Retired expat returning to the UK: what do you need to know?
Are you a retired expat returning to the UK? Our useful guide covers everything you need to know to make your return to the UK as simple and stress-free as possible.
Tips for expats returning to the UK
If you’re a British expat, returning to the UK can feel challenging, especially if you’re a retired UK expat moving back to your home country. To help retired expats returning to the UK, we’ve put together a handy guide.
What is a retired UK expat?
Short for expatriates, an expat is someone who lives in a country different to the one they were born in. A retired UK expat is someone who lives outside of the UK and no longer works, or works part-time, as they have retired. A ‘repat’ refers to someone who once lived abroad but has since returned to the UK - and they’re more common than you may think. It's been reported that more and more expats are returning to the UK. According to data held by Spanish town halls, 90,000 expats left their Mediterranean homes in 2013 - most were believed to be British.
What are the advantages of returning to the UK?
The UK is one of the best places for an expat to retire. Some advantages for a retired expat returning to the UK include:
- Being closer to family and friends
- The removal of any language barriers
- Feeling more ‘at home’
- Knowing your rights
You might want to be nearer to friends and family - especially if they've been trying to convince you to move closer in the past. Our retirement villages span across the UK so you’re bound to find one close to your loved ones. Plus, with a strong sense of community across all of our retirement villages, you’ll quickly make new friends too.
Where is the best place for expats to retire?
Enjoy the fun, freedom and familiarity of the UK. Bursting with diverse locations and incredible attractions, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the best places for expats to retire in the UK, whether it’s the tranquil countryside, closer to the action of the city, or a calmer lifestyle by the coast.
From the South West (which offers some of the best places to retire by the sea) to the South East (close to London), our retirement villages are in all the best places for expats to retire.
Things to consider as a retired expat returning to the UK
For retired expats returning to the UK, there may be legal requirements, depending on the country you’re living in. You can find a full list for each country on the UK Government’s website. However, it’s not just the legalities that are important to consider. Personal factors will influence you when deciding if, and when, to retire to the UK too.
1. Consider the timing
If you’re a retired expat returning to the UK, it’s important to remember that the process can take time. From selling your home and assets to finding a new retirement apartment and moving in, the process can be lengthy.
Our top tip: Have a plan. Give yourself enough time to conduct thorough research and avoid any disappointment. If you’re planning to move in years to come, consider our retirement developments coming soon for a property that will be ready when you are.
2. Calculate costs
Review your financial situation before you make any big commitments to make sure you can comfortably afford your new lifestyle. Think about your everyday expenses, the activities you enjoy and whether these will still be achievable in your new home.
Our top tip: Consider your options. If buying a retirement home isn’t for you, our retirement rental properties provide an easy way to move in quickly with a manageable monthly cost. You might also be interested in part buy, part rent or shared ownership.
3. Relocation
There are so many options for the best places for expats to retire, but ultimately, the right location depends on you.
Our top tip: Do your research. Whether you enjoy long walks in a National Park or trips to a seaside town, take your time to find the right retirement location.
4. Ask for support
Reaching out to your friends and family can make your move as stress-free as possible. Involve them in your research and talk to them about how you feel.
Our top tip: Speak to a member of our team. Our friendly team is on-hand to help you choose and move into your new retirement home.
Refresh your retirement with McCarthy & Stone
Our website lets you browse retirement properties in your ideal location, long before you consider booking any flights. Better yet, our choice of independent living and assisted living developments allow you to enjoy all that luxury retirement living has to offer, in a way that suits you.
If you're interested in hearing more about the McCarthy & Stone lifestyle, take a look at our homeowner stories, or give our friendly team a call at 0800 201 2811 today.
