Blog

System Structure

Responsibility for education in Switzerland lies primarily with each of the 26 cantons (regions), however, the structure and quality of Swiss education is roughly the same in all regions. The two overarching rules are that pupils must complete nine years of compulsory education and that it is provided free of charge. Most Swiss children complete two years of kindergarten before beginning primary school around age 6. After primary and junior school, around 20% of children continue on to standard secondary school (Gymnasium) ending in the ‘matura’ qualification which grants access to university. The rest of Swiss school children either go to a technical or theoretical school. Schools are divided according to the language spoken in each area, French, German, Italian, or Romansh.

Academic Year

The school year begins between mid-August and mid-September in the whole of Switzerland. School children have around twelve weeks of holiday per school year and the dates are set by each canton. The typical school day begins at 9am and ends at around 4pm. Children typically return home for lunch, which many working parents may find inconvenient. However, parents have the option to pay for lunchtime supervision at school.

The university academic year is divided into the winter semester, (October to February) and the summer semester (March to June/July).

Higher Education

Switzerland is internationally-recognised as a centre of excellence in higher education, with two of its universities, ETH Zurich and Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, ranked in the top 15 of the QS World University Rankings (2015). There are 12 general universities across The Confederation along with institutions dedicated to applied sciences, teacher training, and research. Low tuition fees and multiple- national languages, along with a global reputation for academic brilliance, means Swiss universities attract huge numbers of international applications, with 25% of students being non-Swiss.

Funding

Swiss universities are generously supported by the government, which invests heavily in higher education institutions and academic research. Students pay a relatively low annual tuition fee of around CHF1,266 – CHF 2,200 (£847 – £1,472) and the same level of fees apply to all international students, including those from non-EU countries. Understandably, the combination of world-leading universities and comparably low fees makes the country highly attractive to international students and competition for places is fierce. The Swiss Government offers a range of scholarships to help foreign students – candidates should contact individual Swiss universities for more information.

Courses

Since 2001, Swiss universities have been rapidly adjusting their curricula to comply with the Bologna Declaration. This means that most Swiss degrees are now based on a two tier bachelor-master’s system. A bachelor’s degree currently takes around three to four years to complete and a master’s one to two years. Bachelor’s degrees are open to foreign students who are in possession of a secondary leaving certificate or diploma, although the decision of admission rests with the individual institution. Courses are generally taught in French, German, or Italian, depending on where the university is in Switzerland. There are a number of courses taught in English, however, this is more common at the postgraduate level.

Research

The global success and high standing of Swiss universities are partly thanks to the country’s heavy investment in research, particularly in science and technology. The Swiss Federal Government spends 2.2% of its GDP on research and development, almost double the EU average. Swiss research activities have been boosted in recent years by the presence of the Large Hadron Collider in Geneva, which has promoted collaboration between Swiss universities and leading scientific institutions worldwide.

Primary and Secondary education

Primary school (Primarschule, école primaire, scuola primaria) is compulsory for all Swiss children from age 6. In some cantons, two years of kindergarten (pre-school) education is also compulsory prior to commencing primary school. Depending on the canton, the primary school takes five years to complete before students continue to lower secondary school (juniors). On completion of lower secondary school at age 15/16, students can choose to leave school or enter upper secondary school (gymnasium), where they gain a Matura (diploma) necessary for university admission.

There are six types of upper secondary school:

•  Maths and Science (Matematisches und Naturwissenschaftliches Gymnasium): for students with aptitude in mathematics or scientific subjects.
• Secondary school of Economics (Wirtschaftsgymnasium): for students wishing to study business or economics at university.
• Modern languages (Neusprachliches Gymnasium): for students who wish to study foreign languages.
• Classical languages (Altsprachliches Gymnasium): for literature and classics students.
• Music and Arts secondary school (Musisches Gymnasium) – for those interested in studying arts and music.
• Vocational School (Berufslehre) – for students wishing to enter a technical, manual, or vocational profession.

Pre-school

Although pre-school education is not compulsory in all cantons, nearly all Swiss children attend kindergarten (école enfantine/jardin d’enfant/ Scuola dell’infanzia) at age 4, before starting primary school at age 6. In some cantons, such as in Zurich or Geneva, kindergarten hours are usually in the morning then pre-school children return home for lunch. Pre-school children follow a play-centred programme involving arts, crafts, and music, with more formal training in basic maths, writing, and reading in the final kindergarten year (at age 5). Pre-schools are entirely funded by the state (or each canton) and parents pay nominal contributions towards trips and activities. However, there is a large number of private pre-schools, usually where English is the main language, and parents pay for their children to attend.

