Moving From UK To Abroad
Moving abroad has always been a life-changing step, but since Brexit, the question for many British citizens is no longer just “Should I leave”, it’s “Where can I go with the least resistance”
Whether you’re leaving for work, family, lifestyle, retirement, or political certainty, the right destination can make a significant difference. Some countries offer seamless visa processes, reciprocal agreements, or pathways to residency that are far more accessible to UK nationals than others.
This blog from Axis Solicitors examines the Best countries to move to from UK in 2025, based on legal entry routes, visa flexibility, ease of integration, and post-Brexit residency arrangements.
1. Ireland
For British citizens considering a move abroad in 2025, Ireland is one of the Best countries to move to from the UK. The close political, cultural, and historical ties between the UK and Ireland are underpinned by the Common Travel Area (CTA) — a reciprocal arrangement that predates the UK’s EU membership and remains unaffected by Brexit.
Under the CTA, UK and Irish citizens can live, work, study and access services in each other’s countries without the need for visas, residency permits or immigration applications. This makes Ireland a uniquely frictionless relocation destination for British nationals.
Legal Right to Reside
British citizens do not need a visa, work permit or residence card to live in Ireland. You are automatically entitled to reside in Ireland as long as you are:
- A British citizen (born or naturalised), and
- Not subject to a deportation or exclusion order (extremely rare in CTA cases)
There are no immigration checkpoints between the UK and Ireland for land or sea travel. Passport control is minimal, although a valid UK passport is required for formal identity verification when necessary.
Employment and Work Rights
UK citizens have full labour market access in Ireland and do not need a job offer or employer sponsorship to work. You can:
- Accept employment with any Irish business or organisation
- Work on a self-employed basis or set up a company
- Apply for jobs without work visa restrictions
- Pay Irish tax and social security contributions as a resident worker
To commence employment, you will need to apply for a Personal Public Service Number (PPSN) — the Irish equivalent of a National Insurance Number — which is used for tax, social welfare, and health services.
Healthcare Access
UK citizens residing in Ireland can access the Irish public healthcare system under the CTA agreement. Entitlement is based on ordinary residence, which typically means being present in Ireland for more than 183 days per year with an intention to stay.
Services available to UK nationals include:
- Public hospital treatment (subject to public waiting lists)
- General Practitioner (GP) services under the Medical Card or GP Visit Card schemes
- Prescription drug subsidies via the Drugs Payment Scheme
- Reciprocal access for urgent/emergency care on a temporary stay
Private health insurance is optional but widely used, particularly in urban areas.
Education and Family Life
British citizens can enrol their children in Irish public or private schools without visa restrictions. There is no requirement for a student visa or guardian consent application. Irish schools follow a curriculum similar to the UK, and English is the primary language of instruction in most institutions.
Higher education is also accessible, though UK students may no longer qualify for EU fee rates or student grants. However, Irish universities are well-regarded and culturally compatible with British education systems.
Property, Tax and Residency Considerations
There are no legal restrictions on UK nationals buying, renting, or inheriting property in Ireland. You may purchase a home or investment property in your own name without registering with the Irish immigration authorities.
Tax residence is based on days spent in the country, not nationality. If you live in Ireland for:
- 183 days or more in a calendar year, or
- 280 days or more over two consecutive years
you will likely be considered a tax resident in Ireland and subject to Irish income tax on worldwide earnings.
Axis Solicitors offers expert support with cross-border tax planning, property transfers, and UK-Ireland residency transitions.
Why Ireland Is One of the Best Countries to Move to from UK
| Factor | Ireland |
| Visa required for entry? | No |
| Visa required to work? | No |
| Residency registration required? | No |
| Healthcare access? | Yes (with PPSN and residence) |
| Employment rights? | Full access to labour market |
| Language barrier? | None (English is dominant language) |
| Education access for children? | Yes, without restrictions |
| Access to services/public benefits? | Yes, subject to ordinary residence and eligibility |
| Travel from the UK? | Ferry, flight, road – direct, frequent, and low-cost |
2. Australia
Australia remains one of the most popular and Best countries to move to from UK seeking long-term relocation. The two countries share deep historical ties, legal and political similarities, and a strong cultural connection that makes integration easier. For British nationals, Australia offers one of the most transparent and structured immigration systems in the world, particularly for skilled workers, graduates, families, and investors.
