Relocating to England: A Guide to Moving from the US to the UK (2024)

Moving back to the UK from the USA can be an exciting yet challenging journey.

Pros:

  • US citizens living in the UK will have access to the UK’s National Health Care Services. You can access this service with little to absolutely free of cost.
  • The United Kingdom is known for its peerless education system. This country is an excellent place to increase your educational knowledge.
  • Relocating to the UK provides an immense travel opportunity to visit and embrace the beauty of various European countries and cities.
  • The United Kingdom provides compelling job opportunities, and this country offers a tremendous work environment.

Cons:

  • Compared to many US cities, the cost of living is pretty much high in the UK. It can be way too expensive if you live in a city like London.
  • The United Kingdom offers smaller accommodation places to live. Being a US citizen can be challenging when living in tiny houses or apartments.
  • Immigrating to the UK from the USA comes with strict and complex UK immigration rules and regulations. Visa processing is time-consuming and requires legal help.
  • You might require adequate time to adjust to the UK’s culture and understand its history. Cultural differences can become an obstacle for US citizens.

FAQ’s

Can I Move to the UK Without a Job?

Yes, you can move to the UK without a job. You can undoubtedly relocate to the UK from the USA without a job offer through a valid family, business and student visa route.

Moving to the UK to Join Family Members

You can choose the UK family visa route to reunite or join your family members in the UK. However, several eligibility criteria and requirements must be fulfilled before applying for a family visa.

How Hard Is It to Move to The UK?

Due to the complex UK immigration rules and regulations, it can be difficult for US citizens to relocate from the US to the UK. However, you can overcome this challenge with the help of experienced and knowledgeable immigration solicitors.

How Much Does It Cost to Move to The UK?

Moving to England from the US can be expensive, depending on your visa type. Applicants need to pay the visa application fee, health surcharge fee, shipping, accommodation, logistics, and other relevant costs. You can calculate all the expenses and prepare for your relocation as per your requirements.

Cost of Living in the UK

The UK has been declared the 7th most expensive country in Europe and 14th most expensive in the world. Using public transportation, suitable accommodation, and earning your daily meals can be expensive. It’s evident that the cost of living in the UK is higher than in most US cities.

Do You Get Free Healthcare If You Move to the UK?

You can avail free healthcare in the UK once you become a permanent resident or obtain an indefinite leave to remain. Apart from that, you can get free healthcare if you have already paid a health surcharge.

Moving to the UK With Pets

Relocating to the UK from the USA with your pet is allowed if it has been microchipped, has a pet passport or health certificate, and has been vaccinated for rabies. By following these steps, you can certainly move to the United Kingdom with pets.

How Do I Get UK Citizenship?

To get UK citizenship, you need to legally stay in the United Kingdom for at least five years under a valid visa route. Skilled work visas and Family visas allow one to live in the UK for a more extended period. After this period of time, you can apply for ILR. If you successfully hold the ILR for 12 months, you can apply for naturalisation as a UK citizen.

What is a Self-Sponsored Route?

With the Self-Sponsorship route, you can apply to work in the United Kingdom for your own company without needing a UK Sponsor. Moreover, if you plan to settle in the UK, this could lead to permanent residency and British citizenship for you and your dependent family members. The Self-Sponsorship route is suited for businesses looking to expand their business in the United Kingdom and have the capital for it. If you are a successful businessperson who has identified a business opportunity in the United Kingdom, or if you have a brilliant business concept and want to explore it in the United Kingdom, you should definitely take up this path.

Eligibility Criteria For Self-Sponsorship

  • You should have expertise, talent, or qualification in the field where you intend to start a business.
  • You must have a business idea or have identified an existing business in the United Kingdom to expand.
  • You must have sufficient financial means to support your business in the United Kingdom.
  • You must have acquaintance with a UK local who is settled in the country or is a British citizen to take on the obligations of the Authorising Officer.
  • You must pass the approved English language test at Level B1.

Application Process for Self-Sponsorship

You must first apply for a Skilled visa route to apply for this route. It is a combination of a Skilled visa and a sponsor licence. Visit the official website of the UK government and apply for the Skilled worker visa. Prepare all the necessary documents, such as a copy of your passport, bank statements, a detailed business plan and an endorsem*nt letter from your company’s key personnel. Attach all your original documents and application and re-check twice to avoid errors. You must pay the application fee before you submit your application.

is a specialist immigration law firm with extensive experience with work visa applications. We have an in-depth understanding of immigration law and are professional and results-focused. For assistance with your visa application or any other UK immigration law concerns, please contact us on +44 20 7404 7933 or at contact us today. We’re here to help!

Relocating to England: A Guide to Moving from the US to the UK (2024)
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