Geographical variation

Switzerland is famous for its high cost of living and three of its cities – Zurich, Bern, and Geneva – feature in the top ten most expensive cities in the world (Mercer). Indeed, Geneva’s cost of living now outranks those of London, New York, and Paris. Living expenses can be lower outside of the major cities in rural areas, however, they remain high in comparison to other European countries. While living in Switzerland can be pricey, it is worth bearing in mind the average monthly salary in Swiss cities is around CHF 5,599.17 (£3750) after tax – almost twice the European average.

Accommodation

Owning a property is not the norm in Switzerland and over 60% of people rent their homes. Urban population growth has led to a lack of affordable homes and although property prices have slowed in recent years, they remain high when compared with other European countries. Renting is usually the most affordable option for expats, yet there is fierce competition for desirable properties, particularly in Zurich and Geneva. According to the Swiss Statistics Office, average rents can be as much as CHF 2500 (£1674) per month for a two-room apartment in Zurich. Expats should also bear in mind that Swiss rental properties are generally rented unfurnished, (without light fittings, curtains, and carpets) which can ramp up the costs involved in setting up a home in Switzerland. The best way to find a property to rent is through an estate agent such as Homegate or by searching through local newspaper classifieds.

Rental deposit

Most Swiss landlords ask for a rental deposit (Kaution/Caution) of around three month’s rent in advance. Any damage to the property will be deducted from the deposit when a tenant moves out. Rent (miete/loyer), is generally paid to the landlord every month and does not include extra costs such as utilities, refuse disposal, and street cleaning costs. Rental contracts can be anything from one year or more and tenants must give a minimum of three months’ notice before vacating the property.

Property Tax

Depending on the canton, most Swiss homeowners pay a municipal tax of around 0.05% to 3.0% which is levied on the value of their property. Property tax rates vary from region to region.

Utilities

The Swiss energy market is privatised and there is a wide range of companies offering combined water, electricity, and gas deals. However, household gas usage is uncommon in Switzerland due to high prices. Utilities are usually the responsibility of the tenant and are paid on top of the rent. Companies send bills every two to four months and tenants pay an estimated charge which is re-calculated every six to twelve months, according to meter readings. There is also a wide range of telephone and internet providers in Switzerland, with Swisscom being among the largest. Most providers offer combined phone and broadband packages.

The average cost of basic utilities (electricity, gas, water, refuse) for an 85m² apartment is CHF230.99 (£206.18) per month and around CHF55 (£46.05) for a broadband package.

TV License

All residents who receive radio or television services in Switzerland are required to pay a license fee, regardless of how they watch or listen to programmes (terrestrial, cable, satellite, via the phone line, mobile phone, or via the internet). The fee is collected on behalf of the Federal Government by the Billag company and is around CHF 335 (£299.02) per year.

Healthcare and medical costs

The Swiss healthcare system is one of the best in the world and residents enjoy non-existent waiting lists and universal access to a vast network of premium medical facilities. Unlike other European countries, the Swiss healthcare system is not tax-based but is paid for by the individual through monthly contributions to private health insurance schemes. The healthcare system is administered by each individual canton. Basic health insurance (Soziale Krankenversicherung / Assurance maladie / Assicurazione-Mallatie) is compulsory for all Swiss and non-Swiss residents and insurance companies are tightly regulated by Swiss Federal Law on Health Insurance. Adults must pay the first CHF 300 (£200) of any hospital treatment themselves (except for maternity services) on top of their premiums. Prescription medicines are also covered by the basic health insurance policy and costs of medicines are kept low in most circumstances.

Shopping

Thanks to its rich mix of cultures, Switzerland’s shopping has something for everyone – from Italian designer fashion to wonderful German markets and elegant Parisian-style arcades. Some of the finest watchmaking, jewellery, and fashion boutiques in the world can be found in Zurich, Basel, and Geneva – most with hefty price tags.

Switzerland has a number of large supermarkets, with the largest country-wide chains being Migros (also Switzerland’s largest retail chain) and Co-op. The cost of food and alcohol can be steep, particularly if you are eating out in Zurich or Geneva, where prices are considered astronomical compared to the rest of the world. However, it is possible to shop on a budget by using the German supermarket chains Aldi or Lidl, which can be found in most major cities.

Sales Tax

Value Added Tax (Mehrwertsteuer, taxe sur la valeur ajoutée, tassa sul valore aggiunto) for most goods and services is currently set at 8% in Switzerland, with a reduced rate of around 2.5% for certain items.

