Emigration from the UK: 11 best countries checklist for those who intend to relocate

Australia, Canada, the USA, and New Zealand are among the most popular visa-free destinations for UK citizens—all except the USA are members of the Commonwealth Nations. But in light of political instability, British citizens seek options in the EU more often.

In the EU, about 1.3 million UK citizens reside, with most choosing Spain, Ireland, France, and Portugal.

The number of Britons acquiring EU citizenship has surged since the 2016 Brexit vote. In 2021, approximately 10,600 British nationals acquired citizenship in various EU countries.

In 2022, there was a significant decline in the number of British citizens acquiring EU citizenship compared to previous years. This decrease was part of a broader trend where the total number of acquisitions of citizenship by Britons fell by 31% from the previous year.

To obtain EU citizenship by naturalisation, individuals first secure a residence permit and live in the chosen country for several years. For example, one of the ways to do so is to obtain residency by investment, or a Golden Visa.

1. Brexit. After Brexit, UK citizens lost their special status in EU countries. The UK is now considered a “third country.” Britons can stay in EU member states for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, but, to reside in an EU country, they must obtain a residence permit.

Additionally, UK professional qualifications are no longer automatically recognised in the EU.

2. Wexit, or Wealthy Brits Exit. Wealthy individuals are increasingly leaving the UK due to several factors, with high taxes being a primary driver.

In March 2024, Jeremy Hunt, the Conservative Chancellor at the time, announced the planned discontinuation of the non-dom tax regime. Under his proposal, individuals relocating to the UK from April 2025 would not be taxed on their overseas income for the initial four years.

Subsequently, if “non-doms” remained in the UK, they would be required to pay taxes at the standard rates applicable to all residents. Those currently holding non-dom status would be given a two-year transition period, during which they would be encouraged to integrate their foreign assets into the UK tax framework.

3. Cost of living crisis. The rising costs of energy bills, interest rates, council tax, and food and petrol prices push Britons to find cheaper places to live.

Tax policies are constantly changing. For example, starting April 2022, the main rate of national insurance contributions pushed up for employees from 12 to 13.25%, and for employers — up to 15.05%.

4. Competitive job market. Many skilled professionals choose to work outside the UK for better salaries, improved working conditions, shorter working hours, lower taxes, and access to private healthcare.

Mediterranean countries like Spain and Portugal offer flexible working hours, often with siestas during the hottest part of the day. The cost of dining out and daily living in these countries is generally lower than in the UK.

5. Safety. In 2023, London’s overall crime rate was reported as 133.1 offences per 1,000 people, marking a significant increase compared to previous years.

The total number of reported crimes reached approximately 938,020, with violent crimes accounting for a substantial part of these incidents. Knife crime remained a particular concern—a troubling uptick with 15,016 offences reported, although this was slightly lower than the peak observed in 2020​.

6. Better golden years. Retirees often seek a warmer and more relaxing climate. Around 20% of Britons living in Europe are retired. Many European countries offer a lower cost of living compared to the UK. This allows retirees to stretch their pensions further, covering more expenses.

7. An opportunity to work remotely. About two-thirds of UK workers are considering moving to other countries.

Portugal’s Cascais Tourism Board launched a campaign to attract more Britons through the Digital Nomad Visa, allowing them to live in Portugal while working remotely for foreign companies or clients.

In 2023, approximately 44% of workers in the UK were engaged in some form of remote work, including both fully remote and hybrid arrangements. Specifically, 16% of workers were fully remote, which allowed them to travel at any time.

Over 400,000 UK nationals live in Spain. Britons choose Spain for its seaside lifestyle, warm Mediterranean climate, safety, and high-quality healthcare. Spain is a full member of the EU and has one of Europe’s most important economies.

Cost of living. Consumer prices in Spain, including rent, are 16% lower than in the UK. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs around €970.

Safety and lifestyle. Spain is safe and welcoming, especially in coastal areas. Its lifestyle includes a relaxed atmosphere, delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and world-famous festivals.

Taxes in Spain. Tax rates vary by region and are divided between regional and state governments. Personal income tax is paid on a progressive scale at rates of 19—47%. Dividends and other income are taxed at rates of 19—23%.

Residence by investment in Spain. The country’s Golden Visa requires an investment of €500,000 or more. One of the options is to purchase real estate. By nationality, the British continued to hold the first position as the group that carries out the most property transactions in Spain in the first half of 2024—8.4% of the operations.

