1. Overview: Moving from the UK to the USA
For British citizens looking to move to the USA, obtaining a permanent visa is essential for living and working legally. Unlike the UK, the USA does not offer direct residency options based solely on nationality, so British citizens need a sponsored employment visa, family visa, or investment visa to establish permanent residency.
2. Visa Options for British Citizens to Live and Work in the USA
2.1 Employment-Based Green Cards
Employment-based Green Cards allow British citizens to live and work in the USA indefinitely. Common categories include:
- EB-2 (Advanced Degree/Exceptional Ability): For those with an advanced degree or exceptional ability in fields like science, business, or the arts. Requires an employer sponsor.
- EB-3 (Skilled Workers/Professionals): For skilled workers with at least two years of experience or those with a bachelor’s degree.
- EB-1 (Priority Workers): For individuals with extraordinary abilities, outstanding researchers, or multinational executives. May not always require a job offer.
2.2 Family-Sponsored Green Cards
Family-sponsored Green Cards are available if you have close family members who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents:
- Immediate Relative: Spouse, child, or parent of a U.S. citizen.
- Family Preference: Siblings or extended family members. Family sponsorship often has longer wait times compared to employment-based options.
2.3 Investment Visa (EB-5)
The EB-5 Visa is for investors who commit at least $800,000 to a U.S. business in a high-unemployment area or $1.05 million in other areas. This investment must create at least ten U.S. jobs and can lead to permanent residency.
2.4 Diversity Visa Lottery (Green Card Lottery)
British citizens can enter the Diversity Visa Lottery if eligible, although selection is random. The program grants up to 55,000 visas annually to individuals from underrepresented countries and can be an alternative path to U.S. residency.
3. Applying for a U.S. Employment-Based Visa
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer and Sponsorship
A U.S. employer must offer you a position and act as your visa sponsor. The employer will need to apply for a Labor Certification from the Department of Labor (for EB-2 and EB-3 visas) to demonstrate that hiring a foreign national won’t negatively impact U.S. workers.
Step 2: Employer Files Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)
Once the Labor Certification is approved, the employer submits Form I-140 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on your behalf.
Step 3: Wait for Visa Availability and Apply for Adjustment of Status
Depending on demand, you may wait several months to years for visa availability. Once eligible, you can apply for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) if you’re already in the U.S., or Consular Processing if applying from the UK.
4. Alternative Routes to U.S. Residency
4.1 E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
While not a direct path to permanent residency, the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa is available to British citizens who invest in a U.S. business. The visa allows for renewable stays and can be used as a temporary alternative while pursuing other residency options.
4.2 L-1 Visa for Intra-Company Transfers
If you work for a multinational company with a branch in the U.S., the L-1 Visa allows you to transfer to a U.S. office. This visa can lead to an EB-1 Green Card if you qualify as an executive or manager, enabling permanent residency.
5. Steps to Permanent Residency and U.S. Citizenship
- Obtain a Green Card: After meeting visa requirements, you’ll receive a Green Card, granting indefinite residency.
- Reside in the USA for Five Years: After five years with a Green Card (three years if married to a U.S. citizen), you can apply for U.S. citizenship.
- Apply for Citizenship: Complete Form N-400 and pass the citizenship test and interview to become a U.S. citizen.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Green Card?
Processing time varies. Employment-based Green Cards typically take 1–3 years, but wait times depend on demand and visa availability. - Do I need to give up my British citizenship if I become a U.S. citizen?
No, the U.S. allows dual citizenship, so you can retain your British citizenship. - Can I work in the USA without a Green Card?
Yes, you can work temporarily with an H-1B, L-1, or E-2 visa, but these are not permanent residency visas. - Is the Diversity Visa Lottery guaranteed for British citizens?
No, the lottery is random, and eligibility varies each year. British citizens are eligible to enter but are not guaranteed selection. - What is the minimum investment for the EB-5 visa?
The minimum investment is $800,000 in a high-unemployment area or $1.05 million elsewhere.
7. Conclusion
For British citizens, achieving permanent residency in the USA involves securing a sponsored employment or family visa or investing in a U.S. business. Each pathway has unique requirements and timelines, but with proper planning and the right visa choice, British nationals can establish a long-term life and career in the United States. From the EB-3 and EB-5 visas to family-sponsored options, there are multiple routes to residency and citizenship for those ready to make the move.