I know that Equifax and Experian have presences in the UK, but does anyone know if U.S. credit reports are obtainable over there? I am thinking of relocating to London (without a job yet or sponsorship for a visa). I will have a place to live, at least for a few months, so at least housing and landlords and such will not be an issue. I'm trying to get a handle on some of the "operating details." For instance, if I apply for a mobile phone, what will be the "credit assessment?" If the mobile phone company pulls an Equifax credit report (score 637), will it get my US information, or will it get a blank report, as I have not established a credit history abroad? I assume that both could be reasons for denial. Thanks in advance!
I did this in reverse, when I moved from the UK to the US a couple of years ago. My mortgage lender pulled an international (i.e UK) report (or at least told me they did) before approving a home loan. Amex also transferred my UK accounts to the US and although I did not take them up on the offer MBNA said they could do the same thing. You may be able to transfer your US accounts to the UK (most major US lenders also operate in the UK). As a rule, though, my guess is that UK lenders won't generally take your US history into account but getting credit is probably a little easier in the UK than the US once you can demonstrate a verifiable home address. Also, if you are concerned about getting a cellphone and do have difficulty getting a regular account in the early days, the prepay deals in the UK are pretty good (and you don't pay for incoming calls). Good luck
