Moving to the UK for work is exciting—but the first few days can feel overwhelming. The UK runs on digital systems. From getting paid to seeing a doctor or catching a train, everyday life depends heavily on apps. For foreign workers, expats, and new immigrants, knowing which apps to download first can save time, money, and stress.
This guide covers the top 10 apps every foreign worker needs after landing in the UK, with clear explanations of what each app does, why it matters, who it’s best for, and when to use it. Whether you’re arriving on a Skilled Worker visa, starting a new role in London, or relocating to another UK city, these apps form your essential digital toolkit.
First Things First: What Most Foreign Workers Need in the UK
Before diving into the apps, it helps to understand the immediate priorities most newcomers share:
- Receiving salary payments
- Paying for transport and daily expenses
- Finding accommodation
- Accessing healthcare
- Understanding tax and employment records
- Staying connected with employers and landlords
The apps below are selected specifically to solve these problems within the UK system, not just generically.
1. Wise (formerly TransferWise) – Getting Paid Without a UK Bank Account
What it is:
Wise is a multi-currency financial app that provides local UK bank details, including a sort code and account number.
Why it matters:
Many UK banks require proof of address, which most foreign workers don’t have immediately. Wise lets you receive a UK salary, pay bills, and send money internationally before opening a traditional bank account.
Who it’s for:
- New arrivals
- Skilled Worker visa holders
- Contractors and freelancers
- Anyone without proof of address
Pros
- UK account details without a UK address
- Low foreign exchange fees
- Easy international transfers
Cons
- Not a full high-street bank
- Limited credit-building features
When to download:
Immediately—often on day one.
2. Monzo – Everyday UK Banking Made Simple
What it is:
Monzo is a UK-based digital bank regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Why it matters:
Once you have a UK address, Monzo becomes a powerful everyday bank for salary payments, budgeting, and spending in the UK.
Who it’s for:
Foreign workers who have secured accommodation and can verify their address.
Key features
- Salary payments and spending notifications
- Easy bill splitting and budgeting tools
- Works seamlessly with UK employers and HMRC
Limitations
- Address verification required
- Credit products depend on residency history
Wise vs Monzo (Quick Comparison)
| Feature | Wise | Monzo |
|---|---|---|
| Works without address | Yes | No |
| UK salary payments | Yes | Yes |
| Daily budgeting tools | Basic | Advanced |
| UK credit building | No | Yes |
3. Citymapper – Navigating UK Cities with Confidence
What it is:
Citymapper is a public transport navigation app built specifically for complex urban transport systems.
Why it matters:
UK cities—especially London—have layered transport networks involving buses, trains, trams, and underground lines. Citymapper simplifies routes, costs, and disruptions.
Best used in:
London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Edinburgh, and other major UK cities.
Practical uses
- Daily commuting
- Comparing bus vs train costs
- Late-night route planning
Tip:
In London, Citymapper integrates closely with Transport for London (TfL) data.
4. Trainline – Intercity Travel Across the UK
What it is:
Trainline is the UK’s most popular app for booking train and coach tickets nationwide.
Why it matters:
Foreign workers often travel for job interviews, relocations, or weekend trips. Trainline simplifies bookings across multiple rail operators.
Key benefits
- Digital tickets
- Price comparisons
- Delay notifications
Cost consideration:
The app is free; travel costs vary by route and time.
5. NHS App – Accessing UK Healthcare
What it is:
The NHS App is the official digital gateway to the UK’s National Health Service.
Why it matters:
If you’ve paid the Immigration Health Surcharge, you’re entitled to NHS care. This app helps you manage healthcare access without paperwork.
What you can do
- Register with a GP
- Book appointments
- Order repeat prescriptions
- Access vaccination records
Important note:
Eligibility depends on visa status and IHS payment.
6. Rightmove – Finding Long-Term Accommodation
What it is:
Rightmove is the UK’s largest property search platform.
Why it matters:
It’s the primary place landlords and agencies list flats and houses across the UK.
Best for
- Long-term rentals
- Comparing prices by area
- Understanding local rental markets
Common challenge:
Some landlords require proof of income or UK credit history.
7. SpareRoom – Flexible Housing for Newcomers
What it is:
SpareRoom focuses on room rentals and shared housing.
Why it matters:
Shared accommodation is often easier for foreign workers, especially during the first few months.
Advantages
- Lower upfront costs
- Flexible rental terms
- More acceptance of non-UK tenants
When to use:
Ideal during your first weeks or months in the UK.
8. Indeed UK – Finding Jobs and Better Opportunities
What it is:
Indeed is the most widely used job search platform in the UK.
Why it matters:
Even after securing a job, many foreign workers use Indeed to explore better roles, visa-compliant opportunities, or contract work.
Useful filters
- Visa sponsorship roles
- Contract vs permanent
- Location radius
Tip:
Set job alerts for your city and industry.
9. HMRC App – Managing Tax and Employment Records
What it is:
The official app from HM Revenue & Customs.
Why it matters:
The UK tax system is digital-first. The HMRC app helps you track employment, tax payments, and your National Insurance Number.
Key functions
- View PAYE tax records
- Access National Insurance details
- Check employment history
Who needs it:
Every employed foreign worker in the UK.
10. WhatsApp – Communication in the UK
What it is:
WhatsApp is the default messaging app across the UK.
Why it matters:
Employers, recruiters, landlords, doctors’ offices, and even utility providers often communicate via WhatsApp.
Use cases
- Job interviews
- Housing coordination
- Workplace communication
Reality check:
Not having WhatsApp can slow things down socially and professionally.
A Practical Download Order (First Week in the UK)
Day 1
- Wise
- Citymapper
Day 2
- Monzo (if address ready)
- Trainline
- NHS App
Day 3
- Rightmove
- SpareRoom
- Indeed
- HMRC App
This order reflects how most foreign workers interact with the UK system in real life.
Common Mistakes Foreign Workers Make
- Waiting too long to set up banking
- Not registering for NHS services early
- Overpaying for rent due to lack of comparison
- Ignoring HMRC until tax issues arise
- Relying on cash instead of contactless payments
Avoiding these mistakes saves time and prevents unnecessary stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What apps do I need when I move to the UK for work?
Most foreign workers need banking, transport, housing, healthcare, job search, tax, and communication apps. Starting with Wise, WhatsApp, and Citymapper covers the basics.
Can foreigners use UK banking apps?
Yes. Apps like Wise work without a UK address, while banks like Monzo require address verification.
Is there an app for NHS registration?
Yes. The official NHS App allows GP registration, appointment booking, and prescription management.
What is the best app for housing as a newcomer?
SpareRoom is often easier initially. Rightmove is better for long-term rentals.
Do I need the HMRC app if my employer handles tax?
Yes. It helps you track tax records, National Insurance, and employment history independently.
Conclusion
Life in the UK is deeply digital, and for foreign workers, the right apps make all the difference. From getting paid and finding housing to navigating transport and accessing healthcare, these ten apps help you settle faster and avoid common pitfalls.
Muhammad Qasim is a professional blogger and content creator at Sponsorshipjobz, specializing in publishing the latest updates and opportunities in the Sponsorship Jobs category.