If you’re a New Zealander thinking about moving to London, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Kiwis pack their bags for the UK-drawn by the culture, the job opportunities, and the chance to live in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. But the process isn’t as simple as booking a flight. You need to know your visa options, how to plan your move, and what to expect once you land. This guide cuts through the noise and gives you the real steps to move to London from New Zealand-focusing on the two main paths: the Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) and work visas.
Why London? And Why Now?
London isn’t just a city. It’s a hub for finance, tech, media, and the arts. In 2025, over 40% of UK startups are based in Greater London. The tech sector alone added 87,000 new jobs in the last two years. For Kiwis, the cultural familiarity helps-English is the language, the driving side is the same, and the pub culture feels familiar. But the cost of living? That’s where things change fast.
Since 2023, rent in zones 1-2 has jumped 18% on average. A one-bedroom flat in Clapham now costs £2,100 a month. A coffee is £4.50. A monthly Oyster card? £160. You’ll need to plan your budget before you even touch down.
Option 1: Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) Visa
The YMS visa is the easiest way for New Zealanders aged 18-30 to live and work in the UK for up to two years. It’s not a work visa in the traditional sense-you don’t need a job offer before applying. You just need to prove you have enough money to support yourself when you arrive.
Here’s what you need:
- Be between 18 and 30 years old (you must apply before turning 31)
- Have £2,530 in savings (held in your account for at least 28 consecutive days)
- Hold a valid New Zealand passport
- Not have held a YMS visa before
You apply online through the UK government website. Processing takes 3-8 weeks. Once approved, you get a 2-year visa that lets you work any job-barista, intern, software developer, tour guide. You can switch jobs anytime. You can even study part-time.
But here’s the catch: you can’t bring dependents. You can’t extend it. And after two years, you must leave. No going back for another YMS visa. That’s why many Kiwis use it as a launchpad-not a permanent home.
Option 2: Work Visas (Skilled Worker Visa)
If you’re over 30, or you want to stay longer than two years, the Skilled Worker Visa is your path. This visa ties you to a specific job and employer. You can’t just show up and start working-you need a job offer first.
Here’s how it works:
- Your employer must be a licensed sponsor (over 40,000 UK companies are)
- The job must be on the UK’s shortage occupation list or pay at least £38,700 (or the going rate for that role, whichever is higher)
- You need to prove English language ability (usually by passing a test or holding a degree taught in English)
- You need £1,270 in savings (held for 28 days)
Most Kiwis land this visa in tech, healthcare, engineering, or education. For example, a software engineer in London with 3+ years of experience can easily hit the £38,700 threshold. A registered nurse? Even easier.
The visa lasts up to 5 years. After that, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)-which is the first step to British citizenship. You can also bring your partner and children with you.
Which Route Is Right for You?
Let’s break it down simply:
| Feature | Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) | Skilled Worker Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Age limit | 18-30 | No upper age limit |
| Job offer needed? | No | Yes |
| Duration | 2 years | Up to 5 years (extendable) |
| Can you bring family? | No | Yes |
| Path to permanent residency? | No | Yes, after 5 years |
| Savings required | £2,530 | £1,270 |
If you’re under 30 and want freedom to explore jobs, start with YMS. Use those two years to build your UK network, gain experience, and see if you want to stay long-term. If you’re older, or you already have a job lined up, go straight for the Skilled Worker Visa. It’s more rigid, but it’s your ticket to staying.
What Happens After You Arrive?
Land at Heathrow or Gatwick. Get your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days. It’s your proof of visa status. You’ll need it to open a bank account, rent a flat, or get a phone contract.
Open a UK bank account. Monzo, Revolut, and Starling are popular with expats because they’re easy to set up online. You’ll need your passport, visa, and proof of address (a rental agreement or utility bill).
Register with a GP (doctor). You’re entitled to free NHS care, but you must register before you need it. Don’t wait until you’re sick.
Get an Oyster card or use contactless payment on your phone for public transport. It’s cheaper than buying single tickets. A weekly cap in zones 1-2 is £86.40.
Common Mistakes Kiwis Make
- Thinking YMS is permanent. It’s not. Plan your exit strategy early.
- Underestimating rent. London isn’t Auckland. A £1,800 flat is a luxury. Most newcomers start in shared houses or outer zones like Croydon or Walthamstow.
- Waiting too long to apply. YMS visas have a yearly cap. Apply early in the year-spots fill fast.
