Moving to UK from Germany – Returning Guide
Are you thinking of moving to UK from Germany?
If you moved to Germany before the pandemic or Brexit, it may feel as though so much has changed since you made the move!
These substantial events have certainly cast some light on the ways in which we spend our time.
It is therefore no surprise that an increasing number of people are starting to reevaluate the most important things to them.
For many, this could come in the form of seeking new experiences, reconnecting with friends and family or possibly getting onto the property ladder.
No matter your motivation for considering moving to UK from Germany, White and Company are here to help.
With so many huge changes to the moving process for EU citizens looking to return to the UK, a high level of planning will certainly be required for your move.
In this article, we will concentrate on the most important aspects of returning to the UK from Germany.
We aim to supply you with all the top tips and tricks required to ensure your move runs smoothly.
Hopefully, you find our returning to the UK from Germany guide helpful!
Am I allowed to Return to the UK?
There are several things to consider when thinking of returning to the UK. Image credit: Unsplash
If you are a British national, you will be eligible to reside here again.
However, bear in mind that it can take a few months to re-establish your eligibility for services like housing and welfare.
You should therefore have a plan in place to support yourself throughout this period.
Prior to deciding to return to the UK on a permanent basis, you should ask yourself these key questions:
- When you return to the UK, will you continue to receive the income you do now?
- How do expenses and prices vary between nations?
- How will inflation and currency exchange rates impact your pension and income?
- Can you transfer your assets and income back to the UK?
- Are your current insurance policies still in effect, or will you require new ones? This includes things such as private health insurance and life insurance
Throughout this article, we will help you to gather a better understanding of each of these questions.
UK’s Points-Based System
Moving to UK from Germany is likely to have changed significantly since you left.
EEA/EU nationals who are thinking of moving to the UK for longer than six months will need to apply for a points-based immigration visa.
Whilst this point-based system has been implemented for some time for non-EEA/EU nationals, it may be very new to you!
Before Brexit, EEA/EU citizens were free to move to the UK without the need of a visa.
However, coming back to the UK from Germany has changed.
It is now more of a challenge than ever, with the requirement of a long-term visa.
Visa-free movement for EEA/EU nationals only applies to short-term visits for those staying as tourists or visiting family.
For any longer stay, you are required to apply for a points-based immigration visa.
Family Visa Application
Family Visas are an excellent option for many looking to return to the UK. Image credit: Pexels
If you are coming back to the UK from Germany and have family members living here, you could be able to reunite with them far easier than expected.
Should this be the case, you will need to apply for a family member visa when repatriating.
It is important to remember that there are still several different types of visas within this bracket.
Be sure to establish what type of visa is required when moving to UK from Germany.
It could be a family visa to reconnect with your spouse, joining a parent, or perhaps you need a visa for your children.
Family permits are generally valid for two and a half years, however, their validity could change depending on the type of visa you have.
Remember, should there be any changes to your family status (perhaps you have married) be ready to apply for another visa!
House Prices
When it comes to house prices and the property market, the UK and Germany are very similar.
Average house prices in Germany are around £302,564 (354,000 EUR).
Meanwhile, the UK average is £263,600 (308,411 EUR).
Whilst prices are slightly higher in the UK, it is evident that the two nations have very comparable property markets.
It is imperative to give yourself plenty of time when it comes to buying and selling properties.
Moving to the UK from Germany, despite the similarity in prices, will still represent a big change.
The UK property market is notoriously fast-paced and plenty has changed in the last few years.
The UK housing market had seen a stretch of rising house prices during the pandemic, however, prices have been fluctuating over the last several months.
At the end of Feburary, House prices were down -0.5% compared to the last year.
This decrease is lower than in recent months, indicating that the market is steadying.
This could be thanks in no small part to the mortgage rates settling at between 4% and 5%.
This potential market stabilisation, means it could be a good time to consider moving.
You should take the time to thoroughly research what the housing market is like, especially in the area you are considering moving to.
Cost of Living in the UK
Cost of living UK vs Germany. Image credit: Pexels
The cost of living in the UK is seemingly always high.
Rising living costs in the UK in recent months have led many of us to reevaluate our finances.
However, it is worth noting that the cost of living in Germany is very similar to that of the UK!
