UK Emigration

UK Emigration

Emigration in the United Kingdom is at an all time high. In 2006, four hundred thousand emigrates left Britain and headed abroad. Half of these migrating British nationals are headed to one of five countries; Australia, New Zealand, France, Spain, and the United States with most headed for Australia.

Australia has a liberal immigration policy that allows skilled labourers to gain permanent residency through one of several visas. The ease of immigrating to Australia coupled with the booming economy makes the decision to emigrate that much easier for these wondering Britons. There is another reason why so many UK nationals are emigrating to Australia. Heavy recruiting is being done by Australian businesses in need of skilled labourers. In March of 2008 the Australia Needs Skills Expo took place in London. This expo is so popular that it required an application approval before prospective employees were told the location and time of the event.

The most cited reason for leaving the UK is work. With high immigration in the UK, British nationals are finding it hard to compete for skilled labour jobs. The top professionals being recruited by Australian businesses are accountants, engineers, registered nurses, administrative professionals, and computing professionals. The growing economy of Australia makes living much easier for migrating Britons. The UK boasts high property costs and soaring petrol prices making it hard for British workers to live comfortably. The cost of living is much lower in Australia making it even more appealing to struggling British nationals.