Why are young people leaving Britain to work abroad?

Why are young people leaving Britain to work abroad?

Faced with rising rental costs, a challenging job market, and stretched incomes, many young people from the UK are opting to set up their lives abroad. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reports that nearly 200,000 individuals under the age of 35 left the country in the year leading up to June. This trend raises questions about their destinations, occupations, and the possibility of their return.

One of those who has chosen a new life overseas is Ray Amjad. After graduating from the University of Cambridge, he initially considered remaining in the historic city. However, his experiences working remotely in web design while traveling to 20 different countries changed his outlook. Now 25 and originally from Manchester, Ray relocated to Tokyo last year under a special two-year visa for top graduates, with plans to seek permanent residency. He believes the UK is losing “too many talented young people” and adds, “Japan is getting a good deal, really – we’re moving out here, fully formed, and they haven’t had to pay for our education or healthcare, growing up.”

Ray’s friends have also chosen various international destinations such as Australia, South Korea, and Hong Kong, attributing their decisions largely to the high cost of living and limited job prospects at home. He notes a shift in Tokyo’s demographic profile, saying, “Here in Tokyo, it used to be much older people who moved out here to work, but that has changed recently.” He appreciates the safety and affordability in Japan, emphasizing the difference in living costs compared to London and highlighting aspects such as the security of personal belongings and the peaceful environment.

Another young Briton making a fresh start abroad is Isobel Perl, who founded her own skincare brand five years ago while living in Watford. At 30, she plans to move to Dubai early next year to grow her business in the United Arab Emirates. Inspired by her sister, who moved there previously, and her parents who plan to relocate as well, Isobel highlights the appeal of the year-round sunshine and the tax benefits. She received one of the new golden visas for content creators, granting her ten years of residency. Reflecting on the atmosphere in Dubai, she says, “Most people moving to Dubai have big ambitions and dreams. That energy is so important to be around. There is a thriving business community and it’s a very inspiring place to be.”

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More