Easiest countries to move to from the UK in 2027

The easiest country to move to from the UK is Ireland: thanks to the Common Travel Area, British citizens can live, work and study there without a visa. Beyond Ireland, Australia, Canada and New Zealand are often the best countries to move to from the UK for work, while Spain, Portugal and Malta attract those seeking sunshine and a slower pace of life. This 2027 guide covers the easiest countries to move to from the UK, where you can move without a visa and what to consider before you go.

Whether you are chasing better weather, career opportunities or a new lifestyle, thousands of Brits move abroad each year. The guide is split into two parts:

• Asian countries, known for warm climates, affordability and rich cultures
• Global destinations beyond Asia, where lifestyle familiarity, job opportunities and strong infrastructure attract British expats

Best countries to move to from the UK

The best country to move to from the UK depends on your goals, budget, age and family needs. Many UK citizens find Australia, Canada and New Zealand among the easiest countries to move to, thanks to skilled worker, employer sponsored and working holiday visa routes. Think about language, job prospects, healthcare access and how far you will be from family.

Visa rules change often, so always check the official immigration website of your chosen country before you apply.

Where can I move to from the UK without a visa?

The only country British citizens can move to and live in without any visa or residence permit is Ireland. Under the Common Travel Area (CTA), UK and Irish citizens can live, work, study and access healthcare and social security in each other's countries, as set out by GOV.UK and the Irish Government.

A few points to understand:

• Ireland: No visa or permit is needed. You simply move, register with local services and get a Personal Public Service (PPS) number to work. Read our guide to moving to Ireland from the UK.
• EU and Schengen countries: Since Brexit, UK citizens can visit the Schengen area visa free for up to 90 days in any 180 day period. To live there longer, you need a visa or residence permit. The EU's ETIAS travel authorisation is expected to apply to UK visitors, so check GOV.UK foreign travel advice before you travel.
• Irish or EU citizenship by descent: If you hold, or are entitled to, an Irish or other EU passport (for example through a parent or grandparent), you can live and work across the EU without a visa.
• Commonwealth countries: Australia, Canada and New Zealand all require a visa to live and work, although UK citizens can visit for short stays with an electronic travel authority.

Best Asian countries to move to from the UK

Asia offers a blend of tradition and modern convenience. From tropical beaches to busy skylines, the region suits those seeking culture, climate and value for money, with a growing number of long stay visa options for British nationals.

1. Thailand

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for Brits, especially retirees, remote workers and digital nomads. Permanent residency takes time, but long stay options like the retirement visa and the Thailand Privilege membership visa (formerly Thailand Elite) let you stay for years. Read our guide to the top places to live in Thailand.

Why it is ideal:

• Lower cost of living than the UK
• Warm weather year round
• Friendly locals and a well established British expat community

2. Malaysia

Malaysia's MM2H (Malaysia My Second Home) programme attracts long term foreign residents. The rules were revised in 2024, with tiered financial requirements, so check the latest criteria with the Malaysian Government. English is widely spoken, particularly in Kuala Lumpur and Penang.

Why it is ideal:

• Modern comforts at a lower cost than the UK
• Multicultural society with English widely used
• Options for retirees and remote workers

3. United Arab Emirates

Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer career opportunities, modern amenities and a large expat population. With no personal income tax, the UAE attracts UK professionals, entrepreneurs and freelancers. Read our guide to moving to Dubai.

Why it is ideal:

• No personal income tax
• Year round sunshine
• Modern infrastructure and an English speaking business environment

Note: most expats in the UAE renew residence visas through work or long term schemes, but there is generally no route to citizenship.

4. Singapore

Singapore is a technology and finance hub that rewards talent. With employment and entrepreneur visa routes, it is a gateway to Asia for professionals and families, and permanent residence is possible for some long term residents.

Why it is ideal:

• Efficient public systems and a strong reputation for safety
• English is an official language
• High quality schools

5. Philippines

If you want relaxed island living with English widely spoken, the Philippines may suit you. The Special Resident Retiree's Visa (SRRV) offers a long stay route for older expats.

Why it is ideal:

• Lower cost of living
• Tropical weather and beaches
• English widely spoken and welcoming communities

Easiest countries to move to from the UK beyond Asia

1. Ireland

Thanks to the Common Travel Area, UK citizens can move to Ireland without a visa. You can live, work and study there with minimal paperwork, making it the easiest country to move to from the UK.

