Wealthy Americans are Once Again Interested in Living in the UK
Alexandra Goss in The Telegraph recently noted a rise in enquiries from US citizens and Green Card holders, reversing her earlier view on wealthy residents leaving the UK.
People move all the time. The reasons wealth owners and generators decide to come or go to the UK are always different.
Here are the five motives I hear most often, in no special order:
- Education. Britain’s independent schools enjoy a global reputation, and parents see them as a springboard for their children. The Telegraph calculates that fees are more than £16,000 lower than like‑for‑like schools in the United States, even after the forthcoming VAT.
- Enterprise. Many American entrepreneurs already run companies with a British presence.
- Property. Talk of non-residents leaving the UK has led some to expect property prices to fall.
- Taxation. The changes due in April 2025 may provide a favourable tax regime for newcomers.
- Quality of life. The UK offers various cultural, sporting, historical and leisure activities for people of all ages.
Anyone planning to relocate should obtain expert advice on immigration and taxation issues. When handled properly, rewards may include dual citizenship (Britain and the United States permit it).
Visitors meanwhile must remember that an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is now compulsory for short‑term tourism or business in the UK, with the rule extending to European travellers from 2 April.
How Can Sterling Law Help?
Sterling Law’s immigration team secures the right visa for the first time. We handle eligibility reviews, document packs and Home Office representation, arrange sponsor licences and family and investor routes, guide you to settlement or citizenship, and keep you compliant after arrival so your move to the UK runs smoothly.
