Moving to England from America

Published Jun 7, 2024

4 mins read

Moving to England from America can be an exciting yet daunting venture, but with good planning and a considered approach, your fresh start in England is within reach.

Many Americans are drawn to England by its colourful history and dynamic culture. Whether you are seeking a change in scenery, career opportunities, educational advancements or simply reuniting with family, England offers a diverse range of locales to suit your lifestyle requirements.

If you are considering moving to England from America here is what you need to know.

Before moving to England from America

Finding a property in England is just one element of the process. There are important steps that need to be taken in preparation for your move, and laying the foundations for your new life in England well in advance is crucial to ensuring a smooth transition.

Checklist for moving to England from America

The below are some of the necessary steps those moving from America to England will need to take in advance:

Obtain a visa
Convert or acquire a UK driving licence
Enrol your children in a school
Register for healthcare
Set up mobile phone services
Secure insurance
Apply for a national insurance number
Consider UK tax requirements
Open UK bank accounts

Find a place to live

From vibrant cities teeming with activity to peaceful villages nestled in the countryside, England may be a small country when compared to America but there are many different places to live.

The place you choose to live will likely depend on your job location and lifestyle preferences. Research different areas thoroughly, considering factors such as cost of living, accessibility, and local amenities. It can be sensible to engage a professional property finder who can ensure you find the right location for a home.

When you’re searching for your new property, estate agents and online property portals can offer insights into current market trends and available options but a professional property finder can offer more detailed expert advice and potentially uncover off market properties that are not listed publicly.

What to consider when relocating

Establishing the type of area that suits your desired lifestyle and needs is the first step. England is home to thriving cities, quaint market towns, breathtaking coastlines, and rolling countryside. But which would best suit you?

Here are some key factors you need to consider:

Essential amenities

Urban areas are equipped with a comprehensive range of amenities on your doorstep such as hospitals, doctors, dentists, shops, schools, and public transport. Although many rural areas enjoy access to a variety of amenities, travel to nearby towns or cities for specialised medical care, large-scale shopping, or higher education may be necessary. Identify your must-haves and do your due diligence to find a location that’s just right.

Quality schooling

For families moving to England, adjacency to quality schooling is a priority. England boasts a treasure trove of exceptional state and independent schools, not to mention universities that shine on the global stage. Researching school performance, understanding the curriculum, and visiting prospective schools can provide valuable insights.

Entertainment and leisure

England offers an array of entertainment and leisure options, so think about the pastimes you value the most? In cities like London, you can enjoy world-class theatres, museums, and vibrant nightlife. Parks and riverside walks provide scenic outdoor escapes within city limits.

Conversely, rural areas such as the Cotswolds offer tranquillity with activities like hiking, cycling, and traditional pub visits. Social gatherings, from local festivals to farmers’ markets, foster community spirit.

Connectivity

England boasts an extensive network of roads, frequent rail services, and international airports. Being close to major transportation hubs can seriously reduce your daily commute time and make life a whole lot easier.

Today, being disconnected is not an option. That’s why dependable internet and mobile connectivity have become essential tools for both our personal and professional lives. Evaluate the transport and communication infrastructure in your prospective area to ensure it meets your needs.

The process of relocating

Moving your belongings from America to England requires careful planning and consideration. Smooth global moves hinge on three things—securing an experienced mover who understands cross-border logistics; learning about specific import policies of where you’re headed; and ensuring every item is expertly packaged against transit shocks.

By Air

Transporting your belongings by air is the fastest method, though it tends to be more expensive than shipping by sea. It’s ideal for smaller, personal items that you need immediately upon arrival. Most international airports in the UK, including Heathrow and Gatwick, have facilities and services that can manage customs clearance for your goods.

By Ship

For larger household items, shipping by sea is a cost-effective option. It takes longer but allows you to move a significant volume of belongings. Container shipping options vary, and you can choose either a full container load (FCL) or a less container load (LCL) depending on the amount you are moving. When sending items overseas, collaborate with an experienced international shipper who can secure their delivery without hitches.

Moving pets to England from America

Moving with pets to the UK requires careful planning due to strict entry requirements. Review the approved air, sea and rail carriers and routes as you can only use certain travel routes and companies to move to England with a pet.

The Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) provides guidelines to avoid quarantine, which include ensuring vaccinations and treatments are up to date and documented correctly. It is crucial to begin this process well in advance of your move.

Engage a pet relocation service early in your planning process to ensure all requirements are met and to facilitate a smooth transition for your animal companions.