Amsterdam named easiest European city to relocate to

Amsterdam has been named the easiest city in Europe for Brits to relocate to, according to new research from digital expat insurer Feather. Berlin and Frankfurt complete the top three, highlighting key destinations for a simple, stress-free move abroad.

UK emigration continues to rise, with Office for National Statistics data showing a 6% increase in 2025. Last year, 252,000 Brits left the UK while only 143,000 returned, and 76% of those who left were under 35.

Feather’s 2026 Relocation Index ranks cities based on four factors, including openness to immigration, economic opportunity, ease of opening a business, and administrative complexity. Amsterdam tops the list due to its high English proficiency, digital visa process, and strong jobs market, with 42 vacancies per 1,000 residents. Around 34% of its population is foreign-born, and it has Europe’s largest expat community.

Berlin follows closely, offering good affordability, a robust jobs market with 33 open roles per 1,000 residents, and high salaries. Frankfurt ranks third, benefiting from Germany’s English proficiency, reliable visa pathways, and 39.5 open roles per 1,000 residents, though it has a smaller expat community of just 2.4%.

At the bottom of the index are Rome and Milan, hindered by low English proficiency, limited jobs markets, and cumbersome residency procedures. Spanish cities, traditionally popular with expats, also rank lower for simplicity, with Madrid and Barcelona in fifth and eighth positions.

Vincent Audoire, Co-Founder of Feather, said: “More people are looking to leave the UK in search of warmer climates, a new lifestyle, or a lower cost of living… That’s why we created the Relocation Index, to highlight the easiest places to move to and help people understand the benefits and challenges of each destination.”

The European Commission of the European Union recently adopted the bloc’s first ever visa policy framework.