Removals to America

There are several types of visa;

Temporary Visa

Temporary visas are predominantly based around living and working in the US for an extended period (without applying for permanent resident status). These vocational visas include;

• L-1 Visa – For foreign workers.
• E1 & E2 Visas – For traders and investors.
• H-1B Visa – For specialist occupations.
• H-2B Visa – For non-agricultural workers.

Permanent Residence

The three most common requirements to apply for permanent residence visas are;

• Familial Links – Spouse, parentage, etc.
• Fiance Visa – If you’re marrying a US citizen.
• Employment – Your employer may help you apply for a Green Card if your work is going to be permanent.
• EB-5 Investor – If you’re investing in the US economy and can show independent means as well as your investment.

The US system can be complex but in many cases your employer may be able to assist if you’re moving to America for a new job.

America has a paid healthcare system. While elderly or vulnerable citizens may be eligible for some assistance (Medicare, Medicaid), immigrants are mostly expected to have their own health insurance. Many employers provide health insurance as part of a payment package, in some cases this cover may be extended to immediate family members and dental care.

Different health insurance plans cover different levels of healthcare so additional costs may apply, the more comprehensive the cover, the greater level of protection.

Hospitals won’t turn away those needing care, however after treatment you will be invoiced and healthcare costs are one of the highest causes of bankruptcy in America.

The US school system can be broken down to;

• Elementary School – 5/6 – 11/12 years old
• Middle School – 11/12 – 13/14 years old
• High School – 13/14 – 17/18 years old

There are tests at the end of each grade year and pupils must pass in order to progress to the next year. The curriculum tends to be quite broad and extra curricular activities (sport, art, theatre, science, computer, etc) are excellent offering even further learning opportunities. Many pupils attain college places and scholarship through sport, theatre, art, etc.

A full UK driving license can be used to apply for an International Driving Permit which you can use for up to 1 year, after which you will need to apply for a US license. As with many US laws, driving regulations and requirements vary from state to state so always do your own research around current US driving laws.

Importing your car to the US can be expensive, in general cars are cheaper to buy and cheaper to run in the States.

Americans prefer automatic vehicles where 96% of cars are automatic. Automatics are on the rise in the UK, where currently around 54% of new car sales are now automatic.

Most US based banks require a Social Security Number and Individual Taxpayer Identification Number in order to open an account. A number of international and UK based banks do operate in the US and you can get Wise Multi-Currency Accounts to avoid some transaction fees, however the best way to avoid fees and exchange rate issues is to have a US based bank account in place prior to your removals to America.

Americans average 33 working hours per week compared to 37 in the UK. Legally however, Americans are entitled to less paid days off per year. In such a large country the average working wage can vary widely from state to state. US house prices are around £50,000 lower than the UK and the cost of living in the US is generally considered favourable.