Spain Digital Nomad Visa. This visa allows non-EU remote workers to live and work in Spain. Digital nomads get 3-year residence permits, subject to extension for another 2 years.

Applicants confirm working for a company outside Spain or having clients outside the country, with no more than 20% of income derived from Spanish clients. A minimum income requirement is €2,646 per month.

Portugal is a peaceful country with a high quality of life. It is one of the oldest nations in Europe, known for its history, culture, cuisine, and stunning beaches, and one of the easiest countries to move to from the UK.

Visa requirements for Britons. Portugal is among the most accessible European countries for immigration. UK citizens can visit Portugal for up to 90 days within six months without a visa. To stay longer, they need a residence permit. The Portugal Golden Visa is a popular option for UK citizens.

Cost of living. Consumer prices in Portugal are about 30% lower than in the UK.

As of 2025, the cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Lisbon ranges from approximately €1,000 to 1,500 per month. In comparison, the UK shows higher rental prices, particularly in city centers like London, where costs are significantly higher.

Safety. Portugal ranks 7th on the 2024 Global Peace Index, making it one of the world’s safest countries. The locals are friendly and welcoming to expatriates, and families with children feel secure in the country.

Taxes. Portugal has a progressive income tax system with rates up to 48%. Income from foreign sources, such as dividends, is generally taxed at 28%. The UK and Portugal have a double taxation agreement, ensuring that certain income is not taxed in both countries.

Tax identification. Individuals liable to pay taxes in Portugal must obtain a tax number—Número de Identificação Fiscal, or NIF. It is also required for buying or selling property, opening a bank account, or signing long-term rental agreements.

Best ways to move to Portugal from the UK. The Portugal Golden Visa requires a minimum investment of €250,000. Popular investment options include:

• purchasing fund units for €500,000 or more;

• supporting art and culture for €250,000 or more.

The Digital Nomad Visa is designed for remote workers. To secure residency, applicants show a stable monthly income of at least €3,480 from remote work. Proof of accommodation in Portugal, such as a rental agreement, is required as well.

Savings that should be demonstrated are calculated as 12 minimum wages in Portugal. In 2025, it’s €10,440.

The Portugal D7 Visa, or also known as a Passive Income Visa, aimed at those with stable passive income of at least €870 a month.

After obtaining the visa, the holder applies for a residence permit in Portugal. The initial residence permit is valid for two years, renewable for three more, and can lead to permanent residency and citizenship after five years.

Malta offers an excellent quality of life, combining a Mediterranean climate, friendly locals, and a low crime rate. It is a popular destination for UK residents looking for a second home in Europe.

Cost of living. Consumer prices in Malta, including rent, are 10—15% lower than in the UK. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs about €1,000 per month.

Safety. Malta is considered a low-risk destination. It is politically and socially stable, with minimal security concerns and low levels of non-violent crime. It is also regarded as one of the safest countries for LGBTQI+ individuals.

Taxes. Tax rates for individuals are progressive, ranging from 0% to 35%, depending on income. Corporate tax is fixed at 35%.

To become a Malta tax resident, one must either live in Malta for over 183 days annually or participate in a government programme such as the Malta Global Residence Programme.

Malta citizenship by naturalisation. Investors can obtain Malta citizenship by naturalisation for exceptional services by direct investment. Citizenship is granted after 1 or 3 years of residence, depending on the investment amount. The minimum required investment is €690,000.

Malta Global Residence Programme. The Malta Global Residence Programme offers temporary residence permits with benefits like visa-free travel across the Schengen Area and tax optimisation. Investors are not required to live in Malta but must ensure they do not spend over 183 days annually in another country.

Tax regime under the Global Residence Programme:

• 15% on foreign income transferred to Malta, with a minimum annual tax of €15,000;

• 0% on foreign income not transferred to Malta;

• 35% on income earned in Malta.

The Malta Permanent Residence Programme provides residence rights for foreign nationals seeking alternative residence in Europe. The investment conditions include:

• renting or purchasing property in Malta;

• paying government fees;

• making a charitable donation to a Maltese organisation.

Malta permanent residence is granted for life. However, the residence card must be renewed every five years.

Cyprus offers beautiful beaches, a Mediterranean climate, and a relaxed pace of life. It is on the IMF list of developed economies and provides high-quality healthcare with access to leading medical centres.

Cost of living. Consumer prices, excluding rent, are about 15% lower than in the UK. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an average of €800 per month.

Safety. Cyprus is generally safe. However, its geographical location places it near regions affected by political instability. Petty crimes may occur, especially during holidays and summer.

