Relocating abroad offers life-changing opportunities for UK citizens seeking new adventures, better work-life balance, or a fresh start. With clear information and planning, moving abroad can be seamless—especially when choosing countries with straightforward immigration processes.
In 2025, many developed countries provide accessible pathways for UK nationals, including residency visas, investment visas, and passive income programs. This guide explores the easiest countries to move abroad from the UK, practical considerations for relocation, and expert insights to help you plan your move.
Why Moving Abroad Can Be Easier for UK Citizens in 2026
UK citizens face fewer barriers in certain countries thanks to Brexit-specific agreements, Commonwealth ties, and international residency programs. Key factors to consider:
- Visa Accessibility – Some countries, like Ireland and Australia, offer streamlined residency paths for UK passport holders.
- Language & Culture – English-speaking nations (Canada, Australia, Malta) simplify integration.
- Tax & Investment Opportunities – Programs like Portugal’s Golden Visa or Malta’s Individual Investor Program allow residency through investment.
- Work-Life Balance & Lifestyle – Countries with strong expat communities, healthcare systems, and education options increase the quality of relocation.
Can UK citizens move abroad without a visa?
Yes, in countries like Ireland, UK passport holders can live, work, and study visa-free due to the Common Travel Area.
Top 8 Easiest Countries to Move to from the UK
1. Ireland:
Why Ireland is easy to move to:
- UK citizens can live, work, and study without residency permits.
- English is the official language.
- Vibrant expat communities in Dublin, Cork, and Galway.
- Strong education system and private healthcare access.
Key Considerations:
- No visa required under the CTA.
- Cost of living is high in Dublin but lower in smaller cities.
2. Portugal:
Why UK expats love Portugal:
- Golden Visa for property or investment-based residency.
- Passive income visa for retirees.
- Affordable property prices and favorable tax policies (NHR regime).
- Mediterranean climate and excellent work-life balance.
Pathway to Citizenship:
- Maintain residency for 5 years.
- Citizenship eligible after 5 years with basic language and cultural knowledge.
Portugal Visa Options for UK Citizens
| Visa Type | Eligibility | Benefits | Time to Citizenship |
| Golden Visa | Real estate or investment | Residency, travel across Schengen | 5 years |
| Passive Income Visa | Stable income abroad | Residency, tax benefits | 5 years |
3. Spain:
Highlights for UK citizens:
- Non-Lucrative Visa allows living without a local job.
- Golden Visa through real estate investment.
- Popular cities: Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia.
- Multicultural society with international schools and thriving job markets.
Can I retire in Spain as a UK citizen?
Yes, Spain offers retirement-friendly visas for those with passive income and savings.
4. Australia:
Why Australia is attractive:
- Straightforward immigration for skilled workers via employment passes.
- Thriving job markets in tech, healthcare, and finance.
- Permanent residency pathways leading to citizenship.
- Cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane – excellent education and private healthcare.
Australian immigration rules are backed by Department of Home Affairs guidelines.
5. Canada:
Key benefits:
- Express Entry and Canada Startup Visa programs for skilled workers and entrepreneurs.
- Multicultural cities: Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal.
- Political stability and low cost of living relative to quality of life.
Canada welcoming UK citizens?
Yes, Canada offers preferential pathways for Commonwealth nationals, making settlement smoother.
6. New Zealand:
Why UK citizens choose NZ:
- Silver Fern and Essential Skills Visas for skilled workers.
- Stunning landscapes, lower property costs, and strong healthcare system.
- Cities: Auckland (urban), Rotorua (scenic regions).
7. Malta:
Top reasons for relocation:
- Golden Visa and Nomad Residence Permit for remote workers.
- Favorable tax policies and Mediterranean lifestyle.
- EU membership provides travel flexibility.
8. Germany:
Highlights:
- Blue Card and Job Seeker Visa for skilled professionals.
- Cities: Berlin, Munich – low cost of living relative to EU standards.
- Advanced healthcare, high tech innovation, and work-life balance.
Can I work in Germany with a UK passport?
Yes, with a Blue Card or Job Seeker Visa, UK citizens can legally live and work in Germany.
Countries with Progressive Income Tax Systems
Why this matters:
Progressive tax systems can reduce the burden on UK expats, especially retirees and high-net-worth individuals.
Examples:
- Portugal: Non-Habitual Residence (NHR) regime offers tax savings.
- Spain: Special tax regime for foreign workers.
- Malta: Residence permits reduce taxable income.
- Cyprus: Attractive low-tax policies for expatriates.
| Country | Tax Feature | Ideal For |
| Portugal | NHR regime | Retirees & investors |
| Spain | Foreign worker incentives | Remote workers & entrepreneurs |
| Malta | Progressive tax & residence permit | Investors & remote workers |
| Cyprus | Low tax + residence permit | Retirees & high-net-worth expats |
Residency by Investment: How UK Citizens Can Secure Permanent Residency
Residency by investment programs allow UK nationals to gain permanent residency or citizenship through financial contributions.
Top Programs:
- Portugal Golden Visa – minimum €500,000 investment.
- Spain Golden Visa – minimum €500,000 property investment.
- Malta Individual Investor Program – minimum €650,000 contribution.
- Cyprus Citizenship by Investment – minimum €2 million.
Checklist for Residency by Investment:
- Identify eligible countries and programs.
- Evaluate investment requirements and benefits.
- Consult certified immigration advisors.
- Prepare financial and legal documentation.
- Submit application and comply with residency obligations.
Checklist: Planning Your Move Abroad from the UK
| Task | Details |
| Research visas | Compare options: work, retirement, investment |
| Budget relocation | Consider property, cost of living, taxes |
| Healthcare | Check eligibility for public/private healthcare |
| Education | Explore international schools if applicable |
| Employment | Review job market or startup opportunities |
| Residency & Citizenship | Understand timelines and obligations |
| Cultural adaptation | Language, social norms, and expat communities |
FAQs
1. Which country is easiest for UK citizens to move to?
Ireland, due to the Common Travel Area agreement.
2. Can I move abroad with a UK passport after Brexit?
Yes, but visa and residency requirements vary per country.
3. Do I need a job offer to relocate abroad?
Not always—countries like Spain and Portugal offer non-lucrative or passive income visas.
4. Which countries offer tax benefits for UK expats?
Portugal, Malta, Spain, and Cyprus offer progressive tax systems and residence incentives.
