If you’re considering moving to the USA from the UK, you’re not alone. More than 20,000 British people emigrate to the U.S. annually, with over 600,000 residing there in 2024.
The ‘land of opportunity’ is a vast country that offers something for everyone. With the added advantages of no language barrier for Brits and a significant rise in remote working, it is easy to see why so many people are moving to the USA from the UK.
We’ve created this guide to include everything you need to know about your removals to USA. We’ll look at visas, jobs and salaries, education, lifestyle and much more.
Table of Contents
How to Move to America From the UK?
Moving to America from the UK involves several steps. First, you will need to determine the correct visa for your move. This will depend on whether you are moving for family, work, or study reasons. Once you have chosen your visa, you’ll need to gather the essential documents to complete the application form. You will typically have to undergo several tests such as a medical exam.
Most visa types require an in-person interview at either the U.S. Embassy in London or the Consulate in Belfast. It can take several weeks to hear if you have been approved or not. Once approved, you can look into opening a bank account, finding accommodation, and getting health insurance.
Types of U.S. Visas
When moving to the USA from the UK, acquiring a visa can be a long process that you should begin as early as possible. It can take over a year from the beginning to the end of a successful visa process, and you’ll need to ensure you meet all the requirements outlined on the U.S. Department of State website.
If you’re visiting while you organise your move and want more flexibility, you will need a Visitor Visa (B1/B2 Visa). However, for most British citizens planning on staying in the U.S. for less than 3 months, a visa isn’t required thanks to the Visa Waiver Program.
Visa Waiver Program
With an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), UK passport holders do not need a visa and can stay in the country for up to 90 days.
The ESTA is valid for 2 years, allowing multiple trips up to 90 days during that period. It’s ideal for short-term visits but doesn’t replace the need for a Visitor visa if you’re planning to stay longer.
U.S. Green Card
If you’re making a permanent move to the United States, you’ll want to familiarise yourself with the Green Card. It’s the gateway to becoming a lawful permanent resident (LPR). Securing an LPR status often involves having a close family member or employer living in the USA sponsor your application. Compared to other visa types, this family/employment-based route can sometimes offer a more streamlined process. The paths to a Green Card include:
Family Sponsorship – If you have an immediate relative who is an American citizen, you can apply through family sponsorship. This is often the fastest route, particularly for spouses, parents, or unmarried children under 21. You will have to complete the Form I-130.
Employment Sponsorship – Highly skilled workers with a job offer from a U.S.-based company can apply through employment sponsorship. This requires submitting the Form I-140 (Petition for Alien Worker).
Once your petition is approved, it will be reviewed by the National Visa Center (NVC). A Green Card typically has an expiry date and generally needs to be renewed every 10 years. However, the lawful permanent residency status it provides does not expire, giving you the right to live and work in the USA indefinitely, unless you commit actions that could make you removable under immigration law.
U.S. Work Visa
There are a range of work visas for people moving to the U.S. For most visas, you’ll typically have to secure a job offer from a U.S. company. They will then file a Petition for a Non-immigrant Worker, known as the I-129 Form, on your behalf. For specific work visas, your employer may have to obtain a certification from the Department of Labor (DOL) to prove the need for foreign workers.
Once the employer’s petition is approved, you are eligible to submit your visa application. As part of the process, you will be required to attend an interview at your nearest U.S. Embassy.
Most Common UK to USA Visas
U.S. visas are categorised based on intent and duration of stay, either immigrant or non-immigrant visas. Immigrant Visas are granted to foreign nationals who plan to reside permanently in the United States. Non-immigrant Visas are designed for those entering the U.S. Temporarily, whether for tourism, education, or business. Each visa type has a category and the most common visas for moving to the USA are as follows:
- Fiancé(e) Visa (K1 Visa): This is for the foreign-citizen fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen. The K1 visa permits the foreign-citizen fiancé(e) to travel to the United States and marry his or her U.S. citizen sponsor within 90 days of arrival.
- Spouse Visas (IR1, CR1, K3): These are for the spouses of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
- Employment-based Immigrant Visas (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, EB-5): These visas are for workers in a variety of situations, from “priority workers” with extraordinary abilities or multinational executives (EB-1) to skilled workers and professionals (EB-2 and EB-3) and even immigrant investors who are investing a large amount of capital into a U.S. enterprise (EB-5).
