mnorbury

Hi,

I'm a British national with a Green Card via marriage to a US citizen. We also have two children who were both born in the US.

We are thinking about moving back to the UK. I'm currently eligible to apply for US citizenship.

My main question is, should I still continue down the path to US citizenship if we were to move back to the UK (before the move back)? I carry a certain amount of stress and anxiety due to me being on a different passport to my wife and kids. Becoming a US citizen would certainly make that aspect of stress disappear.

Any thoughts?

Giantaxe

Consider whether you wish to file a US tax return for the rest of your life. Of course, with a US citizen wife, you are already dragged into this to some extent, even if you live in the UK.

mnorbury

Good point.

My real fear is that since my wife/kids and I are on different passports a situation could arise whereby we can't live in the same country. This may be me over worrying, but if not I'd happily file tax returns forever.

MidAtlantic

If it was me I would absolutely get my US citizenship first. You will then be able to easily come back with your US spouse and children, with no issues.

If your move to the UK does not work out you will be free to move.

excpomea

Also, if you return to the UK your Green card is void after 12 months.
Get the natralization out of the way first.

mnorbury

That is pretty much my instinct. Thank you for the feedback.

dave2702

Though N400 processing is taking around a year at the moment so best start it sooner rather than later

GeoffM

I think it varies depending where you live. Even just picking a few different service centers here in SoCal their own estimates range from 6 to 10 months.

OP: We're getting citizenship before leaving the country. We may be back one day and wan the door to be relatively open, than lose our GCs and have to start all over again with visas.

BigK

Get that citizenship. Yeah, you'll have to file taxes but the US tax burden is adjusted against taxes paid in the other country. But yeah, if capital gains is taxed at 15% in the UK and 20% in the US, you will owe uncle sam 5% for any cap gains in the UK.

The price you pay to have 2 great passports and citizenships i suppose

BigK

Also, I know many green card holders who have managed to maintain their green cards for decades despite not living here. But that is becoming much riskier, and you have to visit the US often and perhaps show ties here all along

petitefrancaise

Personally, I would want to have the same citizenships as my kids.

robin1234

Aren't your children also British citizens?