What to do when we arrive in the UK?

[Dutchies]

Hi everyone,

Hoping you guys can provide some answers.

We are Dutch and therefore do not need visas to enter Britain. We have the work situation under control... my only question is when we arrive in England is there anything we HAVE to do, like legally?

In Holland we have to register with the local council for example that we live at a certain address. Do they do that in the UK?

So far I can only really think that we need to open up bank accounts, find a doctor and a dentist. But I'm sure I'm missing something (or lots of things!)

Is it that straightforward?

Thanks!

L

[Joppa]

Originally Posted by Dutchies

Hi everyone,

Hoping you guys can provide some answers.

We are Dutch and therefore do not need visas to enter Britain. We have the work situation under control... my only question is when we arrive in England is there anything we HAVE to do, like legally?

In Holland we have to register with the local council for example that we live at a certain address. Do they do that in the UK?

So far I can only really think that we need to open up bank accounts, find a doctor and a dentist. But I'm sure I'm missing something (or lots of things!)

Is it that straightforward?

No, you don't register your address as such, but when you rent a property, you should phone up your council regarding Council Tax, so that they can prepare a bill and payment schedule.
You can also get your name on the Electoral Register - EU citizens are entitled to vote in local and European elections, but not in parliamentary one. Getting yourself on the ER may help with opening bank account, getting credit and so on.
Also you need to apply for your individual National Insurance Number. Phone up the helpline on 0845 600 0643 and they will tell you what to do.
Income tax will normally be dealt with by your employer, through monthly deduction from your salary (PAYE), as are your National Insurance contributions. If you are going to be self-employed, you need to register as such with HMRC (tax people).
Opening a bank account can be a long drawn-out affair, mainly to do with ID and address checking for anti-money laundering regulations. They will want evidence such as utility bills, which can take time to assemble. Your employer may be able to help.
Opening and running a bank account : Directgov - Money, tax and benefits
Registering with a GP is straightforward - just go to a surgery, and if they are taking new patients (not all do), you complete a simple form. With dentist, while it's easy to register with a private dentist, those who treat you on NHS (cheaper) may be few and far between, and in some areas almost impossible to find. Your local Primary Health Trust will help you find one.