Emigration Blog

Note: the UK is no longer part of the EU and therefore while the information in the following Blogs was correct at the time of writing, it may since have changed

Moving To France from the UK After Brexit

Thursday, June 30th, 2022

France has a lot to offer expats. It’s a country rich with culture and history, known for its exceptional cuisine and couture, as well as its vibrant cities and gorgeous countryside and coastlines. Brexit may have changed the process for moving abroad, but it doesn’t have to stop you from ...

Must Have Apps to Best Support Settling Expats

Wednesday, March 2nd, 2022

Moving overseas can present quite a minefield to overcome. Although the planning stage is intense, you can naturally expect some hurdles throughout the process, until you have settled into a new normality. One of the best preparations for your move abroad can be ensuring you are fully equipped to tackle ...

10 Major changes to moving overseas in a post Pandemic world…and how to take the best approach to them

Thursday, July 8th, 2021

The coronavirus pandemic brought chaos and disruption to all our lives, but there were also some positives. Reduced pollution levels, a greater appreciation for keyworkers, and a rise in the ‘work from anywhere’ culture were all undeniable upsides. Thousands of people have completely re-evaluated their lives and, as a ...

Moving to Europe after Brexit

Tuesday, March 9th, 2021

The UK officially left the European Union at the end of January, bringing out the biggest change to freedom of movement in ages. The impacts of Brexit are finally starting to take shape. EU borders are now closed for British travellers, unless they fit under the following conditions. Nothing has ...

How to Survive Your First Christmas Living Abroad

Thursday, December 24th, 2020

If you have just moved abroad, your first Christmas can be challenging because it reminds you of the festive memories made at home. This guide will give you some tips and ideas to stay connected and feel settled in your new surroundings. Using Skype, Zoom and WhatsApp Videos When you move ...

Health Benefits of Living in a Tropical Climate

Thursday, December 24th, 2020

Brits and city dwellers certainly experience the change of different seasons. Whilst this could be seen as the best of both worlds, the consistently warmer weather in a tropical climate has many health benefits. It can be a culture shock at first. You will have to acclimatise to the change ...

Are Fickle Finances Seeing Expats Return Home?

Monday, October 19th, 2020

Coronavirus has crushed the dreams of many expats living overseas. Business and lifestyle news outlet Forbes reported recently that many expats “are no longer living the dream”. This has led to a mass exodus of expats moving back - or preparing to move back - to their home country ...

5 Tips to Make Moving Overseas Less Stressful

Thursday, August 6th, 2020

Whether you’re moving to Australia or Spain it is likely you will feel some anxiety before and during the process. You can breathe a sigh of relief when you’re settled in your new home. Why not adopt some of our top tips to take as much of the stress ...

Moving to Australia? What you Need to Know About the Australian Bushfires

Friday, March 27th, 2020

Australia has a lot to offer. Whether it is the great employment opportunities, the beautiful beaches or the gorgeous outback areas – Australia has something to offer everyone. The country is home to many cultures due to its multi-ethnic background and beautifully diverse population. Moving to Australia is a popular ...

Pros and Cons of Being Self-Employed Abroad

Wednesday, February 26th, 2020

*The UK is no longer part of the EU and therefore while the information in the following Blog was correct at the time of writing, it would be best to gain more current information. Self-employed and Working Abroad Technological advancements have brought the age of the digital nomad; mobile phones and ...

Preparations for Moving Abroad as a Vegan

Monday, January 6th, 2020

Over the last few years, following a vegan lifestyle in the UK has become ever increasingly easy. In fact, it has become so easy that moving to another country that may not be as vegan friendly may feel like a very daunting prospect. Not all countries are equal in ...

Is it better to live in a cold or warm climate?

Monday, December 23rd, 2019

When it comes to weather in the UK, we really do have the best of both worlds. With four distinct seasons, we Brits get to experience both warm and cold weather and of course the milder transition seasons of Spring and Autumn in between. Humans inhabit most of the world ...

8 Reasons Why You Should Consider Studying Abroad

Monday, December 16th, 2019

Studying abroad is a liberating experience and has a lot of benefits for those considering it. The prospects of up and leaving your home country to go and venture into the world can be a scary thought, but the culture you learn, the places you see and the different ...

Why Should You Move Your Family To Canada

Monday, October 21st, 2019

There could be many reasons as to why you and your family want to move to another country. Whether it is for work, a better quality of life, or perhaps to begin a new chapter in your life. Emigration isn’t an easy decision, after all, you are leaving behind ...

5 Best Cities for Digital Nomads

Monday, September 23rd, 2019

The world is full of beautiful places to explore and embrace, and what better way to explore the world than working as a digital nomad? Digital nomadism is fast becoming a mainstream profession that many want to get into. The beauty of travelling the world and earning money, strictly ...

The Ups and Downs of Expat Life in Spain

Friday, August 30th, 2019

Moving abroad is an exciting concept, a new fresh start in a different and exciting place, there are so many reasons to consider making a move abroad. Whether you’re moving abroad to retire, for work, better education for your children, to be with family or just because you want a ...

Retiring in Europe: Where’s best?

Thursday, August 29th, 2019

After years of enduring a hard work life when finally retiring you want to relax and make the most of life. Retiring abroad has become a popular option for retirees as it means a change of scenery, new people, new experiences and can even mean a lower cost of ...

