How easy is it to emigrate to Europe from the Uk?

[ruperto]

I have a friend who says she’s going to move to Europe in within the next 2 years.

Normally I would be very upset to hear this as she is a dear friend and I would miss her, but she has said this before (it was New Zealand last time), so before I go getting upset about this I’m just wondering how realistic it really is.

She doesn't work at the moment (qualified as a teacher but only ever worked as a TA- her choice) she’s looking after the children (6 and 2). Her husband is also a teacher (Art, but full time as supply at two different schools at the moment).

No other languages, not much savings.

They’re talking about going to Spain, or Portugal or Italy and living in a campervan for a while before choosing which area they want to live in.

Is this realistic? Would they need to find jobs before going? Sort proper accommodation? Is there a time limit on how long they could stay?

If they moved before Brexit they'll have rights to stay and won't be caught by the 90 day rule.

Aren't there problems with Spain and Greece at the moment where locals are protesting at foreign nationals buying up their properties? They already have EU nationals who they can't get rid of, so for Brits they are not going to welcome you with open arms. But I suppose at least you can you meet the financial requirements and will not be a burden. Suppose that could be used as your argument if anyone says anything.

Good luck to you or your mates or whoever it is, but they need a plan.

"Aren't there problems with Spain and Greece at the moment where locals are protesting at foreign nationals buying up their properties?"

There is more to Spain and Greece (and the rest of the EU) than the overcrowded holiday resorts where the locals are protesting

They will have claimed their residency rights before Brexit (as I did) so they have the right to remain as long as you don’t leave the country for more than 6 months in a year (for the first 5 years). In Italy, you can then claim citizenship after 10 years (that’s our plan! Moved here just before Brexit and are in it for the long game just so that we can secure EU passports for our young family…and also weather and food help).