Your First Week in London: The Expat Setup Checklist (NIN, GP, Bank, SIM, Oyster)

A simple, chronological plan so you can focus on settling in and starting classes or work.

Before You Arrive: Secure Your Rent Guarantee

Don't wait until you're in London to solve the guarantor problem.

CasaPay provides instant rent guarantee for international students and expats—no UK guarantor needed. Get approved in 5 minutes, move in with just one month's rent.

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Day 1: Phone + Transport

• Buy a UK SIM (or eSIM) from a reputable provider
• Create a TfL account and set up contactless/Oyster: https://tfl.gov.uk/
• Download essential apps: Citymapper, TfL, Google/Apple Maps, your bank, NHS app, WhatsApp

Day 2: Banking basics

• If you have proof of address, open a UK bank account; if not, consider digital banks that accept alternative proofs
• Enable contactless and Apple/Google Pay; set transaction alerts

Day 3: GP (doctor) registration

• Use the NHS Find a GP tool to register near your address: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/how-to-register-with-a-gp-surgery/
• Bring ID and proof of address if requested

Day 4: National Insurance Number (NIN)

• Check if you need to apply (some visas include it). Apply if required: https://www.gov.uk/apply-national-insurance-number
• Keep your reference number safe; employers will ask for it

Day 5: Housing admin

• Inventory/photos on move‑in; note any defects in writing to the agent
• Set up utilities/internet if not included
• Ask about building waste/recycling days

Day 6: Safety and essentials

• Save emergency numbers: 999 (emergency), 101 (police non‑emergency), 111 (NHS non‑emergency)
• Enable phone “Find my device”; keep a digital copy of your documents
• Learn late‑night routes and stations; travel in groups when possible

Day 7: Budget + routine

• Create a monthly budget (rent, council tax if applicable, energy, water, broadband, transport)
• Set calendar reminders for renewals/visa/BRP deadlines
• Explore your neighbourhood at different times of day

Useful links

• TfL fares and caps: https://tfl.gov.uk/
• NHS app: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/
• NIN guidance: https://www.gov.uk/national-insurance

Skip the Guarantor Hassle

Moving to London is stressful enough. Don't let the guarantor requirement block you from securing housing.

CasaPay is used by 10,000+ international students to rent in London without a UK guarantor.

• ✅ 5-minute approval – Get approved instantly
• ✅ No UK guarantor needed – We provide the guarantee
• ✅ Move in faster – Just pay first month's rent

Download CasaPay → Available on iOS and Android

Related reads

• Renting paperwork, deposits and ASTs: 2025 London renting guide
• Bills and council tax explained: Guide
• Commute‑first area picks: Neighborhoods playbook
• No guarantor? Options: 7 proven paths

Disclaimer: Links and processes may change; always confirm with official sources.