Why Germany Is One Of The Top Countries To Work In Right Now

Friday, June 21st, 2019

If you’re looking to further your career and aren’t opposed to moving abroad to do so, one of the countries you should consider is Germany. According to HSBC’s most recent report the top five countries for expat workers are, in fact, in Europe and the Middle East and sitting right ...

2019’s Best Countries to Move to for Improved Health and Wellbeing

Friday, May 24th, 2019

Let’s be honest, living and working in the UK can take its toll on a person! You are certainly not alone if you have considered moving to another country purely for improving your health, wellbeing and overall quality of life. There are of course many other countries where residents experience ...

Are there Less Risky European Countries to Move to Before Brexit?

Friday, May 3rd, 2019

With such continuous uncertainty surrounding Brexit, it has left many wanting to move to Europe in limbo and fearful to make any firm decisions. The situation does remain unclear and there are no guarantees Brexit will happen before 31st October 2019. What are individuals to do if they intend to move ...

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ALL EMIGRATION BLOG POSTS

A Guide on Shipping Your Belongings Abroad

Thursday, May 9th, 2024

There are many contributing factors and reasons as to why you might choose to emigrate to a different country. Maybe you have found yourself emigrating overseas in search of better job prospects, or are saying bon voyage to the ...

Moving Abroad Checklist: What You Should Do Before You Move

Wednesday, February 15th, 2023

Moving abroad is an exciting time, offering the opportunity of a new adventure in a new country. However, there can also be a lot of things to organise before your move, which can be daunting. Below, we’ve put together a ...

Preparing to Live Like a Local in a New Country

Monday, April 8th, 2019

Integrating into a new culture can be one of the more challenging aspects of living in a new country. Yet for many, a change of culture is precisely what motivated their move. A new life abroad can quite literally ...

Online reviews: the good, the bad and the ugly

Thursday, February 21st, 2019

When you’re planning to move house, how do you find a good removal company? Twenty or thirty years ago, you probably would have looked in the Yellow Pages or relied on word of mouth. These days however, you are more ...

Helping Teenagers Accept Moving Overseas

Wednesday, January 16th, 2019

There are a fair few challenges to overcome when moving abroad and convincing others it’s a good idea can be quite an emotional process. This has never been truer when it comes to getting your teenagers to accept this ...

Where Will Your New Year’s Resolutions Take You in 2019?

Saturday, December 29th, 2018

The New Year provides many of us with a fresh start, a chance to hit the reset button and set ourselves a new challenge to achieve. For some that might be fulfilling a life-long dream of moving abroad, learning ...

5 Perfect Countries for Festive Expats

Thursday, December 20th, 2018

Just hearing the word Christmas can sometimes be enough to instantly transport us to that warm, comforting feeling that surround the festive season. What’s not to love – relaxation, indulgence, celebration, fun, family, presents – this time of year ...

Expat Wellbeing: Combating Loneliness

Thursday, November 1st, 2018

When making the decision to take the plunge and move overseas, you’ll no doubt be faced with many concerns, worries and fear, which may at times mean you experience some confusion and indecision as to if moving overseas is ...

How to Apply for a US Green Card

Thursday, November 1st, 2018

Securing a green card can be one of the most difficult things for someone looking to move to the US, yet it is vital for anyone hoping to get a job and be able to support their family after ...

4 Key Things You Must Do Before Emigrating

Thursday, November 1st, 2018

If you are heading overseas to enjoy life as an expat it can seem chaotic before you leave. Getting everything in order can present a headache and the countless forms and online paraphernalia is exhausting. However, to make your ...

4 Amazing Experiences in St Lucia

Thursday, November 1st, 2018

Anyone and everyone will go wild for the stunning beauty of St Lucia. It’s a beauty that is unmatched by anywhere else in the Caribbean. Nestled between Martinique and St Vincent, the teardrop-shaped island packs rainforest, beautiful beaches and ...

Why Expats Move Abroad – Which one are you?

Monday, October 8th, 2018

With over 4.5 million Brits living abroad, there is clearly some appeal for prospective expats to up sticks and begin a new life abroad. But, for so many, what is the primary motivation to move abroad? Is it a ...

What you Need to Know About UK Expat Buy to Let Mortgage Opportunities

Thursday, October 4th, 2018

*The UK is no longer part of the EU and therefore while the information in the following Blog was correct at the time of writing, it would be best to gain more current information. The United Nations statistics estimate over ...

Where in the World Should you Live?

Monday, September 3rd, 2018

When you experience a yearning to move overseas, one of the first questions likely to crop up is what country should I live in?! Often, UK citizens automatically consider Europe as their first choice, simply due to the ease ...

The Latest Impacts of Brexit on Expats

Tuesday, August 21st, 2018

*The UK is no longer part of the EU and therefore while the information in the following Blog was correct at the time of writing, it would be best to gain more current information. With each new headline and constantly ...

The Britannia guide to buying a home

Monday, August 6th, 2018

Although buying a home can be an exciting adventure, it is also one of the most stressful and daunting decisions you will ever make – especially when it’s your first time. The decisions you make along the way when ...

