As Spain threatens UK buyers with a new 100% property tax, potential London expats are exploring alternative destinations that offer sunny weather year-round, affordable property, and job opportunities. According to analytics firm New World Wealth, millionaires are on the move, with one leaving the UK every 45 minutes—a staggering 157% increase in departures compared to last year.
For some, this trend evokes concern, with recent figures from Currency Direct revealing that 23% of all UK adults and 38% of those aged 25-34 are considering relocating abroad by 2029. With 25-34-year-olds facing rising numbers of adults still living with their parents, it’s clear that affordable overseas locations are increasingly appealing. “Owning a home abroad continues to be alluring from a financial and lifestyle standpoint,” says João Richard Costa, CCO at Ombria Algarve. “We’re seeing steady demand from British buyers, with interest boosted further after Spain’s plans to increase taxes or ban non-EU citizens from purchasing property. In the past week, we’ve been contacted by several people who set out to buy in Spain but now favour Portugal.”
So, if Spain tightens its grip on British buyers, where else should be on your radar?
Why go: France offers a glorious blend of historic cities, scenic countryside, and a laid-back lifestyle centered on culture, food, and wine. In the southwest, Daniela Harris from Savills associate Beaux Villages Immobilier says that you can still enjoy a three-course meal with wine for €20 per person. “A two-bedroom apartment in Carcassonne, needing work, can be less than €100,000,” she adds. “Towns within 30 minutes of the coast are around 25% more expensive. The Aude, inland, remains affordable compared to Provence, with smaller towns such as Limoux, Quillan, and Mirepoix gaining popularity.”
Why not: The French are proud of their language, which could be a challenge, particularly in the workplace. The country’s bureaucratic systems can be daunting, and income tax tops out at 45%. The relaxed, closed-for-lunch French way of life might feel restrictive to Londoners used to round-the-clock service.
Visa rules: The VLS-T temporary long-stay visa allows stays of up to six months, while the VLS-TS long-stay visa (€225) can lead to permanent residency after five years.
Why go: Portugal is known for having the best climate in Europe, featuring hot summers and wet winters that provide a welcome respite and create ideal conditions for the growth of vibrant plants and flowers, even along its coastal regions, so no wonder 48,000 Brits are now residents,” says Alda Filipe from Kronos Homes. “Portugal’s well-considered visa options are another benefit, with many routes to residency and citizenship.”
Why not: The job market can be competitive, and salaries are significantly lower than in London. Though the cost of living is lower than most Western European countries, prices for property and rentals in Lisbon have risen sharply. Learning the language can also be a hurdle for many.
Visa rules: Portugal closed its Golden Visa programme last year for property purchases. The D2 Visa is for those setting up businesses, while the D7 is for retirees with passive income, allowing British passport holders to stay for up to five years with a potential path to citizenship. Costs start at €90.
'There's a real appreciation here for the important things in life'
"Portugal has everything I was looking for—stunning scenery, a relaxed lifestyle, and a much lower cost of living compared to the UK. The warmth of the people and the fantastic climate were huge draws, and I’ve found it’s a place where I can truly enjoy life at my own pace," says Tom Richards, a British expat living in the Algarve.
Why go: Dubai offers excellent personal safety, a youthful lifestyle, year-round sunshine, and a tax-free income. The job market is robust, and the emirate's airport is one of the most efficient worldwide. English is widely spoken, and there’s an impressive infrastructure, along with superb beaches, clubs, and restaurants.
Why not: The constant sunshine can become oppressive, particularly in summer. Without air conditioning, this may not be the ideal destination. Living costs are high, and there’s intense competition for property, plus long waiting lists for many international schools. Newly arrived Londoners may find the lack of public eating or swearing and the limited Whatsapp functionality challenging. Public displays of affection may also receive an icy reception.
Visa rules: The renewable Virtual Work Visa allows a stay for non-UAE employees earning at least US$3,500 per month, with a cost from US$101. Ex-professional golfer Tom Hanson moved to Dubai in 2022 with a job offer and now works as the Middle East sales manager for TrackMan. He enjoys the safety and high standard of living in Dubai. “Almost everyone is an expat here, and we’re all in the same boat, away from home. People take you under their wing and you quickly build strong connections,” he says. Hanson recommends fully immersing yourself in the lifestyle and being ready for any paperwork headaches, such as buying a car or getting deliveries.
"Dubai offers the perfect balance of modern living, career opportunities, and a tax-free income. The city’s vibrant culture, incredible infrastructure, and year-round sunshine made it an easy choice for me. It’s a place where everything is within reach, and I’ve found the expat community to be incredibly welcoming," says Emma Johnson, a British expat living in Dubai.
Why go: Canada offers four distinct seasons and a variety of landscapes few countries can match. It has great healthcare, friendly locals, and a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.
Why not: Winters are long and harsh, and outside major cities, you'll almost certainly need a car. Housing costs are high, partly because Canada has banned foreign property buyers in many areas until 2027.
Visa rules: Canada’s Express Entry Program allows skilled workers to apply for residency. Individuals under 35 can apply through International Experience Canada for work opportunities lasting up to three years. Provinces also have their own Nominee Programs for specific workers.
"Canada has been a fantastic move for me—there’s a real sense of community, and the natural beauty is unparalleled. From the snowy winters to the vibrant cities, it offers a high quality of life, excellent healthcare, and great opportunities for personal and professional growth. It truly feels like home," says James Parker, a British expat living in Vancouver.
Why go: Malta offers sunshine, beaches, and a familiar environment for Brits. With low crime rates and high standards in healthcare and education, it’s an attractive option. The IT industry is thriving, and the digital visa—one of the fastest to obtain worldwide—allows holders to avoid income tax on foreign earnings.
Why not: Malta is small, densely populated, and quite arid, with soaring temperatures in the summer. The island is crowded during peak tourist seasons, and there’s little green space.
Visa rules: A standard long-stay visa for Malta costs €100, while the D-visa for work costs €280, and a Digital Nomad Visa starts at €300. After five years, you may be eligible for permanent residency. Through the Global Residence Programme, an annual rent of €9,600 or property purchase of €275,000 provides a visa to travel within the Schengen Zone, with 15% tax on remitted income.
"Malta has been the perfect place to start a new chapter. The island offers a beautiful mix of Mediterranean sunshine, rich history, and a welcoming expat community. The relaxed pace of life and the fact that English is widely spoken made settling in a breeze. It’s hard to beat the lifestyle here," says Sarah Thompson, a British expat living in Valletta.
Why go: Italy offers a lifestyle steeped in history, culture, food, and football, all within easy reach of London. Popular locations include Rome, Milan, Lake Como, and the Tuscan and Umbrian countryside, while Sicily is becoming an increasingly affordable option.
Why not: Property in Milan and Rome is hard to come by, and living in the rural Tuscan countryside can lose its charm during the colder months if you’re seeking vibrant nightlife.
Visa rules: Italy offers various visa types, including work, self-employed, and family visas. Applications are usually submitted through the Italian Embassy in the UK and converted into an Italian Residence Permit upon arrival. British nationals can become eligible for permanent residency after five years. Visa costs start at €50 for student visas.
As UK buyers continue to seek new opportunities abroad, countries across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond are increasingly appealing for those seeking a combination of lifestyle, work, and affordable living.
"Living in Italy has been a dream come true. The rich culture, delicious food, and stunning landscapes make every day feel special. Whether it’s the charm of the Tuscan countryside or the energy of cities like Rome and Milan, Italy offers an unbeatable lifestyle, and the warmth of the people makes it all the more inviting," says Richard Harris, a British expat living in Florence.
