paul_lynda

Hi all

We are Paul & Lynda, just joined the site as we are planning to emigrate to Sarasota this year. We will hopefully be buying a franchise over there, and our immigration attorney thinks we stand a good chance of getting a Visa.

We are seeking advice from those in the know about the little things that they don't always tell you - the different types of insurance that are required; with little or no credit history in the US, what problems has that caused you; do any UK electrical items work in the US, things like that.

Anybody who has any snippets of information would be very much appreciated.

Thanks

Ray

You're probably thinking about an E-2 visa
you will find it not very popular on this site because its limited value ..but it you have no children ..only want to come to the US for a limited number of years then its doable

taxes, insurance etc far exceed what you pay in the UK
on a Florida phone bill alone there are 9 taxes...not a lot but still there

paul_lynda

Hi Ray, yes it is the E2 visa. I (Paul) am going to be running the business and Lynda will be going out to get a job, with a view to getting a Green Card in 4-5 years. It is just us two, kids all grown up (although they would probably jump at the chance to join us if they could!).

Thanks for the heads up on the insurances/taxes. 9 taxes??!!

Duncan Roberts

How's that going to work? Are you using an actual immigration lawyer, with a law degree, who is recommended? It sounds like you are making up visa categories or are confused about the E-2.

Octang Frye

Get the visa first, then worry about trivial stuff like electricals.

As Ray asked, do you have kids? This is very big consideration because they'll be on their own when they reach 21.

The E2 doesn't offer a direct path to permanent residency. If your business fails or doesn't generate sufficient turnover, you have to go back.

Octang Frye

I missed your reply. I don't think you understand. Your wife can't just get a job and get a green card in 4-5 years.

Bill_S

Phone taxes are the least of your issues. You plan to get an E2 and run the business... fine. But your wife "going out to get a job"? On what visa? How does she plan to get a green card in 4-5 years? Have you left some information out?

What will you do about health insurance? With grown children you're in middle age... expect to pay thousands per month for decent coverage.

Duncan Roberts

Maybe its just me but it smells like Copsey

lisag8070

I thought the spouse of an E2 visa holder can apply for an EAD and seek work elsewhere...? whether it be E2 Investment based or E2 Employment based.

fatbrit

Perfectly possible if you don't mind the risk. Spouse gets an EAD and can therefore work. Wife's employer can sponsor for GC in categories EB1, 2 or 3 depending on her skills. It can be dicey if they leave to renew the E2 visa, but is less of an issue if they stay landlocked. And, of course, she needs the skills and a malleable employer.

Octang Frye

I stand corrected. Apologies to the OP.

Bob

Welcome to BE and goodluck.

I suggest having a read of the wiki, it answers your questions so far.

audio

I will be looking for health insurance when I am close to 70.
Was your quote an exaggeration or will I need to win the lottery?

Duncan Roberts

No exaggeration, will be massively expensive at 70. Then you will likely spend a lot for actual doc visits and the like. I would seriously evaluate the cost before making the move.

Englishtart

I agree, no good burying your head in the sand and then suddenly one day wake up to find you can't afford to have treatment here

Do lots of research on the health insurance costs here, before you go too far.