for ILR after three or five years, depending on your level of experience.
The visa allows for flexibility in how you manage your work and career within the UK.

5. Family Visa

If you have family members who are already living in the UK, a Family Visa might be the easiest way to relocate. This visa allows you to join a spouse, partner, child, or parent who is already settled in the UK.

Eligibility requirements

To qualify for a Family Visa, you must prove:

Your relationship with the UK resident (spouse, partner, child, or parent).
That your UK-based family member meets certain income thresholds.
You meet the English language requirement.

Application process

The application process for this type of UK visa requires you to submit proof of your relationship, evidence of financial support, and other supporting documents. Once granted, you can live in the UK and apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years, leading to permanent residency.

6. Intra-company transfer visa

For those already employed by multinational companies, the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa allows employees to relocate to a UK branch of their current employer. This is a convenient option if your employer has operations in the UK and you’re being transferred to the UK branch.

Eligibility criteria

To qualify, you must:

Have a job offer from your current employer for a role in the UK.
Work for a multinational company with operations in the UK.
Meet the salary and skill level requirements, usually requiring a minimum salary of £41,500 for senior roles.

Application process

Once your employer sponsors your visa, you can submit your application along with supporting documents like a Certificate of Sponsorship, proof of employment, and financial evidence.

Tips for a smooth relocation to UK

Relocating to a new country is an exciting but challenging process. The following tips can help you make your UK relocation process much easier and stress-free.

Start early: Immigration processes can take several weeks or even months, so start preparing as early as possible.
Research accommodation: Housing in the UK can be expensive, especially in major cities like London. Consider researching affordable housing options before arriving.
Healthcare: The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) provides excellent healthcare, but you’ll need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa application.
Cultural adaptation: Familiarize yourself with British customs, social norms, and public transportation systems to make your transition smoother.

Conclusion

Relocating to the UK can be a life-changing experience, offering abundant opportunities in terms of career, education, and personal growth. Whether you are coming as a skilled worker, student, entrepreneur, or to reunite with family, the UK provides numerous visa options tailored to your specific circumstances. Understanding the visa requirements and planning will be key to your successful move.

By following this guide, you can choose the best route for your relocation, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition into your new life in the UK.