Hello all! I’m Scottish and moved to the Netherlands to be with my fiancé in 2016. We have 2 children now and I want to go back to Scotland. We own a house here and have other commitments.
For any one else who has moved back to Scotland/UK from abroad, how hard was it? What is a realistic timeline? How quickly were you able to secure a mortgage? I’ve read a lot of providers need you to be in the UK for at least 6 months before they’ll give you a mortgage.
I would appreciate any advice!!
Lived outside the UK for 15 years before coming back. I had never been an adult in the UK, and as such had no financial history. My wife (foreign) and I rented for 6 months before securing a mortgage. We did pay 35% deposit though, which likely helped. This was in Glasgow.
Do you have Dutch nationality?
If not, you might want to consider the future implications if you want to return to the EU. You will need a residence permit. Won’t be straightforward like when you moved in 16.
The opposite element exists also regarding your fianće (I’m guessing she’s Dutch). She will need to qualify for a residence permit to live in Scotland.
No I don’t. It’s so expensive to do the inburgering exams and I don’t want to give up my British nationality, I know there are ways around it but I’m not really interested in having a Dutch passport. I have considered this in my thought process and I’ve been thinking about returning since 2020. My partner is Dutch and we have looked into the visa options and will be going with the spousal visa.
If you are married to a Dutch citizen you can have dual nationality.
Was just a point to consider if you did think to return to the Netherlands later.
My other comment would be the prospects for the UK outside the single market and customs union are a bit grim. Luckily your kids will have Dutch citizenship and therefore EU freedom of movement.
I wish you and your family all the best for the future !