Blog • Published on:March 11, 2025 | Updated on:March 11, 2025 • 23 Min
For generations, the UK has been a place people rarely left for good. But times are changing. With rising living costs, shifts in political landscapes, and the ripple effects of Brexit, more British citizens are considering life beyond the isles.
Whether it’s the appeal of lower taxes, better weather, or just a fresh start in a new country, relocating abroad has become a real option rather than just a daydream.
Some move for career opportunities, others for retirement, and many simply want a better quality of life. But here’s the thing, not all countries make it easy to pack up and start over. While some places roll out the red carpet with straightforward residency or citizenship options, others have mountains of paperwork and endless bureaucratic loops.
So, where can Brits move without too much hassle? This guide breaks down the 10 easiest countries to relocate to, considering everything from visa requirements and tax benefits to lifestyle perks.
Whether you’re looking for sunshine, financial advantages, or an English-speaking community, this list has something for everyone. Let’s dive in.
Relocating abroad is a significant decision, and understanding the various pathways to residency or citizenship is crucial. Here's a comprehensive overview of ten countries that offer relatively straightforward processes for British citizens seeking a new home.
The UAE, particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, has become a top destination for British expats seeking financial advantages and a modern lifestyle. With zero income tax, a stable economy, and investment-friendly policies, the UAE offers an attractive relocation option.
The UAE is particularly appealing for British citizens seeking tax efficiency and a luxury lifestyle. However, cultural differences and extreme summer temperatures are important considerations.
Read more about the Dubai Residence Visa requirements and application process in our blog: Dubai Residence Visa: Requirements & Application Guide.
Portugal's Golden Visa program offers a flexible pathway to residency for non-EU citizens, including British nationals. As of 2025, the program has undergone significant changes to promote investments that benefit the country's economic and cultural sectors.
Portugal and Malta are among the top European countries offering attractive permanent residency programs. Read more about their benefits and programs in our blog here.
Malta offers two primary pathways for foreign investors seeking residency or citizenship: the Maltese Exceptional Investor Naturalisation (MEIN) Policy and the Malta Permanent Residence Programme (MPRP).
The MEIN Program allows individuals and their families to acquire Maltese citizenship through significant investment. Applicants can choose between two investment options, each with specific residency requirements:
In both options, the property must be held for at least five years. Additionally, an extra €50,000 is required for each dependent included in the application.
The MPRP offers non-EU nationals the opportunity to obtain permanent residency in Malta through investment. The program requires:
Applicants must hold the qualifying property for a minimum of five years. They are also required to have capital assets of not less than €500,000, with at least €150,000 in financial assets.
Both programs provide pathways to reside in Malta, with the MEIN Policy offering a direct route to citizenship and the MPRP granting permanent residency with the potential for naturalization in the long term.
Spain's allure for British citizens is undeniable, with its sunny climate, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes. In 2022, Spain introduced the Digital Nomad Visa as part of its Startup Law, aiming to attract remote workers and boost the digital economy.
Spain's rich cultural heritage, excellent healthcare system, and diverse landscapes make it an attractive destination for British citizens seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle.
Ireland offers a unique advantage for British citizens due to the Common Travel Area (CTA) agreement, allowing free movement between the UK and Ireland. This arrangement simplifies relocation, enabling Brits to live, work, and access services in Ireland without the need for a visa or residency permit.
For British citizens seeking a new environment without the complexities of immigration procedures, Ireland presents a convenient and welcoming option.
Singapore is a leading financial center known for its business-friendly environment, safety, and high standard of living. British citizens with entrepreneurial aspirations or investment plans can secure residency through various visa programs.
1. Investment in Business or Funds: Meet the financial criteria set by the Singapore Economic Development Board.
2. Permanent Residency Application: Apply under the Global Investor Programme.
3. Approval & Relocation: Once approved, residents can enjoy tax benefits, business opportunities, and world-class infrastructure.
Cyprus offers a warm climate, a relaxed lifestyle, and a relatively easy residency process for British citizens. While it is not part of the Schengen Zone, Cyprus is an EU member, meaning residency here can serve as a gateway to Europe.
The country has a Residency by Investment program, which provides permanent residency in exchange for a real estate purchase.
