Remote working has opened the door for UK buyers to relocate overseas without giving up their careers.

According to a report from the UK’s Office for National Statistics, 40% of employees worked from home at least some of the time in October 2024, and many companies are now offering “work from anywhere” options for part or all of the year.

For people craving better weather, a lower cost of living or a slower pace, buying a home abroad while staying in your UK role is a realistic option.

Which countries are best for remote UK workers?

There are plenty of destinations to consider, but the following five stand out for their solid infrastructure, appealing property options and workable time zones.

1. Spain

Spain is a great choice, thanks to its high-speed internet and affordable housing.

Cities like Valencia and Málaga have coworking spaces, good transport and easy connections back to the UK.

The Spanish non-lucrative visa can work for digital nomads, though Spain also has a digital nomad visa designed for remote workers.

Time difference: +1 hour (+2 in winter)
Typical broadband speed: 100–600 Mbps available in urban areas
Tip: If you plan to work from a holiday home, make sure it’s equipped for year-round living – not all coastal homes are well insulated.

2. France

France offers excellent infrastructure and connections to the UK, making it ideal for remote workers.

Areas like the Dordogne and Occitanie provide peaceful surroundings within reach of larger cities.

France also has a well-established public system, so if you become a resident and pay local taxes, you may gain access to national healthcare.

Time difference: +1 hour
Broadband access: Fibre is widespread in towns and expanding to rural areas
Tip: If you’re planning long stays, check with your employer whether you’d need a French employment contract under local labour laws.

3. Portugal

Portugal’s sunny climate and English-speaking communities make it a great option for remote working.

If you have a UK salary, the digital nomad visa allows you to live in Portugal while working remotely for a foreign employer, as long as you earn at least four times the Portuguese minimum wage (around €3,480 per month).

Time difference: Same as UK
Broadband speed: Fast internet in most areas, with fibre in towns and cities
Tip: Coastal areas like Lagos or Tavira offer the best of both worlds – beach lifestyle and solid connectivity.

4. Greece

Greece introduced a digital nomad visa in 2021, making it easier for remote workers to stay longer term.

In areas like Crete and the Peloponnese, you can work remotely while enjoying affordable housing and a Mediterranean lifestyle.

Time difference: +2 hours
Internet speed: Slower in rural islands but decent in cities like Athens and Thessaloniki
Tip: If you’re buying in a remote village, test the internet speed before committing.

5. Italy

Italy now offers a digital nomad visa for non-EU workers, with application routes based on income and work requirements.

Regions like Puglia and Tuscany are attractive to buyers seeking historic homes at relatively low prices.

Time difference: +1 hour
Broadband speed: Fibre and 4G widely available
Tip: Italy has a tax incentive scheme for foreign residents working in the country – ask a local adviser whether you qualify.

What should you check before making the move?

• Tax residency: If you stay more than 183 days a year in another country, you may be considered a tax resident there – and liable for local income tax.
• Employment rules: Some countries require UK companies to register as a foreign employer if you’re working there full-time.
• Connectivity: Always check internet speeds, mobile signal and power reliability before buying.
• Home setup: Think about office space, heating and daylight hours depending on where you’re based.
• Health cover: You may need to contribute to local healthcare or take out private insurance if you’re not a resident.

Summary

With reliable broadband, digital nomad visas and more flexible employers, it is now possible to move abroad and keep your current job. Just make sure you understand the legal and tax implications before you go – and choose a property with reliable connectivity.

Buying property overseas can be a complicated process. Our country-specific buying guides have all the information to make your journey as seamless as possible. Download them here.

 

Currency Zone

For guidance on managing your exposure to the ever-changing currency markets, head to our Currency Zone. We partner with Smart Currency Exchange, an FCA-authorised currency specialist. Choosing to work with a currency specialist rather than your high-street bank will enable you to benefit from their competitive exchange rates and specialist currency knowledge. For more information, head to our Currency Zone.

Written by PropertyGuides for Rightmove