UNITED KINGDOM Country Guide

Have you decided to Move to united kingdom?
Whether you’re planning a tourist trip or a business relocation, here’s what you should know before you go.

General Overview

• Official country name: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
• Location: Northwestern Europe, comprising England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
• Capital city: London
• Official language: English
• Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP £)
• Time zone: GMT (UTC+0), GMT+1 in summer

Culture & Traditions

• Key customs:
  • Queuing is a sign of respect—never skip a line.

  • Punctuality is highly valued in both personal and professional settings.

  • Politeness and indirect communication are part of everyday life.

• Public holidays:
  

  • New Year’s Day (1 January)

  • Good Friday (variable date)

  • Easter Monday (variable date)

  • Early May Bank Holiday (first Monday of May)

  • Spring Bank Holiday (last Monday of May)

  • Summer Bank Holiday (last Monday of August)

  • Christmas Day (25 December)

  • Boxing Day (26 December)

• Main traditional dishes and local drinks:
  Popular dishes:
  

  • Fish and Chips

  • Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding

  • Shepherd’s Pie

  • Full English Breakfast

• Drinks:
  

  • Tea (national drink)

  • Ale and beer

  • Cider

  • Gin and tonic

• Languages spoken daily: English, Welsh (in Wales), Scottish Gaelic (in parts of Scotland)
  3 common phrases to learn:
  

  • “Cheers!” – Thank you / Goodbye

  • “Mate” – Friend

  • “Could you please…?” – Polite way to request something

• Clothing and behavioral norms:
  Business attire is generally formal. In public, modest and neat dressing is appreciated. Always respect personal space and avoid loud tones in conversation.

Demographics & Society

• Total population: ~67 million
  Major ethnic groups: White British, Asian British, Black British, Mixed heritage
  Main religions: Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Judaism
  General safety level: Very high in most urban and suburban areas; common-sense precautions apply.
  Attitude towards foreigners and diversity: Welcoming and multicultural; London and Manchester host large Southeast Asian communities.

Key Cities & Regions

• Capital city: London – 9.6 million – Global financial hub, diverse, vibrant cultural scene.

  Major cities:

  • Manchester – 2.7 million – Known for its innovation and lively music scene.

  • Birmingham – 2.6 million – Central location, industrial heritage, and diverse population.

  • Edinburgh – 550,000 – Historic capital of Scotland, world-famous festivals.

  • Bristol – 700,000 – Creative economy and sustainable living focus.

  Must-visit regions:

  • The Lake District – Stunning landscapes and national parks.

  • Cornwall – Coastal villages and beaches.

  • Scottish Highlands – Wild scenery and castles.

Weather and Climate

• The United Kingdom experiences a temperate maritime climate, meaning mild temperatures year-round with frequent changes.

  Average seasonal overview:

  • Spring (March–May): 8–15°C, blooming landscapes, occasional rain

  • Summer (June–August): 15–25°C, long daylight, pleasant temperatures

  • Autumn (September–November): 8–16°C, colorful foliage, increased rain

  • Winter (December–February): 0–8°C, short days, mild snow in Scotland and northern England

  Tips for Southeast Asian expats:

  • Bring layered clothing and waterproof jackets.

  • Homes use central heating; winters are comfortable indoors.

  • Umbrellas are essential year-round!

Schooling

• System of schooling: British education system (Primary, Secondary, A-Levels, University)
  Age and degree: Compulsory from 5 to 16 years old
  International schools and language: English-taught IB and British curriculum schools are widespread.
  Cost/Pricing: State schools are free; private and international schools range from £10,000 to £25,000 per year.
  Advice: Visit Asia-Relocation School Search Service to find top-rated international schools before moving.

Health & Care

• System type: Public (NHS) + Private system
  Different structures to get support: NHS hospitals, GP clinics, private medical centers
  Cost: Public healthcare is mostly free for residents; expats may pay NHS surcharge when applying for a visa. Private insurance recommended for faster access.

Banking

• System type: Modern and digital-friendly
  How to pay: Debit/credit cards and contactless payments are standard
  How to transfer: International transfers via SWIFT or digital banks (Wise, Revolut)
  Banking access for foreigners: Expats can open accounts with passport, visa, and proof of address

Practical Infomations

• Entry requirements:
  EU citizens: Visa-free for short stays up to 6 months
  Non-EU citizens: Visa required depending on purpose (work, study, settlement)
  Vietnamese citizens: Apply for visa online at UK Government Visa Portal
  Thai citizens: Visitor visa required for stays over 6 months
  Filipino citizens: Visa required; processing through VFS Global Manila

  Local transportation:

  • London Underground (Tube): Transport for London (TfL)

  • National Rail: National Rail Enquiries

  • Bus and Coach: National Express

  Cost of living:

  • Housing: £1,500–£3,500/month in London, lower in regional cities

  • Food: £250–£400/month per person

  • Transport: £150–£250/month (commuter travelcard)

  Electrical outlets and voltage: 230V, plug type G (three rectangular pins)
  Emergency numbers: 999 or 112

Visitor Tips

• Gestures to avoid and cultural taboos:

  • Avoid cutting in line or loud behavior in public.

  • Don’t discuss salary, politics, or Brexit unless invited.

  • Always say “please” and “thank you.”

  Specific regulations:

  • Smoking banned in all indoor public areas.

  • Seatbelts mandatory for all passengers.

  • Strict alcohol age limit (18+).

  Tips for integrating locally:

  • Join local community events or expat clubs.

  • Explore free museums and parks to meet locals.

  • Respect schedules and social boundaries.

  Potential risks or important considerations:

  • Weather can be unpredictable; always carry an umbrella.

  • Rental scams exist online—use verified agents.