RelocateCompassBest Countries for UK Expats After Brexit: Your 2026 Guide
Where British citizens are relocating in 2026 — from Spain and Portugal to Australia, the UAE, and Southeast Asia — with visa routes, costs, and a relocation checklist.
Moving abroad from the United Kingdom has changed, but the world is still wide open. Many British citizens are finding new ways to enjoy sunshine, better career opportunities, and a relaxed lifestyle. Whether you are a remote worker or looking to retire, 2026 offers many exciting paths. Let’s look at the top destinations where UK expats are currently thriving.
Why people are still relocating
While Brexit added some paperwork, the desire for a fresh start remains strong. People are looking for lower costs, better weather, or simply a change of pace. If you aren’t sure where to start, browse our country guides — it helps narrow down choices based on your personal needs.
Top European choices
Spain — the eternal favorite. Spain remains a top pick for many reasons: a social lifestyle, incredible food, and a hard-to-beat climate. UK citizens now use the Non-Lucrative Visa for retirement or the Digital Nomad Visa for remote work — both provide a clear path to long-term residency.
Portugal — safety and warmth. Consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, with a very high quality of life for a lower cost than the UK. The D8 visa is perfect for those who work online, and it has a large, friendly expat community.
Germany — career and culture. A powerhouse for professionals — if you work in tech, engineering, or healthcare, there are many visa options available. Cities like Berlin and Munich offer a high standard of living and are great for families who value education and public services.
Moving further afield
Australia — the dream lifestyle. A long-time magnet for British expats — the shared language and similar legal systems make the transition very smooth. The distance is great, but the outdoor lifestyle and high wages are a huge draw, especially for healthcare workers and tradespeople.
USA — the land of opportunity. Moving to the USA often requires a specific work visa or company transfer, but the career potential and cultural variety are unmatched — from the busy streets of New York to the tech hubs in California.
United Arab Emirates — tax-free living. The UAE has become incredibly popular for its tax-free salaries. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer a modern, luxury lifestyle, and it’s a global hub that makes it easy to travel elsewhere.
Southeast Asian gems
Thailand — affordability and adventure. A top choice for digital nomads and retirees alike, with a cost of living significantly lower than Europe. New Long-Term Resident visas make staying for the long haul easier than ever — check our Cost of Living Calculator to see how far your budget goes.
Malaysia — the MM2H program. A unique mix of modern cities and beautiful rainforests, with English widely spoken. The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program is a popular route for those with stable savings, providing a peaceful and affordable lifestyle.
Comparison of top destinations
| Country | Main visa type | Cost of living | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spain | Digital Nomad / NLV | Moderate | Relaxed & social |
| Portugal | D8 / D7 Visa | Low to moderate | Safe & welcoming |
| UAE | Golden Visa / Work | High (tax-free) | Modern & fast |
| Australia | Skilled Independent | High | Outdoor & active |
| Thailand | LTR / Destination Visa | Low | Tropical & friendly |
Your relocation checklist
- ✅ Check your passport has at least 6 months validity left
- ✅ Apply for the correct visa well in advance of your flight
- ✅ Use a cost calculator to set a realistic budget
- ✅ Organize health insurance that covers you in your new home
- ✅ Open a local bank account or a multi-currency account
- ✅ Research the local rental market before you arrive
Common mistakes to avoid
- ❌ Assuming you can stay forever on a tourist visa
- ❌ Forgetting to notify HMRC about your move
- ❌ Underestimating the cost of private health insurance
- ❌ Ignoring local tax residency rules in your new country
- ❌ Not learning basic local phrases if moving to Europe
Frequently asked questions
Can I still retire to Spain after Brexit? Yes — you can apply for a Non-Lucrative Visa if you have enough savings or a private pension.
Which country is cheapest for UK expats? Thailand and Malaysia generally offer the lowest cost of living for British citizens in 2026.
Do I need a job offer to move to Australia? Not always — some skilled visas allow you to move based on your points and qualifications.
Moving abroad in a post-Brexit world requires more planning, but the rewards are worth it. Whether you seek the sun in Spain or a new career in the UAE, your move is achievable.