November 28, 2023
Have you ever thought about where your dream job might lead you? Could it be to the bustling streets of the United Kingdom or the diverse landscapes of the United States?
UK Permanent Residency Vs USA Permanent Residency
Getting permission to live in a country forever, called Permanent Residency (PR), is a big deal. In the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (US), the process is kind of similar but also has important differences. In the UK, getting Permanent Residency (also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain) lets you stay, work, and study there forever after at least 5 years, with some visas making you eligible in just 3 years. There are different ways, like family, work, and business visas. If you’re a family member, you usually need to live in the UK for 2 or 5 years, meet certain criteria, pass tests, and show you can speak English. Work visas, such as the Skilled Worker, and business visas, like the Innovator, lead to Permanent Residency in 5 years or, in the case of the Innovator, just 3 years. For people from the European Union (EU), the EU Settlement Scheme is essential. In the US, having Permanent Residency (USA Green Card) means you can live and work there forever. Ways to get it include employer-sponsored applications, self-sponsored employment-based applications, marriage, family sponsorship, and the diversity lottery program. The time and money it takes can vary a lot, with some processes taking a few months and others several years. Understanding these ways is super important for anyone wanting to make a home in the UK or the US.
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Pathways : UK VS US
Each country has its own way for people to move there, and they come with different opportunities and challenges. Let’s take a simple look at the paths people can take to immigrate to the UK or the US, understanding the unique routes each country offers for those looking to start a new chapter in a different land.
| Aspect | UK Permanent Residency | US Permanent Residency (USA Green Card) |
| Key Requirements | Typically 5 years, varying by visa type. EU Settlement Scheme for EU nationals. | Varies by category, e.g., employment-based (EB-1, EB-2) or family-sponsored. Diversity lottery for some. |
| Fastest Route to PR | Innovator Visa (3 years). | Employment-based categories like EB-1 (Extraordinary Ability) or EB-2 (National Interest Waiver) can be faster (6-8 months). |
| Family Member PR | Spouse (2 or 5 years), Child (when parent has PR), Adult Dependent Relative (when UK-based career has PR). | Marriage to a US citizen or family sponsorship options. |
| Work Visa PR | Skilled Worker Visa (5 years). | Employment-based visas, e.g., H-1B or EB categories (5 years). |
| Business Visa PR | Innovator Visa (3 years). | Self-sponsored EB-1A or EB-2 NIW can lead to PR. |
| EU Nationals | Apply under the EU Settlement Scheme (pre-settled or settled status). | No specific provision post-Brexit; apply through regular routes. |
| Application Process | Online application, fees, biometrics, and required documents. | Complex process, varying by category; generally involves petition, approval, visa processing, and adjustment of status. |
| Timeline and Costs | Varies, but typically 6 months; options for expedited service at an additional fee. | Varies widely, from months to years; costs depend on category, legal fees, and application type. |
Documents Needed for PR Application
UK PR Application Documents
- Proof of exercising treaty rights: Show activities in the last five years, such as studying, working, job seeking, self-employment, or self-sufficiency.
- Proof of relationship (for family members of a UK citizen): Document living with the EEA national sponsor, establish the relationship by blood, marriage, or as a durable partner, and confirm not staying outside the UK for more than 180 days annually during the qualifying period. Show continuous residence in the UK for five years with a treaty of rights.
- Proof of residence: Provide evidence of residency from two years ago. Qualify by not staying outside the UK for more than two years since that period. If the stay exceeds two years, demonstrate subsequent continuous five years of stay to maintain validity.
USA PR Application Documents:
- Passport
- Photographs
- Appointment Letter and Courier Confirmation Page
- Birth Certificate
- Adoption Certificate (if applicable)
- Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
- Divorce Decree or Death Certificate (if applicable)
- Police Certificates for the United Kingdom
- Statutory Declaration/Change of Name Deed Poll (if applicable)
- Police Certificates for Other Countries (if applicable)
- Court and Prison Records (if applicable)
- Military Records (if applicable)
- Evidence of Support (Affidavit of Support)
- Translations
Benefits : UK Vs USA
We’ll delve into the benefits of choosing between the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States (USA). If you find yourself grappling with decisions or uncertainties, consider reaching out to our founder, Nidhi Nagori, for a personalized one-on-one call. Her expertise can provide tailored insights to guide you through this significant decision-making process.
| Benefits | USA | UK |
| Job Opportunities | Vast and dynamic job market across industries | Diverse job opportunities with a global reach |
| Innovation and Technology | Hub for innovation and technology | Strong emphasis on research and innovation |
| Salaries | Competitive salaries with the potential for high earnings | Competitive salaries with a focus on work-life balance |
| Cultural Diversity | Rich cultural diversity | A multicultural society with diverse traditions |
| Educational Opportunities | Renowned universities and institutions | Prestigious universities and a focus on education |
| Networking Opportunities | Extensive networking opportunities | Well-connected business hubs and networking events |
| Healthcare Benefits | Employer-sponsored health insurance plans | National Health Service (NHS) for healthcare coverage |
| Quality of Life | High standard of living with various amenities | High quality of life with access to public services |
| Legal Protections | Strong employment laws protect workers’ rights | Robust legal framework ensuring fair treatment at work |
| Natural Beauty and Climate | Diverse landscapes and climates | Varied landscapes and temperate climate |
Whether you’re eyeing the UK or the US for your next chapter, understanding the visa and PR processes is vital. Consider the unique benefits each country offers and align them with your aspirations. Take the time to explore the eligibility criteria, required documents, and application processes. Let Globalogy Visa experts guide you to move to your dream country.
