Considerations for an Oversea Move?

An Anonymous Coward asks: "I'm currently working as an 'IT technician' (lowly tech support position) in the southern United States, but I am considering a move to the U.K. to be with a significant other. What's the best way to gather information like the U.K. technology job market, immigration laws, cost of living, housing arrangements, and of course, how I would move my belongings? Sites like this would be most helpful." While the link that is provided is fairly comprehensive, other sources of information, both referential and anecdotal would be appreciated.

Comments

Geek comments

[Matthew Weigel]

Here's some geek-specific advice, since that will tend to be in short supply in general sites (and might be of interest to other readers):

If you have more than one computer, accept that you only want to transport one - the laptop. Don't have a laptop? Time to get one, particularly if, when you first get there, you'll be taking up space in your SO's current place.

Any computers that provide an external service like http, consider co-locating in the U.S., either with a colo company or with a friend you trust. The cost may or may not be too high, if it's too high, you can't provide that service and make the move.

Any computers that provide an internal service like file servers, get rid of. Your laptop has to do it all (it will be cheaper to replace such services when you get there and have the money/time/wherewithal to do so).

Good luck!