Top things to do when you arrive in the UK: International Student

Moving to a new country as an international student can be both exciting and overwhelming.

Upon your arrival in the United Kingdom, it's important to take care of certain tasks to ensure a smooth transition and make the most of your time as a student. In this blog post, we'll discuss some essential things you should do when you land or shortly after arriving in the UK.

1. Allow sufficient travelling time 

One of the first things to consider is to keep a 3-4 hour window between your arrival time and your next travel. This will ensure you have ample time to go through immigration, collect your luggage, and handle any unexpected delays. It's always better to have extra time than to rush and potentially miss important appointments or connections. Immigration lines are quite long at times, especially at airports like London Heathrow (1 hour- 3 hours at times). It would be worth asking for an extra bottle of water in flight, so you are hydrated while queuing up for Immigration.

2. Obtain a SIM card

Staying connected is crucial, especially when you're in a new country. Buying a SIM card or pre-ordering one before you arrive in the UK will ensure that you have a local number and access to mobile data. Several network providers offer affordable SIM card options, allowing you to stay connected with friends, family, and the resources you need. Only pre-order if you know your address, do not pre-order and send it to the University main reception! 

3. Collect your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit)

If you're a non-European Economic Area (EEA) student staying in the UK for more than six months, you will need to collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). This permit is an essential document that confirms your immigration status and allows you to study and reside in the country. You can collect your BRP from designated Post Office branches or your university, as per the instructions provided when you made the visa application. You will need to schedule an Appointment via MyHWU App for BRP collection if you had chosen for BRP to get delivered to the University.

4. Register with a local GP (General Practitioner)

Maintaining good health is crucial during your time as an international student. As soon as you arrive, it's important to register with a local GP (General Practitioner) to access healthcare services when needed. Registering with a GP will allow you to receive medical advice, access necessary vaccinations, and receive primary healthcare services throughout your stay in the UK. Fortunately, at Edinburgh campus, we have a GP practice located in University itself. You can register for it here: https://www.riccartongeneralpractice.co.uk/new-patients.aspx?t=1. If you plan on living outside the campus, you can either register at University or your local area.

5. Understand the National Health Service (NHS)

The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK provides comprehensive healthcare coverage for its residents, including international students. Most health-related expenses, including doctor consultations, emergency care, and prescriptions, are covered by the NHS. Familiarise yourself with the NHS system, including how to book appointments and access healthcare services, to ensure you receive the care you need when required. You might need to register separately for dental treatments. This surgery is based in University and accepts new patients: https://clydemunrodental.com/practice/riccarton-dental-practice/.

6. Open a bank account

Having a local bank account will make managing your finances in the UK much more convenient. Major banks such as HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds, RBS, and Santander offer student accounts tailored to international students. You will typically need an appointment and an enrolment letter from the university to open a bank account. You can download it from MyHWU portal. This will allow you to handle day-to-day financial transactions and manage your expenses efficiently.

7. Consider Opening a digital bank account

In addition to a traditional bank account, you might want to explore digital banking options such as Monzo, Monese, or Revolut. These digital banks provide convenient mobile banking services and often offer additional benefits like low or no foreign transaction fees. They can be particularly useful for managing international transfers or travel expenses.

8. Apply for a National Insurance number

If you plan to work part-time or undertake internships during your studies, you will need a National Insurance Number (NIN). This unique identifier is required for working legally in the UK. To apply for a NIN, you will need to contact the Jobcentre Plus office and provide the necessary documents to support your application or you can also do it online here: https://www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number/how-to-apply. It's advisable to start the application process as early as possible to avoid any delays in securing employment.

9. Schedule an appointment via MyHWU app

Once you arrive at your university in the UK, it's important to schedule an appointment for your student enrolment and ID check at the international student service centre. Utilise the My HWU app to book your appointment. This step ensures that you officially become a registered student/ enrolled at the university. 

10. Register with the local consulate and on the electoral roll

If you want to rent, get a mobile contract, or sign up for a credit card, it really helps if you're on the electoral roll, which is basically a list of everyone who's registered to vote. This also means you can be a part of big decision-making, including voting for a new government. It is also registered with the local consulate of your country in Edinburgh.

11. Enrolment

Enrol for your courses, check your timetable, attend inductions, make friends at Freshers fair, and if you want to change your course or drop a course, change it before change course deadline. You can seek advice from the advice hub, located in Hugh Nisbet building opposite to Student shop for more information on enrolment, timetables etc.

12. Driving License

You must ensure that you hold a valid driving licence before driving in the UK. Check your eligibility to drive in the UK.

Holders of licences issued in a European Economic Area country

You can drive using your EEA licence as long as it remains valid. You can apply at any time to sit a test to exchange it for a British licence.

Holders of licences from designated countries

You can drive using this licence  for up to 12 months from the date you became resident in the UK (as long as the licence remains valid). In order to continue driving after this 12-month period, you may apply to exchange this for a British licence within five years of becoming a resident here.

Holders of licences issued from other countries

You can drive using your licence or an international driving permit for up to 12 months. Once you have been resident in the UK for 6 months, you can apply for a UK provisional license and take the UK driving test. 

Arriving in the UK as an international student presents numerous opportunities and experiences. By taking care of essential tasks such as obtaining a SIM card, collecting your BRP, registering with a GP, opening a bank account, and applying for a National Insurance Number, you'll be well-prepared to embark on your educational journey smoothly. Remember to allocate sufficient time for these tasks and seek assistance from your university's international student services whenever needed. Enjoy your time in the UK and make the most of this enriching chapter in your life.