Expats in UAE can Relax with New Visa Regulations

Thursday, July 12th, 2018

The new regulations around visas and foreign company ownership are set to have significant positive impacts on expats living and working in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). For expats looking to emigrate to UAE this is very good news ...

The Expat Life – Preparing for your new life abroad

Monday, June 18th, 2018

So you’re looking to make your dream of moving out of the UK a reality? You may be feeling a mixture of emotions as you start to take action towards your goal. Feeling like you are on an emotional ...

6 of the Best Vegan-Friendly Countries to Emigrate to

Tuesday, May 22nd, 2018

Choosing a vegan diet is something that is becoming increasingly popular in the UK, for a variety of reasons, such as health benefits or to reduce environmental impact etc. As a result of this growing demand, more and more ...

7 Ways to Survive Onboard a 17 Hour Flight with Toddlers

Wednesday, April 18th, 2018

With the recent historic first non-stop commercial flight from the UK to Australia, it brings up a lot of questions about what this actually means in practice for flyers. Yes, you and your family are indeed spared the frustrating ...

2018’s Best places to retire abroad

Tuesday, March 27th, 2018

If you are considering retiring abroad in 2018 or just curious where the best places might be then according to a report by The International Living Annual Global Retirement Index, the number 1 location is Costa Rica (up from ...

HMRC replaces C3 and C104A import forms with the new online ToR01 system.

Wednesday, May 3rd, 2017

Since the 1st January 2017 HMRC have been transitioning the new ‘Transfer of Residence’ (ToR) online application form, which is now mandatory for applicants changing their country of residence to the UK and wishing to import used personal and ...

Not always a smooth ride for Expats living abroad!

Friday, November 18th, 2016

Moving home has always been a stress inducing experience, if you add relocating abroad to the mix the stress levels increase tenfold. However, for years thousands of people from the UK have successfully made their homes in other countries ...

Thinking of moving to Indonesia?

Tuesday, August 16th, 2016

Explore a taste of Indonesia - Britannia Movers Indonesia has always been a sleeping giant in South East Asia. Social and political instability as well as its vast geography have historically disabled its efforts to take a firm footing on ...

Emerging markets of the future for expats

Monday, July 25th, 2016

According to global economic research carried out by international investment company – Goldman Sachs, the latest batch of developing countries that are quickly growing into economic power houses are Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico and Poland. Head of Global Economic Research ...

Best cities for expats to move to in 2016

Friday, June 24th, 2016

*The UK is no longer part of the EU and therefore while the information in the following Blog was correct at the time of writing, it would be best to gain more current information. According to consulting firm Mercers’ 18th ...

Top reasons for moving to Panama

Friday, June 17th, 2016

If you are looking for an exotic and adventurous place to move to, that also offers one of the lowest costs of living for expats, then moving to Panama is the best decision you could make. Currently around 1000 British ...

What to expect from moving to Brazil

Wednesday, January 21st, 2015

After the FIFA World Cup was held in Brazil last year and the impending Olympics next year, all eyes are on Brazil and have been for the past couple of years. This developing country has seen a boom in ...

The Health Benefits of Living in a Warm Climate

Monday, May 20th, 2013

Moving abroad from the UK can provide plenty of lifestyle benefits but one of the main attractions for many British expats are the health benefits of living in a sunnier and warmer climate. As well as simply being more ...

The best destinations in Europe to buy a second home

Tuesday, May 14th, 2013

*The UK is no longer part of the EU and therefore while the information in the following Blog was correct at the time of writing, it would be best to gain more current information Buying a second home and moving ...

What are the Best Ways to Pack when Moving?

Tuesday, April 30th, 2013

Whether you’re moving within the UK or moving abroad, the thought of packing everything you own into a collection of cardboard shipping boxes can be daunting. While Britannia offers a professional packing service, doing it yourself needn’t be a ...

What Are The Most Popular Places To Live In The UK?

Tuesday, April 30th, 2013

In this post we’re going to take a look at some of the most popular cities across the UK and explain why so many people want to live in them. Edinburgh, Scotland. Scotland's capital city of Edinburgh is one of the ...

Using a Removal Company VS. Doing it Yourself

Tuesday, April 30th, 2013

As we all become ever more cost conscious in these challenging economic times there’s an increasing temptation to try and do more things yourself rather than paying a professional to do it for you. In a lot of situations ...

How to overcome the language barrier when moving to a new country

Tuesday, April 30th, 2013

Moving to a new country can offer a whole range of new opportunities, in terms of career, education, and the overall quality of your life. As well as the opportunities that moving abroad brings it also delivers a number ...

Why Expats Should Consider A Move To Spain

Friday, April 5th, 2013

We live in a world that is ever-increasingly defined by change and adaptation. At no time has this been more apparent than during the socio-economic problems encountered over the last five years. Companies have outsourced or downsized, wages can ...

Why Are Jobs Moving Overseas?

Friday, April 5th, 2013

We live in a time dictated by increased competition, globalisation, and a seemingly perpetually sluggish domestic economy. While many of the effects can be felt financially, another ancillary and yet profound result is that we have witnessed a large ...

What Costs to Expect When Moving Overseas

Friday, April 5th, 2013

Choosing to move abroad is a big decision; when considering moving abroad a number of factors need to be taken into account. One of the major factors which you should examine when moving overseas is the cost. A number ...

