Cost of living and shopping

What things really cost, why the till total is higher than the shelf price (sales tax), tipping, and saving on groceries.

Key points to understand

Sales tax added at the till; tipping norms (~15–20%)

Sales tax added at the till; tipping norms (~15–20%). In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Grocery chains, discount stores, and loyalty apps

Grocery chains, discount stores, and loyalty apps. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Budgeting for rent, transit, phone and utilities

Budgeting for rent, transit, phone and utilities. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Practical tips

• Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
• Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
• Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.