Many of us have felt the urge to up sticks and move abroad at some point. Moving to a new country, learning about other cultures, feasting on different food, and immersing yourself in new communities is truly an experience unlike any other. A recent study showed that Helsinki, Finland, was the best European city for expats to move to, while Vienna in Australia has reliably held the title of the world's most liveable city for two years running.
But the privilege of moving abroad comes at a cost, both in terms of the amount of paperwork and effort required to move, and regarding the price of visas – a considerable deterrent to people considering a move. Insurance agency William Russell conducted research to find out which countries are the easiest to emigrate to, looking at information including expat population, visa data, required vaccines, health checks, police certificates and language requirements.
The research uncovered some interesting facts about countries requiring visas – for example, that India has the fewest expats in the world (0.4 per cent), and Luxembourg has the highest salary threshold for anyone wanting to live in the country (£72,580). However, the biggest obstacle the study uncovered was the cost of visa fees. Below, take a look at the top ten most expensive visas around the world.
10. Greece
Visa name: EU Blue Card
Cost: €300 (£257)
9. Portugal
Visa name: EU Blue Card
Cost: €375 (£321)
8. Netherlands
Visa name: EU Blue Card
Cost: €380 (£325)
7. Finland
Visa name: EU Blue Card
Cost: €380 (£325)
6. Spain
Visa name: EU Blue Card
Cost: €418 (£358)
5. India
Visa name: Employment Visa
Cost: ₹45,174 (£427)
4. Japan
Visa name: Highly Skilled Workers Visa
Cost: ¥150,000 (£796)
3. United Kingdom
Visa name: Skilled Worker Visa
Cost: £1,343
2. United States
Visa name: H-1B Visa
Cost: $1,717 (£1,351)
1. Australia
Visa name: Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482)
Cost: AU$3,035 (£1,570)