Why it is ideal:

• No visa required for UK citizens
• Shared language and close cultural ties
• Strong job market in Dublin, Cork and Galway

2. Spain

Spain remains a favourite for UK expats. Since Brexit, you need a visa to live there, but the non-lucrative visa and digital nomad visa allow long stays. Valencia and Málaga offer good value and great weather. After ten years of legal residence, British citizens may be eligible to apply for Spanish citizenship. Read our essential guide to moving to Spain or see our removals to Spain service.

Why it is ideal:

• Sunny lifestyle
• Active British expat groups
• Great food, art and culture

3. Portugal

Portugal continues to attract UK expats with its D7 visa for passive income earners and retirees, plus a digital nomad visa. Affordable living compared with the UK, coastlines and mild weather make it popular, especially the Algarve. British citizens can generally buy property in Portugal without government approval. Read our guide to moving to Portugal from the UK.

Why it is ideal:

• Mild climate and lots of sunshine
• Lower cost of living than many UK regions
• Friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life
• Coastal areas such as the Algarve with a vibrant expat community

4. Australia

With similar values and legal systems, Australia is one of the top destinations for British citizens. Its skilled migration programme suits people in healthcare, construction, education, engineering and IT, and employer sponsored visas are another popular route. After becoming a permanent resident and living there for the required period, you can apply for Australian citizenship, and dual nationality is allowed. Read how to move to Australia or see our removals to Australia service.

Why it is ideal:

• Sunny weather and outdoor lifestyle
• Strong infrastructure
• Demand for workers in IT, healthcare and engineering
• Large British expat base

5. Canada

Canada's Express Entry system is designed to attract skilled workers, making it one of the easiest destinations for skilled UK professionals. From Toronto to Vancouver, there is demand for talent and a reputation for inclusivity. Read why you should move to Canada or see our removals to Canada service.

Why it is ideal:

• Transparent, points based visa system
• Family friendly lifestyle
• Four seasons and stunning landscapes

6. New Zealand

With breathtaking landscapes and welcoming communities, New Zealand offers skilled and working holiday visa routes for UK citizens. Read our New Zealand guide or see our removals to New Zealand service.

Key benefits include:

• Work opportunities in sectors with skills shortages
• Relaxed, outdoor focused lifestyle
• English speaking environment

7. Malta

Malta appeals to UK expats thanks to English being an official language and its Mediterranean climate. The Nomad Residence Permit is popular with remote workers.

Key benefits include:

• No language barrier
• Mediterranean climate
• Short flights to the UK

Moving abroad from the UK: what you need to know

Moving abroad involves several steps, from securing the right visa to registering with local authorities in your new country. Requirements can include proof of income, health insurance, a clean criminal record certificate and sometimes language tests.

Before you go:

• Check visa rules on the destination's official immigration website
• Tell HMRC you are leaving the UK and check your tax residence position
• Review your State Pension and National Insurance position on GOV.UK
• Exchange or check your driving licence rules
• Arrange healthcare and insurance for your new country
• Plan pet travel with our pet shipping service
• Decide what to ship, sell or store

Use our moving abroad checklist to plan each stage. A reputable international removal company handles packing, shipping, customs paperwork and storage so you can focus on settling into your new home. If you are keeping some belongings in the UK, Pickfords self storage starts from £18, and drive-up self storage suits long term needs. Choose a secure facility to keep your belongings safe at all times.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the easiest country to move to from the UK?

Ireland is the easiest country to move to from the UK. Under the Common Travel Area, UK citizens can live and work in Ireland without a visa.

• Where can I move to from the UK without a visa?

Ireland is the only country where British citizens can live and work without a visa or permit. In EU countries you can visit for up to 90 days in any 180 day period, but you need a visa or residence permit to live there unless you hold an EU passport.

• What are the best countries to move to from the UK for work?

Australia, Canada and New Zealand offer strong opportunities for UK professionals through skilled migration programmes. The UAE offers tax free earnings in finance, technology and construction, and Singapore suits people in technology and finance.

• Can UK citizens move to the EU easily after Brexit?

UK citizens can still move to EU countries, but a visa or residence permit is now needed. Spain and Portugal offer accessible routes such as the non-lucrative visa, the D7 visa and digital nomad visas. Each country has its own requirements.

• What is the best country to move to from the UK for retirement?

Spain, Portugal, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines are popular with British retirees because of their climate, cost of living and long stay visa routes. Check how your State Pension will be paid and whether it will rise each year in your chosen country on GOV.UK.

• How much does it cost to move abroad from the UK?

The cost depends on the volume of your belongings, the distance, whether you choose a full container or shared shipping and the services you need. Pickfords provides a free tailored quote for international moves.

Ready to start your new life abroad? Request a free quote for your international move or get in touch with our expert team for personalised advice. Visit our international removals page to find out more.