From Expats to Repats and Back Again
Written on 25 February 2025 by
The past few years have significantly reshaped how people view work, property ownership, and financial security. In the UK, there has been a major shift towards remote and hybrid working, allowing many to move away from expensive city locations. At the same time, many UK nationals living abroad are now reconsidering their decision to emigrate, with a noticeable trend of individuals and families looking to return to the UK.
This shift isn’t just unique to British expats - many nations have seen similar movements as their citizens choose to return home due to changing economic conditions, new regulations, and evolving lifestyle priorities.
Why Did Many UK Nationals Move Abroad?
Before 2020, the primary motivations for emigration included:
- A better work-life balance
- Raising a family in a healthier environment
- Escaping the high cost of living in UK cities
- Pursuing career opportunities or tax advantages
With no major travel restrictions at the time, expats were able to maintain strong ties with the UK, frequently returning home to see friends and family.
Why Are Many Expats Returning to the UK?
The past few years have reshaped priorities for many UK nationals living abroad. Here are some of the main reasons expats are now looking to return:
1. A Shift in Workplace Flexibility
During the pandemic, UK businesses rapidly adapted to remote and hybrid working models. Many employees no longer need to be in a fixed office location, meaning they can choose where they live based on lifestyle rather than job location.
Latest Update: This flexibility has led to a growing trend of UK nationals returning home—not necessarily to city centres, but to more affordable and lifestyle-driven locations across the UK.
2. Changing Financial and Tax Considerations
Global inflation and rising living costs have impacted homeowners and renters worldwide, prompting some UK expats to re-evaluate the long-term affordability of living abroad.
For those who have lived abroad for an extended period, taxation changes are also playing a significant role in repatriation decisions.
Latest Update: From April 6, 2025, the UK government is abolishing the remittance basis of taxation. This means that UK residents who have lived abroad for more than four years will be taxed on their worldwide income, making it less financially attractive to remain an expat in certain countries.
3. The Emotional Impact of Distance
While many expats factored in the distance from family and friends when moving abroad, the reality of travel restrictions over recent years made it more challenging to visit home.
- Some UK nationals experienced long periods without seeing loved ones due to visa and border restrictions.
- Concerns about future global events have made some expats rethink the risks of living far from home.
Latest Update: Many repatriates have cited that they no longer want to be separated from family for extended periods, and the security of being in the UK outweighs the previous benefits of living abroad.
4. Property Investment Opportunities in the UK
The UK property market has remained strong, and for returning expats, owning a home in the UK is becoming a more attractive option than continuing to rent or invest abroad.
Latest Update: UK mortgage rates are stabilising in 2025, making it a more favourable time for expats looking to buy a property in the UK. Forecasts suggest continued steady growth in house purchase and remortgage lending, improving affordability for those returning.
What Are the Mortgage Options for Expats Returning to the UK?
If you’re a UK national looking to move back home, here are some mortgage options to consider:
Expat Mortgages for Returning Homeowners
Some lenders offer expat-specific mortgage products, allowing you to secure a UK home before moving back. These typically:
- Allow overseas income to be considered
- Require a larger deposit (often 25% or more)
- May involve slightly higher interest rates than standard UK mortgages
Remortgaging an Existing UK Property
If you already own a home in the UK but have been living abroad, you may consider remortgaging to release equity or secure a better rate before moving back.
- This can provide a lump sum to help with moving costs
- You may be able to switch to a lower interest rate
- Some lenders now offer remote remortgaging for UK expats
Buy-to-Let for Returning Expats
If you own a UK property but don’t plan to live in it immediately, you might consider switching to a buy to let mortgage. This allows you to generate rental income while securing a long-term investment.
- Rental income can support affordability on future mortgages
- Many lenders have specific expat Buy-to-Let products
- Some lenders are relaxing their Buy-to-Let stress testing in 2025, making it easier for returning expats to qualify for investment mortgages
Final Thoughts – Is It Time to Return to the UK?
The decision to return to the UK as an expat is a deeply personal one, influenced by lifestyle, financial considerations and long-term goals. However, with mortgage rates stabilising and new tax changes coming into effect, many expats are choosing to secure UK property sooner rather than later.
Whether you’re returning home permanently or investing in UK property, seeking expert mortgage advice is crucial. Understanding your borrowing options, tax implications and investment potential will help you make the best financial decision.
Need guidance on expat mortgages? Speak to one of our specialist advisers today at 0808 149 8381 or enquire online.
Category:Nicholas Mendes
