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UK third best place to work in the world
The UK is the best country in the world to learn new skills and is the third best place overall for career-minded expats, according to a new survey by HSBC.
Germany and Bahrain topped the list.
Two-thirds of respondents in the UK report that it is easier to acquire new skills in the UK than in their home country. The European average was 59%. The UK also ranked fourth as the best destination to climb the career ladder, narrowly behind Hong Kong, USA and Singapore. Almost half of the people who move to the UK do so for their career.
While the UK may not score as highly on climate, the average working expat in the UK also sees gains across the board in work/life balance, career progression and earning prospects. Foreign workers also say they like the working culture in the UK better than in their home country.
The survey looked at more than 22,000 expatriates across 163 countries and territories. It showed career ambition is the number one reason why people take the plunge and work abroad.
UK nationals moving abroad are looking to improve their quality of life (41% of expats from the UK vs. 34% European average) or a better climate. Only a quarter (24%) are looking to progress their career. Most say the move is usually good for their finances, with over 60% saying they have more disposable income than they did at home.
The best places in the world to work:
Rank | The best places to work abroad | Change in ranking since 2017 |
1 | Germany | +1 |
2 | Bahrain | +10 |
3 | UK | +6 |
4 | UAE | = |
5 | Switzerland | -2 |
6 | Sweden | = |
7 | Singapore | -2 |
8 | USA | +3 |
9 | Canada | +1 |
10 | Hong Kong | +3 |
Top destinations for UK expats:
Top 10 destinations for UK expats abroad surveyed: |
USA |
Australia |
Spain |
South Africa |
France |
United Arab Emirates |
Hong Kong |
Thailand |
New Zealand |
Canada |