Price Guide

•  Rent 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre – CHF1,650.97 (£1,473.67)
• Rent 1-bedroom apartment outside city centre – CHF1,304.07 (£1,164.02)
• Price of apartment per square metre in city centre – CHF14,179.76 (£12,656.93)
• Price of apartment per square metre outside city centre – CHF9,983.55 (£8,911.37)
• Loaf of bread – CHF3.07 (£2.74)
• Milk (1 litre) – CHF 1.68 (£1.50)
• Bottled water (1.5 litre) – CHF1.23 (£1.10)
• Draught beer (0.5 litre) – CHF2.00 (£1.79)
• Packet of cigarettes – CHF9.00 (£8.03)
• Petrol (1 litre) – CHF1.92 (£1.71)
• Cinema ticket – CHF19.50 (£17.41)

Source: www.numbeo.com (accessed August 2023)

Budgeting and Savings

Switzerland is a hugely expensive country and living on a budget can be difficult. The best way to save money is to live outside the principal cities of Zurich, Geneva, and Bern and to use public transport where possible, as this is one of the few areas of Swiss life which remains relatively cheap. There are several price comparison sites available to help consumers cut costs. Comparis is the most well-known and is particularly useful for those needing to take out Swiss mandatory health insurance.

Driving

Switzerland prides itself on its well-maintained motorway network, with many roads offering dramatic Alpine views from the car window. The highly efficient and extensive Swiss rail network means that driving is the secondary choice of transport, leaving the roads congestion-free and something of a driver’s paradise.

Those who choose to drive must purchase a Swiss Vignette sticker to use the country’s motorways (Autobahnen/Autoroutes/Autostrade). The sticker, used in place of toll fees, can be purchased at any service station, post office, or at customs office at a cost of CHF 40 (£26.76). The vignette is placed on your windscreen and is valid for 14 months. Beware that being caught without one can incur a hefty fine. Speed limits on Swiss roads are 120km/h (75mph) on motorways and 50 km/h (30mph) in built up areas. Bear in mind that driving in Switzerland can be treacherous in winter conditions and in mountainous areas – so taking the train or bus is a good choice for the faint of heart!

Taxis

Travelling by taxi costs significantly more than using the public transport system in Switzerland. Fares are generally based on a flat fee plus a rate per kilometre, with waiting charges where applicable. You can pre-book by phone or find taxis at most major transport hubs.

Buses

Rail travel is generally the first choice of public transport in Switzerland, however, there is also an extensive bus network that provide regional and rural services throughout the country. The most famous Swiss bus network is the iconic PostBus, so-named for its history of carrying both passengers and mail, which connects some of the more remote places in Switzerland. PostBuses – carrying 141 million passengers each year – can be recognized by their trademark yellow colour and three-tone horn.

Coaches

Coach travel is an economical and comfortable way to get around Switzerland although journey times can be much longer than train travel, particularly on rural and mountainous roads.  Swiss coaches are a popular choice with backpackers and visitors travelling from neighbouring European countries and can be booked cheaply through Eurolines.

Trains

Switzerland has the densest and most efficient rail network in Europe. Trains are operated by the Swiss Federal Railways (and other privately-owned companies) and comprise rapid intercity routes and smaller suburban and commuter lines. The country is famous for its tourist rail networks such as the Glacier Express train which runs between St Moritz and Zermatt, taking in untouched mountain landscapes, deep gorges, and beautiful valleys along its one-day route. One of the most economical ways to use all public transport in Switzerland is to purchase a Swiss Travel System Pass, which allows unlimited travel by rail, bus, or boat (see above) for periods of one month to one year. Lausanne is currently the only city in Switzerland to have a metro system, which consists of two lines.

Trams and light rail

The cities of Zurich, Basel, Bern, Geneva, and Lausanne all have tram or light rail networks which offer a cheap and eco-friendly way to get around. The Swiss Travel System Pass can be used on tram and light rail transport.

Air Travel

Switzerland has three international airports, Zurich-Kloten, Geneva, and Basel-Mulhouse which serve destinations all over the world. Domestic air travel is fast (45-minute journey time between Geneva and Zurich) but expensive – most people prefer to travel by rail or road around Switzerland and to its neighbouring countries. Domestic flights can be booked through SWISS. The largest international airlines are Swiss International Airlines and the German carrier Lufthansa, which both use Zurich as their main hub.

Other ways to get around

Switzerland offers the most comprehensive public transport system in the world. Most visitors choose to take the train but the country also has a network of boats, ferries, lake steamers, funiculars, and cable cars. If you are not in a rush, it is possible to reach Switzerland by lake paddle steamer along the Rhine from Germany, France, and Italy, with all routes offering spectacular mountain views and luxury accommodation. Cycling is also a national passion and Switzerland is crisscrossed by nine national cycling routes totalling over 1,600 miles.

