Moving from the US to the UK: Immigration Requirements and Updates
Are you thinking of swapping burgers for bangers and mash? Relocating to the UK from the US comes with its own unique set of hurdles. Spoiler alert: it’s a bit more complicated than just grabbing a suitcase and booking a one-way ticket. Let’s break it down with a dash of humour.
- Got Ancestral Roots?
Did your great-grandma sip tea in the UK? If you or your ancestors were born in the UK before 1983, you might be in luck. Those born outside the UK before 1988 with a UK-born mother or grandmother might also qualify for British citizenship. Ah, the joys of family trees!
- Irish Connections?
Good news if you’ve got Irish blood. Irish citizens or those eligible for Irish citizenship (thanks, grandma) can live and work in the UK without much fuss.
- Married to a Brit?
Love conquers all…including immigration hurdles. If your spouse, civil partner, or even unmarried partner is a British citizen, you can apply for a settlement visa. Just show they’re either working in the UK earning at least £29,000 per annum or have significant savings. Easy-peasy, right?
- Kiddos Attending School?
If your children are headed to a fee-paying independent school in the UK and one’s under 12, one parent can come along under the ‘Child of a Parent at School’ visa. Just don’t be late for parents’ evening.
- Fancy Studying?
Eyeing a Master’s or a PhD? The Student visa lets you pursue your academic dreams. Plus, you can bring your partner and kids if you’re doing postgraduate research. Also, after graduating, enjoy a two-year work visa to get a taste of the British job market.
- Graduated from a Top US Uni?
If you’re a recent graduate from a prestigious non-UK university, you might qualify for the High Potential Individual route. It’s granted for two years, or three for PhD graduates. Get ready to show off that diploma!
- Planning to Work?
Looking for work in the UK isn’t as straightforward as it used to be. The Global Talent visa is an option, but generally, you need a job offer from a registered sponsor. Your potential employer must also prove they’ve got their HR act together. If they can sponsor you, you’re good to go for up to five years, with your family tagging along.
- Sent by Your US Employer?
If your US company has plans to set up shop in the UK, they can send you over on a UK Expansion Worker visa. Requirements include the US company trading for at least three years and you working there for at least 12 months. Pack your bags, corporate warrior! Contact us At Citrus Relocation or the US Embassy or UK Government to help you get the correct information
- Got Exceptional Talent?
Shine in fields like science, tech, arts, or fashion? The Global Talent visa might be your golden ticket. Prove you’re a leader or future leader, and the UK might roll out the red carpet for you.
- Starting a UK Business?
For the ambitious entrepreneur, the Innovator Founder visa allows you to set up an innovative business in the UK. Just get endorsed by a UK body and you’re all set to become the next Richard Branson.
- Wealthy but Not Working?
The UK doesn’t have a retirement visa, and its Investor visa is now history. So unless you’re working, running a business, or studying, you’ll need to find another route to enjoy those picturesque British landscapes.
Latest Updates
As with anything related to immigration, the rules can change. Make sure to check for the latest updates before making any plans.
We have immigration assistance ready to help you and global mobility team are top notch and ready to help you now +44 203 303 3208 or email globalmobility@citrusrelocation.com or complete our short form, to get in touch.
