Is it extremely difficult for an American to move to England if they don't already have a job lined up?

Question

My husband and I want to move to England after I graduate from college. We are trying to find out exactly how difficult it would be to do that.

Answer 1

If only we could do a swap, i move out there and you move over here.. Its just as difficult for us to move over to the States as it is for you to move over here.

I would start applying for jobs or get yourself into a major company which has offices in the UK and work yourself up.

Anything to do with the media is a good place to start as well.

Answer 2

Yes, unfortunately because you are American and not from the EEA, it would be extremely difficult for you to find work and live here permanently...

This is an earlier answer I gave to a similar question about an American moving to the UK...

"If you are not from the EEA (European Economic Area) you don't stand a cat in h***s chance of being able to come here to live and work unless you have a shed load of money to invest, are being transferred by an American company with a branch over here, or you have a skill that is in high demand and can manage to get a position that cannot be filled by someone from the EEA...

Our country now runs a points system for people coming here to live/work and if you can't fill any of the above criteria you may as well forget it. We would have the same problems trying to work in the States."

More info' here...

http://www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/working...

And this is also a very useful site aimed specifically at Americans...

http://www.uk-yankee.com/wiki-manual/dok...

Answer 3

If neither of you has a job to go to, (a legit job that is), then it's difficult.  There are special categories ie artists, writers that can go without having a "job" and but you have to have an established track record of books/art etc.  

If you have enough money to be completely self supporting that's fine too.

Otherwise - it's a no go zone.  6 months as a tourist and then your time's up

Answer 4

You are allowed to visit for a maximum of 6 months, after that you need to leave.

The only way you can stay longer than 6 months is if ONE of you can find an employer who is willing to sponsor you for a work visa. To sponsor you for a work visa, the employer needs to prove that they can not find anybody else suitable for that job in all the EU countries ( believe me it is tough).

Tier 1 immigration that came to effect recently works on a points based system, points are awarded for your education and earning ability, you could qualify to live in UK under this scheme even without a job offer if you meet the points criteria.

Answer 5

You have to go through a process before you can move there & it can take up to 3 years, & that might give you enough time for line up jobs. I'd recommened getting a job just because moving to a new place can be expensive. It might be wise to set up a job before moving. Hope this helps! :)