Relocation to USA

All you need to know when relocating to a different country

Before relocating to America it is worth doing some research. Still referred to as the ‘Land of Opportunity’, the United States of America is one of the world’s largest economic powers. When moving to the US, especially from the UK, it is good to remember that it has a population of over 300 million people and has 50 separate states with three different time zones. America has seen increased globalisation over more recent years, with American businesses often being large multinational companies. The US Dollar remains one of the strongest and most influential currencies in the world and it is this that has helped the country out of past economic downturns.

With such a large landmass, it is difficult to generalise about the many advantages to relocating to America. The country is so diverse that each state can offer different lifestyles, climates, employment opportunities and cost of living. You can enjoy a thriving metropolis, sun-drenched beaches and snow-capped mountains with fantastic ski opportunities. If you thinking about a relocation to America from the UK there are some visa requirements to take into account.

Visa requirements

Relocation requirements for moving to the USA

Since 9/11 US policy changes have resulted in much more selective immigration regulations, getting a visa to work is now nowhere near as easy as it was. If you want to work in America you can apply for several types of visa:

A H1-B non-immigrant visa is for skilled, educated people working for a sponsoring employer in specific occupations such as maths, engineering, law or medicine.
A H-2B is for temporary non-agricultural workers and is available for foreign workers doing seasonal work where there is a shortage of local workers.
The J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Program for people looking to study, teach or carry out research in the US.
The green card – this will entitle you to become a permanent resident. You can obtain a green card through a job or job offer, provided there are not enough US workers who can do the job.

Currency

Money when moving to the USA

The US Dollar (USD) divided into 100 cents.

Local time difference

New York, is 5 hours behind London and uses daylight saving. However, if you are undergoing a UK to USA relocation to further west, the time difference between the States and the UK is a lot more.

Useful facts

  • Capital city: Washington D.C.
  • Official Language: There is no official language; the main language is English with Spanish spoken in the South-Western states.
  • Unit of measure: Imperial
  • Electricity supply: 20 volts, 60Hz.
  • USA flag: Old Glory, The Stars and Stripes, The Star-Spangled Banner.
  • Emergency numbers: 911 – this covers police, ambulance and fire services
  • International dialing code: +1

Relocating to Chicago

LSS Relocation have built up a wealth of knowledge on locations around the World. To find out more please visit our information page.

Different kinds of travel

The country has excellent public transport with trains, buses, subways, cable cars and streetcars. Since the country is so large, often domestic flights between cities is the most economical way of travelling, although Amtrak trains can provide a safe and relaxing alternative to flying to a destination.A car is not totally necessary although most people do choose to own one.

The roads and highways are well kept and easy to navigate. The cost of fuel in America is reasonably priced, compared to other parts of the world. Most people who already have a driver’s licence in their home country can drive in America provided the licence is valid. Driving requirements may vary from state to state and should always be checked.

Property prices

As a general guide you will find property prices are influenced by location and demand. Your choice of location will be influenced by your place of work. Local agents will be the best place to start. The process of buying any type of property or land in the USA is strictly regulated. The services of certain professionals are required for the process. The local estate agent should be able to give an estimation of all fees and the property charges the buyer will be responsible for when they become the owner.

Different kinds of travel after relocation

The country has excellent public transport with trains, buses, subways, cable cars and streetcars. Since the country is so large, often domestic flights between cities is the most economical way of travelling, although Amtrak trains can provide a safe and relaxing alternative to flying to a destination.

A car is not totally necessary although most people do choose to own one. The roads and highways are well kept and easy to navigate. The cost of fuel in America is reasonably priced, compared to other parts of the world. Most people who already have a driver’s licence in their home country can drive in America provided the licence is valid. Driving requirements may vary from state to state and should always be checked.

Typical property prices

Price per square meter to buy an apartment in New York City Centre – US$ 10,250.00.
Price per square meter to buy an apartment in New York City suburbs – US $5800.00.
There are many ways to research property prices in the USA.

Education

America boasts some of the most successful educational institutes in the world. Yale and Harvard are two of the most famous and well-regarded universities but obtaining a place at these is highly competitive. There are also a number of international schools and colleges that offer a very good education for all.UK Expats will often send their children to an International school. Students at international schools in the USA can be taught in English and a foreign language and can follow the curriculum back home. However, good international schools can often have long waiting lists, so it is wise to apply well in advance.

Guidelines on schools in
USA

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Restaurants when relocating to USA

Relocation Companies

Location Strategy Solutions (LSS Relocation) was established as a relocation management company in 1986. The Company has grown through innovation and excellent customer service provision and now includes many major international companies among its clients. We have a wealth of experience with relocations to North and South America, having relocated many companies to various parts of the USA.

LSS Relocation is involved in national relocation and international relocation with memberships and council involvement within the ARP, EuRA to name but a few. Through LSS’s long history within the relocation arena, deep rooted partnerships have been established across the globe allowing LSS to deliver to their corporate clients the right service for their particular needs, whether requiring seamless coordination across multiple jurisdictions or delivery in a single location.

We understand the need to combine a professional service with the personal touch, so important when dealing with the inherent stress of relocation and the particular requirements of each individual and family. Through maintaining our independence we can treat your employees as human beings and not a number in a database.

Relocating to America | Relocation Companies | Staff Relocation America | Move Management USA LSS Relocation UK +44 20 3950 0550. Americas +1 312 999 0057. Asia +81 345 888429

Relocating to America – Relocation Companies – Staff Relocation America 140415(ay)

Locations

When relocating your company or staff to a new country it is advisable to research the destination. Through our work with our relocation clients LSS Relocation, has gathered together a wealth of relocation, accommodate, cultural and other local information about countries and cities around the World. Below you will find links with information about relocating to some of those places. Of course, our relocation services are not limited to these countries.