Taxes. Cyprus has no tax on global income or inheritance. Property and income tax rates are low compared to the UK and other EU countries. The corporate tax rate is 12.5%, one of the lowest in Europe.

Tax residents are taxed on income accrued from all sources in Cyprus and abroad, with rates ranging from 0 to 35%, depending on income.

Pension income can be taxed at a flat rate of 5% on amounts exceeding €3,420 annually. The first €3,420 is exempt from tax.

Permanent residency in Cyprus. One can obtain permanent residency by investing €300,000 or more in real estate or business. The permit is issued within 9 months and grants life-long status. This allows the holder to live in Cyprus and apply for citizenship after eight years of residence.

Rupert and Lucy,

Investors and retirees from the UK

Obtaining a Cyprus residence permit for tax relief

Ruper and Lucy dreamed of spending their retirement in a warm and safe environment. They chose Cyprus for its comfortable lifestyle and applied for permanent residence to make their dream come true.

The couple purchased a cozy apartment near the coast, meeting the property investment requirements for the residence permit.

The perks are a peaceful life with mild winters, excellent healthcare, and the added benefit of Cyprus’ favorable tax regime for retirees.

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Hungary, nestled in the heart of Central Europe, offers a compelling mix of cultural richness, historical significance, and modern convenience.

Cost of living. Life in Hungary is relatively affordable compared to the UK. The cost of living is quite manageable, with consumer prices in Budapest considerably lower than in London. For instance, renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can be as low as €700 per month.

Safety. Hungary is generally considered safe for both residents and tourists. The country has low crime rates, and major cities like Budapest are well-policed and secure.

Hungary’s central European location also shields it from the political instability seen in some neighboring regions, adding an extra layer of security for its inhabitants.

Taxes. Hungary’s tax system is favorable for individuals and businesses. It features a flat personal income tax rate of 15%, which simplifies the tax process and can be particularly advantageous for high earners.

Moreover, the corporate tax rate is highly competitive at just 9%, one of the lowest in Europe.

Hungarian Golden Visa. The country grants a 10-year residency to non-EU individuals. By investing a minimum of €250,000, they can secure a residency permit.

The process is efficient, with applications often processed within 5 months, allowing investors and their families to enjoy the benefits of residency, including access to the Schengen Area.

The UAE offers a modern lifestyle with advanced infrastructure and efficient transport systems. Its strategic location makes it an ideal hub for global business.

Abu Dhabi and Dubai are the UAE’s largest emirates and serve as its main international and financial centres. According to the World Bank, the UAE’s GDP stands at $504 billion. Over the past 50 years, the country’s GDP has grown more than 50 times.

Cost of living. Consumer prices, including rent, are 20—25% lower in Dubai than in the UK. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Dubai’s city centre costs about £2,000 monthly, compared to £3,000 in London.

Safety in the UAE. The UAE maintains impeccable safety standards through significant investments in its police and security services. It is one of the safest places to live and work.

Taxes in the UAE. The UAE is a tax haven, with exemptions for income, capital gains, inheritance, gifts, and property taxes. Corporate profit taxes are currently absent, but starting in 2025, they are calculated at 15%.

Benefits for businesses in Free Zones:

• no corporate taxes, VAT, or import/export taxes;

• special customs regimes;

• 100% foreign ownership rights for companies.

Most Free Zones are in Dubai, offering highly favourable conditions for investors looking to reduce their tax burden.

UAE residence permits for investors. Britons can obtain a UAE residence permit by real estate investment:

• 2-year residence permit: purchase property worth at least AED 2 million, or £433,120;

• 10-year residence permit: purchase property worth at least AED 750,000, or £162,400.

Residing in the UAE is not obligatory. Investors may visit the UAE once or twice a year to maintain their status.

Greece offers high levels of safety, excellent education opportunities, comprehensive healthcare options, and a dependable democratic legal system.

Cost of living. Consumer prices, including rent, are 40% lower than in the UK. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an average of €600.

Safety. Greece is one of the safest European countries, offering a relaxed and easy-going atmosphere. However, Athens has a notable crime rate, with areas like Exarchia and Omonia best avoided at night.

Taxes. Income tax rates in Greece vary:

• employment and pension income: 9—44%;

• business and professional income: based on earnings;

• dividends: 10%;

• interest: 15%;

• royalties: 20%.

The non-dom tax regime provides benefits for high-net-worth individuals moving their tax residency to Greece. Under this regime, investors pay a fixed annual tax of €100,000 on their worldwide income.

