18 months to go
Plan a visit to the UK to investigate. If this is not an option, start researching the web and find out about the country through other migrants .
Take a look at the different regions and cities , and investigate housing options.
Decide when you will tell friends and family. Older children sometimes need a bit of time to get used to the idea. If you have children, involve them from the beginning.
Take a look at your finances and plan how you can best repay debt/ save for the move.
Investigate what type of visa you and your family will need.
12 months to go
Attend an Opportunities UK Expo to find out more about the UK and potential employment.
Check your passports. They need to be valid for at least two years before they are due to expire.
Collect all your personal papers, including driver’s licences, birth, marriage and adoption certificates, references for employment and qualifications, etc.
Look into import restrictions for the UK if you have a pet.
Start the visa application process.
Start job hunting and contact companies that match your skills and qualifications.
6 months to go
Check average selling periods and put your house on the market.
Inform schools that your child will be moving to give them time and help them adjust.
Book your flights to the UK.
Research schools in the UK and read their websites.
Open a UK bank account .
Find out what you need to do to ship your pets successfully , or find a new home for them.
Request credit references from your bank/lending institute.
ind temporary UK accommodation to bridge the gap between selling your house and leaving.
2 months to go
Book temporary accommodation in the UK.
Research cost of living in the UK.
Research taxes in the UK.
Sell any unwanted furniture or belongings.
Give formal notice to your current employer.
Register your children at their new schools in the UK.
Book your pet’s kennel accommodation in the UK.
Give notice to your landlord, if necessary.
Book hotels and car hire for your first few weeks in the UK.
1 month to go
Start packing any non-essential items.
Give a forwarding address to all official contacts including your bank, passport office and accountants.
Cancel accounts for TV, internet, phone and insurance.
Bring all your utilities and taxes up-to-date.
Give away or sell any remaining personal effects.
Pay off any outstanding debts.
Arrange for your post to be redirected.
Transfer funds to your UK bank account.
Confirm bookings with travel agents and freight companies.
Cancel direct debits coming from your account.
Ask for a copy of your no claims bonus form from your insurance agency.
1 week to go
Cancel your car insurance and newspaper delivery.
Wind down the goodbye parties, leaving you with a bit of breathing space.
Finalise packing and ensure your possessions are ready to be sent.
Organise transport to the airport, leaving plenty of time.
Sell your car.
Cancel car insurance.
Change money into UK pounds for spending when you first arrive.
Arrange little treats for children to keep them entertained on the flight.
1 day to go
Confirm transport to airport.
Double check your hand luggage has everything you need, including all your travel documents.
Try to have an early night!
