Thread: British Expats don't want to return to the UK

I have just posted this article on PIO but thought it would also be interesting reading for the members on here.

The number of expats planning to return to the UK has fallen over the past six months, as press reports of “austerity Britain” puts people off.

According to the latest bi-annual expat survey from Lloyds TSB International, 67% of expats say they have no plans to return home, an increase of over 11% in six months.

The survey also revealed the majority of expats (65%) feel their financial prospects are better in their country of residence, while only 14% believe their financial outlook would improve in Britain.

Jakob Pfaudler managing director of Lloyds TSB International said: “We knew that most people who move abroad are glad they did so, but we were surprised at the growing pessimism about financial prospects in the UK.

“Much has been made of “austerity Britain” in the press and elsewhere, and it seems to be contributing to expats’ decisions to settle elsewhere for good.”

Pfaudler added that generally lifestyle, rather than financial considerations, is the decisive factor in expats’ desire to stay abroad. According to the research, of the 4% of expats who plan to return to the UK within the next year, only 12% are returning because they miss the UK lifestyle, while 21% are moving back for their career.

“It seems the key to contentment as an expat is emigrating to improve your lifestyle or to benefit your family,” added Pfaudler.

“The research shows that career and financial considerations are important, but that many expats consider them the icing on the cake rather than the cake itself.”

I property speculated in Australia which has reaped dividends hence making myself a cosy nest egg here in Australia.

Why would I want to go back to the UK ? I have my memories but that is all they are, my future is on the red land , looking back is futile.

But an excellent post Ktee I wish you well with the replies.

Interesting - I know a lot of Brits here (friends and business colleagues) and I'd say that it's about 50/50. Personally I know I'll move back eventually.

Can I ask what would make you move back, is it you aren't settled there Purple?

Hey Ktee,

I suppose that I'm just bored of it really. I've spent over half my life overseas now.
I'm settled in life here, but after 10 years of it I know that to me the UK definately tops the US as a place to live in. Different things suit different people, right? ;)

It's also interesting to note that the number of people leaving the UK to live abroad dropped to a 10 year low in 2010, maybe it is the fact that the grass isn't always greener and people are realising that ?

Or maybe that the countries that they are wanting to move to are making it harder

That doesn't seem to be the case from what I can gather, Brits can move to anywhere in the EU with no problems for instance.

I will definitely move back one day. Whilst I am having the best time in New Zealand, and I have made some great friends, England is my home, and it is where I will end up eventually!