Working Hours

Swiss employees work some of the longest hours in Europe and many attempts to reduce the maximum number of hours have been repeatedly rejected by the government. The law does state that most employees can work a maximum of 45 hours a week. In some specialised industries, this is raised to 50 hours a week. Many Swiss employers promote flexible working hours, most commonly seen in manufacturing industries. Workers are given staggered start times, usually from 7am. Overtime is usually paid at one-and-a-quarter times the usual wage or days off in lieu. However, managers are rarely compensated with extra pay and the expectation is that they are already handsomely paid for the work they do.

Holidays

Workers aged over 20 are legally entitled to four weeks of paid holiday a year, while workers under 20 are eligible for five weeks. Some senior employees are granted a fifth week in their contracts but this is usually awarded depending on seniority at a firm.

Public holidays

Each of the 26 cantons (regions) which make up the Swiss Confederation decide what public holidays they observe except for 1^st August which is a federal holiday. It is best to check which holidays are applicable in each canton.

Public holiday dates

New Year’s Day: 1st January

Good Friday: 29th March

Easter Sunday:31st March

Easter Monday: 1st April

Ascension Day: 9th May

Whit Monday: 1st May

National Day: 1st August

Christmas Day: 25th December

Visas and eligibility

People coming from a European member state or with a right to stay in that member state do not need a visa to enter Switzerland. Although Switzerland is not part of the EU, a bilateral agreement signed in 2002 relaxed the laws for Europeans intending to work and stay in the country. If you need a visa you should apply for it in your home country because they cannot be issued in Switzerland. Foreigners living in Switzerland can apply for a residence permit and the type of permit you need will depend on your length of stay and whether you are a worker or student. More information can be found here. You must register for a residence permit within eight days of arriving in the country and before your first day of work.

Tax

As a confederation, the Swiss tax system is complicated, mainly because of the 26 cantons and 2,300 or so municipalities that have their own tax systems. In Switzerland the tax year runs from 1^st January to 31st December. In most cantons, it is necessary to file tax returns within three months after the end of the tax period. Taxes are comprised of confederation, canton, and commune tax. Most cantons also take a church tax from one of the three national churches, Roman Catholic, Christian Catholic, and Protestant. High earners living in Switzerland are obliged to fill in tax returns based on their worldwide earnings and assets. Most foreign employees have their income tax automatically deducted from their salary. To work out how much tax you will pay in Switzerland, you can find more information here.

Pensions

The Swiss pension system is known as the ‘three pillars’, consisting of the Federal Old Age pension, Occupational pension scheme, and private pensions. The basic pension covers living expenses and is financed by employees’ monthly contributions of around 4%. People are usually entitled to collect this when they reach 65 for men and 64 for women. The second pillar is a funded pension plan financed by employees and employers. Private pension schemes are optional. Visit the Swiss Government’s pension website to find out more.

Benefits

There are five areas of social security in Switzerland designed to ensure individuals enjoy a reasonable standard of living. They include old age and invalidity insurance, protection against illness and accidents, maternity pay, unemployment insurance, and family allowance. Benefits and insurance are generally paid by workers through monthly contributions automatically deducted from salaries. Each canton also contributes different amounts. Unemployment benefits are considered generous in Switzerland and are available to foreign workers with the amount received dependent on final salary and length of employment.

Disability

In November 2014 Switzerland ratified the UN Convention of the Rights of People with Disabilities which came into force in May the following year. The convention, along with other national laws, compels employers to improve access and rights for disabled workers. Many public buildings have also undergone alterations to improve accessibility. There are disabled parking bays available to those carrying a parking authorisation card which can be obtained through the disabled person’s canton of residence.

Organisational Structure

Swiss business structure is strictly hierarchical, comprising top-down decision making and delegation of tasks. Lines between managers and workers are rarely crossed, however, there is a general consensus that everyone is entitled to their opinion. Planning, order, and risk aversion feature heavily, indeed the Swiss are the most heavily insured people in the world. Honesty and professionalism are paramount in business negotiations and decision-making is considered and detailed.

A long history of political stability and monetary security means Switzerland has one of the world’s most successful economies. The country is at the forefront of international trade and industry, with the food giant Nestlé and leading watchmakers Omega, Swatch, Longines, Breguet, and Tissot among its global brands.

Management Style

Managers have a low-key and pragmatic style in Switzerland, where respect is acquired by demonstrating expert knowledge of their field rather than through personal relationships. Decisions tend to be made by first taking into account the views of the team and generally involve a great deal of planning and discussion. Swiss managers have a non-confrontational approach and it is rare to see employers lose their temper with subordinates.

Formality

Hierarchy is highly regarded in Switzerland so it is best to stick to titles and surnames (Herr/Frau, Monsieur/Madame, Signore/Signora) in large meetings until invited to use people’s first names. First impressions count for a lot in Switzerland and a respectful and formal demeanor is used among colleagues who have only recently met. The Swiss are reserved people so it is best to avoid asking personal questions or being over-friendly.

