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Moving to London? Expat Can Assist!
In 1987 Expat International's London office was established in response to requests from several Australian companies seeking an extension of our local relocation assistance, for their employees transferring to London.
Fast-Forward 20 Years! Expat London's specialty in understanding and catering to Aussie transferees' needs remains a by-word and comfort for many of our nation's largest companies.
We are proud that some of Expat's initial clients in London two decades ago remain our champions today!!
Welcome to London! Grand by name, history and might, the city offers endless business opportunities, and entertains both day and night. It's a city that exhilarates, intimidates, stimulates, and vibrates - a place not to be missed on the global Expat's career map!
With so much activity and hype why wouldn't an employee want the opportunity take on a London assignment?
Expat's London consultants are recognised Personal Planners in the challenging housing and schooling arena. Their extensive experience, flexibility and support for every corporation and its assignees, provide the greatest assurance for resourceful solutions and a successful outcome.
Additionally, Expat International's Migration and Visa Division advises on appropriate requirements, or can arrange visa applications for working in the United Kingdom. This saves companies valuable time in organising visa applications and ensures that all legal requirements are met in a timely and efficient process.
Destination London - Some Useful Information
Furnished and Unfurnished Properties. There is little or no difference in rental price between furnished or unfurnished properties; however quality furnished accommodation is increasingly less available, and almost all family properties are let unfurnished.
Additional Charges to Your Rent: The following are paid by the tenant ---- gas, electricity, water, phone, parking permits, TV licence and council tax. In some instances an apartment building may provide central heating and hot water at "no cost", although it will have already been factored into the property rental price.
TV Licence: Whether a TV set is rented, bought, or included in the property's furnishings, the user must purchase a TV licence from the outset. This costs £126.50 per year/ per residence, and covers all sets within the household.
National Health Service and National Insurance Number: The U.K. National Health Service (NHS) is funded by compulsory National Insurance contributions and general taxation, and provides free or subsidised healthcare for all. This includes the services of General Practitioners, Specialists, Hospitals, Ambulances and Community Health.
Fees incurred with Dentists, Chemists and Opticians are free only for children and pensioners.
London Congestion Charge: A daily fee of £8 is levied on each car entering the Central London Congestion Zone between 7 am and 6:30 pm Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays.
Education in the U.K.
Competition for places in both private and state schools is strong, and it is vital that the quality and availability of preferred schooling is researched as early as possible in preparing for the transfer
- Private Fee-paying Schools (pre-school, primary and secondary) are officially termed Independent Schools because of their independence from government controls and funding.
- The term "Public School" refers to old establishment boarding and day schools such as Eton, Westminster, Charterhouse, Roedean, Harrow and Rugby, to name a few.
It is important to ensure that transferring children have been accepted into the school of choice in either of the above categories prior to finalising a property lease or purchase.
- State Schools are controlled by Local Education Authorities (LEA's) and are non-fee-paying. They are funded by state and local council tax revenues, and officially termed "Maintained Schools".
Children will not be considered for enrolment in a State School until the family has a residential address within the residential zoning of that school.
What major Australian companies and their assignees are saying about their experiences with Expat in London ....
Law Firm - Transferee
"I wanted to say thank you to you for the fantastic help in house hunting. You were friendly, brilliantly organised and accommodating of my disrupted schedule. We saw more than 20 places in 2 afternoons and I was happy with the selection and ultimate choice. It was a huge weight off my mind and I will suggest you to anyone else in my position. Thanks again ....."
Construction Company "A" - Transferee
"Thanks for your dedicated help over the last month or two. Your assistance has been invaluable ......"
Construction Company "B" - HR Manager
"We would like to thank you for all the support you have provided us with over the last few years, and for the great care you have shown to relocating our expatriates to London."
Investment Bank - HR Director
"Thank you to you and your team for all your assistance this year. It has been very helpful to have you guys on board to assist with relocations ......"
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