Overseas Healthcare Workers’ Guide to Settling in the UK

(Adapted and developed from insights originally shared by Olabode Peculiar, admin of the “Life in UK for Nurses” Telegram group)

Welcome to the UK!

Congratulations on your arrival. You’re stepping into a new chapter of life, and while it may feel overwhelming at first, these steps should help you settle in more smoothly.

1. Upon Landing: Staying in Touch

• Take some celebratory photos: It’s natural to want to capture the moment you arrive.
• Connect to free airport Wi-Fi: Most UK airports offer free Wi-Fi. Enable your device’s Wi-Fi, connect to the airport’s secure network, and follow the prompts (e.g., entering your email and clicking “proceed”).
• Notify your friends and family: Use the free Wi-Fi to let everyone back home know you’ve arrived safely and connect with friends/family who might have been waiting to receive you.

2. Getting to Your Destination

1. Arrange for airport pickup: This is best arranged before hand. If you have friends or colleagues already in the UK, see if they can collect you.
2. Use rideshare apps: Download Uber (or other available rideshare apps) before you travel. Link a debit/credit card (like a domiciliary card) for payment. Many Uber drivers no longer accept cash.
3. Consider local taxis: In some areas, Uber might not operate. Research approximate taxi fares beforehand (budget up to £150 if you’re travelling long distance, just to be safe).
4. Set up digital payment options: If your smartphone supports NFC, consider using Google Pay or Apple Pay for contactless transactions.
5. Research travel costs: Before you arrive, look up train or coach fares to your destination. Planning helps avoid surprises.Apps like trainline might help.

3. Getting a UK SIM Card

• Buy at the airport: SIM cards can be as cheap as £1, but do some research. Providers include Giffgaff, EE, Three, and Lebara, among others.
• Coverage matters: Each provider’s network strength varies by location. Check their website coverage maps with your destination’s postcode.
• Ask a friend: If you’re not sure which to choose at the airport, have a friend in the UK order a SIM in advance and have it ready for you upon arrival.

4. Setting Up Your Data/Call Plan

• Establish a monthly plan: A set monthly payment for data/calls/SMS can help build a credit history in the UK.
• Credit score basics: Paying your bills on time contributes positively to your credit rating, which is crucial for future financial steps like renting, mortgages, or loans.

5. Isolation (COVID-19 Requirements)

• Check current rules: Mandatory quarantine periods and testing requirements change frequently. Always refer to the latest guidelines on Gov.UK
• Follow instructions: If mandated, do not violate quarantine rules—your job and professional registration may be at risk.

6. Opening a Bank Account

1. Online banks: The world is going global, you can open an account with digital-only banks like Revolut or Monzo. 
   1. Follow the prompts on their websites or download their apps.
   1. Use your home country (e.g., Nigeria) as your tax residency and your passport number if asked for a tax ID.
   1. Your account can be approved within 12 hours, with a debit card delivered in about three days (as advertised).
2. Traditional banks: Depending on where you work, you can open an account with Barclays, HSBC, NatWest, or whichever bank your employer recommends.
3. Limit the number of accounts: Opening more than two bank accounts within six months might lower your credit score. Ideally, stick to one account if possible.

7. Planning your e-visa (Residence Permit)

With Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) now phased out, new arrivals to the UK receive a digital immigration status known as an eVisa. Once your visa is approved, you’ll be directed to create or log in to an online account where you can view your status information, prove your right to work or rent by generating a share code, and update your personal details—such as when you renew your passport or if your name changes. Because your status is completely digital, you won’t need to carry a physical document daily, although you should always travel with a valid passport or approved travel document. For any questions or updates about your eVisa, refer to official UK government guidance at gov.uk.

8. Professional Exams (OSCE for Nurses)

• Keep studying: If you’re a nurse preparing for your OSCE, continue your revision. Stay updated on any changes to the examination structure or content.
• Look for resources: Many hospitals offer OSCE prep classes. You can also join study groups or find relevant materials online.