- Student Visas (F1 or M1 Visa): These visas are for individuals who wish to study in the U.S. F1 visas are for academic students, while M1 visas are for vocational students.
- Speciality Occupations (H1B Visa): This is a work visa for workers in a speciality occupation, such as IT, finance, accounting, architecture, engineering, mathematics, medicine, etc.
- Trader/Investor Visas (E1/E2 ): These are for people who conduct significant trade between the U.S. and their home country (E1), or who are investing a significant amount of capital in a U.S. business (E2).
- Intra-company Transferee (L1 Visa): This is for managers, executives, or specialised knowledge employees transferring to a U.S. office of their current employer.
- Exchange Visitors (J1 Visa): This is for individuals approved to participate in work-and-study-based exchange visitor programs.
How to Become a U.S. Citizen
Obtaining a Green Card doesn’t automatically make you a U.S. citizen, but it does set the stage for that possibility. To be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalisation, Green Card holders must meet specific requirements:
- At least 5 years as a Green Card holder (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
- A minimum of 30 months (or 18 months if married to a U.S. citizen) living in the U.S. during the residency period.
- A completed Form N-400
- An interview with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer
- Pass an English language test and a civics test covering U.S. history and government.
Once approved, applicants are scheduled to attend a naturalisation ceremony where they take the Oath of Allegiance to the U.S. After the oath, they are officially U.S. citizens and receive a Certificate of Naturalisation.
Work and Salaries in the USA
There are a variety of in-demand roles in the U.S that many UK expats could fill. In-demand sectors include tech, healthcare, finance, and engineering. There is a particular need for software developers amongst many other tech roles, which explains the high salary. Visa sponsorships is a common way to work in the U.S., so if you may want to direct your search at the larger companies in America.
The U.S. tax system operates at both a federal and state level, and overall taxes are lower in the U.S. than in the UK. If you are a permanent resident, you will be required to report your global income to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). However, you will not be taxed twice on the same income, as there is a system of foreign tax credits that takes this into account. If you are a non-resident, you will only be taxed on your local earnings.
The average monthly salary in America is $4,454.32 (£3,459.63). This is 30.3% higher than the UK’s average of £2,409.67. Software Developers are in demand in the states as the tech industry grows. Registered nurses and data analysts are also popular roles in the job market.
We’ve listed some popular jobs from the top sectors in the U.S. to compare salaries with the UK.
| Job | USA Salary | UK Salary |
| Retail Sales Assistant | $29,677 (£22,873.29) | £27,313 |
| Administration Assistant | $47,305 (£36,453.85) | £22,381 |
| Registered Nurse | $75,518 (£58,165.86) | £37,921 |
| Customer Service Representative | $31,200 (£24,024) | £22,651 |
| Restaurant Server | $31,199 (£24,007.23) | £24,748 |
| Labourer | $38,210 (£29,430.70) | £24,067 |
| Software Developer | $110,000 (£84,700) | £46,841 |
| High School Teacher | $64,505 (£49,777.85) | £21,688 |
| Truck Driver | $63,557 (£48,918.89) | £38,312 |
Opening a Bank Account in the U.S.
Both non-residents and permanent residents can open a bank account in the U.S. provided you have the correct documentation. Green card holders will have to show their green card, Social Security Number (SSN), and proof of address. Non-residents need to show a valid passport, a secondary ID (like a national ID or foreign driver’s license), proof of U.S. address, and an SSN or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
When moving to America from the UK, most people will need just a checking account to receive their income. Banks typically require an initial deposit to open a checking account, this can range from $25-$100. Popular banks in America include Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase.
Cost of Living in the USA
The cost of living in the U.S. is 15% higher than in the UK. This is due to higher prices for groceries, restaurants and rental costs. It’s cheaper to buy property in the U.S. than in the UK, averaging at 40% more affordable.