Many British citizens choose Cyprus for its beaches, tax benefits, and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle. While Cyprus is outside the Schengen Zone, it offers a cost-effective and hassle-free route to EU residency.
Canada remains one of the most accessible countries for British citizens due to its Commonwealth ties, similar cultural values, and strong economy. With various immigration pathways, Canada attracts skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and retirees.
Canada's mix of economic opportunities, high living standards, and welcoming immigration policies makes it a top choice for British expats.
Australia has long been a preferred destination for British citizens due to its shared language, similar legal system, and high quality of life. The country’s skilled migration system makes it relatively easy for British professionals to move and work there.
Australia’s economy, healthcare system, and outdoor lifestyle make it an attractive destination for British professionals. However, the high cost of living in cities like Sydney and Melbourne is something to consider.
New Zealand offers British citizens a high quality of life, stunning landscapes, and a relatively easy immigration process. The country’s welcoming policies and English-speaking population make it a top choice for relocation.
New Zealand holds one of the world’s strongest passports, providing extensive visa-free travel opportunities, a status that can be achieved through residency and naturalization. Read more here.
For those seeking a laid-back lifestyle with easy access to nature, New Zealand is an ideal choice.
Since Brexit, British citizens have lost their special status in EU member states, now being classified as nationals of a “third country.” This means that while UK citizens can still visit EU countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, they no longer have automatic residency rights. To live in an EU country long-term, they must now apply for a visa or residence permit, which was previously unnecessary.
Additionally, UK professional qualifications are no longer automatically recognized across the EU, making it harder for British professionals to work abroad without additional certification.
High-net-worth individuals are increasingly relocating from the UK, primarily due to concerns over rising taxes. In March 2024, then-Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announced plans to abolish the UK’s non-dom tax regime.
Under the proposed changes:
These changes have led to an exodus of wealthy individuals, many of whom are moving to low-tax jurisdictions like Dubai, Monaco, and Switzerland to protect their assets.
The UK has seen soaring living expenses, prompting many to seek more affordable lifestyles abroad. Several factors contribute to this:
On top of this, tax policies continue to evolve. For instance, in April 2022, the main National Insurance contribution rate for employees increased from 12% to 13.25%, and for employers, it rose to 15.05%.
As a result, many Britons are moving to countries where the cost of living is lower, taxes are more favorable, and daily expenses are more manageable.
Many skilled professionals are choosing to work abroad for higher salaries, improved working conditions, and lower taxes. Countries such as Spain and Portugal offer:
In some industries, salaries abroad can be more competitive, especially when combined with lower living costs. This makes international relocation an attractive option for British professionals looking for career growth and financial benefits.
Crime rates in certain parts of the UK, particularly in London, have been rising. In 2023, the capital recorded a crime rate of 133.1 offences per 1,000 people, a notable increase from previous years.
Total reported crimes in London reached 938,020, with violent crimes making up a significant portion. Knife crime remains a serious concern, with 15,016 offences reported in 2023, a slightly lower number than the 2020 peak but still alarmingly high.
In contrast, many countries, such as Portugal, Japan, and Switzerland, offer significantly lower crime rates, making them attractive relocation destinations for those prioritizing safety and security.
Retirees are among the biggest groups moving abroad, often seeking a better climate, lower expenses, and a higher quality of life. Around 20% of Britons living in Europe are retirees, with many settling in:
With pension income stretching further in many European countries, UK retirees can enjoy a higher standard of living than they would at home.
Since the shift to remote work, many British professionals have been taking advantage of digital nomad visas to live abroad while continuing to work for UK or international companies.
For example, Portugal’s Cascais Tourism Board has actively promoted the country to British remote workers, encouraging them to relocate through Portugal’s Digital Nomad Visa. This visa allows:
Countries such as Spain, Greece, and the UAE also offer dedicated remote work visas, making it easier than ever for Britons to relocate without giving up their jobs.
The United Kingdom's departure from the European Union has ushered in a new era for British citizens contemplating relocation. Brexit has redefined the rights and opportunities once afforded to UK nationals within the EU, necessitating a thorough understanding of the current landscape for those considering a move abroad.
