ALIL: Essential to have right account

Having the right bank account to suit the individual's needs when moving abroad is essential, it has been suggested.

It can help make sure that the most is achieved from finances and could provide the account holder with good returns, explained Alliance and Leicester Limited (ALIL).

Simon Ripton, joint managing director of offshore deposit taker, said: "That means you can also take a little bit of Britain with you."

Having an overseas bank account may also be helpful in protecting money from fluctuating currency exchange rates.

Brits moving abroad should also research how financially stable the country they are travelling to is and look at what employment opportunities there are, Mr Ripton added.

Finally, it is also important to consider how much it will cost to relocate.

According to a survey by ALIL, reasons why expats prefer their new country of residence include lower crime rates, higher incomes and better weather.

British food and family were among the things they missed from home and some said they struggled with the language barriers.