jack
There’s a common misconception that since Brexit, UK nationals can’t move to Europe. And, it’s true that the process definitely is more complicated, but there are still a few options available.
Not to get caught up in the politics, but as of January 2025 and data on Statista, 55% of Britons think it was the wrong decision to leave the EU.
Still, despite the odd fleeting news article spewing out hopes of rejoining the EU, with one article branding it a ‘catch return’, it’s unlikely to happen in the next few years.
Anyway, we digress. The issue is many Britons want to move to Europe, whether it is the glorious coast of Spain or the vineyards of France, but the route there seems less than straightforward.
Is that true? Below, we’ll answer the question of how easy it is to move to Europe in 2025 as a British national.
Moving to Europe as a British National in 2025
Indeed, Brexit added a massive spanner in the works, but it didn’t put European life beyond the realm of possibility.
The most notable change? Well, now you need a visa. Every country has specific requirements to meet, whether it’s for work, retirement or study.
Some countries are willing to make the process easier and provide the necessary guides, while others seem intent on strangling you with mixed signals.
- Spain has great options for digital nomads, skilled workers, students, and retirees. The paperwork is a bit of a maze, but relocating to Spain is one of the best options for British nationals. And who can complain when the result is tapas and beach life?
- France has a long-stay visa named “visa de long séjour”. It does sound fancy, but do not fret. You only need to provide proof of income, have your healthcare covered, and pass a few other modest tests.
- Germany is efficient but, shall we say, strict. Yet, it’s amazing for skilled workers, students, and freelancers if you show them you can contribute to the local economy.
- Portugal is another great option if you’re a remote worker. They introduced the D8 digital nomad visa in October 2022, and 2,600 people have successfully applied for it.
A quick Google search of the country you have in mind, and you’ll soon learn whether they have a suitable visa.
Which Countries Are More ‘Accepting’?
Not every country in Europe extends the same generous welcome to Britons. Some barely open the door, while others go all out and invite you in for wine and cheese.
Spain? They might lean towards being friendly, but their regions differ. Andalusia welcomes you British expats in Spain with open arms, and Catalonia is slightly more regimented but by no means not accepting.
If you learn how to relocate to Spain, you’ll start to understand the different regions and the processes.
Portugal has been exceptionally friendly. Their D7 visa is a lifesaver if you aren’t going to work in-country but can still support yourself financially. It is one of the easiest options available.
Greece is also moving towards creating more digital nomad opportunities – one of the many countries introducing this visa type.
Not only is the scenery phenomenal, but the cost of living is very affordable. The government is eager to increase the population of remote areas, making it very easy for Brits to apply and settle.
France? If you’ve got the cash and you can prove you won’t be a drain on the state, they’ll take you, especially in rural areas where they are trying to keep villages alive.
And then we have the Netherlands. They have a great QoL visa, but their “highly skilled migrant” programme only benefits tech workers and engineers, so it’s harder to get into.
Dutch people are also very rigid when it comes to paperwork, so prepare to have your documents in triplicate.
Where Are Britons Most Interested in Moving To?
Coastal towns, historic cities, and places with real sunshine are all Britons want. Some like the mountains and the wilderness, but we will argue Britons prefer the former.
Spain is top of the list. And it’s not surprising; it’s familiar, easy to travel to on a plane, and most of us have been here on holiday already.
Brits have been flocking to Costa del Sol since dial-up internet. Valencia, Madrid, and Barcelona are some of the most popular locations for British expats in Spain.
Portugal is rapidly gaining popularity, with expat-packed Lisbon and Porto being hotspots for creative types, tech workers, and early retirees.
The same goes for France, not only Paris but rural spots like Dordogne and Brittany.
Italy is also gaining popularity. Pizza and Aperol Spritz on the regular? Yes, please. The focus is almost exclusively on Tuscany and Sicily.
The cuisine, the culture, and those sun-soaked cobbled streets? Impossible to turn down.
What’s Expat Life Actually Like?
Here’s the truth. One thing is holidaying; another is living.
Sure, that lifestyle looks dreamy on Instagram. What you don’t see is the endless documents, language hurdles, and culture shocks waiting, disguised at every turn.
And actually settling in and making friends and building a life. Still, it’s true that if you go to some of the expat-thriving areas, you won’t have an issue.
The majority of British expats seem to agree: “The change is difficult but rewarding.” It takes some time to get accustomed.
Things you love will go missing, like PG Tips, queueing BTS style, and sarcasm, but the positives are far more.
Well, actually, go to an international supermarket, and you might find PG Tips, or you can find them on Amazon!
We’ve yet to see Europe cease to exist as “the dream”, but they certainly have put restrictions on the quite literal phrase “make it for a spontaneous trip”. Relocation might be tricky, but it’s oh-so-worth-it.