The cost of living can vary greatly depending on the location. For example, living costs in major cities like New York and Los Angeles are much higher than in smaller cities or rural areas. Below you can find the cost of living in the USA compared to the UK.
| Item | USA | UK |
| Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in city centre | $1,804.79 (£1,401.76) | £1,062.88 |
| Price per m2 to buy apartment in city centre | $4,573.71 (£3,552.36) | £5,004.01 |
| Monthly salary after tax | $4,454.32 (£3,459.63) | £2,398.78 |
| 3 course meal for 2 people, mid-range restaurant | $75 (£58.25) | £60 |
| 1 litre of milk | $1.05 (£0.82) | £1.24 |
| 1kg chicken fillets | $12.07 ($9.37) | £6.57 |
| Monthly travel pass | $70 (£54.37) | £70 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for 85m2 apartment | $206.79 (£160.61) | £248.30 |
| Monthly gym membership | $46.68 (£36.25) | £32.66 |
| Monthly private preschool | $1,383.81 (£1,074.79) | £1,265.43 |
Property and Rental Prices in the USA
In recent years, renting has become more common in urban areas, especially among young people. Renting can give you more flexibility if you want to try out different areas to get a feel before your move to the USA. However, more people buy than rent in the USA, with homeownership at 65%.
There are no restrictions for both permanent and temporary UK residents in the U.S. on the type or amount of property they can buy. Both residency statuses can also access mortgages from certain banks in the U.S. However, U.S. banks often apply tougher lending criteria to foreign borrowers, so anticipate a need for a substantial deposit, typically 30-40% of the property’s price.
The average rental price in the U.S. is $1,804.79 (£1,401.76), which is 24.2% cheaper than in the UK. Below is rental and buying prices for property in the USA compared to the UK.
| Item | USA | UK |
| Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in city centre | $1,801.46 (£1,401.09) | £1,062.88 |
| Monthly rent for 1-bedroom apartment outside of centre | $1,488.32 (£1,157.55) | £859.29 |
| Price per m2 to buy apartment in city centre | $4,516.51 (£3,512.73) | £5,004.01 |
| Price per m2 to buy apartment outside of city centre | $3,572.17 (£2,778.27) | £3,769.14 |
Where to Live in the U.S.
You’ll need to make a decision between renting or buying in the USA. Renting is probably ideal for a shorter move, if you’re planning to relocate elsewhere within the next several years. If you want to commit to purchasing a property, with various tax complexities, it’s worth consulting a property expert.
The price of land is lower in the USA than in the UK, meaning you can likely find a larger property in the U.S. than back home. Some of the best places to live in the USA depending on your priorities:
For careers – Someone looking to climb the career ladder might find New York or San Francisco appealing, but they can be expensive and you will likely rent or buy a smaller property.
For culture – Cities like Austin in Texas or Portland in Oregon have a thriving cultural scene, amazing international cuisine options, and fantastic public and private schools.
For the outdoors – You might want to experience more of the great outdoors and get in touch with nature, meaning that Boulder in Colorado or Sarasota in Florida will be attractive choices. You’re more likely to be living in a spacious home in these destinations, so you can bring more furniture and personal belongings with you.
Lifestyle and Culture in USA
In many ways, Americans are similar to the British but there are a few key differences.
Christianity is the most popular religion in America. More than 75% of its residents and citizens practice Christianity. Americans seem to appear more religious than UK citizens. UK citizens seem to be more private about their religion and practices.
Americans rely on their cars more than in the UK as it’s not as easy to walk to destinations. Distances are vast in comparison to the UK and outside of cities like New York, San Francisco and San Diego, public transport can be difficult.
Restaurant food portions are much bigger in the U.S. than in the UK. When you do eat out, it is important to know that tipping is essential in America. When your bill turns up, expect to pay around 20% of the bill for tips.
Education in America
Education in America is highly regarded and offers many opportunities for students from all over the world. American schools are divided into elementary school (including kindergarten), middle school or junior high, and high school. Students typically attend elementary school until around age 11, middle school until age 14, and high school for the final four years. The school year in the U.S. typically runs from August to May or June, with summer break lasting from June to August.
The quality of education at state schools can vary depending on the region and location, as there is no national standard. Therefore, it is important to research schools before enrolling your child. If you prefer a British or international curriculum, you can also look into private and international schools in your area.
In addition to academic subjects, American schools also offer extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and clubs. These activities can help students develop their interests and skills outside of the classroom.
The U.S. education system also generally focuses more on standardised testing and grades, while the UK education system places a greater emphasis on personal and social development.
