Overview: Moving from the UK to the USA
For British citizens looking to move to the United States, obtaining a Green Card (permanent residency) is the key step toward living and working there legally. The U.S. does not offer automatic residency based on nationality, so UK citizens must qualify through employment, family connections, or investment.
A Green Card allows you to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship. Below, we explore the main visa routes available to UK citizens, the application process, and your long-term options.
Visa Options for British Citizens to Live and Work in the USA
Employment-Based Green Cards
Employment-based (EB) Green Cards are one of the most common ways for UK citizens to move permanently to the U.S.
EB-1 (Priority Workers)
For individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts, sciences, business, education, or athletics.
- Can apply without an employer sponsor.
- Includes multinational executives and outstanding researchers.
EB-2 (Advanced Degree or Exceptional Ability)
For professionals with advanced degrees (master’s or higher) or exceptional ability in business, arts, or sciences.
- Requires a U.S. employer sponsor and Labor Certification approval.
EB-3 (Skilled Workers and Professionals)
For skilled workers with at least two years’ experience or a bachelor’s degree.
- Requires employer sponsorship and Labor Certification.
These employment-based routes typically lead directly to a Green Card and permanent residence.
Family-Sponsored Green Cards
You may be eligible for a family-sponsored Green Card if you have close relatives who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
- Immediate Relatives: Spouses, children (under 21), and parents of U.S. citizens.
- Family Preference Category: Siblings and other relatives of U.S. citizens or Green Card holders (these categories usually have longer wait times).
Investment Visa (EB-5 Program)
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa allows you to earn a Green Card by investing in a U.S. business.
- Minimum Investment: $800,000 in a high-unemployment area, or $1.05 million elsewhere.
- The investment must create at least 10 full-time U.S. jobs.
Once approved, both the investor and immediate family members receive Green Cards.
Diversity Visa Lottery (Green Card Lottery)
The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery is another option. It grants 55,000 Green Cards annually to individuals from underrepresented countries.
- British citizens are eligible, but the process is competitive and selection is random.
- Entry is free through the official U.S. State Department website.
Applying for a U.S. Employment-Based Visa
If you’re applying through the employment route, here’s how the process works:
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer and Employer Sponsorship
A U.S. employer must offer you a job and agree to sponsor your visa.
- For EB-2 and EB-3 visas, the employer must obtain Labor Certification (PERM) from the U.S. Department of Labor, confirming that no qualified American workers are available for the role.
Step 2: Employer Files Form I-140
Once the Labor Certification is approved, the employer submits Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) to USCIS on your behalf.
Step 3: Apply for a Green Card
After your petition is approved and a visa number becomes available, you can apply for:
- Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) if you’re already in the U.S., or
- Consular Processing at the U.S. Embassy in London if you’re applying from the UK.
Processing times vary based on visa category and nationality.
Alternative Routes to U.S. Residency
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
The E-2 Visa is not a Green Card but allows British citizens to live and work in the U.S. by investing in a business.
- Requires a “substantial” investment (often $100,000 or more).
- Renewable indefinitely as long as the business remains active.
- Can be a temporary path while working toward permanent residency.
L-1 Visa (Intra-Company Transfer)
If you work for a multinational company with offices in both the UK and U.S., you can transfer to a U.S. branch under an L-1 visa.
- Available for executives, managers, or employees with specialised knowledge.
- Can lead to an EB-1C Green Card for multinational managers.
Steps to Permanent Residency and U.S. Citizenship
- Obtain a Green Card: Once approved, you become a lawful permanent resident of the United States.
- Reside for Five Years: You must live in the U.S. for five continuous years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen).
- Apply for U.S. Citizenship: Submit Form N-400, complete the citizenship test, and attend an interview. Once approved, you become a naturalised U.S. citizen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Green Card?
Typically 1–3 years, but timelines vary depending on visa category and application volume.
Do I have to give up my British citizenship?
No. The U.S. and UK allow dual citizenship, so you can hold both passports.
Can I work in the U.S. without a Green Card?
Yes, on a temporary visa such as H-1B, L-1, or E-2 — but these are not permanent and must be renewed.
Are British citizens eligible for the Green Card Lottery?
Yes, but the program is random, and selection is not guaranteed.
What’s the minimum investment for an EB-5 Visa?
$800,000 in a targeted employment area or $1.05 million elsewhere.
Conclusion
For British citizens, obtaining a U.S. Green Card is a structured process that typically requires sponsorship through employment, family, or investment. While it can take time, each pathway offers a viable route to permanent residency and eventual U.S. citizenship.
Whether you qualify through a skilled job (EB-2/EB-3), family ties, or the EB-5 investment program, planning ahead and following U.S. immigration procedures carefully will help you establish a successful life in the United States.
For fixed-fee legal help with your case,
contact Martin Taggart — your trusted UK legal partner.