You should ensure that you have sufficient funds at your disposal when you arrive in the UK. Opening a bank account in the UK is not straightforward if you move from overseas and it may take a couple of weeks before you are able to access this. In addition, you may need to pay a deposit and/or rent in advance of moving into rented accommodation, and cover any relocation expenses you are entitled to claim before these can be refunded.

Most shops in the UK accept debit/credit cards from other countries. You should check the terms and conditions outlined in your credit card agreement, as you may incur fees for using your card abroad.

Staff moving to work at Queen’s may wish to check with their existing bank to see if they have a presence in Northern Ireland and whether they can help you with setting up an account. Your bank in your home country may also be able to advise you on how to transfer funds to the UK if you have not yet opened a UK bank account.

The University offers a generous relocation scheme. New staff moving to Queen’s from outside Northern Ireland may be eligible for Relocation Expenses depending on their contract. Eligibility requirements are outlined in the Relocation Expenses Policy.

Salaries will be paid into your bank account on the last banking day of the month. Queen’s salaries are competitive in the UK university sector and the Northern Ireland market. Additionally, the University operates salary scales which provide incremental progression and the possibility of earning additional rewards for exceptional contribution. Salary sacrifice schemes are also in place for pensions, car-parking and cycle to work payments. As a member of the scheme, the amount of earnings on which you pay tax and national insurance is reduced by the value of salary sacrificed for these benefits, increasing your take home pay. Visit the Pay, Reward and Benefits website for further information.

Salaried employees can avail of a significant interest free loan towards the purchase of an annual travel card. This enables them to spread the cost over a smaller monthly amount than they would otherwise pay for a ticket. As a member of staff you will also be provided with a PERKS directory card (available from the People and Culture reception), which offers discounts for shopping, meals, social activities and hotel accommodation.

All staff have access to a generous contributory pension scheme which provides excellent retirement benefits. In addition to the employee’s contribution, the University as the employer, also makes a considerable contribution. The pension scheme which you are eligible for depends on your grade and will be outlined in your employment contract. New employees are automatically enrolled into the relevant pension scheme. Visit the Pensions website or contact the Pensions Office for more details. Information about the schemes is readily available from the team and appointments may be made for personal meetings by contacting Ciara Clearn, Pensions Assistant.