Best Countries to Move to from the UK

For those looking to relocate from the UK, English-speaking countries with large British expat communities, such as Malta, Cyprus, and Canada, are excellent options. Greece and Spain attract newcomers with their warm climates and the opportunity to obtain residency through real estate investment via the Golden Visa program. Countries with high living standards and stable economies, including Switzerland and the USA, are also popular among British expatriates. Ultimately, the choice of destination depends on various factors, primarily individual preferences, goals, and financial capabilities.

Spain

According to Spain’s National Institute of Statistics, the number of British citizens living in the country surpassed 400,000 in 2024. Global Property Guide’s cost-of-living index ranked Spain as one of the most convenient destinations for UK expatriates. This is due to its affordable cost of living, favorable climate, high safety levels, and accessible residency options. Moreover, HSBC’s Expat Explorer Survey found that 88% of expats were able to successfully find a job.

Cost of Living and Affordable Housing

Based on Numbeo and Eurostat data, the average monthly cost of living for a single person in Spain, including housing, food, transport, and other basic expenses, was € 818 in 2024. Compared to the EU average of € 920, Spain’s cost of living is 24% lower, and rental prices are even 30% cheaper than in the UK.

Important! A comfortable lifestyle in Madrid for a couple costs around € 1,800-1,950 per month. In rural areas, expenses are lower, ranging from € 1,300 to € 1,500.

Climate and Outdoor Activities

Unlike the UK’s rainy and unpredictable weather with only 1,340 hours of sunshine annually (about 150 days or 30% of the maximum possible), Spain’s climate is perfect year-round. The country boasts four distinct climate zones and ranks among the top three sunniest countries in Europe alongside Greece and Italy. Most of Spain enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate—hot summers, particularly in central and southern regions where temperatures can reach +40°C, and mild winters with little to no extreme cold. Rainfall is usually light and occurs in autumn and winter. The Mediterranean Sea warms up to +27°C in summer.

Spain offers a vast range of leisure options, from the Atlantic coastline to ski resorts that rival the Alps. The country has 50 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ranking 4th in Europe, and over 600 beaches awarded the «Blue Flag» for safety and environmental standards. Thanks to its mild climate, residents can enjoy hiking, water sports, skiing, picnics, and exploring historic landmarks all year round.

Residency Requirements

Following Brexit, British citizens no longer have freedom of residency and employment rights in Spain without a permit. Long-term residence requires a visa, which varies depending on the purpose:

1. Non Lucrative Visa: Issued for one year to financially independent individuals who don’t plan to work or start a business in Spain. Applicants have to show a minimum monthly income of € 2,400 (€ 28,800 per year) and an additional € 600 (€ 7,200 annually) for each family member included in the application. Renting or purchasing property in Spain is mandatory.
2. Digital Nomad Visa: Granted for three years to remote workers earning at least € 2,626 per month. Applicants have to rent or buy property, have health insurance, and pay a reduced fixed income tax rate of 24%.
3. Work Visa: Available to those with a contract with a Spanish employer, who justifies why an EU citizen can’t be hired for this position. Another option is for entrepreneurs planning to establish a business in Spain, provided they submit a business plan and financial proof. Additionally, work visas are available for UK citizens in high-demand professions, such as maritime pilots and merchant ship crew members.
4. Golden Visa: Available in Spain until April 3, 2025, before the introduction of Law 1/2025, which will cancel the program. To qualify, applicants must invest at least € 500,000 in real estate. Other options include purchasing securities, venture capital fund shares, government bonds, or making a bank deposit, with minimum investments ranging from € 1,000,000 to € 2,000,000.

Important! Spain’s «Beckham Law» allows British expats to pay a fixed 24% income tax on earnings within Spain (up to € 600,000 annually) for six years. Foreign income is exempt from Spanish taxation.