With Brexit finalized, British citizens no longer hold EU citizenship, resulting in the forfeiture of several privileges previously taken for granted:
For UK citizens who established residency in EU countries before the Brexit cutoff, specific provisions have been implemented:
For British citizens planning short visits to the EU:
UK citizens aiming to relocate to the EU post-Brexit must navigate each country's specific immigration protocols:
The revocation of freedom of movement has notably affected younger Britons:
Employment Opportunities: Many young UK citizens face challenges in securing seasonal or short-term employment within the EU due to new visa and work permit requirements.
Efforts are underway to redefine and potentially strengthen the relationship between the UK and the EU:
Relocating to another country requires careful planning and organization. From gathering important documents to managing finances and securing healthcare coverage, every step plays a role in ensuring a smooth transition. Below is a comprehensive checklist to help British citizens prepare for an international move.
The exact paperwork required varies depending on the destination country, visa type, and personal circumstances. However, most relocations will require the following:
Navigating the visa and residency process can be complex. Consulting a licensed immigration specialist or legal expert ensures you meet all the requirements, avoid delays, and fully understand your tax and legal obligations in both the UK and your new country.
Since January 1, 2021, UK-issued pet passports are no longer valid in the EU. However, the UK has been granted “Part 2 Listed Status” by the European Commission, allowing pet owners to travel with their animals under new regulations.
To bring pets abroad, ensure the following:
Indeed, the UK has long been a place of opportunity, history, and stability, offering its residents a strong economy and well-established public services. However, recent changes in taxation, cost of living, and post-Brexit restrictions have prompted many to explore new horizons.
In this evolving landscape, choosing the right country for relocation matters—whether for better financial prospects, lifestyle improvements, or long-term security. With numerous options available, understanding the visa processes, residency requirements, and tax benefits of each destination is key to making a well-informed decision.
For professional consultancy and expert guidance on the residency or citizenship process, contact Savory & Partners and ensure a smooth and stress-free transition to your new home.
Post-Brexit, UK citizens face additional requirements when relocating to EU countries. However, Portugal has emerged as a favorable option due to its D7 visa, which is designed for individuals with passive income or remote work arrangements. This visa facilitates residency for those meeting specific financial criteria.
Yes, the UK permits dual citizenship, allowing British citizens to acquire foreign nationality without renouncing their British status. However, it's essential to verify the dual citizenship policies of the destination country, as some nations may have restrictions or prohibitions in place.
Several countries provide tax incentives to attract foreign residents. For instance, the United Arab Emirates offers a tax-free environment on personal income, making it appealing to professionals and entrepreneurs. Similarly, Portugal has the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR 2.0) regime, granting favorable tax treatment to new residents for a decade.
Without a visa, British citizens can stay in Schengen Area countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. For longer stays, obtaining an appropriate visa or residency permit is necessary, with requirements varying by country.
Several countries offer citizenship or residency through investment programs. For example, Portugal's Golden Visa program grants residency to individuals investing in real estate or other qualifying assets. Similarly, Malta offers citizenship by investment, subject to specific financial contributions and residency requirements.
Hawker, C. (2023). What is a digital nomad visa and how do you get one? The Times. https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/what-is-a-digital-nomad-visa-and-how-do-you-get-one-2023
Investopedia. (2025). Moving Abroad for the Next 4 Years? Here's What It'll Really Cost You.https://www.investopedia.com/moving-abroad-cost-2025
The Sun. (2025). We quit the UK as we were sick of costs - people say my reasons are 'silly' but I got parking fines while giving BIRTH.https://www.thesun.co.uk/fabulous/uk-costs-move-abroad-2025
The Times. (2025). So Spain doesn't want you? Here are the overseas places to buy a home in 2025.https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/spain-tax-overseas-property-2025
News.com.au. (2025). Massive migration rush from one nation.https://www.news.com.au/travel/migration-rush-2025
Written By
Alice Emmanuel
Alice Emmanuel is an expert in residency and citizenship by investment, specializing in government compliance and program optimization. With over 8 years of experience, she has guided high-net-worth individuals through acquiring global mobility and new citizenships, particularly in Europe, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Alice's in-depth knowledge of Middle Eastern residency programs makes her a trusted advisor for investors seeking security and diversification in the region.