Interest in temporary relocation is surging. Brits made 834,700 searches related to short-term moves abroad in the past year, and three-quarters of UK-based 18-30-year-olds are open to temporarily living and working abroad.
This surge is driving the rise of trial relocation – where Brits can test-drive life abroad before making a long-term commitment. In response, international removals company 1st Move International analysed various factors, such as visa accessibility and cost-of-living data, to rank the best countries for Brits to try life abroad. Japan ranks as the best country overall for Brits to try life abroad, despite its distance from the UK. It stands out as the only country to offer a free 12-month visa for Brits. With a two-week processing time, a minimum income requirement of £417, and below-average living costs, Japan offers an attractive way to try life abroad. Interest is growing too, with searches for “Japan working holiday visa” up 30% in the past month. South Korea ranks second, offering one of the lowest barriers to trial relocation.
A minimum monthly income requirement of just £146, the fourth lowest in the study, alongside a two-week visa processing time and a £50 application fee, makes it an accessible option for short-term living abroad.
Serbia takes third place and is the highest-ranking European destination. With proximity to the UK, low living costs at £536 per month, and average city-centre rent under £400, Serbia is a low-risk choice for Brits wanting to test life abroad without travelling far.
Mike Harvey, managing director of 1st Move International, comments on why Brits are testing life abroad: “For many Brits considering a move overseas, trialling life abroad first offers a practical way to explore a new country without the pressure of a permanent commitment.
“Whether they are taking an extended holiday to explore the country, its landscape, culture and people, or working abroad as a digital nomad.
“Living abroad for a shorter period of time can help people understand day-to-day costs, housing, healthcare and lifestyle, while reducing the financial and emotional risks often associated with relocation. If they find the shorter stay in a country enjoyable, it often leads to a permanent move.”
Top 10 temporary relocation destinations (and their overall score)
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