Malta

Malta is one of the best destinations for UK expatriates, with Brits making up the island’s largest foreign community—approximately 9% of the total expat population. British citizens choose Malta for its warm climate and relatively low cost of living—consumer goods and rental prices are 10-15% cheaper than in the UK. Additionally, the country has excellent healthcare services, with medical costs around 30% lower than in Britain.

Easy Integration

English is an official language in Malta, spoken by approximately 90% of residents. Government services, schools, healthcare, and businesses operate in English, making integration seamless for British expats. Malta was a British colony from 1814 to 1964, and many aspects of its legal, governmental, and educational systems still reflect this influence. British-style post and telephone systems remain in place, and even local culture embraces English football, tea traditions, and pub culture.

Safety and Stability

Malta has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe. According to Numbeo’s 2024 data, Malta’s crime index is 42.8, compared to 46.7 in the UK. Violent crime is rare, especially compared to major UK cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham. Additionally, Malta is one of the safest countries in the EU regarding natural disasters, as it is not prone to earthquakes, hurricanes, or floods, unlike the UK, where coastal areas frequently experience severe storms.

The international credit rating agency Morningstar DBRS assigned Malta an «А» (high) credit rating in 2024. The island’s economic performance currently surpasses many European countries. According to the European Commission’s Department of Economics and Finance, Malta’s economy is experiencing steady growth, driven by domestic demand and strong exports. While the Eurozone’s real GDP grew by 3.3% between 2019 and 2023 in the post-COVID period, Malta’s GDP increased by an impressive 18%.

Tax Benefits and Residency Programs

Malta is an ideal destination for Brits looking to optimize their taxes. The country offers a business-friendly environment with a lower VAT rate—18% compared to the UK’s 20%—and no taxes on gifts, inheritance, capital, or property. While the maximum income tax rate is set at 35%, which is higher than in the UK, Malta’s tax refund system allows shareholders to recover nearly 100% of that amount, making it highly advantageous for international businesses. Additionally, foreign income remitted to Malta is taxed at a flat rate of 15%, whereas income not transferred to the country remains tax-free.

Malta also offers a wide range of government programs that allow foreign nationals to obtain residency through investment. These programs grant visa-free access to the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, and applicants can include family members in their application.

Cyprus

Cyprus is among the top destinations for relocation from the UK. The country offers a warm climate, seaside living, an easy adaptation process, bilingual education, and excellent air connectivity with many European destinations. Additionally, Forbes has ranked Cyprus among the top 24 countries for retirement, while a UNICEF study placed it 23rd out of 180 countries for child well-being. In 2024, the StartupBlink analytical centre ranked Cyprus 45th globally for startup ecosystems, highlighting the island’s growing innovation-driven entrepreneurship.

Tax Benefits and Financial Advantages

According to the Heritage Foundation, Cyprus ranks among the top 20 countries for economic freedom. British entrepreneurs can relocate their businesses here to reduce their tax burden. The island offers significant tax benefits for both individuals and businesses:

• One of the lowest corporate tax rates in the EU – 12.5%.
• No inheritance tax, capital gains tax (for non-residents), or tax on dividends.
• Non-Domiciled Tax Status: Expat-friendly tax regime that exempts foreign income (e.g., dividends, interest) from taxation.

Climate and High Quality of Life

Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate with about 340 sunny days per year. Winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below +15-18°C in January. The swimming season lasts from April to November.

Interesting Fact! As of 2024, 76 beaches and 2 marinas in Cyprus have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag, recognizing high water quality, safety, and environmental standards.

The cost of living in Cyprus is approximately 15% lower than in the UK, while rent in Limassol is 2-3 times cheaper than equivalent housing in London.

Healthcare costs in Cyprus are also much lower, with health insurance ranging from € 500-1,200 compared to € 2,500-4,000 in the UK.