Cost Of Living In Australia

Friday, April 5th, 2013

Australia is a very common choice for US and UK citizens who are looking to start a new life in an area with a similar culture and quality of life. Comparing the AUD currency to your current Country’s currency ...

British Expats Flock to Cayman Islands

Friday, April 5th, 2013

The British overseas territory saw an increase in its number of foreign workers from 19,927 at the end of 2011 to a raised 21,000 by December 2012, according to the latest findings. These heightened numbers are most likely due ...

Cost of Living In South America

Tuesday, February 26th, 2013

For people looking to move abroad, who want some familiarity but also to live in a new environment with new challenges, they should look no further than South America, a continent that offers many options for expats. Is it Cheap ...

Canada Makes It Easy For Expats

Tuesday, February 26th, 2013

Canada has introduced a permanent residency scheme from January 2nd, which has the intention of speeding up the entry process for thousands of foreign skilled tradespeople. As Canada’s booming industry is in need of skilled workers the hope is ...

British Retirees Flocking to Southeast Asia

Monday, February 18th, 2013

British expats have long been drawn to Southeast Asia due to the promise of sunshine, but now countries in that part of the world are making the move to Asia even more appealing welcoming expats with open arms by ...

5 US States For Expats To Think About

Sunday, February 17th, 2013

At the start of any year many people think about making a new start in another country and the steps they would need to make in order to make that happen. If you are one who has started thinking ...

Greece: To Move Or Not To Move?

Monday, January 21st, 2013

Even with the shadow of political instability and social turbulence caused by the economic crisis Greece enjoys a higher standard of living for middle class people compared to other countries. Although hit with all these problems new opportunities arise ...

City Of The Month: Rome

Monday, January 21st, 2013

For January’s City of The Month we have chosen the gorgeous Italian capital city of Rome. Known as a hugely romantic city for couples we are sure you don’t need any extra reasons to visit or even to move ...

Cheap Places To Live Now And What To Do Next.

Monday, January 21st, 2013

The cost of living in Europe has dropped recently, with countries descending into monetary problems due to debt crises, with Ireland, Greece, Portugal, Spain and Italy chief amongst the countries stealing the headlines for these reasons. Although Italy is ...

5 Good Reasons To Emigrate To Sweden

Monday, January 21st, 2013

*The UK is no longer part of the EU and therefore while the information in the following Blog was correct at the time of writing, it would be best to gain more current information. See our article on moving ...

Things To Know When Moving To New Zealand

Wednesday, January 2nd, 2013

Here are some of our tips for things you need to know and do before moving to New Zealand. We’ve based these tips on advice from the New Zealand government, Immigration New Zealand as well as advice from many ...

Spending Your Christmas Abroad

Friday, December 14th, 2012

Here are some of our favourite places for spending those cold European winter months in a sunnier climate. If you’re an expat you will already know the benefits of spending your Christmas or the winter season away from home, ...

Have a Weird and Wonderful Christmas in Australia

Friday, December 14th, 2012

Celebrate Christmas a little differently by spending it in Australia, baking in the summer heat that only the Southern hemisphere can offer at this time of year. It is not uncommon for Australians and the expats who live there ...

Spending The Winter In France

Friday, December 14th, 2012

Many people visit France in the summer, thanks to the continental climate of Central France or the mediterranean feel of the South, as well as the allure of its ski slopes and the sight of Paris covered in snow. ...

City of the Month: Prague

Friday, November 23rd, 2012

There’s no escaping Prague’s reputation among the British as a cheap stag weekend but look beyond that status and you will find a modern city that continues to be at the heart of what Central Europe has to offer. ...

Top 5 Things To Do In Madrid

Friday, November 23rd, 2012

1. Experience Real Flamenco Flamenco is often misunderstood as a joyful form of song and dancing when it is in fact representative of the suffering endured by the Andalucian gypsies, expressed in performance. The best place to find an ...

How Do I Get A New Zealand Visa?

Wednesday, November 14th, 2012

Many people are drawn by New Zealand’s cool weather and rugged landscape, with the famously laid-back and friendly reputation of the local population meaning that many of them want to stay. The great news is that New Zealand is ...

New Zealand: take a tour around the shire

Wednesday, November 14th, 2012

Ever wanted to travel to Middle Earth and the world made famous in Lord Of The Rings? If so you’ll be glad to know taking a trip to Hobbiton is now no longer as far-fetched as you’d think. Fascinating ...

Top Expat Moving Tips From Expats

Monday, October 29th, 2012

Often the best way to get advice is to speak to people who’ve done it before, who can offer that little bit of wisdom that only experiencing something first hand can give you. When it comes to moving abroad ...

City of the Month: San Francisco

Tuesday, October 23rd, 2012

For people of a certain age San Francisco will always mean “flowers in your hair”, summer of love and electric kool aid. It's fair to say things have changed since the 60s. Back when it was the world's counter-cultural ...

How To Spend a Sunday Afternoon in France

Wednesday, October 10th, 2012

France is a brilliantly diverse country and it isn’t hard to find plenty to do considering it is twice the size of the UK with a similar sized population. This guide tries to steer away from the typical suggestions ...

Top Tips for What To Do When Moving to an EEA Country

Wednesday, October 10th, 2012

*The UK is no longer part of the EU and therefore while the information in the following Blog was correct at the time of writing, it would be best to gain more current information. Here's a quick guide for what ...

