Find out which European country is easiest to move to with our guide. We cover Portugal, Malta, Spain, and Germany — all offering accessible pathways for UK nationals.
Portugal
Moving to Portugal from the UK is a straightforward process since there are several flexible residency options. Although the UK is no longer part of the EU, British citizens can still apply for visas such as the D7 Passive Income Visa or the D8 Digital Nomad Visa.
These visas are ideal for retirees, remote workers, or those with a steady income from abroad. After five years of legal residency, you can even apply for permanent residency or citizenship. Portugal’s immigration system is clear and welcoming, making the move simple for many people.
Portugal also has a lower cost of living compared to the UK, and rent, food, transport and healthcare tend to be lower in price - allowing people to have a better quality of life. Many choose to live in cities like Lisbon or Porto, or in coastal areas such as the Algarve, where the lifestyle is centred around outdoor living. There is also a strong focus on family and community, making it a safe and supportive environment for all ages.
Another reason why it’s so easy to move to Portugal is the wide use of English, especially in tourist areas. Most official documents are available in English, and many locals are happy to communicate in the language. With a strong network and a welcoming atmosphere, new arrivals can quickly feel at home.
Germany
Moving to Germany is made easier through the country’s Job Seeker Visa, which allows you to stay in Germany for up to six months while looking for work. This visa is ideal for skilled professionals and recent graduates with qualifications that are recognised in Germany.
Once you find a job, you can easily switch to a work visa or a residence permit. Germany has a strong economy with a high demand in sectors such as engineering, IT, healthcare and construction.
Germany is known for its excellent public services and infrastructure, making life easier and more comfortable for newcomers. The public transport system is also extremely safe, reliable and connects small towns to major cities. The education system is also well-respected, with many international schools and universities offering English-taught programmes.
Although German is the official language, many people in Germany also speak English, which helps make the move easier for UK nationals.
English is widely used in international companies, and some jobs don't require you to speak German at all. However, learning the language is strongly encouraged, especially for long-term integration.
Furthermore, many local councils provide affordable language courses to help newcomers pick up basic German and build stronger connections within the community.
Being open to learning the language, even gradually, can help you feel more at home and improve your job prospects in the long run.
spain
Moving to Spain is relatively straightforward due to several accessible visa options. One of the most popular visas is the Non-Lucrative Visa, which is ideal for retirees and those with passive income.
For remote workers, Spain also has a digital nomad visa, allowing you to live in Spain while working for a company or clients based outside the country. These visa routes provide clear pathways to residency and are supported by helpful guidelines from Spanish consulates.
Spain is especially attractive to retirees and remote workers from the UK, and the lower cost of living means your pension or salary can last longer. Housing, food and transport are generally more affordable, and private healthcare is both high-quality and reasonably priced.
For retirees, Spain provides a peaceful lifestyle with access to excellent healthcare services and strong expat networks. Remote workers can benefit from good internet access, co-working spaces in cities and coastal towns, and a healthy work-life balance supported by the relaxed pace of life.
Spanish culture is rich and welcoming, with strong traditions in food, music and festivals. UK nationals often find it easy to adapt, thanks to a large British expat community across regions like the Costa del Sol, Alicante and the Balearic Islands. Everyday life is enhanced by the friendly atmosphere, fresh food markets, and relaxed social lifestyle. These factors make moving to Spain simple and highly rewarding for those looking for comfort, community and sunshine.
Malta
Moving to Malta is extremely easy due to the country's welcoming residency options. Although the UK is no longer in the EU, British citizens can still apply for various residence permits, such as the Malta Permanent Residence Programme or the Nomad Residence Permit.
The visa process is clear and well-structured, and applicants are usually required to show proof of income or employment, along with health insurance and accommodation. The system is designed to be efficient, making it straightforward for individuals and families to settle in.
One of the biggest advantages of moving to Malta is that English is an official language, alongside Maltese. This removes a major barrier for UK nationals, as most people in Malta speak English fluently. All government services, signs, and official documents are also available in English, making daily life much easier.
Malta is also a tax-friendly environment and has special schemes for remote workers. The country has competitive tax rates for residents, along with specific programmes for those working remotely.
The Nomad Residence Permit is aimed at non-EU citizens, including UK nationals, who wish to live in Malta while working remotely for an overseas employer or clients. It allows you to stay in Malta for up to one year, with the option to renew.
With easy residency options, no language barrier, and strong support for digital workers and retirees, Malta is a very appealing choice for UK citizens looking to relocate.
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