Analysis of Google search data reveals that searches for ‘move abroad’ exploded 1,000% in the United Kingdom as of April 2022 – the highest level in internet history.

The beginning of April saw price hikes coming into effect across various sectors, with a 54% rise in the energy price cap, a rise of up 3% in Council Tax across local authorities, VAT levels rising back to 20% and an increase in National Insurance.

The analysis, by immigration experts Reiss Edwards, reveals that searches for ‘move abroad’ exploded to ten times the average volume within the past month, an unprecedented increase in Brits looking to emigrate, according to Google search data analysis.

The data also reveals that searches for ‘apply for Australian visa’ – the country with the highest number of British expats – have exploded 670% since the cost of living crisis began.

Amar Ali, Managing Director from Reiss Edwards, commented on the findings: “The British public have been faced with a gradual rise in the cost of living since the pandemic, which has only amplified enormously in the last couple of months, with these new price hikes leading to some British residents to look for an alternative, and more affordable, country to live in.

“To emigrate abroad can be a very important move for anyone and is a choice that should be well thought out with all the right information and these findings highlight the scale of Britons looking to make that commitment due to the cost of living crisis.

“With the inflation rate in the UK set to continue to rise, it will