Editor’s Note: Please note that we will not be getting into the politics of immigration to the UK, a toxic and emotive subject – this is only a practical guide. Save the politics for somewhere else, please. This is a happy place.

Many American Anglophiles dream of moving to the United Kingdom, perhaps inspired by British culture, career opportunities, or personal connections. However, the reality of relocating to the UK is far more complex than many anticipate. Despite the “special relationship” between the US and UK, there is no easy path to residency for Americans. Here’s what you need to know about the main routes available for moving to the UK.

We’ve had a few opportunities over the years to move to the UK (the roads not taken… a story for another time), so we are familiar with the process and what’s required, and though many things have changed, one thing hasn’t: it is very difficult for an Americans to move to the UK (this is not a criticism – I’m well aware how difficult it is for Brits to move to the USA – moving countries is not easy for anyone, anywhere).

First Steps: Get Professional Help

The single most important piece of advice for anyone seriously considering a move to the UK is to consult with a qualified immigration lawyer. UK immigration law is complex and constantly changing, especially with the. new Labour government. A qualified immigration solicitor can:

• Assess your specific situation
• Identify the most viable visa routes
• Guide you through the application process
• Help avoid costly mistakes
• Keep you updated on changing requirements

Finding the Right Immigration Lawyer:

• Look for solicitors registered with the Law Society of England and Wales
• Ensure they specialize in immigration law
• Check they are OISC (Office of Immigration Services Commissioner) registered
• Request initial consultations with several firms to find the right fit
• Expect to pay £150-300 for an initial consultation
• Full visa application assistance typically costs £2,000-5,000 depending on complexity

Unfortunately in this matter, Anglotopia cannot make specific recommendations for a UK immigration lawyer. But if one gets in touch with us, we will let you know. Hint hint to UK immigration lawyers out there.

Main Routes for Americans to Move to the UK

1. Skilled Worker Visa

The UK Skilled Worker Visa allows qualified individuals to work in the UK for an approved employer. To be eligible, applicants must have a job offer that meets specific skill requirements and offers a minimum salary threshold. The visa is intended for skilled roles and helps employers fill vacancies in sectors where there is a shortage of skilled workers. Successful applicants can bring their dependents with them, and the visa can lead to settlement in the UK after a certain period of time. Overall, the Skilled Worker Visa aims to attract talent to support the UK’s economy while ensuring that the workforce remains competitive.

The Skilled Worker visa (formerly Tier 2) is one of the most common routes for Americans moving to the UK. To qualify, you must:

• Have a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor license
• Meet the minimum salary threshold (currently £26,200 or the “going rate” for your occupation, whichever is higher)
• Work in an eligible occupation on the Skilled Workers list (look at the list here)
• Meet English language requirements
• Have enough savings to support yourself (you will have to provide financial statements)

According to UK government statistics, Americans received 15,466 Skilled Worker visas in 2022, making it one of the most common routes for Americans.

Costs:

Visa application: £625-£1,423 depending on length
Immigration Health Surcharge: £624 per year
Skills charge paid by employer: £1,000 per year

After being in the UK for five years, you may be eligible to settle and apply for citizenship.

2. Student Visa

The UK offers several student visa options for international students wishing to pursue their studies in the country. The primary visa is the Student visa, which is for individuals aged 16 and above who have been accepted into a course at a recognized educational institution. There is also the Child Student visa for younger students between the ages of 4 and 17. Additionally, short-term study visas are available for those looking to take English language courses or other short programs lasting up to six months. Applicants must meet specific financial and English language proficiency requirements to qualify for these visas.

There is a pathway to residency for holders of a UK student visa, but it’s a longer and more difficult route. After completing your studies, you may be eligible to apply for the Graduate Route, which allows you to stay in the UK for up to two years (or three years for doctoral graduates) to work or look for work. Once you have secured employment, you may have the option to switch to a work visa, such as the Skilled Worker visa, which can lead to settlement in the UK after residing in the country for a certain period (usually five years).

Studying in the UK can be a pathway to residency, particularly for:

• Undergraduate students
• Graduate students
• PhD candidates

Key requirements include:

• Acceptance to a licensed UK educational institution
• Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses
• Meeting English language requirements
• Restrictions on working hours during study (usually maximum 20 hours per week during term)

Recent changes to the Graduate visa route allow students to stay and work in the UK for 2 years after completing their degree (3 years for PhD graduates).

3. Family Visas

Although often viewed as the “easiest” option, family visas come with strict requirements and significant costs. Marrying or entering a partnership with a British citizen is indeed one of the more straightforward paths to UK residency. However, it still involves stringent criteria that must be met. To qualify for a family visa based on marriage or partnership, applicants must prove that their relationship is genuine and subsisting. This often requires providing evidence such as joint bank statements, shared bills, photographs together, and correspondence over time. Additionally, the British partner must meet a minimum income threshold, currently set at £18,600 annually, which increases if there are dependents involved. The application process can be complex, requiring detailed documentation and adherence to specific procedures. This includes completing an online application, attending a biometric appointment, and potentially undergoing an interview. Fees can be substantial, with costs for the visa itself, the Immigration Health Surcharge, and other related expenses adding up quickly. Moreover, applicants must also consider the English language requirement, which necessitates proving proficiency through recognized tests or educational qualifications. Due to these factors, while the family visa route may seem straightforward at first glance, it often involves considerable planning and preparation. Understanding the requirements and preparing a robust application can significantly affect the chances of success. Consulting with immigration experts or solicitors can also be beneficial in navigating this complex process.

