TOP 5 European Countries for UK Expats: What Will Change After Brexit?

There are many reasons why the British citizens are moving from the islands to other countries. Some are looking for cheaper real estate, lower living costs, or better social policy, or even just the sunny weather. One thing is certain though, the number of expats is not negligible. In 2019 alone, just over 397,000 citizens moved out of the British Isles. Where are they headed and what reasons motivate them to do so? Focus on Europe.

Where do the Brits move to most often?

Not surprisingly, the ranking of the most popular countries among expats from the UK is dominated by English-speaking countries - the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. All four were dependent territories of British domination in the past and certain cultural and historical ties have survived to this day. Not to mention the non-existent (or only minimal) language barrier. 

But what about European countries?
According to UN-led migration statistics, some 1.3 million Britons lived in the European Union (outside the UK) in the pre-Brexit year of 2019. The list of TOP 5 countries looked like this:

1. Spain - 302,000 expats
2. Ireland - 293,000 expats
3. France - 177,000 expats
4. Germany - 99,000 expats
5. Italy - 66,000 expats

We will therefore take a closer look at these five countries. 

As we already live in post-Brexit Europe, we will also mention the consequences of Britain's withdrawal from the European Union. Especially given how the conditions for moving have changed.

Spain - 302,000 UK Expats 

In the global ranking of British migration, Spain follows the English-speaking countries. And why not? Sun, sea, exotic language and a strong cultural and historical charge at every turn. 

But let's break down the reasons for British migration to Spain into details:

• More sun and heat – compared to the British Isles, Spain is significantly richer on warm sunny days
• Large community of expats - 300,000 Britons is not a tiny number. Community building is also important in migration, and people with linguistic and cultural proximity are a welcome fulcrum in a foreign environment.
• Lower cost of living - compared to the UK, housing costs, food and fuel are cheaper in Spain. 
• Relaxed lifestyle - the Spanish pace of life is a bit slower than we are used to on the islands. Siestas are still a firmly rooted part of the day in many areas.

• Rich culture - Spain is known for its rich and colorful culture and we do not mean only fiestas and festivals. The people here are often closely locked in communities, while remaining open and friendly.

After Brexit, British migrants to Spain are no longer subject to looser rules than EU citizens. After the new one they have to apply for visas, the so-called Permiso de Residencia No Lucrativa, they must prove a regular monthly income (at least € 2,000) and a sufficient minimum account balance, maintained for at least one year. These conditions and its specifics may vary slightly depending on whether a British citizen moves to Spain for work or retirement and so on. 

Ireland - 293,000 UK Expats

The emerald landscape is a stone's throw away. Geographical, cultural and linguistic proximity are also the reasons why so many UK expats live here. The main reasons for British migration to Ireland therefore include:

• Proximity - Ireland is, despite some turbulent relations, close to the United Kingdom in several respects. The British citizens, though do not overcome such significant barriers when moving to this island.

• Social system - thanks to bilateral agreements between the UK and Ireland, both life insurance and pensions are transferable between countries, with only minimal restrictions.

• European Silicon Valley - Dublin is rapidly becoming a city with one of the highest concentrations of technology companies in post-transit Europe. Working in their ranks is also a great motivation for the British citizens.

The United Kingdom and Ireland have concluded an agreement operating under the so-called Common Travel Area, which allows citizens of both countries to travel, migrate and work freely between countries. Its requirements remained unchanged even after Brexit, formally no obligation to the British when moving to Ireland.

France – 177,000 UK Expats

Even the land of the Gallic rooster is not geographically distant from the British Isles. You can travel between the countries through the tunnel under the English Channel without having to buy airplane tickets. 

Other reasons for migrating to France include:

• Shorter working week - an average of 35 hours in case of France. Combined with the number of non-working days and holidays, this is an escape from the British hectic. 

• Diverse nature - thanks to its size, France is an outdoor mix from which everyone can choose. Whether you are attracted by snowy Alps, the sunny Riviera or the lowlands of the Paris Basin. 

• Cuisine - France has the highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants. Local gastronomy is rightly considered one of the best in the world and has a long tradition. These are all perks that really allows everyone to enjoy the food in France. 

Although an individual agreement between the United Kingdom and France is still feasible, for the time being, it looks like the British citizens will be subject to the same conditions when moving as all third-country nationals (outside the EU). This means, among other things, applying for a visa, proving receipts and bank statements. The specifications vary depending on whether you are moving here for work or, for example, for retirement. 

Germany – 99,000 UK Expats

Germany, as one of the world's strongest economies, is a natural attraction for the British. Citizens of the islands are able to find a well-paid jobs and a reach a high standard of living here. 

The reasons for the British moving to Germany include in particular:

• Work - employers in Germany particularly value British labour force, as it is generally considered to be highly qualified. A British national can find a job in this country easier and with a significantly higher earnings than the national average.

• High level of healthcare - German healthcare is one of the best rated in the world. 

• Low crime - compared to the United Kingdom, Germany is a significantly safer country. This applies not only to standard crime, but also, for example, to the risk of terrorist attacks.

• Green economy - companies and individuals in Germany are extremely aware of ecology. Waste separation is mandatory and well respected here. Despite being an industrial power, Germany is considered one of the most eco-friendly countries in the world. 

As in France, the British citizens will face more bureaucracy when moving to Germany after Brexit. This again includes applying for a visa and proving financial self-sufficiency. Account statements and proof of regular income are important to avoid unnecessary burdens on the country's social system and economy. 

Italy - 66,000 UK Expats

After Spain, Italy is the second favourite Mediterranean destination for the Brits. Culturally and climately, these are similar countries, so the motivation to move in is similar:

• Cheap real estate - compared to average prices in the UK, a British citizen can buy real estate on the Apennine Peninsula for a significantly lower amount. Even in sunny areas on the coast. 

• Sun and sea - just like in Spain, here are blessed sunny and warm days, especially the further south one moves. Compared to the rainy island climate, it is almost an exotic.

• Gastronomy - Italy is a sensual country, not excluding food. The local pasta, cheese and wines have a world reputation and form part of the country's significant cultural heritage.

• History and art - the birthplace of the Roman Empire is riddled with historical monuments. However, other historical eras can still be felt here, especially the Renaissance and its contribution to art. 

Italy is roughly at the level of Germany and France for British expats in terms of the bureaucratic complexity of migration. Depending on the reason for moving (pension, gainful activity, study, etc.), the applicant also submits a bank statement and proof of income with the visa application. The required minimum financial limits are therefore also different. 

The Brits naturally tend to English-speaking countries when moving. Those who want to move closer to home and stay in Europe are choosing countries that will open up their job opportunities and raise their living standards, a warmer climate and a convenient price of real estate.