Visa application fees used reflect 2026 Home Office out-of-UK rates (£819–£2,064/person). IHS is £1,035/year (£776/year student rate). Tenancy deposits are capped by law at 5 weeks' rent (under £50k annual rent).
Relocation Upfront Budget Estimator
Calculates visa fees, health surcharge, housing deposit, flights and shipping
HMRC £8,000 Employer Relocation Tax Exemption
If your UK employer pays or reimburses qualifying relocation costs when you change your main residence for a job move, the first £8,000 is exempt from Income Tax and National Insurance.
Qualifying Relocation Expenses
- Removal & international shipping fees
- Travel & temporary accommodation
- Legal & estate agent fees (buying/selling home)
- Qualifying bridging loan costs
Statutory Conditions
- Must be an employment-related move
- Must change main residence
- Must be incurred before end of next tax year
- Reimbursement only (not a cash allowance)
Transfer of Residence (ToR1) Customs Relief
When moving your normal place of residence to the UK, you can apply for Transfer of Residence (ToR1) relief to import personal belongings, furniture, and vehicles tax-free (exempt from 20% VAT and import duty).
| ToR1 Condition | Official HMRC Requirement |
|---|---|
| Prior Overseas Residence | Must have lived outside the UK for at least 12 consecutive months. |
| Ownership Period | Must have owned and used the goods for at least 6 months before moving. |
| Import Deadline | Goods must be imported within 12 months of transferring residence. |
| HMRC Approval | ToR1 approval reference must be obtained BEFORE shipping. |
Frequently Asked Questions (6 Detailed FAQs)
Official GOV.UK Sources
International Money Transfer & FX Rates
Sending funds for tuition, rent, or immigration fees? Retail banks sneak 2.5%–4% into exchange rates. Check today's real mid-market rate first.
Expat Global Access & Banking Security
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