Hi Mark,
Not sure about the grass being greener as I've never lived and worked over your way.
7 months tiling probably isn't all that much experience down here. Apprenticeships run 4 years then a contractors licesense can only be applied for after doing another 2 years with a company or smaller tile contractor. You'll need to have a large amout of experience with all facets of tiling, from ceramics, porcelain,stone,trav,marble,glass,terracotta as well as experience in larger jobs. 300m2 floors are pretty much the norm down here as most houses are fully tiled.
I know it might sound harsh (I don't mean to be) but this is what employers and clients expect and if you wish to have work then knowing the ins and outs of the tiling trade down here is a must for you and your family.
Here's a link that might be of some help with visa requirements.
http://britishexpats.com/