Ease of Relocation and Cultural Similarities

After Brexit, UK citizens faced more restrictions when relocating to the EU, but Cyprus remains one of the most accessible destinations due to several key factors:

1. Residency by Investment (Golden Visa): It is granted for purchasing property from € 300,000. After 8 years of living in the country, applicants can apply for Cypriot citizenship.
2. Minimal language barrier: 90% of Cypriots speak English, and the country’s legal system is based on British common law.
3. Familiar elements of British culture: Cyprus has left-hand driving, UK-standard power outlets, and supermarkets with familiar British products. Most importantly, the British expat community exceeds 80,000 people.

Important! Best cities to relocate to in Cyprus are Larnaca, Limassol, Nicosia, and Paphos.

Portugal

When considering relocation from the UK, many Brits consider Portugal. Ranked 7th in the Global Peace Index 2024, the country also boasts a high Human Development Index. With its mild climate, modern infrastructure, and stable economy, Portugal is an attractive destination for British expats. Additionally, the widespread use of English and open immigration policies simplify adaptation.

Cost of Living according to UK

One of Portugal’s main advantages is its affordable cost of living, particularly for utilities and groceries. According to Numbeo, it’s about 30% lower than in the UK. Rental prices remain accessible, with apartments in Lisbon ranging from € 1,000-1,500 per month.

Important! The UK and Portugal have a double taxation agreement, ensuring expats don’t pay taxes twice.

Best Cities and Regions for Relocation

Lisbon, Portugal’s capital and largest city, ranks among the top 10 European locations for business resources and IT infrastructure. The city offers strong employment opportunities in finance, tech, and tourism. Lisbon also has a high-quality healthcare system, with many English-speaking doctors. Additionally, Lisbon University ranks among the top 50 universities in the world, providing excellent education options for expats.

Other popular destinations for UK expats:

1. Porto: Portugal’s second-largest city, known for its wineries, historic centre, and a more relaxed pace of life compared to Lisbon. A great choice for young professionals and families.
2. Algarve: A southern coastal region famous for mild weather, stunning beaches, and a strong tourism industry. Cities like Faro, Lagos, and Albufeira attract expats and retirees due to high quality of life and lower living costs.
3. Cascais: A seaside town 30 km from Lisbon, offering great job opportunities in various industries. Known for luxury beaches and a high level of safety, it attracts wealthy expats and families thanks to international schools and proximity to the capital.

While Lisbon and Cascais offer high salaries and quality of life, living costs are higher. However, smaller cities like Faro and Coimbra provide a quieter, more affordable lifestyle.

Greece

Greece ranks 40th on the Legatum Prosperity Index and 33rd on the UN Human Development Index. With such high rankings, it is one of the best destinations for British families considering emigration. Notably, the cost of living in this Mediterranean country is at least 30% lower than in the UK.

Comfortable and Affordable Living

The combination of a mild Mediterranean climate with 300 sunny days a year and diverse landscapes, ranging from rocky mountains to coastal bays, makes Greece an excellent place for both living and active leisure. According to Eurostat, prices in Greece are approximately 10% lower than the EU average.

Numbeo reports that the monthly expenses for a single person in Greece are around € 800, excluding rent. In contrast, British Council data indicates that monthly expenses in the UK average € 1,600 in London and at least € 1,000 in other cities. This confirms that living in Greece is significantly more affordable, while its quality of life matches Switzerland. According to the Global Peace Index, Greece has a high level of safety, excellent environmental conditions, and numerous beaches awarded the Blue Flag.

British retirees choose Greece for its relaxed pace of life and friendly locals, which makes adaptation easier. Families appreciate the opportunity to raise children surrounded by ancient historical landmarks, a sea, picturesque mountains, and an environment where English is widely spoken.

Important! Greece offers a special tax regime for non-dom residents, who pay a fixed annual rate of € 100,000 on any income earned outside the country. This is highly beneficial compared to the standard tax system, where income tax rates can reach up to 44%.

Residency by Investment with Minimal Requirements

Greece’s investment-based residence permit program is one of the most popular and accessible in the EU. The process of obtaining the Golden Visa takes between 3 to 6 months. A significant advantage is that there are no language or history exams required. Greek residency doesn’t acquire continuous living in the country, and applications can include not only a spouse and children but also parents. The residency permit exempts holders from mandatory ETIAS registration. After seven years of residence, you can apply for Greek citizenship.

