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I have just arrived in the UK

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The first few weeks are mostly admin, and most of it is free. Doing these early makes everything later easier.

What the words mean

GP: Your local doctor. Registering is free, and you do not need proof of immigration status to register.
Share code: A code you generate to prove your status to an employer or a landlord, if your permission is digital.
National Insurance number: The number you need for working and for tax. Applying is free.

Step 1. Register with a GP near where you live.
Step 2. Open a bank account. Some banks accept a letter from a college or employer if you have no proof of address yet.
Step 3. Apply for a National Insurance number if you will be working.
Step 4. Check what your permission allows: the hours you can work, and whether you can claim anything.
Step 5. Save your share code and know how to generate a new one.

If you are told you cannot register with a GP without documents, that is wrong, and a local advice centre can help you push back.

Sample content · written for review · not checked by a lawyer or against the Immigration Rules