Based on the type of school you wish to attend, you will need to apply for a specific visa. You’ll need to apply for the F Visa if you’re attending a university, high school, college, private elementary school, or other academic institutions. The M Visa is for students enrolling in vocational or non-academic institutions.
For a closer look at the education system in the USA and how it compares to the UK, check out our guide to the U.S. education system.
Healthcare in America
The USA is ranked 15th in the best healthcare in the world index. Unlike the NHS, the U.S. healthcare system is not free and must be paid for, unless an employer offers to cover the costs. It is important to obtain healthcare insurance when moving to the US.
There are several types of healthcare insurance available in the US, including employer-sponsored plans, individual plans, and government-sponsored plans such as Medicare and Medicaid. Employer-sponsored plans are typically the most affordable option, as the employer typically covers a portion of the premiums.
Keep in mind that healthcare costs in the U.S. can be high, so it is essential to have adequate coverage. It is also worth noting that some insurance plans may not cover certain medical services or treatments, so it is important to carefully read the plan details before making a decision. Additionally, it may be helpful to speak with a local healthcare advisor or insurance agent to get personalized advice and assistance with choosing a plan.
Retiring in the USA
In the US, there is no national pension system, but many workers have access to a workplace retirement plan, such as a 401(k) or a defined benefit plan. These plans are funded by employer and employee contributions, and they can provide a regular income during retirement. Some workers may also have a personal savings plan, such as an individual retirement account (IRA), which can be used to save for retirement.
If you are moving from the UK to the US, your UK state pension will not automatically carry over to the US. However, you may be able to transfer your UK state pension to a private pension plan in the US, or you may be able to claim a U.S. Social Security benefit based on your UK state pension.
Voting in the USA
If you are a British citizen living overseas, you may be eligible to register as an overseas voter. This would allow you to vote in elections in the UK, such as general elections and European parliamentary elections. However, you would not be able to vote in local elections or referendums.
To register as an overseas voter, you must have been registered to vote in the UK within the last 15 years. You can apply to register as an overseas voter on the UK Government’s website. It is important to note that you must have been registered to vote in the UK before you left the country in order to be eligible to register as an overseas voter.
As a British citizen living in the USA, you are not eligible to vote in U.S. elections. However, if you have a permanent residence (a “green card”) in the USA, you may be able to vote in local and state elections, depending on the state in which you live. It is worth noting that voting laws vary from state to state, so you should check with your local election officials for more information.
Driving in the USA
A UK driving licence allows you to drive a rented vehicle in the USA – provided that you’re over 21 too – but the licence is only valid for 12 months.
You cannot convert your licence to a U.S. driving licence. Instead, you have to go through the full application process for a brand-new licence if you wish to drive your own car.
There is no single universal U.S. licence; instead, licences are issued by each state. As you might expect, each state has different rules over obtaining a U.S. driving licence, but most will insist that you get your licence within 30 to 60 days of moving to the USA.
Check out our USA driving guide for more information.
Shipping Your Car to the USA
The average cost to ship your car to the USA from the UK is £1,088. As with the other delivery options, the price changes depending on your destination and the type of vehicle.
You’ll need to ensure your car is eligible for import before you can start planning the shipping logistics. Cars manufactured outside the USA face stringent assessment; with the USA safety and emissions standards strictly regulated, you need to be fully informed of the rules and customs regulations.
Import regulations can differ depending on your reason for shipping the vehicle and your personal status in the USA. For example, non-residents can import a vehicle duty-free for personal use up to one year after arrival. However, if the vehicle is found not to conform to U.S. safety and emissions standards – it will have to be exported within a year and cannot be sold in the USA.
Our sister company, Autoshippers, has been shipping cars for over 25 years. So, you can rest assured that we have the expertise and experience to help you with this major move. There are two specific services on offer – either ‘roll on roll off’ shipping for cars, SUVs, motorhomes, or container car shipping.
Shipping Costs From the UK to the USA
While international removal costs vary depending on your shipment size and destination port, as a guide, the shipping cost from the UK to the USA starts at £1,238 for a shared container service. This doesn’t take packing, delivery or other costs into account. It’s always best to get a quote for a more tailored and complete estimate for your move.
At 1st Move International, we have over 25 years of experience in shipping to the U.S. We know how to fulfil every customer’s needs and we will help you with every step of the removal process so that you can deal with the other aspects of moving. Get a free tailored quote online or contact us at info@shipit.co.uk.
