Settling-In Tips from
Staff at Crown Bristol

What is special or unique about your city?

Bristol is right in the middle of one of the most attractive parts of the United Kingdom, and has a very rich and varied history. As well as a great maritime and cultural heritage, the city has recently grown in the areas of art, museums, theatres and sporting centers. As well as being home to the oldest theatre in Britain, the Old Vic (opened in 1766), there are also a number of newer drama and arts venues such as the Tobacco Factory. Conveniently located close to the M4 and M5 motorways, Bristol is well-placed to explore the surrounding countryside. To the north are the Cotswolds and Gloucester Plain; to the west is the Forest of Dean and the Black Mountains of Wales; to the south is Somerset and Wookey Hole Caves, while even further south is Devon, Dorset and Cornwall; and to the east is Wiltshire and Stonehenge.

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

As well as being aware of the friendliness of locals, newcomers to Bristol will often notice the city is full of architecture from many different periods. From the gothic St Mary Redcliffe church and wealth of Victorian buildings to the Brunel-designed Clifton Suspension Bridge and innovative new structures on display, Bristol is an interesting city to explore.

Are these impressions likely to change?

No, it is unlikely these impressions will change.

What is the local language?

English.

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

Conversational English will help with daily life in Bristol.

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

The people of Bristol are very good-natured, however it is useful to remember that there are a number of nationalities, religions and beliefs within the city so it is best to always be polite, courteous and aware of the different cultures.

How might the local weather affect my daily life?

England has unpredictable weather! Bristol is generally cool and rainy from November to April, but from May to October the warm weather arrives and you will enjoy some wonderful warm sunshine. 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?

Bristolians are very proud of their heritage and history; people are friendly, warm, and accommodating to visitors and settlers. Bristol is widely recognized as a great place to live and work and ideally located as the gateway to the stunning West Country.

Useful Links

Visit Bristol http://www.visitbristol.co.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. Non-EU and non-EEA members must apply for the relevant work permit or visa before leaving for the UK with their local UK embassy or they will not be able to obtain entry.

What kinds of visas are available?

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

What is required to obtain these visas?

Applications must be made through Work Permits UK direct or a suitable immigration specialist. Contact Crown Bristol 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?

Spouses have to obtain entry clearance to be allowed to stay, as well as enter and exit the country for the duration of their partner’s work permit. On arrival into the UK, spouses can work for as long as their partner is in the country and holds a valid work permit.

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

A driver’s licence 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 form of identification.

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

Some nationalities need to register with the police on arrival to the UK. Please check with your immigration service provider.

What items should I avoid bringing into the country?

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 such as animals and birds, leather goods, ivory and foodstuffs as this will lead to delays with Customs. The following items are prohibited entry into the United Kingdom, so please do not bring them with you or in your shipment: controlled drugs, indecent or obscene video cassettes, films, books, magazines and other articles, horror comics, flick knives, butterfly knives, certain other offensive weapons and some martial arts weapons, counterfeit currency, radio transmitters (walkie talkies, citizen band radios, cordless telephones etc. not approved for use in the UK), meat and poultry (many other animal products are prohibited or restricted), plants and plant produce including trees and shrubs, potatoes and certain other vegetables, fruit, bulbs and seeds are prohibited for entry in a personal effects shipment.

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

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

Useful Links

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

 

What is the local currency?

Pounds Sterling.

What denominations does it come in?

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

What is the best way to exchange currency?

It is recommended you exchange currency with banks or a Bureau de Change.

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

Cash, Switch/Debit card (electronic/ATM), credit cards, 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 back transfer, direct debit or checks are the most popular forms of payment. Cash can be paid at local offices.

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. If you are not on an expatriate assignment, 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 Bristol.

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 am – 5:00 pm. In addition, some branches will also open for a few hours on a Saturday morning.

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 http://www.oanda.com http://www.travelex.co.uk http://www.xe.com Abbey http://www.abbey.co.uk Barclays Bank http://www.barclays.co.uk Citibank http://www.citibank.co.uk HSBC http://www.hsbc.co.uk Lloyds TSB http://www.lloydstsb.co.uk Natwest Bank http://www.natwest.co.uk Royal Bank of Scotland http://www.rbs.co.uk

 

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

Proximity to work and schools, facilities for children, parking restrictions, local transport facilities and traffic congestion.

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

Bristol is not a huge city like London or Birmingham, so areas within the city are small. The suburbs of Clifton, home to the renowned suspension bridge, Stoke Bishop, and Westbury-on-Trym are recognized as affluent areas and very pleasant places to live.

Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?

The majority of expats tend to rent their accommodation.

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 one month’s rent plus security deposit, which is normally four to six weeks rent. You may also have to pay an administration fee, which varies depending on the rental 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.

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

Gas, electricity, water, telephone, council tax and resident parking permits (if applicable) are generally payable in addition to rent. You will also be required to pay a TV Licence fee if you have a television in your home.

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

This depends on the location and suburb you choose to live in.

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

The electric current is 220 volts and the plug is three pin. Most unfurnished properties will have white goods (refrigerator, washing machine, etc.) available for tenants.

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

Crown can offer assistance in providing you with accommodation information, for rental or purchase properties and can also arrange for temporary accommodation.

Useful Links

Hotel Information http://www.uk-hotel-accommodation.co.uk Neighborhood Guide http://www.upmystreet.co.uk TV Licensing http://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. You need to apply for private schooling early.

What are some examples of these schools?

The educational system in Bristol is of a high standard. Contact Crown Bristol for help finding the best schooling for your children, or see the listings below for further information.

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 preschools to choose from. See the below link for early education advice.

How are most kids transported to and from school?

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

When does the typical school year start and end?

The school year 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 enrolments. Private schools are less strict on catchment areas, but prospective students may be required to sit exams for entry. It is also possible to enrol at a grammar school, however these are generally based on same sex or religion only. For private and grammar schools, expect to pay high fees.

Useful Links

British Association of Early Education http://www.early-education.org.uk/ Local private schools http://www.bristol-online.com/listings/Independent_Schools/all/0/10/1

 

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.