Relationships

Swiss business relationships vary between cantons. For example, German-speaking Swiss like to get straight down to business and dispense with niceties, whereas French and Italian-speaking Swiss allow for more small talk and preamble to business negotiations. In all cases, business is regarded with the utmost seriousness, and humour is rarely used, even to break the ice. This aspect of business culture can sometimes make the Swiss seem a little ‘stand-offish,’ however, once you establish a good rapport, the Swiss are honest, knowledgeable, and fiercely loyal. Generally, the communication style is direct and honest. Using too much business jargon is often considered unnecessary, while a frank approach is preferred.

Dress Code

Business attire in Switzerland has become more relaxed in recent years, with some companies introducing ‘dress down Fridays.’ However, in formal business meetings, it is better to err on the side of caution and dress smartly. The Swiss prefer a sober look, so men should choose dark, good quality suits and ties. Women generally wear trouser suits or smart knee-length skirts with a shirt or blouse.

Greetings

The handshake is the standard greeting in Swiss business settings. French-speaking and Italian-speaking Swiss often kiss or embrace but this generally occurs between co-workers who know each other. Kissing in a business setting is rarely seen among German-speaking Swiss, who prefer to welcome each other with a firm handshake.

Punctuality

It is probably unsurprising that for a country that enjoys a peerless reputation for watch and clock making, time is a national obsession in Switzerland. It is often said that the Swiss are the most punctual people on the planet, so you should arrive at a meeting at the exact minute of the appointed time. Being too early could leave your counterpart unprepared and being late would be considered very rude. The Swiss feel at ease when everything is in order and being punctual is ingrained in the national consciousness.

Meetings

Formal business meetings in Switzerland are highly structured and follow a pre-determined agenda. Diversion from the agenda or not completing the discussion of all items would be unusual in a Swiss meeting. Participants are expected to arrive on time and be armed with the correct information and documents. All attendees are given a chance to speak, particularly if the discussion point relates directly to their own specialist field. Business meetings are strictly professional, with little small talk or socialising. While the Swiss are generally non-confrontational, robust and detailed debate is commonplace in business meetings.

Cultural Sensitivity

The Swiss are a private, reserved people so it is best to avoid asking questions about someone’s marital status, religion, or other personal issues. Generally, the Swiss are conservative in their opinions and despite their diverse regions, are fiercely loyal to their own country, so it is wise to avoid even light banter in initial exchanges. One particular topic to avoid in Swiss company is the country’s policy of mandatory military service. A referendum held in 2013 failed to abolish conscription with 73% of the electorate voting to keep the policy. However, this remains a sensitive subject, and alluding to it in Swiss circles can lead to bitter arguments.

Business language

With four different languages in one country, communication in business can be an issue. However, larger Swiss companies are now starting to operate using English as a ‘bridging’ business language. Most Swiss speak a good level of English, but it is polite to use one of the main regional languages (French, German, Italian, Romansh) if you are able to.

System structure

The UK system consists of four separate areas: primary, secondary, further and higher education. Primary and secondary education, for children aged between 5 and 16, are compulsory. The majority of pupils attend publicly-funded state schools, but there are also independent private schools and homeschooling options available.

The Scottish education system differs from the rest of the UK. It has its own legislative framework, curriculum and qualifications system. Education is still compulsory from ages 5 to 16, but once students have completed secondary school, they can study for the Scottish Certificate of Education which is an entry qualification for university.

Academic year

The academic year in the UK generally runs from around September to July and is usually split into three terms, although some schools – particularly in Scotland – opt for a four-term system. Term dates for universities are decided by the individual institution, but school and college terms are dictated by the local authority, which often results in slight regional variations.

Higher education

The UK is home to some of the oldest universities in the world, and with over 150 higher education establishments there is no shortage of choice for students or academics. All differ in terms of their location, facilities and atmosphere. Although these are not mutually exclusive, institutes are sometimes categorised as:

• Campus universities – where the majority of the university buildings are located on one large site
• City universities – where university facilities are spread out around various locations in a town or city
• Collegiate universities – where different colleges of the university operate with varying degrees of independence

Other labels you may hear applied to universities in the UK are ‘red brick’, ‘plate glass’ and ‘post-1992’. These refer to particular groups of institutions by their age or design style. There are also various professional and research associations to which UK universities may belong, such as The Russell Group, University Alliance and million+. Institutions are ranked annually by The Times according to a range of criteria including teaching, research, influence and innovation.

Funding

The way that universities are funded in the UK has changed significantly in recent years. The amount of financial support that institutions receive directly from the state has dropped considerably. Instead, universities have been allowed to charge students tuition fees of up to £9,000 per year. Although socially and politically controversial, this move has seen universities challenged to innovate and become more successful commercial entities.