There are obviously differences between costs within each country.
For example, consumer prices in the United Kingdom are 2.1% higher than in Germany, according to Numbeo.
Another major area where the UK may be more expensive is rent costs.
Rent prices in the United Kingdom are in fact 27.7% higher than in Germany!
On the other hand, grocery prices in the United Kingdom are 3.5% lower than in Germany.
Whilst you can expect some differences between the cost of living in the two countries, it shouldn’t be too much of a shock when returning to the UK.
Driving License
When moving to UK from Germany one of the most important things to consider is your drivers’ license.
Should you own a foreign licence it is important that you contact the DVLA.
By doing this you will be able to exchange your licence for a valid UK driving licence.
It is important to remember that holders of a German driving licence can drive in the United Kingdom.
According the UK Department fortTransport you will not need an International driving licence when returning.
German driving licence holders who have permanent residence in the United Kingdom will however be able to exchange their licence without being required to take another driving test.
You will be able to use your German driving licence in the UK for as long as it is valid.
Within these rules, your licence must be renewed either when you reach the age of 70 or 3 years after you took up residence in the UK.
Healthcare Provisions
Healthcare Services UK. Image credit: Unsplash
Returning to the UK from Germany will require some thought when it comes to healthcare.
Whilst the NHS is extremely convenient, there is nothing worse than realising you are no longer entitled to healthcare provisions before it is too late.
Those who relocate from Germany to the UK and have a permanent address are eligible for healthcare through the National Health Service.
Nevertheless, it is crucial that you set up an alternative healthcare service in case you or anyone travelling with you is denied access to free NHS treatment.
When it comes to your health care options, you can never be too safe.
While we hope you stay healthy and safe, emergencies do happen.
Before moving to the UK from Germany, make sure you have these arrangements in place.
Finances
Finances UK. Image credit: Pixabay
If you are moving to UK from Germany we recommend getting all of your finances in order.
With such a significant move, we are confident that this is already a top priority.
However, it is important to remember how crucial your finances are when relocating from Germany to the UK.
Simply said, there are a number of different factors to take into account while moving abroad and managing your finances.
Make sure you have a UK bank account first.
If you have previously lived here, you are probably familiar with how to open a UK bank account.
Notifying HM Revenue and Customs of your return and understanding your pension are two other crucial financial considerations.
Even though managing your finances is largely the same in both countries, planning for your return to the UK will still involve some work.
Moving Your Belongings
Moving your belongings when moving to UK from Germany will take precise planning as well as some patience from your end!
The first thing to consider when moving your goods is if you will be bringing back all your belongings.
Most people moving to UK from Germany will return with everything.
If this is the case, you will need to contact a reputable European Moving Company.
There are plenty to choose from and it may seem overwhelming to pick one!
However, it is essential that you ensure your chosen removals company is fully registered with FIDI, BAR, and Omni.
Companies that are members of these organisations are consistently audited to very high standards.
This means that you know you are receiving the best possible service when moving to UK from Germany.
Be sure to contact White & Company in the UK.
We have a network of reliable partners across the globe who we have operated with for years.
White & Company is happy to pass on the contact details of our trusted partners in Germany to ensure your move runs smoothly.
From there, your removal company can explain the export process and assist with any UK import documentation you need.
Ready to Start Moving to UK from Germany?
Are you thinking of moving to UK from Germany?
Moving to Europe can be a tricky process for everyone concerned.
That’s why White & Company are here to help your move to the UK be as stress-free as possible.
Over the years, White & Company has positioned itself as the international removals firm of choice for removals worldwide.
Our experience is second to none. As members of BAR, FIDI and OMNI, White & Company have been relocating people to destinations worldwide for 150 years.
Our experienced teams located across the UK will pack and prepare your valuable, fragile and bulky furniture ready for export
To find out more about how we could get your dream move underway, don’t hesitate to give us a call today.
Alternatively, fill out a quick quote form or chat with our bot and we’ll get in touch with you straight away.
Max is a seasoned writer and blogger in the real estate and home moving sectors, as well as a knowledgeable source of information for expatriates living and working abroad. His detailed insights have helped thousands of people move and live abroad with greater simplicity and ease.
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