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Amsterdam: The Preferred City for Relocating Britons

In the latest findings from a comprehensive survey, Amsterdam has been identified as the most accessible city for British citizens wanting to relocate to Europe. According to Feather Insurance's 2026 Relocation Index, Amsterdam, alongside Berlin and Frankfurt, offers a range of factors that facilitate a smooth transition for those considering a move.

A Surge in Britons Relocating Abroad

There has been a notable increase in emigration from the UK, with figures from the Office for National Statistics revealing a rise of over 6% in 2025 alone. Last year, approximately 252,000 individuals left the UK, contrasted with only 143,000 returning. Significantly, 76% of those who departed were under the age of 35, reflecting a trend of young professionals seeking new opportunities abroad.

High Ranking Factors

The ranking is based on several critical factors, including immigration openness, job opportunities, and the ease of administrative processes. Each city was assessed to determine how welcoming and accessible they are for new residents.

Amsterdam's Appeal

Amsterdam takes the lead due to its exceptional levels of English proficiency, a fully digital visa application process, and a vibrant job market that boasts 42 open jobs per 1,000 individuals. Additionally, nearly 34% of Amsterdam's inhabitants are foreign-born, fostering a diverse expat community that adds to the city's appeal.

Following closely is Berlin, which ranks second in the index. Known for its established expatriate presence—over 13% of its residents originate from other countries—Berlin also offers a competitive job market, with 33 open positions per 1,000 residents. Its affordability further enhances its attractiveness, as living costs are around 21.2% lower than in London.

In third place, Frankfurt stands out as a hub for expats, benefiting from Germany's high English proficiency and streamlined visa processes tailored for employees. The city has an impressive average of 39.5 job openings per 1,000 individuals, although its smaller expat population, with only 2.4% of residents born outside Germany, distinguishes it from Berlin.

Tougher Options

At the bottom end of the index, cities like Rome and Milan are noted as challenging relocation destinations. Despite their allure, both cities scored poorly on English proficiency and offer fewer residency permits compared to the EU average. Rome, for instance, struggles with a meager average of 18.5 job openings per 1,000 residents, making it hard for newcomers to find employment. Additionally, Milan reports one of the lowest relative salaries in the index and presents bureaucratic hurdles that complicate the business registration process for foreign nationals.

Spanish cities, often favored by expatriates, also lag in the rankings. While Madrid and Barcelona present strong digitized processes, their relatively low English proficiency and weak purchasing power hinder seamless relocation.

Understanding Challenges and Benefits

According to Vincent Audoire, a co-founder at Feather Insurance, the rising tide of individuals seeking to leave the UK reflects a broader desire for warmer climates, lifestyle changes, and lower living costs. However, the journey of expatriation is fraught with challenges. From securing housing and navigating visa and insurance requirements to acclimating to new surroundings, the process can often seem daunting. The Relocation Index aims to elucidate these complexities, helping potential expatriates grasp the pros and cons of each destination.

Feather has specially tailored its services to address the needs of expatriates, ensuring they have access to digital insurance solutions across Europe. For those interested in a detailed analysis, Feather's complete 2026 Relocation Index report delves into how the twelve cities measure up against the factors that impact relocation ease for UK citizens.

Conclusion

As of now, Amsterdam remains the undisputed leader for those looking to relocate from the UK, followed by Berlin and Frankfurt. Whether it’s the city's high English proficiency or the abundance of job opportunities, Amsterdam certainly stands out as the first choice for Britons in 2026. The insight provided by Feather's research is a valuable resource for anyone considering an international move, emphasizing the importance of understanding local dynamics before making such a significant transition.