Moving to London from Australia or New Zealand in 2025

Moving to London has become somewhat a rite of passage for young, adventurous Aussies and Kiwis. 2025 is shaping up to be one of the best years yet to move to London with a digitally overhauled immigration system, loads of cultural events and amazing travel opportunities on the doorstep of Europe. In this article we will help help you navigate the process, from visas to housing, work and beyond.

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Why do so many Aussies and Kiwis move to London?

London has long been a magnet for Aussies and Kiwis, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a thriving cultural hub offering incredible career opportunities, vibrant nightlife, and proximity to Europe for weekend trips. For some, it’s about reconnecting with family history as the UK remains a key ancestral link for Australians and New Zealanders.

It’s also about the lifestyle. London’s diverse food scene, rich history, and famous events (like; Wimbledon, the Premier League football, West End shows, and the Notting Hill Carnival) make it an incredible place to live.

Combine all of that with the newly improved Youth Mobility visa (available to Aussies and Kiwis aged 18-35 for 3 years), and it’s no wonder London remains the top destination for young Aussies and Kiwis moving internationally.

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Visa options: Youth Mobility, Skilled Worker, and Ancestry Visas

Whether you’re moving for work, study, or simply for a fresh adventure, the UK has various visa options for Aussies and Kiwis. Popular choices include:

• Youth Mobility visa: If you're between 18 and 35 years old, this visa allows you to live and work in the UK for up to three years. It’s perfect for those who want to experience life in London and explore the UK.
• Skilled Worker visa: This visa is for those with a job offer from a UK employer. It’s ideal for those looking to work in a specific industry such as technology, healthcare, or finance.
• UK Ancestry visa: If you have a grandparent born in the UK, you could be eligible for this visa, allowing you to live and work in the UK for up to five years.

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The New eVisa System

In 2025, the UK’s immigration system is taking a big leap forward with the new eVisa system. This new system replaces physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs). Here are the key changes:

• Goodbye BRPs: Visa details are stored online, so there’s no need to collect or carry physical documents.
• Extended arrival window: You now have 90 days (instead of 30 days) to arrive in the UK from your visa start date, giving you greater flexibility.
• Fully automated e-Passport gates: Arriving in the UK is faster and easier, with digital passports and visas allowing smooth entry.
• Digital immigration management: Your immigration status is accessible and manageable online, anytime, anywhere.

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For those with a British or Irish passport through descent

If you’re one of the lucky ones with British or Irish ancestry, obtaining a passport might be even easier than getting a visa.

• British passports through descent: Anyone with a parent who was born in the UK and registered as a UK citizen at the time of their birth can claim a British passport.
• Irish passports through descent: Those with a parent or grandparent who was born in Ireland can apply for an Irish passport. You man need to be added to the Irish foreign births registry if you haven't already been.

Holding a British or Irish passport allows you full citizenship and means that you can live and work in the UK for as long as you like. It also allows you to skip the visa application process and all of the expensive fees that come with it.

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When is the best time to move?

Timing your move to London can make a big difference. Many Aussies and Kiwis choose to move during the UK summer (June - August), which conveniently aligns with the down-under winter. This timing helps make for a smoother adjustment period, with plenty of events, sunny weather, and a more active housing market.

If you’re starting work or study, it’s important to plan around your visa’s start date and factor in the extended 90-day arrival window offered by the new eVisa system. Starting your move during the UK’s warmer months will also give you time to explore the city and settle in before the colder weather hits.

The costs of moving to London

Let’s be honest, London isn’t cheap. Moving to the UK from Australia or New Zealand involves a range of expenses, from visa application fees to flights, initial accommodation, and everyday living costs. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

• Visa fees: Depending on your visa type, you’ll need to budget between £1,200 and £5,000 for the application.
• Flights: One-way tickets from Australia or New Zealand to London typically range from £600 to £1,200, depending on the season.
• Initial accommodation: Short-term accommodation can cost anywhere from £800 to £2,000 per month in London.
• Living expenses: You’ll need to budget for food, transport, and rent, which can add up to around £1,500 to £2,500 per month.

The simple answer to the question, how much money do I need to move to London? As much as possible.

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Housing in London

Finding a place to live in London can be one of the trickiest parts of moving, especially in a competitive rental market. Many new arrivals opt for house-sharing, which is more affordable than renting solo. Popular websites like SpareRoom, Rightmove, and Zoopla are great resources to get started.

Each London neighbourhood has its own vibe, so explore areas like Clapham, Hackney, or Notting Hill to find what suits you best. Remember, location is key, proximity to work and transport links can make a big difference in your life in London.

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Working in London as an Aussie or Kiwi

The good news? UK employers love Aussies and Kiwis. Known for being hard workers with positive attitudes, you’ll have no trouble finding opportunities in industries like hospitality, finance, marketing, and healthcare.

The Youth Mobility visa, recently extended to allow 3-year stays, is a game-changer, offering more time to work and explore. If you want to stay in the UK beyond the Youth Mobility visa and you have an employer willing to sponsor you, you can always switch to a Skilled worker visa at a later date.

The way the London job market works, recruiters are key. Anyone moving to London should save themselves a headache of finding a recruiter and check out Next Stop London who will do it for you, for free.

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Upcoming events in London in 2025

One of the best things about moving to London is the chance to immerse yourself in its world-class events that draw people from all over the globe. Whether you’re a culture lover, sports enthusiast, or a fan of vibrant street festivals, London offers something for everyone. Here are some of the most exciting events to look forward to in 2025:

Notting Hill Carnival (August)

Europe’s biggest street party, Notting Hill Carnival, is an iconic celebration of Caribbean culture, drawing millions of people each year. Held over the August Bank Holiday weekend, the carnival features vibrant parades, colourful costumes, live music, and mouth-watering street food.

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Winter Wonderland (December)

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park is a massive carnival of festive fun. Enjoy the Christmas markets, explore the circus shows, ice skate, and warm up with mulled wine or hot chocolate as you take in the holiday spirit. The magical atmosphere, twinkling lights, and festive rides make it an experience you won’t want to miss.

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Wimbledon Tennis Championships (July)

For sport lovers, there is no experience quite like Wimbledon. As one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments, it’s held annually at the All England Lawn Tennis Club in Wimbledon, London. Whether you’re lucky enough to score tickets for the Centre Court or enjoying the atmosphere in one of the many outdoor screenings around the city, Wimbledon is an unmissable part of summer in London.

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London Fashion Week (February & September)

London Fashion Week is one of the ‘Big Four’ global fashion events, offering a glimpse into the latest trends from top designers around the world. Held twice a year, it’s an essential event for anyone interested in style, design, and the fashion industry.

London Film Festival (October)

Film buffs will love the London Film Festival, which showcases the best in international cinema. From blockbuster hits to cutting-edge independent films, the festival brings together filmmakers, stars, and fans for an exciting celebration of film. Many screenings take place at prestigious venues like the Odeon Leicester Square and BFI Southbank, offering an opportunity to watch films that may not otherwise be available in cinemas.

British Summer Time (July)

Held annually in Hyde Park, British Summer Time (BST) is a festival of live music, attracting massive international artists. In 2025, expect concerts from the biggest Olivia Rodrigo and more to be announced.

The Chelsea Flower Show (May)

For horticulture enthusiasts, the Chelsea Flower Show is a must-see event. Set in the prestigious grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, this flower show brings together stunning garden displays, expert gardening advice, and floral inspiration.