We can see why anyone would consider relocating abroad. Even if you’re proud to be British, there’s no denying a better life awaits where the sun shines more and the food is better.
For British expats, there’s a common theme for where people want to live. Read on to find out more.
Gibraltar
Gibraltar is one of the better locations for British expats. Sitting right next to Spain, it’s the perfect location. Moving to Gibraltar from UK is easy; a lot of it feels British, and you don’t need a visa. It’s like having the perfect mix of Spain and the UK. Everything from stores to legal focuses gives it a British-controlled vibe. Gibraltar is on the smaller side, but the quality of life is great.
Visa Options: As a British Overseas territory, Gibraltar permits UK citizens to live and work without a visa. But, to gain residence for an extended period, the local authorities should be informed.
Spain
Spain is a popular country for British tourists. It could be about to change as the government considers crazy tax increases targeting foreigners. The proposal is to increase the tax on property purchases by 100% to 40% tax.
Still, British people love Spain. You can’t beat the climate, relaxing lifestyle, and popular way of life. Spain attracts thousands of British tourists every year. Britons especially love the coastal areas, including the Costa del Sol and the Alicante. Though the language could be a barrier, as a tourist, you will find many people speaking English.
Visa Options: Following Brexit, British citizens must get a visa for Spain if they want to stay for over 90 days in 180 days. That’s the downside now; it’s complicated to live there. You can get a non-lucrative visa if you’re retired or have passive income, or you can get a work visa. You can’t earn an income in Spain with that visa. Spain has also introduced a Digital Nomad Visa, which might appeal to the self-employed online workers.
Thailand
Thailand is definitely one of the best countries to live in due to its affordable cost of living, rich culture, and amazing tropical beaches. It has become so much more popular with expats recently, especially vloggers, TikTokers, and Instagrammers. A lot of expats like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.
The locals are friendly, and the chill lifestyle adds more to the environment. While understanding all the languages and customs of Thailand can be frustrating, it pays off. You definitely won’t struggle to meet British people or English-speaking people here.
Visa Options: British expats can use the Non-Immigrant O Visa, mainly for retirees, or the Long-Term Resident Visa, which is designated for wealthy professionals. Digital nomads prefer using tourist visas but should consider Thailand’s Smart Visa. It isn’t tricky to get a visa for Thailand.
Australia
Everyone knows Australia is a common location for British expats. Despite literally being on the other side of the world, the easy access and favourable income make it a popular choice for British expats. Many people who make the 24-hour journey from the UK make a life for themselves and never leave.
Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are some of the biggest cities with great employment opportunities. You’d definitely meet a lot of British people if you lived there.
Visa Options: Australia’s Skilled Independent Visa subclass 189 is one of the most popular visas for skilled migrants. The skilled nominated visa subclass 190 is only available in some states or territories, you’d have to check before. Retired people have the option to apply for the Investor Retirement Visa.
Bali
Who are you if you aren’t an Instagram influencer in Bali? It seems to be the place to be for content creators. And we can’t argue that it is a stunning place to live. It’s becoming more expensive now, but it still is incredibly cheap to live here compared to the UK.
Ubud and Canggu are known hotspots for retired workers and digital nomads. As with other destinations, the weather is good, and the lifestyle is relaxing.
Visa Options: The UK’s Indonesia Social-Cultural Visa B211a is the most popular for British expats. Retired people and investors can get the Second Home Visa. A digital nomad visa should also be coming to Bali soon.
All the places listed are perfect for British expats. Some of them definitely have that closer-to-home feeling! Do you have a favourite destination you’d love to live in?
