In the aftermath of Donald Trump’s election victory, a wave of American celebrities apparently began seeking refuge across the Atlantic. Among them, Ellen DeGeneres, the once darling of American TV, and her wife Portia de Rossi, who reportedly decided to swap the glamour of Hollywood for the peaceful countryside of the Cotswolds. This high-profile move underscores a broader trend of liberal minded Americans, disillusioned by the political climate and fearful for what the next 4 years has in store for America.
The UK’s appeal as a destination for US citizens is obvious and longstanding. A similar trend emerged when Donald Trump won his first election in November 2016. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that approximately 26,000 US citizens immigrated to the UK in the year ending June 2018, a 62.5% increase from the previous year. Given the complexities involved when relocating to another country, it's reasonable to conclude that this surge, occurring around six months after Trump took office in January 2017, was partly driven by dissatisfied US citizens looking for a way out. This aligns with our anecdotal evidence at Howard Kennedy, where we assist US citizens working in various sectors, most notably the tech industry, where professionals have expressed concerns about the political environment and its impact on their personal and professional lives.
UK companies may again soon benefit from the influx of highly skilled US migrants. The UK offers several pathways for senior executives, entrepreneurs and skilled workers. Below is a summary of some of the key UK visa options:
1. Skilled Worker Visa
The Skilled Worker visa is for individuals who have a job offer from a UK employer. This visa requires:
• Job Offer: From a UK employer with a valid Sponsor Licence.
• Skill Level: The job must meet the required skill level.
• Salary: Be paid a minimum salary – how much depends on the type of work you do. New applicants will likely have to be paid at least £38,700, although some exceptions can apply.
• English Language: Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English – not an issue for Americans who will automatically meet this requirement.
This visa allows individuals to work in the UK, bring family members, and eventually apply for settlement / permanent residency after 5 years' continuous residence.
2. UK Expansion Worker Visa
The UK Expansion Worker visa is part of the Global Business Mobility category and is intended for senior managers or specialist employees setting up the first UK branch or subsidiary of an overseas business.
The applicant must be employed by the overseas company for at least 12 months (unless they are earning £73,900+ per year.
This visa allows:
• Work in the UK: To establish UK entity and operations.
This visa is designed for businesses looking to expand into the UK market, providing a pathway for key personnel to establish a presence in the UK – making it a stepping stone for companies looking to establish a UK branch before transitioning to other visa categories.
3. Global Talent Visa
The Global Talent visa aims to attract highly skilled individuals who are leaders or potential leaders in specific fields. It allows successful applicants to live and work in the UK without being tied to a specific employer.
The route is open to talented and promising individuals in Academia or research; Arts and culture (including film, television, and fashion); and Digital technology.
• Endorsement: Applicants must be endorsed by an approved body – UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) for researchers; Arts Council England for arts and culture; Tech Nation for digital technology professionals.
• Flexibility: No job offer is required, allowing holders to work for any employer or be self-employed.
• Path to Settlement: Visa holders can apply for permanent residency after three years if endorsed as a leader, or five years if endorsed as an emerging leader.
This visa provides a flexible and attractive option for top talent looking to contribute to the UK's economy.
4. Innovator Founder Visa
The Innovator Founder visa is designed for start-ups, entrepreneurs and experienced business owners. It does not require a specific minimum investment, but applicants must demonstrate a viable and scalable business idea. Key requirements include:
• New Business: The business must be new and not already trading in the UK.
• Innovation: A genuine, original business plan that meets market needs or creates a competitive advantage.
• Viability: A realistic and achievable business plan based on available resources.
• Scalability: Evidence of planning for job creation and market expansion.
This visa allows holders to set up multiple businesses, work for their business, and engage in skilled work outside their business. The visa is initially granted for three years, with the possibility of extensions and permanent settlement after three years.
These visa options provide viable pathways for Americans considering relocation to the UK, whether driven by political dissatisfaction or seeking new opportunities. Understanding these routes can help potential migrants make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of the UK immigration system. For assistance in achieving your objectives, contact Howard Kennedy's immigration team for expert support with the UK immigration process.
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