9. Register to Vote

• Boost your credit score: Registering to vote helps establish credibility and can strengthen your credit profile.
• Do it early: Once you have your evisa and a confirmed address, register as soon as you can. You can find more  information on uk gov website.

10. Apply for a Provisional Driving Licence

• Universal ID: A provisional UK driving licence (costs about £34) is valid for 10 years and can act as an extra form of identification.
• Apply from uk gov website. You will appreciate this information later on.

11. Direct Debit for Your Nursing Registration (NMC PIN)

• Automatic renewals: Set up a direct debit to cover NMC renewal fees. Missed payments can lead to lapses in registration, causing bigger problems later.
• Stay on top of revalidation: Your direct debit is a reminder that revalidation is due soon.

12. Join a Professional Association

• Royal College of Nursing (RCN): Nurses can access first-year discounted membership (around £8 per month).
• Immediate protection: If issues arise at work, your union or professional body can offer legal and professional support.
• Enrol promptly: Incidents prior to joining might not be covered. Other association that have been reported to support DEI groups include Equality 4 Black nurses. You may want to ask about them.

13. Get a Blue Light Card

One of the most important aspect of being financially wise is learning how to take advantage of available discounts.

• Discounts for NHS workers: The Blue Light Card offers savings at selected retailers and venues.
• Health Service Discounts (you will get updates of discounts). This really helps. Personally, I have gotten a hover meant to be sold for 200 at 120 (that is sensible spending)

14. Register with a GP (General Practitioner)

• Local healthcare access: You’ll need a GP for general health concerns.
• How to choose: Google “GP near me” to find local clinics and read reviews. Then fill out their registration form.

15. Join an Online or Local Community

• Stay informed: For instance, if you’re a nurse from Nigeria, the “Life in the UK for Nurses” Telegram group is one such community. Another one for whatsapp is the ‘Nigerian Nurses in Uk (NNUK). you may want to search through for their website – nnuk. co. uk
• Get support: Networking helps you learn from others’ experiences and fosters friendships.

16. Subscribe to UK Government Email Alerts

• Stay updated: Visit the Gov.Uk website to sign up for weekly or monthly updates.
• Frequency: Avoid daily updates unless necessary—they can flood your inbox.

17. Commit to a Savings Plan

• Financial discipline: Setting aside £300–£500 per month (or whatever you can manage) helps build a buffer.
• Future plans: Savings can support family needs, further education, or property rentals. 
• There is a known pressure on latest UKRNs from overseas country to want to start sending something ‘home’. Please avoid this in your first 6 months. You need aggressive savings first! You will appreciate this information later on.

18. Join a Legal, Recognised Social Organization

• Community support: Whether a church, mosque, reading club, or community council, building a local network is invaluable.
• Social well-being: This helps you stay connected and supported in your new environment.

19. Money Transfers to and from Home

• Choose a reliable app: Options include LemFi (formerly Lemonade) or similar services. If you have a referral link, you can use it.
• Compare fees: Different apps offer different exchange rates and transaction costs.

Final Notes

• Create a timeline: There’s a lot to do when you arrive. Breaking tasks into manageable steps will help you settle in effectively.
• Maintain professionalism: Uphold your professional standards; ask for help when you need it, and never be ashamed to learn.
• Speak up: If something at work makes you uncomfortable or you’re unsure how to proceed, reach out for guidance.
• Never condone bullying or suffer in silence!

Once again, welcome to the UK! Wishing you a smooth transition and a rewarding journey in your healthcare career. If you have any additional questions or insights, feel free to share them below.

(Disclaimer: This post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, immigration, or financial advice. Always consult official UK government resources (e.g., gov.uk) and professional advisors for the most up-to-date and personalized guidance. Any referral links included here are optional, and neither the author nor this platform is liable for any decisions based on this information.

This guide is based on collective experiences and publicly available information. Always verify details with official sources.)