US comedian and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres made headlines this week after revealing that she and wife, Portia de Rossi, have relocated permanently to the UK. What began as a short stay in the Cotswolds quickly turned into a life-changing decision after the 2024 US election. “We got here the day before the election… and we’re like, ‘We’re staying here,’” Ellen told an audience in Cheltenham.
While the couple’s reasons for relocating are personal and political, including concerns around the potential reversal of same-sex marriage rights, their story reflects a growing trend: American citizens seeking a new life in the UK due to shifting social or political landscapes at home.
If you’re considering a similar move, it’s important to understand that while the UK may feel like a natural cultural fit, the immigration process is far from automatic, and there are a number of key routes, requirements and pitfalls to be aware of.
Can a US Citizen Move to the UK?
Yes, but not without a valid visa. There is no automatic right for US citizens to live in the UK long-term unless they hold British citizenship, have UK ancestry, or secure a visa under one of the recognised immigration routes.
Here are some of the most common options:
Visa Routes for US Citizens Moving to the UK
Spouse or Partner Visa
If you’re married to or in a civil partnership with a British citizen or someone with settled status (such as Indefinite Leave to Remain), you may be eligible for a Family Visa.
To qualify, you’ll need to:
- Prove your relationship is genuine and subsisting
- Meet the financial requirement (usually a minimum income threshold of £29,000 from spring 2024, increasing in stages)
- Provide evidence of suitable accommodation
- Pass an English language test (unless exempt)
- TB requirement (unless exempt)
This visa initially lasts 2.5 years and can be extended. After five years, you may be eligible to apply for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain).
Skilled Worker Visa
If you’ve been offered a job in the UK in an eligible skilled role and by an employer licensed to sponsor visas, you may qualify under the Skilled Worker route.
Key requirements include:
- A certificate of sponsorship from your UK employer
- A minimum salary threshold
- Proof of English language ability
- TB requirement
This route is popular for professionals in healthcare, technology, education, and finance.
Global Talent or Innovator Founder Visas
If you’re recognised as a leader or emerging talent in fields such as science, the arts, or technology, or if you have a scalable business idea, you may qualify under one of these specialist visa categories. These are more niche but offer a route to settlement and potential endorsement from UK bodies.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Even when the move is personally motivated, such as for safety, rights, or lifestyle reasons, failing to prepare properly can lead to frustration or visa refusal. Consider the following:
- Assuming a tourist visa is enough: A standard visitor visa only allows for a six-month stay, and you cannot work, study long-term, or settle during this time.
- Misunderstanding the financial thresholds: These can be complex, particularly for self-employed applicants or those with foreign income.
- Not planning ahead: Processing times can vary significantly. Getting married again in the UK, for example, may not be as simple as it sounds if you’re on a visitor visa.
- Failing to seek proper advice: Immigration rules are detailed and subject to change; expert guidance ensures your application is accurate, complete, and has the best chance of success.
Are You Safe to Be Yourself in the UK?
As Ellen DeGeneres highlighted, safety, rights, and inclusivity are at the heart of many decisions to move abroad. The UK remains one of the more progressive countries in Europe in terms of LGBTQ+ rights, with equal marriage, adoption rights, and legal protections from discrimination enshrined in law.
That said, no system is perfect, and it’s important to understand both the legal framework and the lived reality of any country you choose to move to. For many, though, the UK offers a sense of safety, stability, and freedom that is increasingly hard to find elsewhere.
At Slater Heelis, we’re partnered with the LGBT Foundation, a local, long-running charity supporting LGBT people across the UK. We’re proud to provide specialised advice for members of the LGBT community, using the LGBT Foundation’s resources and training to ensure our team members recognise the lived experiences of LGBT people and provide tailored, informed and compassionate advice.
How Slater Heelis Can Help
At Slater Heelis, our Immigration team supports clients across the US and globally who are looking to start a new life in the UK. We provide:
- Personalised advice based on your goals and circumstances
- Full support with visa applications, extensions and appeals
- Advice on pathways to Indefinite Leave to Remain and British Citizenship
- Guidance on rights, entitlements and integration
Whether you’re relocating for political reasons, personal safety, or a fresh start, we’re here to help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
Contact us today to speak to one of our specialist immigration solicitors.
Get In Touch
Joanna Safadi is an Associate Partner and Immigration solicitor advising on visa applications and sponsorship licences.
If you’d like to get in touch, please call 03301 624 681 or via our contact form.
