New Member - From UK to US and Back Again

Hello all!  I am a California resident, US citizen who lived in Farnham from 1998-2005.  I married a Brit and had two kids within that time and was also granted my ILR in 2002. 

My husband wanted to try out the California lifestyle so we moved to Carlsbad, CA (near San Diego) in 2005.  Although I have some family here,  I didn't really want to return.  I only relented for his sake, but have been hoping for his change of heart and that we would return to England one day!

Well, the time has come and we are planning a move back to Blighty within the next year.  I am beyond happy, but a bit daunted by having to start the VISA process from scratch.  I didn't do my homework and did not realize my ILR would expire after two years outside the UK.  Silly me, I thought indefinite meant indefinite! 

I just wanted to introduce myself - I will definitely be asking a lot of questions in the VISA category.  But that is for another post!  Look forward to corresponding with the community!

Sorry about your ILR.  The key word is remain, not indefinite.  As long as you remained in the U.K., you could stay indefinitely.

It is a daunting process, particularly if you went through it over a decade ago.  Was a much simpler time.   

Thanks for your reply - I'll say it was much simpler back then!  I can't find a way to post under the VISA category so can I ask a question here?

Is it possible for all of us to go over and to apply for the VISA in the UK or do we have to apply from the US before I can go? 

Hi watersfam! Welcome! 

The good news is that you've found us so the process should be as smooth as possible.

You do have to apply from the US.

Yes, you must apply from the US.  Timing is trickier now as you only have a 30 day window to move.  They are supposed to honour your requested travel date...  but...  they usually don't.   

thank you Larrabee and KFdancer. This leads to my next question.  How far in advance can I apply?  I can't find anything on gov.uk regarding this or how long I have to enter the UK once the VISA is (hopefully) issued.  My husband and son are going back this summer, but because my daughter will be finishing high school, she and I are not planning on going back until Summer 2018.  So I do have quite a bit of time. Obviously I don't want to apply too soon.

Woops - just saw the 30 day window remark - must pay more attention!  Doe that mean I have 30 days from issue to enter UK?

thank you Larrabee and KFdancer. This leads to my next question.  How far in advance can I apply?  I can't find anything on gov.uk regarding this or how long I have to enter the UK once the VISA is (hopefully) issued.  My husband and son are going back this summer, but because my daughter will be finishing high school, she and I are not planning on going back until Summer 2018.  So I do have quite a bit of time. Obviously I don't want to apply too soon.

You can nominate an intended travel date up to 3 months ahead of time and as Kfdancer mentioned, you then have 30 days to enter the UK although in practice, some of the time is eaten up as your passport is on it's way back to you.
Because of this, some people pop to the UK to pick up their BRP  then return to the US briefly to finish up their affairs before making the move proper.

Also, if you are not moving back until 2018, things will likely have changed again by then!

So true Larrabee! I am sure there will be changes. I guess the thing to do for now is start gathering all my back up and keep an eye on gov.uk for any changes.  I am so glad to have this resource with real people who can answer my questions!  I will definitely be around.  Thanks again!

So true Larrabee! I am sure there will be changes. I guess the thing to do for now is start gathering all my back up and keep an eye on gov.uk for any changes.  I am so glad to have this resource with real people who can answer my questions!  I will definitely be around.  Thanks again!

Yes, exactly! This place is great, stick around. 

Hi Watersfam,

Welcome! My DH and I are thinking about moving back to the UK soon too. We are in Vermont right now, but I lived in Carlsbad when I was a kid! That whole area is totally "old stomping grounds" for me and my family.

Best of luck with your paperwork and move. Sorry if I missed this somewhere in the thread... where do you think you'll be headed back to in the UK?

Best,
Sarah

Hi Watersfam,

Welcome! My DH and I are thinking about moving back to the UK soon too. We are in Vermont right now, but I lived in Carlsbad when I was a kid! That whole area is totally "old stomping grounds" for me and my family.

Best of luck with your paperwork and move. Sorry if I missed this somewhere in the thread... where do you think you'll be headed back to in the UK?

Best,
Sarah

Sorry this is such a late response - we're going to Farnham in Surrey

Sorry this is such a late response - we're going to Farnham in Surrey

Welcome to the group! You won't be too far from me! (only half hour drive). If you are willing to drive a half hour, we have an American expat group on Facebook where we do meetup!

Welcome to the forums!