Thanks for that info and it does seem that the best route would be to sign up for the new approved ATP course in the US. I do have a current FAA CPL (LTA), so I'm more used to flying in the US.
Not wishing to hijack this thread, but what type of IR is required for an FAA ATP (single or twin) to be issued and can it be done in an approved simulator ??
The other question I have is about the 3rd pilot that some cargo airlines use, so can some useful chap or chapess, confirm that if you work as a 3rd pilot, there is no requirement for a type rating ??