How to spend a Sunday afternoon in Brisbane, Australia

Thursday, September 27th, 2012

Brisbane is often overlooked by visitors to Australia in favour of better-known Sydney and Melbourne, but Queensland’s capital more than merits a visit in its own right. Brisbane is a place where modernity and nature meet. Home to gleaming sky ...

Moving to Brazil: Best Expat Destinations

Friday, September 21st, 2012

Due to its booming economy many Brits are looking at Brazil as a possible new home. With huge publicity surrounding the country that will be hosting the World Cup in 2014 and Rio Olympics in 2016, now really is ...

Marmite and other foods British Expats can’t live without

Friday, September 21st, 2012

Many British expats move to Australia or New Zealand dreaming of the perfect laid back lifestyle, with family barbecues, beautiful beaches and palatial homes making it the perfect upgrade from Britain's crowded, rainy streets. While the sharing of language ...

Five Million Britons Living Abroad

Friday, September 21st, 2012

According to the most recent Natwest International Personal Banking Quality of Life Index, there are almost five million Britons living and working abroad. Australia, Spain, the USA, Canada and South Africa were found to be the top countries for ...

City of the Month: Berlin

Friday, September 21st, 2012

In 2004 Berlin's long-standing mayor Klaus Wowereit ushered the words “Berlin is poor, but sexy”, which seemingly stuck like a mantra to the city. In 2011 he referred again to the quote saying: “We want Berlin to become richer ...

Preparing for A Move To Australia

Tuesday, August 28th, 2012

Despite a host of newly emerging popular expat destinations, Australia maintains its position as the top location for expats worldwide, and especially for Britons. The country is home to the largest British expat community around the globe, with 1.4 ...

City of the Month: Calgary

Wednesday, August 22nd, 2012

Calgary is often over-shadowed by Toronto and Vancouver when it comes to expat living in Canada, but this is a thriving city in its own right and an increasingly popular destination for European expats moving abroad to North America. ...

Being British in Argentina

Wednesday, August 22nd, 2012

Despite an increasingly strained political situation between Argentina and Great Britain (caused by the Falklands Islands) there has been little evidence of British expats experiencing any problems while living in Argentina, suggesting this is more about diplomatic agendas than ...

The Best British Expat Forums and Blogs

Wednesday, August 22nd, 2012

The Brits are out there! Research by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) in 2005 indicated that an estimated 5.5 million Britons lived permanently abroad, that's equivalent to one tenth of the country's population. With an estimated 2,000 ...

How to Move to New Zealand

Tuesday, July 17th, 2012

With Europe continuing to languish in the financial doldrums, and the UK climate enduring an endless cycle of drought, floods and below-average temperatures, the prospect of moving abroad to pastures new is more compelling than ever. New Zealand is becoming ...

City of the Month: Adelaide, Australia

Tuesday, July 17th, 2012

One of the beauties of being a “modern” city is that it can benefit from careful and intelligent planning. This is the case with Adelaide, an unexpectedly attractive and cultural city, which was founded by Colonel Light in 1836. ...

Finding your favourite foods after you’ve moved abroad

Monday, July 16th, 2012

Before moving abroad it is hard to imagine what things you will miss most about your home country. You may be worried about leaving your family behind and missing out on time with loved ones, missing your favourite shops ...

Planning a Working Holiday in Australia

Sunday, July 15th, 2012

Taking a working holiday in Australia is one of the most exciting, challenging and life-changing experiences you can have. Perhaps you are taking a gap year before university, maybe you have just graduated and are in search of a ...

City of the Month: Wellington, New Zealand

Monday, July 9th, 2012

Encircled by towering mountains and set around a spectacular stretch of coastline, Wellington is one of the most picturesque Pacific cities.As New Zealand’s third-largest city and administrative capital, Wellington is also very much a cultural capital. This is a ...

Tips for Studying Abroad

Monday, July 2nd, 2012

With the introduction of tuition fees and the costs of higher education rising in the UK, more and more people are looking at their university and further education options with fresh eyes. While still in a minority, experts predict that ...

How to deal with the stress of moving abroad

Sunday, July 1st, 2012

Many of us dream of making a new life abroad, for the sunshine, for the work opportunities or simply for the ability to spend more time with the family. However, suddenly finding yourself in a new country where you ...

British Expats celebrate the Diamond Jubilee

Tuesday, June 12th, 2012

Last weekend, expats all over the world took part in a range of regal events to celebrate Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth's Diamond Jubilee marking 60 years on the throne. Over in Lisbon, Portugal, the Royal British Club hosted a gala ...

Spending A Sunday Afternoon In Stockholm

Thursday, June 7th, 2012

If you are living as an expat in Sweden’s capital and largest city, Stockholm, there are plenty of things you can do on a Sunday afternoon whether it’s December or the height of the summer. Although Stockholm, with its ...

More and More Expats Working In Emerging Markets

Thursday, June 7th, 2012

While traditional expat destinations either for professionals or those moving for a better lifestyle include Australia, the USA or Europe, countries like China and Russia are becoming increasingly popular. This is mainly due to the many economic difficulties Europe ...