While it’s not visa-free like Ireland, the pathways to residency and eventually citizenship are well-defined, and the process — though rigorous — is achievable for many UK applicants.
Immigration System Overview
Australia’s immigration system is points-based and primarily structured around the Skilled Migration Program, Employer Sponsorship, Family Migration, and Temporary Visas that may lead to permanent residency. British citizens do not receive automatic entry privileges, but they do benefit from language exemptions, skills compatibility, and fast-tracked assessments in many occupations.
Most Common Visas for UK Citizens:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
- Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
- Partner or Family Migration Visas
- Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)
- Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Eligibility for UK Nationals
While visa eligibility depends on your specific route, common advantages for UK citizens include:
- English language exemptions for many occupations
- UK qualifications often meet Australian standards, easing skills assessments
- Shared professional licensing systems in many sectors (healthcare, law, trades)
- Age compatibility — most skilled visas require applicants to be under 45
- Strong demand for UK-trained professionals in sectors like nursing, education, engineering, IT, and construction
UK citizens are also considered low-risk applicants by the Department of Home Affairs, which often results in faster processing times compared to higher-risk countries.
Employment and Work Rights
Australian work visas are designed to support economic demand, with clear conditions around job offers, state nominations, or regional commitments.
UK citizens on skilled visas can:
- Work for any employer (once permanent residency is granted)
- Access government-backed career pathways for in-demand roles
- Earn competitive salaries in global sectors like mining, finance, tech, and healthcare
- Transition from temporary to permanent status through onshore applications
In addition, Working Holiday Visas for UK citizens have been expanded since 2024, allowing eligible applicants to work and travel in Australia for up to three years without needing to complete rural work requirements — a benefit not extended to other nationalities.
Healthcare and Public Services
Once granted permanent residency, UK citizens are entitled to enrol in Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system. This includes:
- Subsidised general practitioner visits
- Free hospital care in public facilities
- Subsidised prescriptions under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)
Those on temporary visas (e.g. students, skilled workers) must maintain private health insurance but are often eligible for some reciprocal emergency healthcare coverage under the UK-Australia health agreement.
Children can access public education in most states, though temporary visa holders may need to pay international student fees in some jurisdictions.
Lifestyle and Integration
Australia offers a high quality of life, strong job market, and English-speaking society — factors that continue to attract British nationals. Some of the benefits include:
- A familiar legal system
- Diverse and inclusive urban centres like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth
- Outdoor-oriented culture with world-class beaches, parks, and recreation
- Year-round mild climate in most regions
- Strong expat communities with support networks for UK citizens
Integration is typically straightforward for British migrants, especially given the common language, similar education systems, and existing UK expat population of over 1.2 million residents.
Timeline to Permanent Residency and Citizenship
Australia offers one of the clearest routes to permanent settlement among non-EEA countries. Most UK citizens who migrate through skilled or partner routes become eligible for permanent residency within 2–4 years and can apply for citizenship after:
- Four years of legal residence
- At least 12 months as a permanent resident
- Meeting character and language requirements
- Passing a citizenship test
Unlike the UK, dual citizenship is permitted. You can retain your British passport while holding Australian citizenship, with full access to public services, voting rights, and international protection.
Axis Solicitors offers expert support with cross-border tax planning, property transfers, and UK-Australia residency transitions.
Why Australia Is One of the Best Countries for Brits to Move To
| Factor | Australia |
| Visa-free entry? | No (except short visits) |
| Clear visa pathways? | Yes – especially for skilled workers and family members |
| Work opportunities? | High demand for UK-qualified professionals |
| Permanent residency possible? | Yes – multiple PR pathways after 2–4 years |
| Healthcare access? | Yes – Medicare for PRs, insurance for others |
| Education access? | Yes – though some states charge fees for temporary visas |
| Language barrier? | None – English is the national language |
| Dual citizenship allowed? | Yes |
3. Canada
Canada remains one of the most immigration-friendly and best countries to move to from UK in the world, with a long-standing history of welcoming skilled workers, families, entrepreneurs, and students. For UK citizens, the transition is often smooth, thanks to the shared language, Commonwealth ties, and compatible professional systems.