One of the most affordable and advantageous ways to obtain the Golden Visa is through real estate investment. Minimum thresholds are:

• € 800,000 for properties in Athens, Thessaloniki, Attica, Crete, Rhodes, and other islands with populations over 3,100 people.
• € 400,000 for properties in other regions.
• € 250,000 for properties converted from commercial to residential use or those of cultural/historical significance.

Important! Purchasing real estate in Greece not only grants residence permit but also provides a stable passive income, as the recovering economy and high demand for quality rental properties drive up prices.

Canada

Canada consistently ranks among the top destinations for British emigrants, offering a high quality of life, political stability, a strong job market, and excellent economic indicators. While the Bank of England projects UK inflation to be 3.7% in 2025, Canada’s inflation rate is expected to be only 2.3%. Moreover, over 600,000 Brits already live in Canada, and the absence of a language barrier makes social integration and adaptation much easier. The legal system, education, and social norms closely resemble those in the UK, making expatriates feel like home.

Important! You can obtain citizenship after just three years of legal residence, whereas in the EU, the average requirement is five years.

Advantages of Living in Canada

Canada consistently ranks among the top 10 countries globally for safety, environmental quality, and infrastructure development. Even in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver, the cost of buying a home is more affordable than in London. For comparison,Toronto — € 456,000, Vancouver — € 406,000, London — € 705,000. It’s even more affordable to buy a house with land in small towns.

Canada has highly developed infrastructure. Healthcare, education, and public transportation all meet high international standards. Immigrant children can attend public schools for free, and Canada’s higher education system is considered among the best in the world. The country also provides free healthcare for residents, significantly reducing medical expenses.

Numerous social programs and excellent environmental conditions make Canada an attractive option for retirees. Additionally, starting a business is relatively easy, as the Canadian government actively supports small and medium-sized enterprises.

Immigration Programs and Entry Pathways

Depending on the purpose of relocation (work, study, business, or family reunification), Canada offers several immigration programs. The Express Entry system is used to quickly select candidates who meet federal immigration program requirements. This pathway is available for professionals in NOC (National Occupation Classification) levels 0, A, and B, which include executives, skilled professionals with higher education (such as doctors and architects), and technical specialists (such as plumbers and electricians).

Important! UK citizens can visit Canada visa-free for up to six months, but they have to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before traveling.

Where Else to Emigrate from the UK

Switzerland

Switzerland attracts expats with its high living and safety standards. It ranks 2nd in Europe for GDP per capita and household income after taxes. The UN’s World Happiness Report consistently places Switzerland in the top 10 best countries to live in. The job market is competitive, especially in finance and technology. The best cities for British expats are Zurich, Geneva, and Basel, offering excellent infrastructure and international communities. The average monthly income in Switzerland exceeds € 5,000.

Important! Moving to Switzerland can be challenging due to the high cost of living and strict immigration requirements.

United States

The U.S. has the highest number of immigrants worldwide, and for good reason. It ranks among the top 10 richest countries, offers high average salaries (≈ $ 4,500 per month), and has world-class healthcare that utilizes cutting-edge treatments. Over 30 U.S. universities are featured in the QS World University Rankings, and American degrees are globally recognized, including in the UK.

The U.S. provides favorable conditions for starting a business and numerous career growth opportunities across various industries. Salaries are typically higher than in the UK, ensuring financial stability for expats.

To move to the U.S., you’ll need a visa. The most common types include work visas (such as H-1B), tourist visas (B1/B2), and investment visas (EB-5 and E-2).

Ireland

According to Forbes, Ireland is the best country in the world for business, making it a prime destination for international tech companies and startups. Its strategic location between Europe and America offers access to both markets. Ireland’s tax and legal system is simple and efficient. The country’s geographical proximity and cultural ties make it an attractive choice for British expats.

