UK Global Talent Visa Received.The Initial Steps After Arriving in the UK

To obtain your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) card, you must collect it within a specified timeframe after arriving in the UK from a designated post office branch. The exact date for collection will be mentioned in your decision letter. You will need to provide your passport and visa details at the post office branch to collect the card. During the collection process, the post office will capture your fingerprints and take a photograph, which will be used to produce your BRP card.

It’s important to note that you cannot travel outside of the UK until you have received your BRP card, as it serves as evidence of your right to re-enter the country. Once you have collected your BRP card, you should keep it in a safe place and carry it with you at all times when you are in the UK.

If you have any questions about the BRP card or the application process, you can contact the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) for assistance.

Once you arrive in the UK, you will need to present your vignette (visa) to a Home Office immigration officer at the border. The officer will check your documents to verify that you are eligible to enter the UK and stamp your vignette to indicate that you have been granted entry.

During the entry clearance process, the officer may ask you questions about the purpose of your visit, the length of your stay, and other details to ensure that you meet the immigration requirements. It’s important to answer these questions honestly and accurately to avoid any issues.

After your vignette is stamped, you will be allowed to enter the UK and collect your luggage. You should keep all of your immigration documents, including your passport and BRP card, with you at all times while you are in the UK. If you have any questions or concerns during the entry process, you can ask the immigration officer or seek assistance from the airport staff.

Find work: Your visa will allow you to work in your field of expertise, so it’s important to start looking for work as soon as possible. You can use online job portals, attend networking events and connect with recruiters to find suitable job opportunities.

Build your network: Networking is important in any industry, and it’s especially important when you are new to a country. Attend events, join professional organizations, and connect with people on LinkedIn to build your network.

Settle in: Moving to a new country can be challenging, so take some time to settle in and adjust to your new surroundings. Explore your new city, meet new people, and enjoy the experience!

Opening a bank account in the UK is important for managing your finances and day-to-day expenses. As a Global Talent Visa holder, you are eligible to open a bank account in the UK.

Here are some steps to follow to open a bank account:

1. Research: Look for the banks that offer accounts for non-UK residents. Some popular banks include HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds, and NatWest. You can check their websites to see what types of accounts they offer, what documents you need to provide, and what fees they charge.
2. Choose a bank: Once you have researched the available options, choose a bank that suits your needs.
3. Check the requirements: Each bank has different requirements for opening an account. Typically, you will need to provide your passport and proof of address in the UK. Some banks may also require a letter from your employer or a utility bill with your name and UK address.
4. Apply online or in person: You can apply for a bank account online or in person at a bank branch. If you apply online, you may need to provide copies of your documents by email or post. If you apply in person, you can bring your documents with you.
5. Wait for approval: After you apply, the bank will review your application and documents. Once approved, you will receive your account details and can start using your account.

It’s important to note that some banks may require you to have a UK address before opening an account, while others may allow you to use a temporary address, such as a hotel or Airbnb. Make sure to check the bank’s requirements before applying.

Also, keep in mind that opening a bank account may take some time, so it’s best to start the process as soon as possible after you arrive in the UK.

If you have relocated to the UK on a Global Talent Visa and want to drive, you will need to exchange your foreign driving licence for a UK licence. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Check if you can exchange your foreign licence
   You can exchange your foreign licence if you are from a country that is on the list of approved countries for licence exchange. You can check the list on the UK government website.
2. Obtain a UK provisional licence
   If you are eligible to exchange your licence, you need to obtain a UK provisional licence. You can do this by filling out an application form and submitting it to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA).
3. Book and pass a driving test (if required)
   If your driving licence is not from an approved country or you have been driving for less than 2 years, you will need to take a driving test before you can exchange your licence. You can book a driving test with the DVLA.
4. Exchange your foreign licence for a UK licence
   Once you have your UK provisional licence and have passed your driving test (if required), you can exchange your foreign licence for a UK licence. You will need to fill out an application form and submit it to the DVLA along with your foreign licence and other required documents.

Note that the process for exchanging a driving licence can take several weeks, so it’s important to start the process as soon as possible if you want to drive in the UK.

Buying a SIM card in the UK is a simple process. There are several options available, and you can choose the one that suits your needs best. Here are the steps you can follow:

1. Choose a mobile network provider: There are several mobile network providers in the UK, including EE, O2, Vodafone, Three, and more. You can compare the different plans and prices offered by each provider to find the one that fits your budget and requirements.
2. Choose a SIM card type: Most mobile network providers offer different types of SIM cards, such as pay-as-you-go or monthly contracts. Pay-as-you-go SIM cards are ideal if you don’t want to commit to a long-term contract, while monthly contracts may offer better value for money if you plan to use your phone frequently.
3. Purchase a SIM card: You can buy a SIM card from a mobile network provider’s website, retail store, or even at the airport. Some mobile network providers also offer free SIM cards.
4. Activate your SIM card: Once you have your SIM card, you need to activate it. You can do this by following the instructions that come with your SIM card or by visiting the mobile network provider’s website.
5. Insert the SIM card into your phone: Once your SIM card is activated, insert it into your phone. You may need to restart your phone to activate the SIM card.
6. Top up your account (if necessary): If you have a pay-as-you-go SIM card, you will need to top up your account with credit to make calls, send texts, or use data. You can do this online, via the mobile network provider’s app, or by purchasing top-up vouchers from a shop.

When you arrive in the UK, you will need to attend to many matters, but it will become easier as you go. The order in which you complete these tasks can and should be adjusted based on their importance, and some things will need to be done simultaneously. The most important thing is that after reading this text, you will have a clear plan of action that you can start following when there are fewer resources available.

If you are in the process of planning a move to the UK, we recommend taking our

PRE-Qualified Test to assess your chances and gain confidence in the success of your relocation.