Expats Don’t Receive Enough Employer Support

Thursday, May 31st, 2012

While moving abroad for an overseas assignment or a new job can be an exciting and fun experience, British employees often don’t receive enough relocation support from their employers. Although the majority of international assignees are happier abroad than ...

City of the Month – New York

Thursday, May 31st, 2012

New York is certainly one of the most well-known destinations in the world and has been a popular city to emigrate to throughout the last centuries. If you are looking for new opportunities, an exciting lifestyle and are not ...

Wealthy Britons Moving Abroad

Tuesday, May 29th, 2012

According to new research by Lloyds TSB International Wealth, the number of wealthy Britons to leave the country over the next two years is set to increase. The survey revealed that most Britons who are considering moving abroad are ...

Top Reasons to Move to France

Tuesday, May 29th, 2012

France is a popular destination with many British expats. The country’s proximity, culture, the warmer climate and the potentially more relaxed lifestyle attract many expats, whether they are moving for professional reasons, moving with their children or relocating for ...

More and More British Expats Are Moving to the Far East

Friday, May 4th, 2012

According to the new Quality of Life Index by NatWest International Personal Banking, British expats have been attracted by booming economies in Far Eastern nations such as Singapore and China in recent years. The survey also reveals that the ...

5 Tips For Finding A Job Abroad

Friday, May 4th, 2012

For most migrants, the success of a move abroad largely depends on securing the right job in the destination country. Whether you are moving to improve your family’s lifestyle or your quality of life, you will need an insight into ...

Top Countries For Raising Children

Thursday, May 3rd, 2012

Expat parents have a lot of factors to consider when it comes to choosing the most suitable destination for a move abroad and to guiding their children through the relocation process. By choosing an ideal destination country, raising your ...

How To Spend A Sunday Afternoon in Sydney

Wednesday, May 2nd, 2012

Australia has always been a popular expat destination with Britons, and the country is a great choice, as it offers good living standards and a more relaxed outdoor lifestyle in a relatively similar cultural setting to the UK. There ...

City of the Month – Vancouver

Tuesday, May 1st, 2012

If you are moving to Canada in search of a better lifestyle or new career opportunities, settling down in Vancouver could be a great choice. Whilst Vancouver is relatively small with its 600,000 inhabitants, at least compared to big ...

Five Reasons You Should Move to Spain

Tuesday, May 1st, 2012

Spain is a popular country chosen by a lot of expats as their new home. The warmth of the country’s people, the sun and the wide variety of unique dishes are just a few things that make it a ...

People Living In Denmark Are Happiest

Thursday, April 26th, 2012

If you are planning to move somewhere for a more relaxed lifestyle, Denmark, which is the happiest country in Europe according to a recent study could be a great choice. Scandinavian countries have ranked well in well-being studies in ...

Canada Ranks First in Expat Quality of Life Survey

Friday, March 30th, 2012

If you are thinking of moving overseas, but haven't yet decided on your final destination, moving to Canada could be a great choice, as it offers excellent living standards, even in the current global economic climate. Canada has topped ...

Top Green Expat Cities

Friday, March 30th, 2012

If living in an environmentally friendly city, with low pollution levels, abundant green spaces, pristine natural environments, good public transport and progressive environmental policies are important factors for you when moving abroad, here's Britannia's list of top green expat ...

More Britons Considering Moving Abroad For Retirement

Thursday, March 29th, 2012

According to a recent survey by the National Association of Pension Funds (NAPF), almost half of Britons would consider moving abroad after they retire in order to live more comfortably in a country with lower living costs than the ...

City of the Month – Barcelona

Thursday, March 29th, 2012

This month, we have chosen Barcelona, Spain’s second largest and most cosmopolitan city as our city of the month. Barcelona is a popular destination among expats and tourists alike and is one the region’s most international, multicultural and exciting ...

Five Reasons You Should Move to Canada

Monday, March 26th, 2012

For many British expats, Canada is a popular country to emigrate to. The amazing scenery, good economy and great lifestyle appeal to many, but there's so much more to Canada that make it a great place to live. In this blog ...

Selling Your House Before Moving Abroad

Monday, March 26th, 2012

They say that moving house is the second most stressful event in a person’s life, after divorce. Add to this the pressure of an international move and all that goes with it and you have a melting pot of ...

4 Reasons To Move To New Zealand

Tuesday, February 28th, 2012

New Zealand is an island country situated east of Australia across the Tasman Sea. If you are thinking of moving to an English-speaking country, moving to New Zealand could be a great choice, as it combines UK cultural influences ...

7 Things To Know About Buying Property In France

Tuesday, February 28th, 2012

France remains one of the most popular destinations for Brits tempted to leave these shores for sunnier climes and a more relaxed way of life. Many of us feel comfortable with the idea: we’re likely to have visited on ...

5 Things You Should Know About Raising Kids Abroad

Thursday, February 23rd, 2012

Raising kids abroad can be a challenging task, and it is always important to consider the specific benefits and drawbacks of moving abroad with your children. How well your children can adapt will depend on the extent of cultural ...

British Expats Miss Countryside Most

Thursday, February 23rd, 2012

British expats living abroad miss the British countryside the most according to a new survey by Lloyds TSB International. Almost half of those questioned, 46%, chose the countryside as the thing they miss most while living abroad, with 85% ...