The average cost of buying property in Ireland is around € 250,000, while rent averages € 1,440 per month. However, the main reason many Brits choose Ireland is that they do not need a visa or residence permit to live and work there, thanks to the Common Travel Area (CTA) agreement between the two countries.

Australia

According to the Australian government, more than 1.2 million British expats currently live in the country. The main attractions include the lack of a language barrier and the ability to enjoy good weather year-round. Australia also offers many job opportunities due to a shortage of skilled workers. However, the cost of living is 7% higher than in the UK. The most popular cities for expats include Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, and Canberra.

New Zealand

New Zealand is known for its high quality of life and friendly atmosphere. It ranks 9th among the most livable countries. It boasts a globally recognized education system, one of the lowest levels of corruption, competitive salaries, and breathtaking natural beauty. Since English is the primary language, British children can easily integrate into public schools. Popular cities among expats include Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Long-term residence options include work and student visas, as well as entrepreneur and investor programs.

Important! Housing prices in New Zealand are higher than in the UK—approximately $ 10,000 per sq. m compared to $ 5,600 per sq. m in Britain.

Final Thoughts on Emigrating from the UK

Emigrating from the UK is popular among those seeking a higher standard of living, financial stability, and a more mild climate. English-speaking countries (such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the U.S., and Ireland) simplify adaptation due to the lack of a language barrier and similar social norms. These destinations attract professionals, entrepreneurs, and students. Meanwhile, European countries like Spain, Portugal, Greece, Malta, Cyprus, and Switzerland offer warm climate, tax incentives, and accessible residence permit programs, particularly for investors and retirees.

To ensure a smooth moving, consider these key factors:

• Choose a country based on your goals and financial situation: evaluate salaries, taxes, job markets, and climate.
• Prepare your documents in advance: this usually includes visas, work permits, health insurance, and proof of financial stability.
• Compare the cost of living: factor in housing, healthcare, transportation, and taxes.
• Have a financial cushion: it’s recommended to save enough to cover at least six months of living expenses.
• Find expat communities: local expat groups can help with adaptation and integration.

Emigrating is a significant step toward new opportunities, but careful preparation is essential for success. For expert guidance on obtaining residence permits and citizenship in the EU and Caribbean regions, contact Astons. Our team specializes in investment immigration and offers personalized solutions with full relocation support: from application processing and property acquisition to tax consulting and legal assistance. Astons experts are always available to make your move smooth and hassle-free.

FAQ

What are the best countries to move to from the UK?

The top destinations for relocating from the UK consistently include Spain, Portugal, Malta, Cyprus, the US and Canada.

Where can I emigrate to from the UK?

UK citizens can emigrate to any country. The easiest option is Ireland, as British nationals do not need a visa to live and work there legally.

Where is the best place to emigrate to from the UK with a family?

The best countries for families with children are Greece and Cyprus. They have large communities of British expats, and it’s easy for children to adapt due to the English-speaking environment. Both countries offer a warm climate, a high security level, and simple legalization conditions—there are affordable programs for obtaining residence permits and citizenship by purchasing real estate.

What should I consider when moving abroad from the UK?

Before moving abroad, it’s essential to research visa requirements and immigration programs. Consider the cost of living, job market, healthcare accessibility, and potential tax optimization opportunities. Language barriers can also affect adaptation—relocating to an English-speaking country can make the transition smoother.

Which countries offer the easiest immigration processes for UK citizens?

The easiest countries to emigrate to from the UK are Ireland and Portugal. Ireland allows British citizens to live and work without a visa. Portugal offers simplified residency processes, while Spain and Greece provide Golden Visa in exchange for real estate investments.

What are the best places to move from the UK for work opportunities?

The US and Canada are the best countries for job opportunities for expats. The US offers a broad range of jobs in tech, finance, and healthcare, while Canada is in high demand for professionals in construction, engineering, and medical fields.