Your first 90 days in the UK: a relocation checklist that actually works

Week 1 is about identity. Collect your Biometric Residence Permit (or activate your eVisa) within 10 days of arrival. Carry your decision letter and passport — you'll need them for your National Insurance number application and to open a bank account.

Open a current account in the first 48 hours. Monzo, Starling and Revolut accept BRPs and eVisas instantly; high-street banks (HSBC, Barclays) usually want a proof of address, which you won't have yet. Get the digital account first, then upgrade.

Register with a GP in your borough as soon as you have a tenancy or short-let address. The NHS surcharge you paid with your visa covers you from day one, but you can only use it once you're registered. Don't wait until you're ill.

Apply for your National Insurance number online (free) — never pay an agent. Processing takes 2–4 weeks. You can start work without it; your employer will use a temporary code.

Council Tax registration is the one most newcomers forget. Register within 14 days of moving in to avoid a backdated bill. Single occupants get 25% off — make sure you claim it.

By day 60 you should have: BRP/eVisa, NI number, GP registration, council tax set up, a UK credit footprint (set up a direct debit for utilities) and your driving licence exchanged or a UK provisional in hand if your home country isn't on the exchange list.