If you’re considering a move to the United States from the UK, one of the most important steps is understanding the visa process. The U.S. immigration system can feel complex, but with the right knowledge, you can identify the visa that best fits your circumstances — whether you’re relocating for work, study, family, or retirement.
This guide explores the most common visa options for British expats and what you need to know before you start your American journey.
💼 Work Visa Options
H-1B Visa – For Skilled Professionals
- Designed for individuals with specialised knowledge, typically in fields like IT, finance, engineering, or medicine.
- Requires employer sponsorship from a U.S. company.
- Subject to an annual cap, so applications are competitive.
L-1 Visa – Intra-Company Transfers
- For employees of multinational companies relocating from a UK office to a U.S. branch.
- Allows you to live and work in the U.S. while continuing with your employer.
O-1 Visa – For Individuals with Extraordinary Ability
- Reserved for professionals with recognised expertise in their field (arts, sciences, business, or sports).
- Often used by performers, athletes, and high-level executives.
🎓 Student and Exchange Visas
F-1 Visa – Academic Study
- For students enrolled in U.S. universities or colleges.
- Allows on-campus work, with optional training periods post-graduation.
J-1 Visa – Exchange Visitors
- Popular for research scholars, interns, and cultural exchange participants.
- Many Brits use the J-1 for summer work programmes or research placements.
👨👩👧 Family and Marriage Visas
- K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa: For those engaged to a U.S. citizen, allowing you to enter the U.S. and marry within 90 days.
- CR-1/IR-1 Spouse Visa: For British nationals married to U.S. citizens, granting permanent resident status.
- Family-Sponsored Green Card: For close relatives of U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
These pathways are some of the most straightforward for those with American partners or close family connections.
🌟 Diversity Visa Lottery
The Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, often called the “Green Card Lottery,” allocates visas to nationals of countries with low immigration rates to the U.S. Historically, UK citizens are not eligible — but some exceptions apply if your spouse is from a qualifying country.
🏡 Retirement and Long-Term Stay Options
Unlike some countries, the U.S. does not have a dedicated “retirement visa.” British retirees typically apply through:
- Investor visas (EB-5) if willing to invest significant funds into the U.S. economy.
- Family sponsorship if they have American children or close relatives.
🔑 Pathway to a Green Card and Citizenship
- Many visas are temporary, but can lead to permanent residency (a Green Card).
- After holding a Green Card for five years, you can usually apply for U.S. citizenship.
🌍 Making Your Move
Understanding U.S. visas is the first step. The next is planning your relocation — shipping, removals, and settling into your new life. That’s where Advance Moves can help.
Our Quick Quote system gives you instant removal estimates, making it easier to budget and organise your international move. We then connect you with trusted removal companies who handle everything from shipping to customs clearance.
👉 Get started with moving to United States from UK and make your relocation simple.
✨ With the right visa and the right moving support, your American dream can quickly become a reality.