Maddox

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!

BritInParis

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

Maddox

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

SanDiegogirl

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.

scot47

Did Maddox really think she needed a visa to return ?

spouse of scouse

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.