In 2025, Canada continues to offer clear, structured routes for British nationals to settle through a combination of federal and provincial immigration programmes. The country’s merit-based immigration system is built on transparency, fairness, and long-term integration.
Overview of Canada’s Immigration System
Canada’s immigration is administered at two levels:
- Federal Immigration Streams – managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), including:
- Express Entry (Skilled workers)
- Family Sponsorship
- Start-up and Investor Programmes
- Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNPs) – run by individual provinces and territories with their own labour market priorities.
British citizens can apply directly through federal routes or be nominated through a province that aligns with their skills and experience. The system prioritises economic contribution, education, language ability, and adaptability.
Key Immigration Pathways for UK Citizens
Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Programme)
- Canada’s primary immigration route for professionals
- Requires candidates to create a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) profile based on:
- Age
- Education
- English and/or French proficiency
- Work experience
- Canadian connections (job offer, study history, or family)
- Minimum CRS score required varies by invitation round
- Successful applicants can obtain permanent residency within 6–12 months
Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNPs)
- Provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta actively nominate candidates with skills needed locally
- Offers faster processing for applicants with job offers or regional connections
- Allows for both skilled and semi-skilled occupations
Family Sponsorship
- British citizens with Canadian partners, spouses, or close family may apply for PR through family reunification
- Spouses and common-law partners can apply whether the sponsor is in the UK or Canada
- Dependent children and parents may also be eligible
Study-to-Permanent Residency Pathway
- Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows UK students to work after completing a Canadian qualification
- Experience gained under PGWP can support a successful Express Entry application later
Work, Healthcare, and Public Services
Employment Rights
- Permanent residents can work freely for any employer in any industry
- No employer sponsorship required for most skilled pathways
- UK degrees and professional experience are often recognised or easily convertible through provincial regulatory bodies
Healthcare Access
- All permanent residents are entitled to public healthcare, funded through provincial systems
- Temporary visa holders (students, workers) must obtain private health cover or may be eligible under provincial programmes after a waiting period
Education Access
- Free public schooling is available for children of PR holders or temporary workers
- UK citizens studying at Canadian institutions are eligible for PGWPs and local scholarships
Cultural Compatibility and Lifestyle
Canada offers one of the most accessible multicultural environments for British citizens relocating abroad. Cultural similarities include:
- English as a dominant language (French is co-official)
- A democratic, legal system based on English common law
- Strong Commonwealth links and high levels of UK-Canadian migration
- Inclusive, safe cities and affordable suburban and rural options
Permanent Residency and Citizenship
Canada offers a direct route to permanent residency through its skilled and family programmes. After obtaining PR status, residents can:
- Live, work, and study anywhere in Canada
- Access public healthcare and most benefits
- Apply for citizenship after 3 years (within the past 5 years)
Canada permits dual citizenship, so UK nationals can retain their British passport.
Axis Solicitors offers expert support with cross-border tax planning, property transfers, and UK-Canada residency transitions.
Why Canada Is One of the Easiest Countries for Brits to Move To
| Factor | Canada |
| Visa-free entry (short visits)? | Yes – up to 6 months with eTA |
| Work visa required? | Yes – unless PR granted |
| Pathways to PR? | Yes – Express Entry, PNPs, family sponsorship |
| Healthcare access? | Yes – for PRs; limited or private for temporary residents |
| Job market opportunities? | Strong demand for skilled professionals |
| Education access for dependants? | Yes – for PRs and work/study visa holders |
| Language barrier? | None for English speakers; French an asset in some areas |
| Citizenship eligibility? | Yes – after 3 years of physical presence |
4. New Zealand
New Zealand offers one of the most straightforward and is one of the Best countries to move to from UK among developed nations. Its strong cultural alignment with Britain, shared language, and well-organised migration policies make it a consistently attractive option for skilled professionals, families, and retirees.
Immigration System Overview
New Zealand’s immigration system is built on four major pathways:
- Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)
- Accredited Employer Work Visas (AEWV)
- Partnership and Family Visas
- Investor and Entrepreneur Visas
In 2025, policy changes have made it easier for British citizens to secure work-based visas, especially in construction, healthcare, aged care, and digital technology — all sectors where New Zealand faces ongoing skill shortages.