Greece Golden Visa. The minimum investment is €250,000, and the most affordable option is investing in property. But the threshold only applies for real estate purchased for renovation or conversion into residential space. The minimum investment in other properties is €400,000.

Approved applicants and their families enjoy visa-free travel within the Schengen Area within four months of applying.

Paul,

Freelance coder from the UK

Greece Golden Visa for freelance coders from the UK

Paul and Viola work remotely for European countries. They travel a lot to the EU for business and personal matters.

After Brexit, the couple experienced more trouble visiting neighbouring countries freely, and finally, they decided to emigrate from the UK.

Now they live by the warm Mediterranean sea and look forward to obtaining an EU passport shortly.

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The United States offers robust opportunities for investment, a dynamic business environment, and access to world-class education and healthcare systems.

Cost of living. Consumer prices in states like Mississippi are significantly lower than in New York or California. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in central Manhattan averages around $3,000, whereas in Austin, Texas, it might be closer to $1,500.

Safety. The US is generally safe, but safety can vary by city and neighborhood. Larger cities like Chicago and Los Angeles have areas with higher crime rates, while smaller towns and suburban areas typically offer a safer environment.

Taxes. The US has a progressive tax systemю Federal income tax rates range from 10% to 37%, and state and local taxes vary by location. Capital gains are taxed between 0% and 20%.

The EB‑5 Visa Programme. This visa requires a minimum investment of $870,000 in a Targeted Employment Area or $1,800,000 outside of these areas. The EB‑5 Visa allows investors and their families to become eligible for a Green Card, provided they create at least 10 full-time jobs for American workers.

Austria is a prosperous European country known for its high quality of life, stunning natural landscapes, and strong economy.

Cost of living in Austria. Consumer prices, including rent, are 5% lower than in the UK. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs about €1,000 per month.

Safety in Austria. Austria ranks among the top 3 most peaceful countries according to the 2024 Global Peace Index. The murder rate in 2023 was extremely low, with 90 murders recorded in a population of 9 million.

Austria has been recognised by the European Environment Agency for having the cleanest bathing water in Europe. Of its waters, 97.7% are rated excellent. Popular bathing spots include Achensee in Tyrol and Weissensee in Carinthia.

Taxes in Austria. Personal income tax rate is from 0% to 55%. Corporation tax — 25%, capital gains tax — 27.5% on investments.

A financially independent person can apply for an Austrian residence permit by confirming a monthly income and providing proof of a sufficient bank deposit. This residence permit allows one to live in Austria, requiring a minimum stay of 183 days per year. However, it does not permit employment in the country.

Moving to Switzerland means getting an excellent quality of life. It ranks among the best countries to move to from the UK. It is the residence of international organisations and is known for its multicultural society and its stable political environment.

Cost of living. Switzerland is the country with the highest cost of living in Europe. Zurich and Geneva are the most expensive cities. Consumer prices in Switzerland are 70% higher than in the UK, and renting a 1-bedroom apartment in a city centre is about €2,500 a month.

Safety. Switzerland ranks 6th among the most peaceful countries according to the 2024 Global Peace Index. There is a low rate of serious crime in the country. However, the British Embassy has received increased reports of theft, especially in Geneva airport and on trains to and from Geneva.

Taxes. Switzerland’s tax system has been shaped by the country’s three levels of government: federal, cantonal and municipal.

Average tax rates cannot be calculated because of the multi-layered tax system. Taxes are calculated based on specific figures for specific cantons and municipalities.

The maximum overall rate of federal income tax is 11.5%. The various cantonal and municipal taxes are also levied at progressive rates, with a maximum combined cantonal and municipal rate of approximately 36%. In addition, cantonal and municipal net wealth taxes are levied.

Wealthy foreigners can obtain a Switzerland residence permit by paying a lump-sum tax. This permit requires the investor and their family to relocate to Switzerland but prohibits employment within the country. They may, however, manage capital or conduct business abroad.

Türkiye is situated at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, making it a key geo-strategic player internationally. Its well-established tradition of cooperation with the West contributes to its global significance.

Cost of living. Consumer prices, including rent, are 50% lower than in the UK. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an average of €700—1,000 per month.

Safety. Turkey is generally safe for expats, and locals are known for their hospitality. In tourist areas, English-speaking staff are commonly found in shops and restaurants.

Taxes. Individuals pay income tax on a progressive scale of 15—40%, while corporate tax is fixed at 23%. Benefits of the Turkish tax system include:

• double taxation agreements with 85 countries;

• free zones where companies are exempt from income tax;

• VAT exemptions on new housing purchases.

