Chances are if you are like the 63% of Brits who believe they are getting a bad deal with the Brexit proposal, then your search for greener pastures has already begun. Personally, I think there is always an opportunity to find a better quality of life elsewhere within the EU or further abroad.
We Brits have been explorers for centuries and just over a decade ago, the emigration phase was retirement to warmer climates and cheaper Spanish or French properties. Now, the driving force is Brexit.
Once Britain leaves the EU there are a variety of consequences that may make it more difficult to maintain a happy lifestyle in the UK. The same study by Euronews also revealed, 51% of UK citizens who believe that Brexit is a bad deal also believe that the results of the referendum will mean that relationships with Europe will become too distant. We should already have Brexited but countless summits, meetings and votes in Parliament later – the post-Brexit picture is still very unclear. We still have no idea how much the right to travel, live and work in other countries will change and we can’t even guess at how the economy will be affected. One way to remove the uncertainty is simply to relocate.
Here’s my take on the optimal and Brit-friendly countries worth adding to your emigration list.
Which countries are the best option for UK citizens?
Fortunately, there are several countries across the globe that will make a great alternative home for Brits who want to escape the consequences of Brexit.
Australia
A no-brainer really, considering that in the late 1700’s petty crime British convicts were relocated to Australia. According to a recent study by the UK’s Office for National Statistics, this is one of the most popular destinations for Brits who want to start a new life. With the pristine beaches, extensive entertainment options and amenities who could blame them.
However, the true benefit of starting a new life in Australia becomes evident when you look at the percentage of the population that is not natively Australian. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 28% of the population is foreign-born. This means it will be easy for you to fit into a community of expats who will offer you the type of support you need to really get your Australian lifestyle into gear.
The reason for this large percentage of foreign-born individuals calling Australia their home is the flexibility of their immigration policies. Not only is there no restriction on your work rights but you also have the option to move before you have permanent residency in place. ‘Alright, matie! Time to play with dingoes and koalas!”
There are some restrictions though. You need to have skills that they want and not be too old, you also can’t have certain medical conditions.
France
If you are a fan of strong fragranced cheese, eating your bodyweight in baguettes or really cannot imagine starting your day without a croissant, then viva la France! Besides, the Euro tunnel still means that you can pop into London from Paris or take a Ferry to Portsmouth, making it possible to still visit family, should the need arise. Yes, you can fly home too!
Although there is already quite a significant proportion of British citizens who call France their home, this figure has increased dramatically. Due to the uncertain effects of Brexit, the French government has begun to prepare for their neighbours across the channel to leave the EU. If you find yourself being pulled toward France, you will need to apply for your long stay visa at French consulate within the UK prior to making your exit.
And don’t forget, you will need to “vous aurez besoin de parler un peu français”. Translation, you will need to speak some French. Thanks, Google translate, I do feel like a polyglot and such a smart cookie.
When you move to mainland France you will be able to enjoy a continental climate with mild weather or move further south to bask in gloriously hot summers.
Germany
According to Mercer’s Better Life Index, Germany has three cities that are rated as some of the best places to live in the world. These three top-class cities are Frankfurt, Dusseldorf and Munich.
Another great benefit associated with a move to Germany is an incredibly safe environment. A recent study by their National Crime Statistics Bureau revealed that out of every 100,000 German citizens only 7,000 crimes were reported. This is in contrast to the 8,000 crimes reported for every 100,000 individuals in the UK population, as reported by the UK Office for National Security.
All in all, if you don’t mind learning the language, you are sure to settle in fine with your German neighbours. Best of all, you can finally indulge in the Oktoberfest and a bit of dark humour as one of the natives. And you can truly say. “Ich spreche Deutsch!”
Portugal
Portugal has most of the benefits of Spain – a great climate, healthy food, a wonderful coastline and good short haul flight options from the UK. It has several features which might make it a better option than it’s Iberian neighbour. The coastline borders the Atlantic Ocean which is much cleaner than the Med, many more people speak good quality English and property is much cheaper. In addition Portugal offers a great low tax scheme for people who are retired and only have investment income.
What if I do not want to move far away from home?
Northern France is very close to Southern Britain but if your family live in other parts of the UK it might feel a little far away. In addition, English is not widely spoken in France so you would really have to learn the language to get the most out of your life there.
One of the most popular locations for Brits, who want to escape Brexit while still staying close to home, is Ireland. According to a study by the Irish Independent, 10% of the Irish population consists of Brits who have moved to the country in the past year!
When you move to Ireland you will still be able to enjoy the comforts of home without any of the insecurity of not belonging to the EU. Many people who have already made the move to Ireland claim that they are finally free from ongoing concerns and are able to find a balance between their work and home life.
Although emigration is a big decision, only you can decide what really works best for your life aspirations.
