Fish and chips. Free museums. Pubs on every corner. Moving to the UK as an American means swapping dimes for 10p coins and learning how to queue like a pro.
Whether you’re relocating for work, romance, or the dream of having four weeks of paid vacation, we’ll help you make sense of the essentials—money, visas, healthcare, schooling, and the quiet thrill of mastering the self-checkout at Sainsbury’s.
Planning Your Move
From visa types to housing deposits to when you’ll actually get your NHS number, this section walks you through the logistics of starting life in the UK—without losing your mind (or your passport).
What to Expect When Moving to the UK from the USA
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Do U.S. Citizens Need a Visa to Visit the UK?
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Banking, Finances, and Taxes
Dual tax systems? Oh yes. We’ll help you avoid paying twice, stay compliant with both HMRC and the IRS, and sort out bank accounts, exchange rates, and all things GBP.
New to Banking in the UK? Here’s How It Differs from the US
From Dollars to Pounds: How US to UK Conversion Works in Daily Life
Life in the UK
Get the lay of the land—from how to set up a phone plan to why everyone talks about the weather. We’ll help you feel at home (and possibly develop an appreciation for Marmite. Or not.)
How Much Is the Cost of Living in the UK for U.S. Expats?
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What Life in the United Kingdom Is Really Like for Americans
Cheapest Places to Live in the UK for Expats on a Budget
Tea, Pubs, and Politeness: Getting Used to UK Culture and Traditions
What Is the Emergency Number in England? (And Other Need-to-Know Info)
UK Crime Rate vs US: Is It Really Safer Across the Pond?
Healthcare and Retirement
Yes, the NHS is real—and no, you won’t get billed $800 for walking into a hospital. We’ll explain how to access care, what’s covered, and how to plan for long-term retirement in the UK.
UK Healthcare for U.S. Expats: What It’s Like to Actually Use the NHS
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How to Retire in the UK as an American
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Raising a Family
From prams to prep school, this section covers everything you need to know about family visas, childcare options, and the UK school system (uniforms included).
Does the UK Give Citizenship by Birth? What American Parents Should Know
Dual Citizenship in the US and UK: What It Means for You and Your Kids
Business and Wealth Management
Whether you're launching a start-up in London or managing cross-border investments from Leeds, we’ll guide you through the tax rules, legal considerations, and financial strategy for doing business abroad.
How to Get an Expat Mortgage in the UK
What Expats Should Know About Private Banking in the UK
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do I need a visa to move to the UK from the U.S.?
Yes—you’ll need the right visa to live and work in the UK long-term. Popular options include skilled worker visas, family visas, and the youth mobility scheme if you qualify.
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Can Americans use the NHS?
Once you’re on a visa that includes the immigration health surcharge (most do), you’ll have access to the NHS just like UK residents. Bring your own dental plan, though.
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What’s the cost of living like in the UK?
It depends where you live. London is pricey (bring snacks), while smaller towns offer better value. Groceries and public transport are often cheaper than in the U.S.—but brace yourself for energy bills.
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Where do most U.S. expats live in the UK?
London is the obvious favorite, but cities like Edinburgh, Manchester, and Oxford also have strong expat communities and plenty of charm.
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Can I bring my U.S. retirement accounts with me?
You can keep them, but managing them gets complicated. Cross-border tax planning is key, especially when it comes to IRAs, 401(k)s, and avoiding surprise reporting requirements.