Key Immigration Routes for UK Citizens
Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Visa
- A points-based residency visa for individuals with skilled employment in New Zealand
- Requires a job offer from a New Zealand employer, or current employment in a recognised skilled occupation
- Candidates are assessed on:
- Age
- Job type and location
- Salary threshold
- Education
- Work experience
- English language ability
- A minimum points threshold must be met to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Successful applicants are invited to apply for residency
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
- For applicants with a valid job offer from a government-accredited New Zealand employer
- Must meet minimum salary and skill requirements
- Provides a pathway to permanent residency after 2–3 years of employment
- Replaces several previous work visa streams, streamlining the application process
Partner and Family Visas
- British citizens in a genuine relationship with a New Zealand citizen or resident can apply for residence or temporary visas
- Requires evidence of shared living arrangements, financial dependency, and long-term commitment
- Dependent children may be included in the application or apply separately
Post-Study Work and Graduate Pathways
- UK citizens who study in New Zealand for at least one year can apply for a Post-Study Work Visa, valid for up to three years
- Provides an opportunity to gain local work experience and transition to SMC or AEWV routes
Employment and Economic Integration
New Zealand’s labour market is experiencing shortages across key industries. UK citizens with qualifications and experience in the following fields are particularly competitive:
- Healthcare and aged care
- Construction and trades
- Engineering
- IT and software development
- Education and early childhood teaching
- Agriculture and horticulture
UK-acquired qualifications are generally well-recognised, and licensing or registration for regulated professions (such as nursing or teaching) can often be achieved with minimal additional study.
Public Services and Healthcare
Healthcare Access
- UK citizens who become residents or hold long-term work visas are generally eligible for public healthcare after enrolling with a local doctor (GP)
- Reciprocal agreements between the UK and New Zealand cover emergency care only for temporary visitors
- Private health insurance is optional but common for quicker access to non-emergency services
Education Access
- Public education is free for children of residents and most long-term work visa holders
- British families relocating with school-age children can enrol without the need for international student visas
- Higher education for international students is fee-paying, but domestic tuition rates may apply once residency is granted
Quality of Life and Lifestyle Fit
New Zealand is regularly ranked among the world’s best countries for quality of life, safety, and environmental standards. For many UK expats, it offers a balanced blend of:
- English-speaking, democratic society
- Low population density and outdoor-focused living
- Excellent air quality and natural surroundings
- Strong rule of law and personal freedoms
- Familiar food, culture, and values
Cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch offer cosmopolitan amenities, while rural towns and smaller regions offer affordability and strong community values.
Permanent Residency and Citizenship
- Many UK citizens progress from work visas to permanent residency within 2–3 years
- The Skilled Migrant Category and AEWV offer clear pathways for transition
- After five years as a permanent resident, applicants may become eligible for New Zealand citizenship
- Dual citizenship is permitted, so British citizens may retain their UK passport
Axis Solicitors offers expert support with cross-border tax planning, property transfers, and UK-New Zealand residency transitions.
Why New Zealand Is One of the Best Countries for UK Citizens to Move To
| Factor | New Zealand |
| Visa-free entry for short stays? | Yes – up to 6 months (NZeTA required) |
| Pathway to work and PR? | Yes – via Skilled Migrant and Accredited Employer visas |
| Language barrier? | None – English is the official and daily language |
| Work opportunities for UK citizens? | Strong – especially in priority sectors |
| Healthcare access? | Yes – for long-term visa holders and residents |
| Public education for children? | Yes – access for residents and most work visa holders |
| Dual citizenship allowed? | Yes |
| Time to PR? | 2–3 years (depending on visa route) |
5. Portugal
Portugal has emerged as one of the most attractive and Best countries to move to from UK for British citizens in the post-Brexit era. With its accessible residency options, relatively low cost of living, and favourable climate, Portugal offers a welcoming environment for remote workers, retirees, and families alike.
Unlike many EU countries, Portugal has streamlined residency pathways that do not require significant investment or a complex application process. British citizens can relocate under a number of visa categories and, once resident, enjoy access to healthcare, education, and the broader Schengen Area.
Immigration and Residency Overview
Since the UK’s departure from the EU, British citizens are considered third-country nationals in Europe, but Portugal has introduced mechanisms to accommodate UK applicants with greater flexibility than many of its EU counterparts.
