The route I took was:
- Unable to get a UK (at the time EASA) Class 1 due to eyesight
- Got an FAA Class 1 via a SODA (Statement of Demonstrated Ability - had to do a brief checkride in the US with an FAA staff Examiner)
- Got an FAA CPL (also Instrument & Multi, but not relevant in this context)
- Got a UK / EASA Class 1 based on the renewal requirements rather than initial issue requirements on the basis of my FAA CPL
- Got an UK / EASA CPL / IR / ME
- .... never managed to get a job with it!
It was a few (10 or 12 ?) years ago now, rules may have changed.