Do I need to Apply for a Returning Resident visa?
 

Hi guys,

We are getting closer to returning to the UK and just wanted to check a few things that we may have to do before hand. So, I've been in the US now for 6 years on a permanent green card via my spouse (not interested in citizenship). I have read numerous times here and on other websites that I don't need to file anything to return home but I just found there is indeed a form to 'Apply for a Returning Resident visa'? ( https://www.gov.uk/returning-resident-visa ) It states: You need a Returning Resident visa to come back to live in the UK if you were previously settled (given ‘indefinite leave to enter or remain’) and you’ve been away for more than 2 years.

Do I really need to apply for this and pay £516 to return home?

Also, I came across another form the IRS may need me to submit before leaving the country — 'Departing Alien Clearance (Sailing Permit)'.
https://www.irs.gov/individuals/inte...sailing-permitDoes this also need to be filed? Thought I could just have my accountant close down my business once we arrive over there but doesn't seem that simple.

Any information would help,
Thanks!

Re: Do I need to Apply for a Returning Resident visa?
 

You don’t need any visa to return to the UK if you’re a British citizen. Just a valid British passport.

Re: Do I need to Apply for a Returning Resident visa?
 

Phew! Out of interest, who is the 'Returning Resident visa' for then?

Re: Do I need to Apply for a Returning Resident visa?
 

It's for a non Brit who had ILR and then left the UK and has been away for over 2 years. ILR does not give you the right to return to the UK after 2 years, only citizenship does.

Re: Do I need to Apply for a Returning Resident visa?
 

Did Maddox really think she needed a visa to return ?

Re: Do I need to Apply for a Returning Resident visa?
 

As the OP asked the question, I presume the answer to yours is yes. Not everyone's across the immigration rules, I know I wasn't before I joined BE.