Courses

Degree courses in the UK are offered in a huge range of subjects and can take different lengths of time to complete. Typical full-time course lengths are:

• Undergraduate degrees – three years
• Postgraduate degrees (taught) – one year
• Postgraduate degrees (research) – two years
• Doctoral degrees – three years

Some students choose part-time courses to accommodate family commitments or work around their studies, making the duration longer. Undergraduate courses at most Scottish universities take four years instead of the usual three, and professional courses like medicine and veterinary science take more years to complete. However, some institutions have also begun to offer fast-track courses which take less time and offer students significant savings on tuition fees.

Research

UK institutions have a proud history in research, and as part of the university ranking criteria, it is a high priority for most. Funding for academic research is available from several sources but competition can be fierce.

Further education

Further education is optional learning that takes place in schools or colleges after the completion of compulsory education at the age of 16. It precedes entry to higher education, and a range of different types of further education qualifications are available.

Primary and secondary education

All state schools and many private schools in England, Wales and Northern Ireland follow the National Curriculum. The system is divided into four Key Stages and pupils are assessed at the end of each. Examinations taken at the age of 16 (Key Stage 4), represent a child’s first set of formal academic qualifications. These can dictate whether they continue on to further education.

In Scotland, there is no statutory curriculum and the qualifications obtained through primary and secondary education differ from those in the rest of the UK.

Preschool and childcare options

For people relocating with children below school age, there are many preschool and childcare options including:

• Local authority (state-run) nursery schools
• Nursery classes in independent schools
• Children and family centres
• Community childcare centres
• Privately-run day nurseries
• Workplace nurseries
• Playgroups

Many of these are privately funded and can be very expensive for parents. The Free Early Education scheme can help with these costs by providing a certain amount of free childcare per week. Some employers may directly offer help and support with childcare. Others offer salary sacrifice schemes such as childcare vouchers to help parents who are paying for preschool education.

Geographical variation

The cost of living in the UK varies hugely depending on location. London is typically the most expensive place to live, and wages there tend to be higher to reflect this. Many people who work in London choose to live outside the city in so-called ‘commuter towns’ to save on costs and travel to work by public transport. Across the rest of the UK, living costs are generally lower in the north than the south, although there is still a degree of variation between cities and towns.

Accommodation

Finding accommodation can be a daunting prospect, with several options offering different cost bands. For academic jobs, many universities provide accommodation for international staff. Alternatively, you could arrange rental accommodation locally. Your employer may be able to suggest some areas to consider.

If you move to the UK on a long-term or permanent basis, you may want to consider buying a property. House prices are quite high compared to many countries, but there is a great choice of characterful older properties and modern new-builds. Whether you choose to rent or buy, you will also need to arrange home and contents insurance for your property.

Rental deposit

Most landlords and letting agencies in the UK require a deposit to be paid upfront. Typically this is one month’s rent, although there is no set rule. The deposit acts as insurance against minor damage to the property. Letting agencies may also charge administration fees for arranging the rent and preparing tenancy agreements. For more information and advice on renting property in the UK, consult the Citizens Advice Bureau.

Council tax

Most properties in the UK are subject to council tax. This charge is levied by local councils to pay for shared services, and is calculated based on the value of the property and the number of people living there. Students are exempt from the tax, but academics and other university staff are not.

Utilities

Utility bills you need to consider include water, electricity, gas, telephone and internet. Water bills are charged on either a metered or rated basis by the local provider in your area. Other utilities can be provided by a number of suppliers that compete on price. Websites such as uSwitch allow you to compare prices to find the best deal for these services. If you are renting a property, remember to check what utilities are included in the rent.

TV licence

If you own a TV in the UK, you must hold a valid TV licence for your property. The full colour licence currently costs £159 a year.

Healthcare and medical costs

Public sector healthcare in the UK is operated by the state-owned National Health Service (NHS). It covers medical operations including hospital care, dentists and doctors (known as general practitioners or GPs). The service was founded in 1948 with the aim of making good-quality healthcare available to all UK citizens, regardless of wealth.

Foreign nationals are also entitled to some free care on the NHS, but some services must be paid for. Your entitlement depends on the nature and duration of your stay in the UK. The Citizens Advice Bureau website provides information about what you are entitled to.

There are also several private healthcare providers in the UK. Some employers may offer private healthcare options as part of their pay and remuneration package.

Shopping

Shopping choice in the UK is vast, with big name chains and smaller independent retailers competing for business. For everyday items, supermarkets are usually cheapest although prices and quality differ between the premium and budget brands.

VAT

Value-Added Tax (VAT) is a tax charged on the majority of goods and services within the UK. Most day-to-day prices are quoted inclusive of VAT, however, some tradespeople and service providers may quote prices excluding VAT, so it’s always worth checking before accepting a quote.

