Frequently asked questions for life in the UK and new arrivals, plus trusted links
Short, sourced answers to the questions our community asks most. Newest first.
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As of October 2026 (sources read in October 2026), the general rule is that banks ask for proof of identity and address. If you have none, a bank should accept a letter from a responsible person. A basic account does not remove this rule.
As of October 2026, GOV.UK says an NI number is used for your tax and National Insurance record. You can start work before it arrives if you can prove your right to work. You apply online; it can take up to 4 weeks after proving identity.
As of October 2026, the NHS page says you do not need ID, proof of address or proof of immigration status to register with a GP in England. Registering is free. Hospital charges are a separate issue and generally depend on residence status.
As of October 2026 the general rule is: becoming British does not by itself end Turkish citizenship. The UK allows dual citizenship, and Turkish law records the new citizenship as “multiple citizenship”. The Blue Card (Mavi Kart) is for people who gave up Turkish citizenship with permission.
As of October 2026, GOV.UK says an eVisa is a digital record of immigration status, viewed through a UKVI account. An expired BRP can be used to set one up for 24 months after its expiry date or until 31 Dec 2026, whichever is first. A share code lasts 90 days.
As of October 2026 the government has announced a 10-year starting point for most people. The consultation outcome and the details are not yet published. GOV.UK still says usually 5 years on work routes.
As of October 2026, GOV.UK says new Turkish Businessperson applications are closed, and the Turkish Worker page covers extensions only. GOV.UK lists no fee to extend. This is general information, not personal advice.
As of October 2026, in general: the UK-Turkey convention lets periods in both countries be counted together, and each country pays its own share separately. No amount is guaranteed; the official bodies must be asked.
As of October 2026, GOV.UK says the State Pension can be claimed from abroad through the International Pension Centre. Turkey appears on the annual-increase list, but the only date shown on that list page is 2014.
As of October 2026, GOV.UK says the new State Pension needs at least 10 qualifying years. The general rule for the full amount is 35 years (the calculation differs if your record began before April 2016). Gaps can sometimes be filled with voluntary Class 3 payments.