The main routes to residency include:
- D7 Visa – for passive income earners and retirees
- D8 Visa – for digital nomads and remote workers
- Golden Visa (ARI) – for high-net-worth individuals
- Family Reunification Visas – for joining relatives with residence status
- Student and Employment-Based Visas – for those enrolling in courses or holding job offers
Most British nationals opt for the D7 or D8 visa, which offer a cost-effective, legally straightforward route to legal residency.
D7 Visa – Passive Income Residency Route
The D7 Visa is ideal for individuals with a stable income from pensions, investments, rental income, or dividends.
Key Requirements:
- Proof of stable income (minimum ~€820/month for the main applicant, ~€410/month per dependent)
- Clean criminal record
- Accommodation in Portugal (owned or rented)
- Proof of comprehensive health insurance
- Willingness to reside in Portugal for a majority of the year
Successful applicants receive a temporary residence permit valid for two years, renewable for three years, and eventually eligible for permanent residency or citizenship after five years.
D8 Visa – Remote Work Visa for UK Citizens
Launched in response to the global shift toward remote work, the D8 Visa allows UK citizens working for foreign employers or as freelancers to live in Portugal legally while working online.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Employment contract or freelance contracts with non-Portuguese clients
- Minimum income of approximately €3,040 per month (4× Portuguese minimum wage)
- Valid accommodation in Portugal
- Proof of remote working capacity (e.g. business setup, software, clients)
Like the D7, the D8 Visa leads to temporary residence, and later to permanent status or naturalisation.
Living Standards and Cost of Living
Portugal offers a high quality of life at relatively low cost, especially compared to the UK’s urban centres.
Typical Monthly Costs in Portugal (Single Person):
- Rent (1-bed apartment): £500–£800 (Lisbon and Porto higher)
- Utilities and internet: £80–£120
- Groceries: £150–£250
- Public transport: £30–£50
- Private health insurance: £30–£80
Rural and coastal areas such as the Algarve or Alentejo are even more affordable, offering an excellent standard of living for UK pensioners, freelancers, and early retirees.
Healthcare and Education
Healthcare Access
Portugal has a public healthcare system (SNS), which residents can access after registering with the local health authority. D7 and D8 visa holders are eligible once they hold a residence permit and are registered as tax residents.
Education
- UK citizens residing in Portugal can enrol their children in public or private schools
- Public education is free and increasingly international in urban centres
- British and international schools are available in Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve
Taxation and Financial Considerations
Portugal has historically offered attractive tax regimes for foreign residents, particularly the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) programme. While recent policy shifts have tightened NHR eligibility, many UK applicants can still benefit from:
- Reduced tax rates on foreign-sourced pensions and dividends
- Tax exemptions on UK income that is already taxed in the UK
- No wealth tax or inheritance tax in most cases
Residency and Citizenship Timeline
- D7 and D8 visa holders can apply for permanent residency after five years of legal residence
- Applicants must demonstrate ties to Portugal, absence of criminal activity, and regular income
- After five years, UK citizens can also apply for Portuguese citizenship, which includes:
- EU citizenship
- Full access to Schengen travel
- Retention of UK citizenship (dual citizenship permitted)
Axis Solicitors offers expert support with cross-border tax planning, property transfers, and UK-Portugal residency transitions.
Why Portugal Is One of the Easiest Countries for UK Citizens to Move To
| Factor | Portugal |
| Visa required? | Yes – D7 or D8 for most long-term stays |
| Residency path available? | Yes – low financial thresholds and flexible criteria |
| Public healthcare access? | Yes – once registered as a resident |
| Tax incentives? | Yes – subject to programme rules and conditions |
| Dual citizenship allowed? | Yes |
| Integration difficulty? | Low – strong English-speaking communities, EU familiarity |
| Cost of living? | Lower than UK and most EU capitals |
| Citizenship timeline? | 5 years of legal residence |
6. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly Dubai and Abu Dhabi, continues to attract UK nationals seeking career progression, tax-free income, and a high standard of living, proving to be one of the easiest countries to move to from UK. With a well-regulated visa system and business-friendly environment, the UAE remains one of the most accessible countries for British professionals and entrepreneurs.