Tax residency. Only those living in Turkey for more than six months annually are considered tax residents. A residence permit or Turkish citizenship by investment allows for long-term stays in the country.

Turkish citizenship by investment. Purchasing real estate worth $400,000 or more is the most popular pathway to Turkish citizenship.

Property prices in Turkey increase by 10—25% annually, making real estate a profitable investment.

When considering a move from the UK with a family, several countries stand out for their high quality of life, excellent healthcare, education systems, and family-friendly policies.

Canada consistently ranks as one of the top countries for quality of life, celebrated for its political stability, safety, and well-developed public services. It’s an appealing destination for families looking for a secure environment with a strong job market and educational opportunities.

Australia is another excellent choice, known for its vibrant lifestyle and high standards in education and healthcare. It offers a warm climate and a variety of outdoor and cultural activities that are ideal for family life.

Sweden offers a robust welfare system and is highly regarded for its progressive social policies, including extensive parental leave and a strong emphasis on work-life balance. This makes it a great option for families prioritizing a supportive community and social services.

Portugal, with its mild climate and affordable living costs compared to other Western European countries, also ranks well in quality of life. It has a stable political system and is welcoming to migrants, making it a popular choice among expats.

Britons can participate in European residency programs to obtain temporary or permanent residence. These programs offer a pathway to living and working in various EU countries, providing access to benefits such as healthcare and education.

After maintaining residency for a set period, individuals can apply for citizenship by naturalisation. This process often requires passing exams on the country’s language, history, and culture to demonstrate integration.

Сollect the documents. The complete list depends on the country, family composition, pets owned, and other personal circumstances.

The standard list of documents includes:

1. Passport.

2. Visa, residency card.

3. Birth certificate.

4. National Insurance Number.

5. Biometrics card.

6. Medical records, including vaccination.

7. Driving licence.

8. Qualifications for job or work permit.

9. Social security cards.

10. Credit cards.

Contact a licensed agent. Immigrant Invest is a licensed agency qualified to assist UK citizens in obtaining residency abroad. Professional assistance is crucial as it provides peace of mind during the often turbulent times associated with relocating to another country.

Apply for visas. Individuals submit their applications through the appropriate embassy or consulate, ensuring that all required documentation is meticulously prepared and presented in accordance with the specific visa type being applied for.

Inform the government. When moving abroad, it is necessary to inform the tax authorities—HMRC in the UK. Failure to do so could lead to the requirement to pay additional taxes, which expatriates are typically exempt from. Additionally, one should contact the International Pension Centre.

Obtain your P85 form from Revenue and Customs—this form notifies the tax authorities that you are leaving the country and helps ensure taxation is correctly applied in each country. It’s also necessary to inform your local council if you are moving or retiring abroad and provide them with your new address.

Monitor finances. Review your accounts and notify your banks that you are relocating abroad. Checking if your credit cards are valid for international operations is also crucial.

Discuss asset management with your financial advisor. It may be beneficial to register for a service that facilitates affordable international bank transfers.

Buy health insurance. Find out which company has a good reputation and buy insurance to cover all the expenses, including hospitalisation.

Check documents for your pet. Since January 1st, 2021, pet passports are no longer valid in Europe for UK nationals pets owners.

However, the European Commission has granted the UK a “part 2 listed status, ” allowing pets to travel within EU borders as long as the owner obtains an animal health certificate, confirming that the pet is microchipped and vaccinated against rabies.

Change a driving licence. If planning to drive abroad, one must determine whether a new driving license is required. This depends on the destination country. For instance, the Portuguese government introduced legislation regarding driving licenses issued by OECD countries.

1. Approximately 1.3 million UK citizens currently reside in the EU, with Spain and Portugal being the top choices. This shift indicates a growing preference for living within the EU post-Brexit.

2. High taxes are driving an exodus of wealthy individuals from the UK. In 2024, plans were announced to discontinue the non-dom tax regime, which previously allowed new arrivals not to pay taxes on overseas income for four years.

3. The rising costs of living—highlighted by increased energy bills, higher interest rates, and climbing prices for essentials like food and petrol—are prompting Britons to seek more affordable living conditions abroad.

4. Golden Visas have become a significant consideration for UK citizens looking to relocate or gain residency in other countries.

5. The minimum investment for UK investors to relocate to the EU is €250,000. If another path is chosen, for example, a Digital Nomad Visa, then no investment is required.