Settling-In Tips from
Staff in Aberdeen

What is special or unique about your city?

Located at the mouth of two major Scottish rivers (the Dee and the Don), Aberdeen is known as the Granite City because of its famous, locally-quarried granite stone. While traditional industries such as fishing and farming still flourish, Aberdeen's buoyant modern economy is now fuelled by the oil industry. This has earned the city a new name: The Oil Capital of Europe.

What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?

Expat residents of Aberdeen often comment on how friendly the local people are. The city itself has no congestion and is free of highrise buildings. In addition to having a breathtaking coastal beach area, Aberdeen is surrounded by the renowned Scottish scenery. The famous Scottish Highlands -- including Braemar Highland Games and Balmoral Castle -- are easily accessible. Many other spectacular castles are close by. Aberdeen also has many shopping malls, as well as a wide variety of entertainment, sport and leisure activities. In addition, the city has a vibrant music and arts scene. There is always something to do, a place to visit and a group to be part of.

Are these impressions likely to change?

Change is inevitable. However, any change will only be to the benefit of Aberdeen and its people.

What is the local language?

English, although Gaelic is spoken in the north and west of Scotland (including the highlands and islands), as well as Scots, which is spoken in the lowlands.

How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?

Newcomers should know at least some conversational English.

What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?

Scottish people have a fantastic sense of humor, and are not easily offended. However, keep in mind that a resident with a keen sense of Scottish pride will not be pleased if you refer to him or her as an Englishman or Englishwoman! Overall, you will find Scottish people quick to befriend visitors from overseas, making them feel at home and a part of the community.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

Aberdeen enjoys four seasons. From May to October, warm weather arrives bringing along sunshine. From November to April, it is cooler with moderate rainfall -- which is necessary for the beautiful green countryside. Apart from infrequent gales and strong winds, the country does not suffer from extreme weather or natural disasters.

Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?

Scottish people are very proud of their heritage -- often to the point of being very passionate about it.

Useful Links

Scottish history www.electricscotland.com/history/scotland/chap12.htm Scottish Parliament www.scottish.parliament.uk

 

As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?

Members of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA) generally will not need a work permit for the United Kingdom. However, non-EU and non-EEA members must apply for the relevant work permit or visa with their local UK embassy before leaving for the UK or they will not be able to obtain entry.

What kinds of visas are available?

Entry Clearance, Work Permits, and Multiple Entry Business Visas. Contact Crown for more details.

What is required to obtain these visas?

Contact Crown for more details, as there are very strict criteria for entry into the UK for work.

Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?

A spouse can work in the UK for as long as his or her partner lives in the UK and holds a valid work permit. However, a spouse must first obtain entry clearance in order to stay, as well as enter and exit the country for the duration of the partner's work permit.

What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?

A driver's license is the main form of identification in the UK. This can be obtained by passing a UK driving test. Your passport will also be another main form of identification.

Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?

People from some countries will need to register with the police on arrival to the UK. Please check with your immigration service provider for details.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

Do not bring alcohol. There is no duty-free allowance for alcohol contained within an unaccompanied shipment. All alcohol is subject to duty and VAT and must be itemized separately on an alcohol list. Avoid bringing restricted items like animals, birds, leather goods, ivory and foodstuffs -- as this will lead to delays with customs. The following items are prohibited entry to the UK, so please do not bring them on your person or in your shipment: controlled drugs, indecent or obscene video cassettes, films, books, magazines and other articles, horror comics, flick knives, butterfly knives and certain other offensive weapons and some martial arts weapons, counterfeit currency, radio transmitters (walkie talkies, citizen band radios, cordless telephones and other devices not approved for use in the UK), meat and poultry (many other animal products are prohibited or restricted), plants including trees and shrubs, potatoes and certain other vegetables, fruit, bulbs and seeds.

Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?

Ensure that your work permits and visas are valid and remember to renew them when they are nearing expiration dates.

Useful Links

UK Visas www.ukvisas.gov.uk UK Customs and Excise www.hmce.gov.uk UK Job Search www.jobsearch.co.uk

 

What is the local currency?

Pounds sterling.

What denominations does it come in?

Notes: £5, £10, £20, £50 and £100 Coins (pence): 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 Coins (pounds): £1 and £2

What is the best way to exchange currency?

