Why Are Young People Leaving to Work Abroad?
Young professionals are increasingly seeking work opportunities overseas as they navigate rising rents, a challenging job market, and increasingly tight paychecks. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), 195,000 people under the age of 35 emigrated in the year leading up to June. This article explores where they are going, what they are doing, and the implications of this trend.
Safety and Opportunity: A Shift to Japan
Ray Amjad: A graduate from Cambridge, Ray Amjad initially considered staying in the historic city after finishing his degree. However, after traveling to 20 countries while working remotely in web design, he realized that he could not envision his future in the UK. He moved to Tokyo last year under a two-year visa for top graduates, with plans to apply for permanent residency.
– Quote: In my experience, the UK is losing too many talented young people, he explains. Japan is getting a good deal—fully formed, educated individuals without having to cover our education or healthcare costs.
Ray’s peers have relocated to Australia, South Korea, and Hong Kong, citing the high cost of living and limited job opportunities in the UK as major factors influencing their decisions.
– Safety: In Tokyo, it feels much safer. I can leave my laptop in a café and not worry about it disappearing.
– Cost of Living: The flat I’m renting would cost three times as much in London.
Dreaming Big in Dubai
Isobel Perl: At age 30, Isobel Perl is relocating to Dubai to expand her skincare brand, started five years ago from her parents’ home in Watford.
– Family Influence: My sister moved to Dubai a few years ago, so it just makes sense for me to follow suit.
– Lifestyle: Sunshine all year round is a huge draw. Although Dubai is expensive, there’s no income tax to worry about.
Isobel was among the first to obtain one of the 10,000 golden visas for content creators, providing her with a decade-long residency opportunity. She plans to maintain her manufacturing in the UK while managing her business from Dubai.
– Inspiration: There’s a thriving business community here that inspires me.
Despite the challenges of rebranding and selling off existing stock, Isobel remains optimistic about her fresh start.
A Business-Friendly Environment: The UAE and Beyond
According to the latest ONS data, three-quarters of British nationals who emigrated in the year ending June 2025 were under the age of 35.
– Economic Concerns: David Little, a financial planning partner at Evelyn Partners, believes many young individuals are leaving due to the UK’s increasingly negative economic narrative marked by high unemployment and tax burdens.
– Opportunities Abroad: Dubai has transformed into a global career hub, attracting thousands with tax-free salaries and a booming job market, he notes.
Interestingly, many families now support their children with the costs of emigration rather than merely assisting with initial home deposits.
Pursuing Happiness Abroad
Sol Hyde: Sol, a 25-year-old from Colchester, left his corporate job last October, which he found stifling and depressing.
– Lifestyle Change: When my online business started making money, I jumped on a plane, he says. Sol now runs a marketing consulting firm, working primarily from Bali but considering a move to Cape Town.
– Community: I wake up to sunshine, meet fellow entrepreneurs for coffee, and collaborate throughout the day.
Sol acknowledges that leaving friends and family has been hard, but he feels closer to them now and critiques the UK’s tall poppy syndrome, where success often breeds resentment.
– Future Plans: I love the UK and might return when my financial situation improves, but I don’t regret my decision to leave.
Conclusion: The Drive Towards Global Careers
As young professionals explore the world for better opportunities and quality of life, the trend of moving abroad continues to rise. With factors like safety, tax benefits, and a vibrant business environment driving their decisions, many are finding fulfillment and success outside their home country. The shift of young talent seeking opportunities abroad highlights the need for improvements in the UK’s economic landscape to retain its brightest minds. The government emphasizes supporting entrepreneurs; however, the allure of overseas prospects remains undeniably strong.