FAQs
Is it worth moving to the USA from the UK?
Relocating to the USA is a life-changing experience for anyone. Sharing a similar culture and the same language, it’s easy to settle into life in America from the UK. Although the cost of living in America is higher, you’ll get more space and land for your money when its comes to property. The U.S. also has incredible opportunities when it comes to work and education.
Is it difficult to move to the USA from UK?
It’s a lengthy process to move from the UK to the USA, but it can be done. If you apply and get accepted for the correct visa and have the essential documentation, you’ll be on your way. The process for getting accepted for a work visa is typically competitive and you will need to be skilled in certain industries. Family and Green Card visas are the most common pathway to permanent residency in the U.S. Discover all the U.S. Visa types in our dedicated section above.
Can a British citizen move to USA?
Yes, but to permanently live in the USA as a British citizen, you’ll need to gain permanent residency. You’ll need to get an immigrant visa, otherwise known as a Green Card. Many visa applications involve multiple steps, background checks, health screenings, and interviews. You’ll also have to pay legal and filing fees to do this.
Can you move to the U.S. from UK without a job?
You can move to the USA without a job, but it might make the process more difficult. You’ll have to meet certain criteria and prove you have funds in place. Sponsored employment is the most common and easiest way to move to America from the UK. The easiest way to move to the U.S. without a job is if you have a family sponsor.
Which U.S. cities are popular with British residents?
Most British expats in the U.S. reside in New York City. Boasting its vibrant culture and bustling lifestyle, we can see why it’s popular. Boston appeals to many with its rich history and educational opportunities. Out on the West Coast, Los Angeles attracts those drawn to the entertainment industry, vibrant nightlife, and warmer climate. Austin, known for its lively music scene and tech industry, has become increasingly appealing and Florida also remains a favourite, offering warm weather and a laid-back atmosphere.
Can foreign nationals travel to the U.S. without a visa?
Yes, certain foreign nationals can enter the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa if they have a valid ESTA. Part of the Visa Waiver Program, the ESTA allows citizens of specific countries, including the UK to visit for a short period for tourism or business reasons. You must meet certain criteria, await approval of your ESTA, and book a round-trip ticket to show you are leaving after your visit.
Is an ESTA required if you already have a valid U.S. visa?
If you possess a valid U.S. Visa, you do not need to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). Your visa allows entry without the need for additional travel authorisations. If you are a citizen of a Visa Waiver Program-participating country and do not have a visa, you must obtain an ESTA for travel.
Does holding a visa guarantee entry into the U.S.?
Having a visa does not guarantee entry into the U.S. Once you arrive at a U.S. Port of entry, officials from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection will conduct an inspection. This process determines if you meet the requirements for admission. If you bring any prohibited items or fail to produce essential documents, you could be turned away. Even with a valid visa or ESTA, entry can be denied if there are any concerns at customs.
How much money do you need to move from the UK to the USA?
You should budget between $13,000 and $30,000 to move from the UK to the USA. This takes into account visa fees, shipping costs, flights, utilities and healthcare etc. The cost of living in America is also higher than in the UK.
What is an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)?
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, or ITIN, is a unique 9-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It’s for those who aren’t eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN), such as non-residents, and still need to fulfil tax obligations in the U.S.
Can I move my pet to the USA?
It is possible to import pets and bring them to America. There are special requirements, but it is a pretty straightforward process.
You will need to ensure that:
– The pet has a microchip
– A certificate to state that the pet is healthy and safe to fly
– Proof of rabies vaccination
– Other required vaccines depending on the laws and state regulations at the time
What can’t I bring to America?
There are some items that you will not be able to ship as a result of UK export regulations, safety standards or because of damaging other items in your shipment. Some items include:
– Food and drinks
– Narcotics and certain other medications
– Absinthe (unless thujone free)
– Plants, seeds, vegetables and fruits
– Soil, livestock or animal pests
We have a full list of prohibited items for shipping to the USA to ensure you’re equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision.
About 1st Move International
1st Move International are a specialist international moving and shipping company offering packing, shipping and insurance for shipping household goods and personal effects overseas. We have a global reach covering over 80 countries and 6500 worldwide destinations. You can get an international removals quote here or find more information on our international removals UK to USA service here.
