An FAA PPL is perfectly usable as an EASA PPL
Not quite. The UK currently permits automatic validation of a third country PPL but this is not true of all EU states and will, in any case, cease on 8 April 2014 when the derogation expires. After that date, validation (which will not be automatic) will be valid only for one year after which it will be necessary to convert to an EASA licence.
There is currently no conversion route for a 3rd country PPL to a LAPL but to convert to an EASA PPL, you will have to:
- Pass the theoretical knowledge examinations in Air Law and Human Performance
- Pass the PPL skill test
- Fulfil the requirements for the relevant class or type rating
- Hold a Class 2 medical
- Demonstrate language proficiency
- Have completed 100 hours flight time as a pilot
If you don't or can't meet any of these requirements (e.g. the 100 hours) then you will have to pass all of the LAPL/PPL exams, undertake flight training as determined by the competent authority and pass the skill test for either the LAPL or PPL as required.