Relocating to the United States of America is a life-changing experience for anyone. Even if you’ve consumed a lot of American content and art, nothing beats living there. As of 2021, almost 332 million people were living there. Just imagine how incredible the mix of backgrounds and cultures must be!
And if you’re thinking of switching continents, there’s likely more on your mind than the deliciously minor differences between cookies, biscuits, chips, and crisps. Even though there are some similarities between the United Kingdom and the United States, everyone is aware that some aspects of the United Kingdom differ from those in the United States.
A permanent move is more important than a long-term stay. As you weigh your options, you might wonder how challenging it is to immigrate from the UK to the USA, what you should already have in place there, and what the community will be like. One thing’s for sure, every state differs. But broadly, preparing to have the time of your life in the land of unlimited possibilities means you must understand the following things beforehand.
How you’ll ship your belongings
The way you move your belongings differs according to their importance, quantity, and the allocated budget. Since relocation is costly, you likely want to transport your belongings safely and cost-effectively. You don’t want to arrive there to discover that “my chair would’ve fit perfectly here” or that your favorite piece of art is damaged.
Ocean shipping is among the easiest, safest, and cheapest ways to transport a ton of stuff overseas and to the US. There are containers for small and huge cargo volumes, and you can choose between a full-container load for when you want it for yourself, or a less-than-container load, perfect for small moves.
Air freight is also a sound option, but keep in mind that the costs are, obviously, many times higher and that it’s not as eco-friendly as container shipping because airplanes create more CO2. To understand how the shipment process goes and find the best solution, experts from https://sirelo.com/ have given you all the details you need.
Visas
Another essential thing to resolve is the visa situation. As you know, they’re not so easily attainable and can take up to one year to obtain. Getting a head start is important, so your moving process isn’t impacted or delayed. There are multiple types of visas for personal reasons or work, among which the most popular are the following:
- Working visa. To move and live in America, you’ll need a working visa (sponsored employment or temporary), which brings specific requirements. A Master’s or Ph.D. degree can help. The sponsored employment visa means a company sponsors you to stay in the USA and is among the most efficient ways to ensure permanent residency.
- Family visa. Family visas are also called “green cards” and require an American family member to request them on your behalf. These are usually easier processes than work visas.
- Exchange visitor visa. If you want to work or study in America temporarily, this one’s for you. Exchange visitor visas provide people with short-term residency so that they can study and work.
Before going, it’s best to check the latest local travel advice. There’s different advice from state to state since America is such a large country, and the UK is an excellent resource for keeping informed with important travel advice from the USA.
The cost of living
Many believe America is of equal value to the UK regarding the cost of living. It doesn’t differ much, but it depends on where you move. Living on the outskirts of big cities can save you money.
According to living cost.org, the average cost of living for one person in the UK is $1804, while in the US is $2112. It takes $4398 on average for a family in the UK, while in the US, it is $4790. The average family rent in the UK is $1906, while in the US it is $2220, with transportation costs of $165.2 higher there. As you see, you shouldn’t have too much trouble accommodating. However, this doesn’t mean you should leave your favorite appliances, fitness equipment, and recently-bought dishwasher machine at home.
Determine what has a long-life span and what’s damaged and can be thrown. Pack what you want to take and see how a reputable international container shipping company can help you move your stuff to figure out how to bring the comfort of your home with you.
Driving
Compared to UK driving regulations, things are a little bit different in America. Not only do Americans drive on the other side of the road, but each state has its own rules and version of a license; plus, Americans drive younger. Depending on the state, a “full license” or “unrestricted license” requires a minimum age of 16 to 18 years.
Luckily, buying a car, insurance, and petrol (gasoline) is more affordable in the US, and you can use your UK license for driving as a visitor for a whole year before you have to get a local one. Note: You have one to two months to transfer your foreign license through the DMV to the state you’re living in, once you have residency. This involves a written test and, in some states, a practical exam.
The US healthcare system
America doesn’t offer the same free healthcare or support as you’re used to in the UK. Unless the employer offers to pay for employee healthcare, everyone who lives, studies, and works in America must pay for their own.
Most employers offer some healthcare support, so take it if you’re offered it. Otherwise, you’ll need to get insurance. Either way, obtaining healthcare insurance is crucial when you move to America.
When you arrive in the US, you’ll likely enroll in a deliciously American culinary journey.
Eating out in America demonstrates that they live larger than life. Portions in the UK are smaller, so if you want to stay fit, order something smaller than usual because it might equal the UK meal size.
Tipping is an essential custom in America, so expect to pay ~20% of the bill for tips.
Here are some of the most remarkable American dishes to try:
- Cheeseburgers
- Reuben sandwich
- Philly cheese steak
- Chicago-style pizza
- Po’boy.