Price guide

• Rent on 1-bedroom apartment in city centre – £2,071.54 per month
• Rent on 1-bedroom apartment outside city centre – £1,468.33 per month
• Price of apartment in city centre – £13,305.40 per square metre
• Price of apartment outside city centre – £7,795.14 per square metre
• Loaf of bread – £1.41
• Milk (1 litre) – £1.31
• Bottled water (1.5 litre) – £1.17
• Draught beer (0.5 litre) – £1.89
• Packet of cigarettes – £14.00
• Petrol (1 litre) – £1.64

Source: www.numbeo.com (accessed August 2023)

Budgeting and savings

Keeping track of your budget is really important, particularly if you are trying to save. For advice on budgeting, money saving tips and the best deals on living expenses, consult a consumer website like MoneySavingExpert.com.

Driving

There is a good network of motorways and main roads connecting all major cities and towns in the UK. To legally drive a UK-registered vehicle, you need a valid driving licence, road tax and insurance certificate for your use. Older vehicles also need an MOT certificate.

Driving licences are issued in the UK by the DVLA, and the minimum age to drive a car is 17. Foreign nationals living in the UK may be allowed to drive on non-British licences or exchange a non-British licence for a British one.

If you take your car with you to the UK for a visit, it does not need to be registered. However, if you stay for an extended period or become a UK resident, you must register your vehicle as imported.

Taxis and minicabs

Taxis are readily available in all major UK towns and cities and are usually metered. They can be pre-booked, hailed in the street or found at taxi ranks. Minicabs – also known as private hire vehicles – must be pre-booked. Journey costs vary depending on location and time of day, but they are generally more expensive in London and the south than elsewhere in the country.

Buses

Local bus services operate in all towns and cities, offering a relatively cheap and easy way of getting around. Be aware of the timetable though – many services are less frequent on evenings, weekends and bank holidays.

Coaches

A number of coach operators offer road transport between major cities across the UK. This is usually slightly cheaper than travelling by train, but journey times can be longer.

Trains

The UK rail network offers fast intercity connections between all major cities, and there are also regular local trains serving smaller cities and towns. Rail tickets are usually cheaper if bought in advance and there are a number of railcards and concessions available for discounts on rail travel. Many stations also offer car parking facilities, although costs vary quite a lot.

Trams and underground rail

Several UK cities have alternative public transport systems, the most famous being the London Underground, or the ‘Tube’ as it is known. Glasgow also has a subway system, while major cities including Manchester, Birmingham and Nottingham run light railway or tram services designed to relieve pressure on the roads.

Air travel

There are several international airports located in or near UK cities including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, Belfast and Edinburgh. London Heathrow is among the world’s busiest airports, serving over 180 destinations in 85 countries worldwide. The large numbers of airlines operating flights within Europe mean that fares to most European destinations can be purchased relatively cheaply. Domestic flights also operate between major UK airports and are fairly inexpensive.

Planning a journey

The UK’s extensive public transport network offers various ways of getting around depending on your location. If you’re not sure what the best option will be, the Trainline website provides route planning for all modes of public transport.

Working hours

The normal working hours in the UK are typically Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. However, most organisations offer some movement within these times, and many operate systems of flexible working or variable hours to allow employees to work around other commitments.

Holidays

Most permanent employees who work five days a week are entitled to a minimum of 28 days of paid holiday (annual leave) each year, although this total includes bank holidays. Employers may offer more annual leave at their discretion. Holiday entitlement for temporary staff and contractors works differently, and should be discussed with the employer before you start the post. Self-employed workers are not entitled to annual leave.

Bank holidays

The UK has eight regular bank holidays. Many organisations close on some or all of these dates, although in certain sectors, such as leisure and hospitality, businesses may remain open.

Bank holiday dates:

• 1 January – New Year’s Day
• 29th March Good Friday
• 1st April – Easter Monday
• 6 May – Early May bank holiday
• 27 May – Spring bank holiday
• 26 August – Summer bank holiday
• 25 December – Christmas Day
• 26 December – Boxing Day

If a bank holiday is on a weekend, a ‘substitute’ weekday becomes a bank holiday, normally the following Monday.

Visas and eligibility to work

Depending on your nationality, the reason for your visit and the duration of your stay, you may be required to obtain a visa before entering the UK. Visas confirm your entitlement to live and/or work in the country. You can find out whether you need a visa by taking a short questionnaire on the GOV.UK website. However, this is a complex area and the rules on who can and cannot work in the UK change regularly. As a general guide, remember:

• Never assume that you will be granted a visa
• When your visa expires, you will not necessarily be granted an extension
• Even if permission to work has been given, you cannot start work until a visa has been issued
• Visas can still be refused even if permission to work has been granted
• Your visa is your responsibility – if it lapses then your right to live and/or work in the UK may become invalid

For the latest advice, visit the UK Border Agency website.

