Dreaming of swapping gray skies for sunshine overseas is nothing new for British travellers, however new analysis reveals precisely the place these relocation ambitions are heading in 2026.
The research by Philippou Legislation analysed Google search knowledge over the previous 12 months to determine the locations Britons are most concerned with relocating to.
Researchers checked out month-to-month search volumes for phrases corresponding to “transfer to [destination]”, “relocate to [destination]” and “home costs in [location]” to construct a rating of probably the most searched nations.
The outcomes instructed that whereas conventional favourites stay in style, some much less anticipated locations are starting to get extra consideration.
Expats need to transfer to Australia
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The place Britons wish to relocate in 2026 (searches per 30 days)
- Australia (5,800)
- New Zealand (3,600)
- Spain (3,190)
- United States (2,400)
- Canada (2,350)
- Portugal (1,920)
- Switzerland (1,760)
- Eire (1,660)
- Thailand (1,660)
- France (1,440)
The Southern Hemisphere dominates the highest of the checklist, with Australia and New Zealand attracting almost 10,000 mixed searches per 30 days.
The enchantment of an entire way of life change, acquainted language and outdoor-focused residing continues to make each locations massively in style amongst British expats.
Nearer to dwelling, Spain stays Europe’s most sought-after relocation vacation spot, outperforming Portugal by greater than 66 per cent in relocation intent. The analysis additionally highlights rising curiosity in much less conventional locations.
Searches referring to relocation in nations corresponding to Brazil and Romania have elevated considerably over the previous 12 months, suggesting that expats have gotten extra open to rising tech hubs and culturally totally different environments. In the meantime, Southeast Asia is starting to characteristic extra prominently in relocation plans.
Spain is the preferred possibility in Europe
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Canada is a stupendous location for Britons trying to transfer overseas
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Thailand now seems within the high 10, matching Eire in search curiosity, whereas searches associated to relocating to Sri Lanka have additionally surged during the last 12 months.
Managing accomplice at Philippou Legislation, Gregoris Philippou, stated: “The information for 2026 clearly reveals that the British relocation itch has advanced right into a seek for stability and high quality of life. Whereas Australia and New Zealand persistently high the charts as a result of lack of language obstacles and acquainted climates, we’re seeing a selected shift in how Britons method the transfer.
“Much more telling is the rising magnetism of South Asia. With Thailand firmly established in our high 10 and a notable soar in searches for Sri Lanka, it is clear that Britons are wanting past the normal Mediterranean bubble.
“They’re looking for locations that supply a top quality of life and tropical environment, however with the authorized and digital infrastructure that permits for a everlasting transfer slightly than only a vacation. The 2026 expat is not only a solar seeker; they’re savvy, strategic and more and more wanting towards the East for his or her subsequent chapter.”
