What is the first thing I should do when I arrive in the UK?

Your immediate priorities are securing accommodation if you have not already, getting a UK phone number, and opening a bank account. After that, register with a GP, apply for a National Insurance number, and familiarise yourself with local transport.

How soon should I register with a GP after arriving?

Register with a GP as soon as possible, ideally within your first week. You do not need proof of address or immigration status to register. GP registration is free and gives you access to NHS primary care services.

When should I apply for a National Insurance number?

Apply for a National Insurance number as soon as you have settled in. You need one to work legally and pay the correct tax. You can start working before receiving your NI number, but apply promptly. The process involves an online application followed by an identity verification.

Do I need a UK phone number?

A UK phone number is essential for setting up bank accounts, receiving verification codes, contacting employers, and general day-to-day life. Buy a pay-as-you-go SIM card on arrival or order one before you travel.

First Week in the UK Checklist: Essential Steps for New Arrivals

Arriving in a new country can be overwhelming. This checklist breaks down everything you need to do in your first week into manageable steps. The priorities are: get a phone number, open a bank account, register with a GP, apply for a National Insurance number, and set up transport. Each task is explained with practical tips for visa holders.

Day 1: Immediate Priorities

On your first day, focus on the basics:

Get a UK SIM card: Available from shops at the airport or any high street phone shop. Major providers include Three, EE, Vodafone, and O2. A pay-as-you-go SIM costs as little as £10 and gives you a UK phone number instantly.
Collect your BRP: If you were issued a vignette (sticker) in your passport, you need to collect your Biometric Residence Permit from the post office specified in your decision letter within 10 days of arrival. See our BRP guide. Note that BRPs are being phased out in favour of eVisas.
Get to your accommodation: If you have not arranged permanent housing, check into your temporary accommodation. See our accommodation guide.
Buy an Oyster card or contactless transport card: In London, get an Oyster card or use contactless payment on the Tube and buses. Other cities have similar transport cards.

Days 2-3: Banking and Finance

Opening a bank account is essential for receiving wages, paying rent, and managing your finances:

Digital banks (fastest): Monzo, Starling, and Revolut can often be opened with just your passport and a selfie. No proof of address needed. See our bank account guide.
Traditional banks: HSBC, Barclays, Lloyds, and NatWest usually require proof of address (a utility bill or tenancy agreement) and may take longer to open.
Transfer money: Use a transfer service like Wise (formerly TransferWise) to move money from your home country to your new UK account at competitive exchange rates.

Days 3-5: Healthcare and NI Number

Register with a GP: Find your nearest GP surgery on the NHS website. Registration is free and you do not need proof of address or immigration status. See our GP registration guide.
Register with a dentist: NHS dental places can be hard to find. Start looking early. See our dentist guide.
Apply for a National Insurance number: Apply online at GOV.UK. You will need to verify your identity. See our NI number guide.

Days 5-7: Settling In

Set up utilities: If you have moved into unfurnished accommodation, set up gas, electricity, water, and broadband.
Register for council tax: Contact your local council to register. See our council tax guide.
Explore your area: Find your nearest supermarket, pharmacy, post office, and transport links.
Join community groups: Connecting with others who have been through the same experience can help enormously. See our community groups guide.

If You Are Starting Work

If you are arriving on a work visa:

Right to work check: Your employer will need to verify your right to work. Have your BRP, passport, or eVisa share code ready. See our right to work guide.
Tax code: Your employer will set up PAYE. If you do not have a National Insurance number yet, give your employer your application reference and they can use a temporary tax code.
Employment rights: From day one, you have the same employment rights as British workers, including minimum wage, holiday pay, and protection from discrimination. See our employment rights guide.

If You Have Children

School places: Contact your local council to apply for a school place. See our school places guide.
Childcare: Explore nursery and childcare options. You may be eligible for free childcare hours. See our childcare guide.
Child benefit: Check if you are eligible to claim. See our child benefit guide.

Driving

If you plan to drive in the UK, remember you will be driving on the left. You can use your foreign licence for 12 months after becoming resident. After that, you may need to exchange it or take the UK test. See our driving licence exchange guide and driving test guide.

Dealing With Homesickness

It is completely normal to feel overwhelmed, lonely, or homesick in your first weeks. This is one of the most common experiences for new arrivals. See our homesickness and culture shock guide for practical coping strategies.