Thinking of starting a new life overseas by moving abroad from the UK? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of UK residents pack up for better opportunities, sunshine, and a fresh pace of life.
At John Mason International, we completed over 10,000 international removals from the UK in 2025 alone, helping families, professionals, and adventurers relocate worldwide. From bespoke relocation services to secure international shipping, our 100+ years of expertise give us unique insight into where UK expats are heading. Here are the top 10 countries we helped British expats more to in 2025.
1. Australia – The UK’s Favourite Destination
When people think of moving abroad, Australia often tops the list. The appeal is undeniable: year-round sunshine, vibrant cities, and plenty of open space. Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane offer incredible job prospects in engineering, healthcare, construction, and finance.
Australians share a similar culture and language, making it easy for UK expats to adapt. Families love the friendly neighbourhoods and world-class schools, while younger professionals enjoy the outdoor lifestyle and great work-life balance.
You might find our Ultimate Guide to Moving to Australia from the UK and Working in Australia helpful as you plan your relocation.
2. United Arab Emirates – Career Rewards and Luxury Living
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have become magnets for British professionals. The UAE offers tax-free income, an international business environment, and a glamorous lifestyle that combines luxury with family-friendly safety.
Many expats move to the Emirates for high-earning potential and a better work-life balance. With global connectivity, world-class schools, and permanent sunshine, it’s an ideal relocation for professionals and families alike.
Find out more About UAE or discover other Top Destinations in the Middle East for UK Expats.
3. United States – The Land of Opportunity
The United States remains a top destination for UK expats thanks to its diversity of lifestyles and career opportunities. Whether you’re drawn to New York’s energy, California’s sunshine, or Florida’s family-friendly communities, the USA offers something for everyone.
The appeal for UK movers lies in the diversity of lifestyles available: fast-paced cities, relaxed suburbs, and dynamic start-up communities. Entrepreneurs and corporate professionals alike find plenty of chances for advancement.
Explore our Types of Visas for the USA and Moving Your Pet to the United States guides before starting your American adventure.
4. Canada – A Warm Welcome and Balanced Lifestyle
Known for its openness, safety, and exceptional quality of life, Canada remains one of the top destinations for UK citizens planning long‑term relocation. The country’s immigration system actively welcomes skilled workers and families, offering a smooth and straightforward process for those moving to Canada from the UK.
Cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are thriving global centres for technology, finance, and science, combining career potential with a calmer, lower‑stress lifestyle. Beyond its cities, Canada’s natural beauty, open spaces, and inclusive communities give expats a true sense of balance. Families are especially drawn by the free healthcare, affordable education, and outdoor way of life, making Canada one of the most rewarding and secure places to start a new chapter.
Read our Moving to Canada? Tips to Survive the Cold! or explore Healthcare in Canada and Health Visa Requirements to help you prepare for your move.
5. New Zealand – Quality of Life Meets Natural Beauty
Clean, green, and incredibly welcoming, New Zealand offers the perfect mix of lifestyle and opportunity for those seeking true work‑life balance. Its stunning natural landscapes and low crime rates create a peaceful environment that attracts professionals and families alike.
Teachers, nurses, engineers, and agricultural specialists are in high demand, and the country’s straightforward immigration process makes it an appealing choice for UK citizens. With shared language, similar legal systems, and a strong community ethos, British expats find it easy to settle in. Families especially value New Zealand’s safety, excellent schools, and outdoor lifestyle, which together create a genuinely fulfilling way of life.
Take a look at Where to Find a Job in New Zealand and Cost of Living in New Zealand to get a clearer picture of what life and work look like before you move.
6. South Africa – Adventure, Affordability, and a High Quality of Life
With its spectacular coastline, lively cities, and long-standing ties to the UK, South Africa offers an exceptional mix of lifestyle, affordability, and natural beauty. Cape Town attracts creatives and digital professionals with its vibrant culture and scenic charm, while Johannesburg appeals to business leaders and entrepreneurs looking to expand in one of Africa’s most dynamic economies.
Many British expats are pleasantly surprised by how far their money goes here. The cost of living is noticeably lower than in the UK, allowing families to enjoy spacious homes, beautiful landscapes, and access to excellent schools and amenities. Warm weather, outdoor living, and a relaxed pace of life make South Africa an especially appealing choice for families and professionals seeking both opportunity and adventure abroad.
Take a look at our guides for Moving and Living in South Africa and the Top reasons to move to South Africa
7. Saudi Arabia – High Earnings and Growing Opportunities
Saudi Arabia is an increasingly popular choice for UK professionals moving to the Middle East, especially in sectors such as energy, engineering, construction, and healthcare. Major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah are undergoing rapid development, creating strong demand for international expertise and attractive expat packages.
British expats relocating to Saudi Arabia often benefit from tax‑free salaries, accommodation allowances, and other benefits that can significantly boost savings potential. Well‑established expat communities, international schools, and improving leisure options make day‑to‑day life more comfortable for UK families.
Check out more information About Saudi Arabi and Reasons to consider moving to Saudi Arabia
8. Thailand – Lifestyle, Climate, and Lower Living Costs
Thailand is a favourite with UK expats seeking a warmer climate, relaxed lifestyle, and lower cost of living, particularly in destinations such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and popular islands. Many Brits move to Thailand to work in education, hospitality, and tourism, or to enjoy semi‑retirement in the sun.
From street food and beaches to a welcoming local culture, Thailand offers a lifestyle that feels very different from the UK while remaining surprisingly affordable. A growing number of digital nomads and remote workers are also choosing Thailand for its combination of connectivity, community, and value.
Learn more About Thailand and the country’s customs regulations
9. Poland – Dynamic Cities and EU Access
Poland has emerged as a popular European option for UK expats looking for dynamic cities, strong job markets, and relatively lower living costs. Warsaw, Kraków, and Wrocław attract professionals in finance, tech, business services, and manufacturing, with many international employers based there.
For UK citizens moving to Poland, the combination of modern city life and charming historic centres is a strong draw, as are shorter flight times back to the UK. Lower everyday expenses compared to many Western European countries can also make Poland an attractive base for young professionals and families.
Moving to Poland? Understand the customs regulations here
10. Qatar – Fast Growth and New Horizons
Rapidly emerging as one of the Middle East’s premier expat destinations, Qatar offers lucrative career opportunities, tax‑free earnings, and an exceptional quality of life. Its capital, Doha, has become a major hub for energy, construction, and engineering, with growing opportunities in healthcare, education, and hospitality.
British expats are drawn by high salaries, world‑class infrastructure, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle set against the backdrop of desert beauty. With English widely spoken and international schools and healthcare facilities of the highest standard, relocating to Qatar from the UK is both rewarding and straightforward. Despite its rapid modernisation, Qatar maintains a strong sense of tradition and hospitality, creating a welcoming home for professionals and families alike.
Check out our Qatar Moving Guide and other resources for the Middle East to help you prepare for your move
Ready to Start Your Move Abroad?
Wherever your next chapter takes you, whether it is Australia’s sunshine, Canada’s open spaces, the UAE’s tax‑free lifestyle, or Qatar’s fast‑growing opportunities, John Mason International movers can help make your relocation from the UK simple and stress‑free.
Our experienced team takes care of every detail, from international removals and safe packing to secure shipping and customs support, so you can focus on beginning your new life with confidence and peace of mind.
Start planning your relocation today with a free international removals quote and take the first confident step toward living abroad.