I am in the process of getting a JAA ATPL. It definitely depends on how many hours, the weight of the aircraft in kg and if it was international ops or not. What I am doing is purchasing the books as a package along with the online help. For me, I look at this as a long term investment, like college, so I would like to have the books to refer to or keep in my library. Perhaps a bit old fashion but it works for me. If you're able to find an airline or company to hire you without the JAA license like the previous guys mentioned that is great, it's just really hard to find that.

The other thing is the medical. The UK will consider you as an initial 1st class which has a more restrictive vision requirement. Probably no big deal, but if you wear glasses, you should look at the exact requirement. I just found out today, however, that in Prague, Czech Republic, if you already have a 1st class med., they will issue a JAA and can waive some of the vision requirement for the initial. This is also assuming you have an ATP as well. They charge in crowns 3,650 which is about $275 plus you have to fly to Prague.

I notice a number of places want an EU passport, not just the right to work and live in the EU.

Finally, I think that there are cultural differences with pilots in Europe and you might feel a little uncomfortable, but again, this depends on you. I have married a European and live here so I have committed myself to the language and lifestyle. This of course is a personal thing and no one can tell you if you will like it or not. Just go with you hear, be honest with yourself and go for it. Good luck.