- Not checking if your job qualifies. Some roles pay £35,000 but still don’t meet the UK’s going rate. Use the official salary checker.
- Ignoring taxes. You’ll pay income tax and National Insurance. Don’t assume your NZ tax rules apply.
Real Stories: What Kiwis Say
Laura, 27, from Wellington: "I came on YMS in 2024. Worked at a startup as a digital marketer. Made £32,000. Lived in a flatshare in Peckham. Saved £8,000 in 18 months. Then I got a Skilled Worker Visa offer from a media company. Now I’m planning to apply for ILR. YMS gave me the chance to test the waters. Without it, I’d still be in NZ wondering.”
James, 34, from Dunedin: "I’m a mechanical engineer. Got a job offer from a firm in Reading (30 mins from London). They sponsored me. Took 6 months to get the visa. My wife came with me. We bought a flat. No regrets. But I wish I’d known how long the paperwork takes.”
What to Pack (And What to Leave Behind)
You don’t need to bring your entire life. The UK has everything. But here’s what to consider:
- Bring your driver’s license. You can drive in the UK for 12 months on your NZ license.
- Bring your medical records. Your GP in NZ can give you a summary.
- Don’t bring heavy winter coats. Buy them here-they’re better suited for UK damp.
- Bring a power adapter. UK plugs are different. But you can buy them for £2 at any supermarket.
- Don’t bring furniture. It’s cheaper to buy second-hand. Check Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree.
Next Steps: Your 90-Day Checklist
- Check your eligibility for YMS or Skilled Worker Visa (use the official UK government tool)
- Gather your documents: passport, bank statements, proof of savings, job offer (if applicable)
- Apply for your visa (YMS applications open January 1 each year-apply early)
- Book your flight and temporary accommodation (Airbnb for the first 2 weeks)
- Research neighborhoods. Avoid zones 1-2 if you’re on a budget.
- Set up a UK bank account before you arrive (Revolut or Monzo can help)
- Learn the basics of the NHS and how to register with a GP
- Join expat Facebook groups for Kiwis in London. They’re goldmines for tips and job leads.
- Don’t panic if your first flat is small. Everyone starts somewhere.
Can I move to London from New Zealand without a visa?
No. New Zealanders need a visa to live and work in the UK for more than 6 months. You can visit as a tourist for up to 6 months without a visa, but you can’t work, study, or rent long-term on a tourist visa. Trying to overstay or work illegally risks deportation and future entry bans.
How long does the YMS visa take to process?
Processing usually takes 3 to 8 weeks. You can apply up to 6 months before your planned travel date. Apply as early as possible-especially if you’re aiming for a January start, since the YMS quota fills quickly. You’ll need to book a biometrics appointment in New Zealand or at a UK visa center.
Can I switch from YMS to a Skilled Worker Visa while in the UK?
Yes. Many Kiwis do this. You can apply to switch from YMS to a Skilled Worker Visa while you’re in the UK, as long as you have a job offer from a licensed sponsor and meet the salary and English requirements. You’ll pay a fee and need to show your savings again, but you won’t need to leave the country.
Is it easier to find a job in London on YMS or with a Skilled Worker Visa?
It’s easier to get your first job on YMS because employers know you’re allowed to work freely. Many startups and small businesses prefer hiring YMS holders because they don’t have to go through the sponsorship process. Once you’re in the UK, networking becomes easier-attending meetups, using LinkedIn, and applying directly helps. With a Skilled Worker Visa, you need the job offer before you arrive, which can be harder from overseas.
What’s the cheapest way to move to London from New Zealand?
The cheapest way is to use YMS, book a one-way flight during off-season (late September or January), live in a shared house, and buy second-hand furniture. Avoid renting in zones 1-2. Use buses and trains instead of taxis. Cook at home. Use free museums and parks. Many Kiwis live on £1,800-£2,200 a month including rent, if they’re careful.
Final Thought: It’s Not Just a Move. It’s a Reset.
Moving to London from New Zealand isn’t just about changing your address. It’s about stepping into a new rhythm. The city moves faster. The people are more direct. The seasons are gray, but the culture is alive. You’ll miss the mountains. You’ll love the pubs. You’ll get lost in the Tube. And you’ll find a version of yourself you didn’t know was waiting.
Start with the right visa. Plan your budget. Build your network. And don’t wait for perfect. The best time to move was yesterday. The second best is now.