The Emirates have introduced several immigration reforms in recent years, making it easier for skilled foreign nationals, remote workers, retirees, and investors to live and work in the country legally, without long-term citizenship commitments or overly complex paperwork.
Immigration and Visa Pathways
The UAE does not offer traditional permanent residency or citizenship routes for most foreigners, but it provides renewable long-term visas that offer residency rights and near-complete freedom of movement within the country.
Key Visa Options for UK Citizens:
- Employment Visa
- Freelancer and Remote Work Visas
- Investor or Entrepreneur Visa
- Golden Visa
- Retirement Visa for over-55s with financial proof
- Family Sponsorship
Employment and Work Visas
The Employment Visa remains the most common entry route. It is processed by a sponsoring UAE company and includes:
- Entry permit
- Medical screening and Emirates ID registration
- Residence visa
- Labour card and work permit
UK citizens employed in the UAE enjoy:
- Tax-free salaries
- Standard working contracts with full-time benefits
- Employment law protections
- English-speaking business culture, especially in free zones
Remote Work and Freelancer Visas
The UAE has introduced Remote Work Residency Visas and Freelance Permits, particularly through:
- Dubai’s Virtual Working Programme
- Abu Dhabi’s Free Zone freelance schemes
- Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah creative industry visas
Criteria typically include:
- Proof of self-employment or remote job with overseas employer
- Minimum monthly income (~$3,500 or £2,800)
- Valid health insurance
- UAE accommodation
Golden Visa – Long-Term Residency
The UAE Golden Visa offers 5–10 years of renewable residency to high-performing professionals, investors, and specialists in select fields.
Eligible applicants may include:
- Senior executives
- Scientists, engineers, and doctors
- Property investors
- Entrepreneurs and founders of registered UAE startups
- Skilled workers earning over AED 30,000/month (~£6,400)
Living Conditions and Lifestyle
The UAE is a popular relocation destination for UK citizens due to its modern infrastructure, international schools, business climate, and social mobility. Key lifestyle benefits include:
- Tax-free income and no capital gains or wealth taxes
- Luxury accommodation and transport options
- English as the business and education language
- Year-round sunshine and a strong expat community
- Direct connectivity to the UK (7+ daily flights to London)
Healthcare and Education
Healthcare Access
- Mandatory private health insurance is required for all residents and must be provided by employers for sponsored workers
- Healthcare is high quality and English-speaking, with globally accredited hospitals
- Residents can access emergency care, surgery, and specialist services across both private and public sectors
Education Access
- British and international schools are widely available.
- Education fees vary significantly but are comparable to UK private school rates
- Curriculum options include British, IB, American, and Indian boards
Family Life and Dependants
UAE residents on valid employment, freelance, or Golden Visas can sponsor:
- Spouses
- Children (boys under 18 or studying full-time; girls until marriage)
- In some cases, parents and domestic workers
Path to Long-Term Settlement
The UAE does not offer citizenship or indefinite leave to most expatriates. However, residency visas can be renewed indefinitely if the underlying criteria are met.
The country’s long-term visa options provide stability, access to services, and full business and property rights — making it a practical alternative to permanent immigration.
Dual citizenship is not currently permitted in the UAE, though British citizens can retain their UK passport while holding a residence visa.
Axis Solicitors offers expert support with cross-border tax planning, property transfers, and UK-UAE residency transitions.
Why the UAE Is One of the Best Countries for UK Citizens to Move To
| Factor | UAE |
| Visa required for work/residency? | Yes – employer, freelance, or investor sponsorship needed |
| Permanent residency available? | No – but long-term renewable residency is accessible |
| Language barrier? | None – English is the business and education language |
| Tax benefits? | Yes – no income, capital gains, or inheritance tax |
| Business setup options? | Yes – extensive free zones and expat-friendly laws |
| Access to private healthcare? | Yes – mandatory insurance with excellent care options |
| Dual citizenship permitted? | No (but UK citizenship can be retained alongside residency) |
| Family sponsorship allowed? | Yes – for spouse, children, sometimes parents |
7. Spain
Spain remains one of the most desirable relocation destinations for UK citizens, particularly for retirees, remote workers, and lifestyle-focused movers. Post-Brexit, while freedom of movement has ended, Spain has introduced and expanded several long-term visa options specifically accommodating third-country nationals making it one of the Best countries to move to from UK for British citizens.
