Unlocking UK immigration: opportunities for US nationals amid political shifts

The change in government in the US, uncertainty surrounding the annual lottery system, and increasing number of US nationals and residents who want to work and live globally mean interest in the UK immigration system remains strong. This may reflect the desire to hold dual citizenship for flexibility, or a wish to leave the US for the short or medium term.

While the UK no longer offers an Investor or Golden visa, there are various visa routes available:

• High Potential Individual (HPI) visa – for recent graduates from certain universities, this route has a heavy bias to North America. 

• Skilled Worker visa – allows skilled workers to come to the UK to work for an independent UK trading business or, with certain limitations, one incorporated for this purpose or a family office. Settlement can be achieved after five years of continuous UK residence. 

• Global Talent visa – an endorsement for individuals with specialist skills in their chosen field (predominantly tech, creative, or engineering). This route allows holders to work for themselves or a company and settle permanently in the UK after three (not the usual five) years of continuous residence.

• Student visa – enabling studying at university level with a pathway into working post-graduation. 

In most cases, partners (married and unmarried) and children can obtain dependant visas and work or study freely in the UK without additional permission.

The best option will depend on the applicant's circumstances. If you require any assistance, our specialist team would be happy to help.