• Minimum income requirement of £18,600 for the British partner
• Proof of genuine relationship
• Adequate accommodation
• Meeting English language requirements
• Initial visa is temporary (2.5 years) before being eligible for permanent residence

4. High Potential Individual Visa

The UK High Potential Individual Visa is designed to attract talented individuals from around the world who have recently graduated from top universities. This visa allows eligible graduates to live and work in the UK for up to two years, or three years for those with a PhD. Applicants do not need a job offer to apply, making it an attractive option for recent graduates looking to start their careers in the UK. To qualify, candidates must have a degree from a recognized institution within the last five years and meet specific language proficiency requirements.

Introduced in 2022, this visa allows graduates from top global universities to come to the UK without a job offer. Requirements include:

• Graduation from an eligible university within the last 5 years
• Qualification equivalent to UK bachelor’s degree or higher
• Meeting English language requirements
• Proof of maintenance funds (£1,270)

A Note on UK Ancestry Visas

There is no such thing anymore. Unless you had a parent born in the UK, you cannot get a visa/British passport/citizenship through descent.

However, if you have family connections to Ireland (reminder: they are a separate country), you can claim citizenship through a grandparent if you can prove their citizenship. This gets you an Irish and, thus, European Union passport allowing you to live and work anywhere in the EU. Ireland and the UK have a separate ‘Common Travel Area’ agreement where they can live and work in each other’s countries. So, if you can get an Irish passport, you can live and work in the UK (living in Ireland is an option, too – Ireland is lovely, and we’ve been there several times).

Financial Considerations

Moving to the UK involves significant upfront costs:

• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Approximately £624 per person per year upfront (you will have to pay for each member of your family for five years in advance – a family of four will need: £12,480 or about $16,000 UPFRONT).
• Visa application fees: Vary by type but often exceed £1,000 (and this will be per family member)
• Proof of maintenance funds that you can support yourself (and everyone applying with you).
• Relocation expenses
• Housing deposits and advance rent

Important Considerations

Visiting vs. Moving

Americans can visit the UK for up to 6 months without a visa, but attempting to use this route to move permanently is illegal and can result in being denied entry or future immigration problems. Border officials are trained to identify visitors who might be attempting to settle permanently.

Criminal Record Checks

Most visa applications require disclosure of criminal history, and serious offenses can make you ineligible for entry. You will also have to have your biometrics taken by an authorized processor.

Healthcare Access

Most visa types require payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge, which provides access to the NHS. Private health insurance may still be advisable.

Looking Ahead

The UK’s immigration system continues to evolve. Recent changes include:

• Introduction of the Scale-up visa for fast-growing companies
• Changes to student visa rules
• New High Potential Individual visa category
• Upcoming Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system

Practical Considerations for Americans

Housing:

• No credit history in UK can make renting difficult
• Expect to pay 6 months rent in advance
• Consider temporary housing initially
• Need UK bank account for most rentals

Banking:

• Open UK bank account before arrival if possible
• Consider international banks like HSBC
• Bring several months of US bank statements
• Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees

Healthcare:

• Register with NHS after arrival
• Consider private insurance during initial period
• Bring supply of prescription medications
• Get US medical records translated if needed

Taxes:

• Must file both US and UK returns
• Consider tax treaty implications
• Seek professional tax advice
• FATCA reporting requirements

Driving:

• Can use US license for 12 months
• Need to pass UK test after 12 months
• Insurance typically expensive for new UK drivers
• Consider automatic vs manual transmission

Timeline for Moving

12+ Months Before:

• Research visa options
• Consult immigration lawyer
• Start job search if applicable
• Research housing areas
• Begin saving for costs

6-12 Months Before:

• Apply for visa
• Gather required documents
• Start job applications
• Research schools if needed
• Plan housing strategy

3-6 Months Before:

• Secure housing
• Arrange shipping
• Begin UK bank account process
• Research healthcare options
• Plan pet relocation if needed

1-3 Months Before:

• Book flights
• Arrange temporary housing if needed
• Notify US institutions
• Set up mail forwarding
• Begin packing

The process of moving to the UK requires careful planning, significant financial resources, and patience. Success often depends on having a clear strategy, understanding the requirements of your chosen visa route, and working with qualified professionals to navigate the complex immigration system.
For the most current information, always consult:

• UK Government’s official visa and immigration website
• Qualified immigration lawyers
• Professional organizations in your field
• Educational institutions (for student visas)
• UK Home Office guidance

Remember that immigration rules change frequently, so verify all requirements through official sources when planning your move.