his page explains how to open a UK bank account and how to transfer money to the UK to make sure you have sufficient funds on arrival.

There’s also information about the taxes and national insurance you’ll pay.

You’ll need a UK bank account so that the university can pay you.

Opening a bank account in the UK is relatively straightforward although it may take up to two weeks to open the account and receive a debit card to withdraw cash.

You will need the following documents to open an account:

• Proof of identity

• Evidence of your previous address

• Evidence of your UK address

• Proof of your employment

If you require a reference, please contact the King's HR directorate by emailing:

hr@kcl.ac.uk

Most banks offer a range of accounting options, eg current account, savings account and student account plus online banking options.

Current accounts are usually free, as is using ATM (cash) machines, but beware of hidden fees such as overdraft fees or for some cash machines.

Alternatively, many UK banks have international account options for non-residents, meaning you don't have to wait until you're in the UK to open the account.

These may require initial lump sum deposits, minimum monthly transactions and administration fees.

Specialist banking

Some UK banks offer Sharia compliant bank accounts. See the Money Helper website.

The Bank of China has branches in London – see the Bank of China website.

It’s important to have sufficient funds when you arrive in the UK as it may take up to two weeks to open your UK bank account.

In addition, you may need to pay a deposit or rent in advance before you can move into rented accommodation.

Your bank in your home country may be able to advise you on how to transfer funds to the UK before you open a UK account.

There are also specialist companies that provide money transfer services, such as Western Union or Wise.

Traveller’s cheques are another option, as they can be purchased in your home country and then exchanged for local currency when abroad, often free of charge.

Traveller’s cheques are available in Pounds Sterling and can be used in banks, Post Offices, bureaux de change and some shops, hotels and restaurants.

Most shops in the UK accept credit cards from other countries.

Check the terms and conditions in your credit card agreement, as you may incur fees for using your card abroad.

Everyone working in the UK is taxed at the same rate regardless of their residency status, but residents pay tax on their worldwide income whereas non-residents are taxed only on income earned in the UK.

You are considered a UK resident if you stay in the UK for at least 183 days in a tax year.

Rules are slightly different if you are a non-resident who owns a home or works in the UK. See the government website for paying tax in the UK.

The UK tax year runs from 6 April. Most income tax earned through employment is paid automatically by the employer through Pay As You Earn (PAYE).

If you earn any income not collected through PAYE or if you are self-employed, you must complete an annual self-assessment tax form.

Income tax in the UK is progressive, with a top rate of 45 percent for salaries above £150,000.

Council tax funds local government services such as the police service, fire service and refuse collection.

Everyone renting or owning a property must pay council tax and the amount depends on where you live and the band your property has been given.

More information is on the Government website.

Everyone employed in the UK, whether UK, European or international citizens, needs a National Insurance (NI) number.

The NI number makes sure that the NI contributions and tax you pay are properly recorded against your name.

It is also a reference number for communications with the Department for Work and Pensions and HM Revenue and Customs.

NI is a compulsory deduction from your pay for things like state benefits, state pension and the NHS.

It is deducted from your salary and paid by your employer – the amount depends on your earnings. If you are self-employed, you must arrange your own payments.

If you receive a Biometric Residence permit (BRP) the NI number may be printed on the back of it.

If you don’t have an NI number you must apply for one when you are in the UK. You can start work without a NI number as long as you can prove you have the right to work in the UK.

Tell your school or department that you have applied for one and give it to them when you receive it.

How to apply for your National Insurance number