USA long term stay

[Glenbren]

My son lives in USA and I would like to stay with him for 4/5 months a year. Is this allowed, do I need a special visa, would my annual holiday insurance cover me?

[KARL]

If you are on a visa waiver nationality passport then you are normally allowed to stay up to ninety days per tourist visit - longer single stays require a permit. Annual travel policies usually limit you to a maximum number of days per trip away from you home address, usually of the order of 30-45 days although some will allow more.

[Buenchico]

Last bit first:
Most holiday insurance policies only cover you for breaks of up to a certain duration. (56 days is a common maximum). It's unlikely that your existing policy would cover you but the only way to be sure would be to read the small print. (For companies which offer alternative cover, try googling 'ex-pat insurance').

The US Visa Waiver Program only applies to visitors staying for a maximum of 90 days. You'll require a B-2 visa:
http://www.usembassy.org.uk/cons_new/visa/niv/ index.html

A B-2 visa is normally valid for 10 years but it does not define how long you can stay in the USA for each visit. That's solely a matter for the immigration authorities when you arrive:
http://www.usembassy.org.uk/cons_new/faqs/faq_ visa_niv.html#niv117
However the US embassy might be able to provide guidance as to the normal maximum duration of stay permitted. Their information ought to be accurate, since they charge �1.20 per minute for it!
http://www.usembassy.org.uk/ukaddres.html

Chris

[dundurn]

One other thing you may have to consider is the effect on your UK Home and Contents insurance. Many of these policies assume that your home will never be unoccupied for a period in excess of 30/31 days. If you're planning on being away for longer than that you may need to contact the insurance company. They may want to increase your premiums or make conditions regarding inspection of the property while you're away.

[Glenbren]

Thanks for all the great info.