How To Spend A Sunday Afternoon In Copenhagen

Monday, February 13th, 2012

Moving to Denmark can be a great experience, as the country can offer great living standards, good economic opportunities, a rich cultural life and alternative lifestyle choices. Copenhagen, Denmark's capital has also been repeatedly recognised in recent years as ...

Australia Is Top Choice For Expats Globally

Monday, February 13th, 2012

Australia continues to be among the most highly rated destinations by expats and was rated as the most ideal expat destination, according to HSBC's recent Expat Explorer Survey. While Australia can also boast a relatively strong economy, expats chose ...

Tips For Buying A Property Abroad

Wednesday, February 8th, 2012

When moving abroad, finding a suitable place to live should be high on your priority list. If you are planning to move abroad permanently and have the financial means, it can be a good idea to buy a property ...

New Visa Application System To Be Introduced In Australia

Wednesday, February 8th, 2012

The number of Britons applying for Australian visas has increased recently, anticipating changes in Australian immigration rules, according to Visafirst.com, a visa agency. Changes are to come into effect on July 1, when Australia introduces the new Skillselect system, ...

Top Reasons Why Expats Move Abroad

Friday, January 27th, 2012

The number of Britons considering a move abroad has increased significantly over the last few years. There are various reasons why you may consider a move abroad, including employment and lifestyle differences in the destination country. In this post, ...

6 Reasons To Move to Australia

Friday, January 27th, 2012

Australia has always been regarded as one of the most popular destinations among British expats. There are many reasons why you should consider Australia if you are thinking of moving abroad, such as the lifestyle, climate, quality of life ...

City of the Month – Melbourne

Wednesday, January 25th, 2012

We have chosen Australia's second largest city, Melbourne for our city of the month feature in January. Melbourne is an extremely popular city among expats from all over the world, and is one of Australia's multicultural centres. Britons moving ...

Expat Culture Shock and Top Ways to Cope With It

Wednesday, January 25th, 2012

No matter how prepared you are for your move abroad, you will still have to face some culture shock. This is entirely normal, everybody is affected by a change of culture, lifestyle and environment, especially when they first move ...

Top European Cities For Christmas

Wednesday, December 21st, 2011

From amazing Christmas markets to historical city centres made even more magical by Christmas lights, to ice rinks and Christmas processions, European cities have a lot to offer when it comes to celebrating Christmas. Over the years, Britannia has been ...

Christmas Around the World

Tuesday, December 20th, 2011

In our last post, we have looked at how Christmas is celebrated in some European countries. Because of cultural similarities and the geographical proximity, Christmas traditions in Europe are not so different from the UK. If you look outside ...

Christmas In Europe

Tuesday, December 20th, 2011

Are you an expat planning to spend the Christmas holidays in Europe? While the celebrations will certainly not be exactly like they are in the UK, there are many common elements in different regions, including Christmas trees, lights, Christmas ...

City of the Month – Vienna

Tuesday, December 20th, 2011

For our city of the month feature in December, we've chosen a typical Christmas city, Austria's capital, Vienna. Famous for its vibrant culture, elegance and stunning architecture, Vienna is considered to be one of the most liveable cities in ...

How To Spend A Sunday Afternoon In Rome

Tuesday, December 20th, 2011

Whether you want to see some of the world's most famous monuments or relax in a stylish cafe, Rome is a perfect location for spending a Sunday afternoon. This month, we will give you some ideas for what to ...

Tips For Renting A Property Abroad

Tuesday, December 20th, 2011

Whether you are moving to Spain, France, the USA or China, finding a place to live in your new country should be high on your priority list when moving abroad. Your two basic options will be buying a property ...

Moving Abroad During A Recession

Friday, December 2nd, 2011

According to a recent survey by Skyscanner, 9 in 10 Britons would consider leaving the UK for a better life abroad. The current recession in the UK and a positive perception of other countries (even including ones hit hard ...

How to spend a Sunday afternoon in Madrid

Wednesday, November 30th, 2011

This month Madrid, the capital of Spain gets our 'how to spend a Sunday afternoon...' treatment. If you're thinking of heading to the Spanish capital anytime soon, read ahead to get our tips of where to visit and what ...

Moving Abroad With Pets – What You Need To Know

Wednesday, November 30th, 2011

As a nation, us Brits love our pets, almost as much as we love cups of tea and Coronation Street. So it will come as no surprise that when a lot of us move abroad we often take our ...

Tips For Arranging a Mortgage Abroad

Thursday, November 24th, 2011

Many people in the UK are seeking a better life abroad, whether it be in Europe, Australia, the USA or somewhere like South Africa. These people are drawn to better climates, a better standard of living, more job opportunities, ...

Top Locations To Move To In France (Updated 2022)

Thursday, November 24th, 2011

France has traditionally been one of the most popular destinations among British expats, and the country is renowned for its cultural riches, beautiful landscapes, historical towns and cities and abundance of stunning beaches. While culturally different from the UK in ...

Choosing an International School

Thursday, November 24th, 2011

If you are moving abroad with children you will need to think about the most suitable school for them in your chosen location. On top of the arrangements for your move overseas this can mean additional stress, but if ...

City of the Month – Auckland

Thursday, November 24th, 2011

On the Britannia Emigration Blog, we regularly look at a popular expat city and highlight a few of the reasons so many people move there. This month, we're going to take a look at Auckland, New Zealand's largest and ...