It is best to exchange currency with banks and Bureau de Exchanges.

What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?

Cash, Switch card (electronic/ATM), credit cards or checks.

Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.

Most stores accept credit cards, however some fast food and smaller retail outlets may not. It is best to carry cash when visiting smaller outlets.

By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?

Internet bank transfer or checks are the most popular forms of payment. Cash can be paid at local offices. Direct debit is also growing in popularity for bill payments.

What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should I open it?

You may open a bank account prior to arrival if you are on an expatriate assignment. Proof of residency at an overseas address will be required, along with a certified copy of your passport and a letter from your employer. Otherwise, it is recommended that you open a bank account as soon as possible on arrival in the UK. You will need identification such as your passport, a utility bill and a letter from your employer.

Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?

Banking services in foreign languages are not widely available in Aberdeen.

Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?

No.

What are typical banking hours?

Monday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Some are open for shorter hours on Saturday.

Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?

Yes.

Is there any other money information that might help me?

The UK has not yet adopted the European Single Currency (the euro). There is a great deal of speculation and debate as to whether or when the UK will replace the pound with the euro.

Useful Links

Currency converters www.travelex.co.uk www.xe.com Abbey www.abbey.co.uk Barclays Bank www.barclays.co.uk Citibank www.citibank.co.uk HSBC www.hsbc.co.uk Lloyds TSB www.lloydstsb.co.uk Natwest Bank www.natwest.co.uk Northern Bank www.northern-bank.co.uk Royal Bank of Scotland www.rbs.co.uk

 

What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?

Consider proximity to work, facilities for kids, parking restrictions, local transport facilities and traffic congestion.

What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?

The mains areas in Aberdeen currently enjoyed by the expat community are Cults, Peterculter, Milltimber, Bieldside, Westhill, Rubislaw and Queens Road. The housing types vary between traditional granite buildings to new modern developments of detached, semi-detached and flatted dwellings -- all of which are of a good to high standard. The International School of Aberdeen is located in the Milltimber area, while the French and Dutch international schools are in the city center. These schools are within easy commuting distance by bus or car from all of the above locations. There are local schools, both primary and secondary, situated closer to each of the above locations.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

Rent.

Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into leased housing? If so, how much is common?

Usually, you will need to pay one month's rent plus a security deposit -- which is normally four to six weeks' rent. You may also have to pay an administration fee which varies depending on the agency. In addition, you will have to pay stamp duty, which is one percent of the annual rent for unfurnished accommodation or 3% for furnished accommodation. Note that you are required to pay for a TV license if you have a television at home.

Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?

Gas, electric, water, telephone, council tax and resident parking permit fees are payable in addition to rent.

Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of neighborhood?

Like most areas of Scotland, Aberdeen is a very safe place to live. The city has a lower crime rate than many cities of a similar size.

I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?

Current is 220 volts. The plug is three pin. Most unfurnished properties will still have white goods (for example, fridge and washing machine) available for tenants.

Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?

Contact Crown for further information on renting or purchasing property. Temporary accommodation can also be arranged.

Useful Links

Hotel Information www.uk-hotel-accommodation.co.uk/ Neighborhood Guide www.upmystreet.co.uk TV Licensing www.tvlicensing.co.uk

 

What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?

Many expats favor private or independent schools, as state schools have catchment areas for residents. Keep in mind that you must apply early for private schooling.

What are some examples of these schools?

The education system in Aberdeen is of a high standard. The International School of Aberdeen is one example of a private international school. Please contact Crown to further explore schooling options in Aberdeen.

Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?

Yes, because the state schools have catchment areas.

Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?

Yes, there are many pre-schools to choose from.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

Most children travel to school by car with their parents or catch a local bus.

When does the typical school year start and end?

School begins in September and ends in July.

Is there anything else I should know about local schools?

State schools rely solely on catchment areas for their enrolments. Private schools are less strict on catchment areas, but prospective students may be required to sit exams for entry. There are also grammar schools, which means they enroll same sex or religion only. For private and grammar schools, expect to pay high fees.

Useful Links

International School of Aberdeen www.isa.aberdeen.sch.uk British Association of Early Education www.early-education.org.uk

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.