U.S. Citizen Wanting to Work in the U.K.

Question

There is a job opportunity with my company in our UK division. I'm interested but need some help. Just looking for a little information on becoming an expat in the UK. What's required? How do I pay my taxes? What's the cost of living like there vs. in the U.S. Has anyone done this before and can offer *sound* advice and suggestions?

Please respond only if you can provide detailed answers.

Thanks for the help!

Answer 1

I did it...best decision I ever made.  Taxes....you will be taxed by the UK government, the US goverment gives you a reprieve up to $85k, anything over that you will pay taxes to both the Uk and US goverment.  Should talk to your accountant if you're worried about this.  You still have to file US taxes, I use TurboTax and it is fine.  Cost of living is a bit steep if you plan to live in the London area.  Figure that if you pay $1 for something in the US, it will cost you $2 here.  Check www.rightmove.co.uk to find out the cost of flats or houses in the area that you want to live.  Make sure that you get your company to pay for your work visa, it's a pain of a process, and costly.  For shipping your stuff to the UK, just google international shipping.  I was able to find some "cheap" shippers, $2k, but it took my stuff 3 1/2 months to get here!!!  Anything else?

Answer 2

You need to talk to your HR department. They know the ins and outs and what you will need from your UK HR department to relocate.