Top Low Cost Expat Destinations

Tuesday, November 1st, 2011

*The UK is no longer part of the EU and therefore while the information in the following Blog was correct at the time of writing, it would be best to gain more current information. For most people the cost of ...

Best European Cuisines

Tuesday, November 1st, 2011

If you like good food, moving to Europe gives you the chance to discover some amazing and authentic cuisine. You might miss the traditional British Sunday roast, the variety of pies and pasties, English sausages or the simple but ...

5 Mistakes To Avoid When Moving Abroad

Tuesday, November 1st, 2011

Moving abroad and settling down in a new country can be one of the most exciting experiences of your life, but there are some common mistakes you should certainly avoid to make the relocation a stress-free process. Over the years ...

Halloween Around the World

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

Halloween is one of the world's oldest holidays, dating back to pagan times, and is widely popular in England especially among children and young people. If you have fond memories of trick or treating, and enjoy carving pumpkins, a ...

Retiring Abroad – Expat Considerations

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

*The UK is no longer part of the EU and therefore while the information in the following Blog was correct at the time of writing, it would be best to gain more current information. Buying a villa in the South ...

How To Spend a Sunday Afternoon in Barcelona

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

Regular visitors to the Britannia Emigration blog will be familiar with our Sunday afternoon tips. But for those of you who aren't, here's the low down: when you first move to a new city we think that a Sunday ...

Alcohol Around The World

Monday, October 3rd, 2011

If you're British, chances are you might enjoy the odd tipple every now and again. In many other countries around the world the locals are just same. But there are some unusual drinks and drinking practices that you should ...

The Top 5 Things To Do On A Sunday Afternoon In Amsterdam

Friday, September 30th, 2011

Any of you that read the blog regularly will be familiar with our series on what you should do on a Sunday afternoon when you first move to a new city. There's no particular reason that says you have ...

Renting Vs Buying a Property Abroad

Friday, September 30th, 2011

Is it better to rent or buy a property when moving overseas? There are reasons both for and against each option and your choice will ultimately depend on your personal circumstances, future plans and the country you are relocating ...

Things To Know When Moving to Australia

Friday, September 30th, 2011

Australia has long been one of the most popular destinations for British expats, due to the great climate, relaxed lifestyle, better quality of life, and higher salaries many Britons hope to find there. According to a recent survey, Australia ...

Packing Your Belongings Before Emigrating

Friday, September 30th, 2011

Once you have decided to move to another country, secured a new job, got somewhere to live and booked your route to your new country there is only one thing left to do: pack up your belongings. Anyone reading ...

City of the Month – Paris

Wednesday, September 21st, 2011

Each month on the Britannia Emigration blog we look at a popular expat city and highlight a few of the reasons so many people move there. This month we're going to take a look at the romantic capital of ...

Driving Abroad

Wednesday, September 21st, 2011

Driving your car in a foreign country can be quite intimidating if you're not properly prepared. If you're planning to live in a different country it's important to make sure you know what to expect on the roads before ...

Top Five Things To Do On A Sunday Afternoon In Berlin

Wednesday, September 21st, 2011

When you first move to a new country it's important to get a grasp of what's going on so you know where to go and what to do. One of the best times to do this is a Sunday ...

Tips for teaching children a new language in their new country

Tuesday, August 30th, 2011

If you're moving abroad with kids for a substantial amount of time it's pretty important that they learn the language of their new country. Learning the language will help make their lives easier and it will also provide them ...

Top 5 European Capitals for Expats

Tuesday, August 30th, 2011

If you are looking for new business or professional opportunities, a better quality of life or simply new adventures, but don't want to move far away, moving to Europe could be the perfect decision. Europe is home to many ...

Tips for Learning a Foreign Language

Friday, August 26th, 2011

When moving abroad, especially if you are planning to settle down, it might be useful to learn the local language. While some languages are easier to master than others, and you can use English to communicate in many countries, ...

Top Tips for Landing a Job Abroad

Thursday, August 25th, 2011

If you're not relocating for retirement and don't have huge savings, you'll eventually have to face the challenge of finding a job abroad. Although you shouldn't expect to land your dream job right away, if you prepare well you ...

Expat Considerations – Cost of Living

Thursday, August 25th, 2011

Young Britons thinking of moving abroad cite the rising cost of living as one of the most important reasons for considering an expatriate life. Moving to a country where living standards are better and one can find a more ...

Staying in Touch with Family and Friends Around the World

Monday, August 22nd, 2011

As little as 15 years ago, keeping in touch with friends and family around the world was a real issue as sending letters and parcels was the only effective option. However, in 2011 it's now easier than ever to ...

The Top Five Things to First Do When You Arrive in…New York City!

Friday, August 5th, 2011

Each month on the Britannia blog we're going to bring you our guide of the top five things to do when you first arrive in a new city. This month we're looking at New York. The Big Apple is one ...

The Rebuilding of Christchurch After the Devastating Earthquake has Created New Opportunities for Skilled Workers

Friday, August 5th, 2011

Employment opportunities in New Zealand are on the rise again after the Christchurch earthquake in February. Although the number of new job advertisements decreased and hiring slowed down considerably in February, the Manpower Employment Outlook released in June by ...