A British Citizen's Journey: Living Abroad and Identity

The story of my mother, who has lived in the United States since the 1950s, provides a poignant view into the challenges and choices faced by British citizens living abroad. This article explores the legal and practical considerations for a British citizen who chooses to reside in another country for an extended period, while weaving in my mother's personal experiences.

Living Abroad for Extended Periods

A British citizen can live abroad for as long as they wish without returning to the UK. However, there are several important factors to consider:

Tax Residency

British citizens who live abroad for more than 183 days in a tax year may be considered tax residents of that country and may be required to pay taxes there. This can have significant implications for tax planning and financial management.

Voting Rights

British citizens can vote in UK elections for up to 15 years after leaving the UK. After that period, they lose the right to vote. This can be a significant factor for many who choose to remain abroad for an extended period.

Healthcare

Access to the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK may be affected if you live abroad for an extended time. Some services may not be available, leading to potential healthcare challenges.

State Pension

British citizens can still receive their UK state pension while living abroad. However, the amount may be affected by the country they reside in. This can have long-term financial implications for residents.

Passport Renewal

Periodic passport renewal may involve some extra steps when living abroad. These can include additional documentation and potential delays, which should be factored into long-term planning.

A Personal Reflection

My mother's experience offers a unique perspective on the choices and challenges faced by British citizens who choose to live abroad. She came to the United States in the 1950s and has not returned to England since. Her story is not uncommon for many from her generation, who were often focused on raising families and building careers in the new world.

For many years, financial and time-related constraints made it impossible for my mother to return to the UK. She was raising children, and my father was in the US Air Force and later starting a new career. Their plans to travel after retirement were also part of the context in which they decided to stay in America.

By the time my parents were ready to retire and consider traveling, my mother's family had already moved to the US. Her sister was married to a US Marine, and she became worried that "everything had changed too much." These personal and emotional considerations often play a significant role in the decision to stay abroad.

My mother never participated in UK elections, nor did she vote in US elections. Her employment history has largely been in the United States, and she frequently reminds Americans that they are "subjected to taxation without representation." However, she also expresses frustration with the system, saying "Don't blame me!" after elections.

Conclusion

The life of a British citizen living abroad is complex and multifaceted. While they can remain abroad for extended periods, there are important legal and practical considerations. Each case is unique, and the choices made can have far-reaching implications. As my mother's story illustrates, personal, financial, and emotional considerations often play crucial roles in the decision to stay abroad, and they can have lasting impacts on one's identity and rights.