Tax and National Insurance

To work in the UK, you must apply for a National Insurance number. This unique number will enable you to pay the tax and National Insurance that all workers in the UK contribute to. Tax rates vary depending on the amount that you earn, although not all earnings are subject to tax. Tax and National Insurance contributions are usually deducted directly from your pay through the PAYE (Pay As You Earn) system. More detailed information is available through the tax section on the GOV.UK website.

Pensions

As National Insurance contributions are compulsory in the UK, the payments you make help to build your entitlement to the State Pension when you retire. In the past, many UK employers operated optional workplace pension schemes. However, changes in the law in 2013 made it a requirement for employers to enrol the majority of their workforce in some kind of pension scheme. This system is called auto-enrolment and will be phased in between now and 2018. Speak to your employer to find out what kind of pension scheme they offer and how it applies to you.

Benefits

Some foreign nationals living in the UK are entitled to state benefits. This will depend on your work and social situation and may be means-tested. To find out what you are able to claim, consult the benefits section on the GOV.UK website.

Disability

UK law offers disabled workers significant protection from discrimination on the grounds of their disability. The Equality Act 2010 outlines the rights of disabled workers, including reasonable adjustments in the workplace. Most businesses are more than willing to make any such adjustments, so disabled workers should speak to their employer about their individual requirements before taking up their post.

Organisational structure

Although businesses in the UK generally maintain relatively flat organisational structures, decision-making usually takes place at the top. In the past, there was a very rigid segregation between the ranks in British business, with management and lower-level staff often sitting on separate floors. While far fewer companies operate this way today, senior managers still maintain a certain degree of authority and respect.

Management style

Loyalty and integrity are among the key values of British workers, and they also appreciate directness and honesty from their managers. However, understatement is also commonplace, particularly in group situations when diplomacy is called for. Business operations in the UK tend to stick to established rules, frameworks and procedures which can sometimes slow down developments and decision making.

Formality

The ‘stiff upper lip’ reputation may not be entirely deserved, but it’s fair to say that the British can be rather formal in business situations. Over-familiar behaviour such as backslapping or hugging is unusual, as are overt emotional displays. There is also a wariness of sales tactics, so always try to build rapport and relationships before trying to make deals.

Relationships

Many Brits prefer to work with organisations or people they already know, but this should be seen as an opportunity. Networking is vital to business success in the UK, but when you develop a good relationship it’s likely to last. Once you have a good rapport with your contacts, your UK business dealings will often become more informal and open, although still professional.

Correspondence

Business letters in the UK are written in a formal style and follow certain conventions. Email etiquette is less well-established, so it’s best to start off formal. Depending on how well you know a person, use their first name or their title and surname. Begin your first email with ‘Dear’, and end it with a friendly yet professional signoff like ‘Kind regards’. As the email exchange continues, you can drop some of the formality, particularly if the other person does too.

Dress code

Often the dress code for a meeting will be specified, but if in doubt it is better to be formal. Men usually wear a dark-coloured business suit with a shirt and tie, although more companies now allow open collars. Women normally select a business suit and blouse or a conservative dress. Some organisations allow people to dress more casually on Fridays, but this is by no means universal so it’s best to check before dressing down.

Greetings

The customary business greeting for both men and women in the UK is a firm handshake, and people usually shake hands on departure as well. First name terms are used in most face-to-face settings, although there may be some exceptions, such as in medical and academic environments. Business cards are usually exchanged during the meeting, but there is no formal process for this.

Punctuality

Punctuality is very important. Ensure that you book meetings well in advance and confirm the date, time and location by email. If you are running late, always call to advise someone – even if it’s only a few minutes.

Meetings

Although business meetings in the UK are usually structured with a clear agenda, small talk before and afterwards is customary. Negotiations are usually quite open, but it’s important to pay attention to what’s not said as well as what is said. In most cases the British favour an outcome that serves both parties well. Ensure that you have a sound argument backed up by facts and figures as the British like to be well-informed when it comes to decision-making.

Cultural sensitivity

It is important to remember that the UK has a strong anti-discrimination culture backed by law. It is illegal to discriminate against anyone on the grounds of age, gender, race, religious views, disability, sexual orientation or marital status. Bear this in mind when conducting business meetings or even during small talk.

Business language

Internationally, Brits are regarded as poor at learning languages. Although this is something of a generalisation, it’s true that business in the UK is almost always conducted in English. Most job applicants are expected to have a high standard of written and spoken English. Remember that British and American English can differ somewhat in spelling and vocabulary, and the UK is also well-known for its huge range of regional accents!