With a favourable climate, well-established expat communities, excellent healthcare, and a lower cost of living than the UK, Spain is now among the most accessible EU countries for UK nationals seeking residency without excessive complexity.
Immigration Overview for UK Citizens
As of 2025, UK citizens require a visa for stays longer than 90 days in any 180-day period. However, Spain offers a range of non-EU residence visas that allow British citizens to settle for extended periods or indefinitely.
Key long-stay visa options include:
- Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) – For retirees and those with passive income
- Digital Nomad Visa – For remote workers and online entrepreneurs
- Golden Visa – For investors in property or business
- Student and Employment Visas – For work or study commitments
- EU Family Member Residency – For those with an EU-citizen spouse or relative
1. Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV)
Key Requirements:
- Proof of regular passive income (minimum ~€30,000/year for main applicant, plus ~€7,000 per dependent)
- Clean criminal record (UK ACRO certificate)
- Full private health insurance with Spanish coverage
- Evidence of Spanish address (owned or rented property)
Applicants are not permitted to work under this visa, but it can be renewed and later converted into a residency permit with work rights in some cases.
2. Digital Nomad Visa
Launched in 2023, this visa allows remote workers employed outside Spain to live and work from Spanish territory legally.
Eligibility:
- A non-Spanish employment contract or self-employment income from non-Spanish clients
- Minimum income of €2,650/month (approximate)
- Background check, health insurance, and valid address in Spain
- Proof of qualifications and remote work experience
The visa is initially granted for 12 months, renewable for up to five years, and provides access to residency and future long-term settlement.
3. Golden Visa – Residency by Investment
This option is suited to high-net-worth individuals wishing to invest in Spain while securing residence rights.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Investment in real estate worth €500,000+, or
- Investment in business, shares, or Spanish government bonds
- Private health insurance and proof of financial self-sufficiency
- No minimum stay required to maintain residence
Golden Visa holders can live in Spain and travel freely within the Schengen Area. Family members (spouse and children) can also be included.
Residency and Citizenship Pathway
Once a British citizen is legally resident in Spain for five continuous years, they may apply for long-term residence status (similar to permanent residency). After ten years of legal residence, applicants may be eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship, though Spain does not allow dual nationality for UK citizens.
Cost of Living and Quality of Life
Spain offers a much lower cost of living than the UK, particularly in non-metropolitan areas such as Valencia, Andalusia, or the Canary Islands. The country provides access to:
- Affordable and fresh Mediterranean food
- Excellent public healthcare
- Modern transport and public infrastructure
- Outdoor lifestyle and strong work-life balance
Healthcare Access
Long-term residents in Spain are generally eligible to register with the Spanish public health system (SNS) if:
- They are employed or self-employed
- Paying into the social security system
- Retired under a reciprocal healthcare agreement (like the S1 scheme)
Education and Family Life
UK citizens relocating with children can access:
- Free public education (in Spanish)
- Private international schools offering British, IB, and American curriculums
- English-speaking nurseries and early years provision in major cities
Why Spain Is One of the Easiest Countries for UK Citizens to Move To
| Factor | Spain |
| Visa required for long stays? | Yes – NLV, Digital Nomad, or Investor Visa |
| Pathway to long-term residency? | Yes – after five years of continuous legal residence |
| Employment rights? | Limited initially on some visas, full rights after conversion |
| Healthcare access? | Yes – via SNS or private insurance depending on status |
| Cost of living? | Lower than UK in most areas |
| Language barrier? | Moderate – English widely spoken in expat-heavy areas |
| Citizenship available? | Yes – after 10 years (dual citizenship not permitted) |
| Family-friendly? | Yes – education and public services accessible |
Axis Solicitors offers expert support with cross-border tax planning, property transfers, and UK-Spain residency transitions.
How Axis Solicitors Can Help
Spanish immigration rules, while accessible, are bureaucratic and document-intensive, especially for non-EU nationals like UK citizens. Errors or omissions often result in delays or outright refusals.
We collaborate with regulated partners across Spain to manage your relocation legally and efficiently, minimising risk and maximising your chance of a successful transition. Contact Axis Solicitors for legal consultation today.
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