The world's best countries for expats: a ranking

The pandemic has changed how we think about traveling and living abroad. Still, many of us dream of picking up and moving overseas at some point. Tips from other expats could help us consider such a big step. In 2019, the InterNations Expat Insider surveyed thousands of expats to rate their host countries. The following ranking, of the world's best places to live and work abroad, is a result of that survey.

Thailand is an affordable option for many expats, and it’s tropical beaches and ornate temples offer great leisure options for those working in cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

With an international feel and easy access to destinations across Europe, the Netherlands is a popular destination for expats.

Estonia ranks number 1 for ‘Digital Life’ in the InterNations survey and is popular among expats with careers in the digital world. It’s not surprising that expats in Estonia say that ‘everything can be done online’ given the nation's investment in digital infrastructure in recent years.

While it might not seem like an obvious choice, Kazakhstan offers expats great job opportunities and has friendly and welcoming locals.

With beautiful beaches and low cost of living Costa Rica remains a popular destination for expats.

Well known for its multiculturalism, Canada is a great option in North America for expats looking for a safe and welcoming place to call home.

Finland ranks number 1 for ‘Health and Wellbeing’ in the InterNations survey. It also comes out ahead of the pack for quality education and raising a family, although the cost of living is considered very high.

Despite its extreme summer weather, the Gulf state of Qatar is ranked highly for having a great social scene where it's easy to make friends.

Australia’s good weather and laid back attitude make it a great place for expats looking to make the most of their leisure time.

Looking for love? While Colombia is known for cheap living cost and a relaxed lifestyle, it is also number 1 in the InterNations Survey for dating!

New Zealand’s stunning scenery and friendly locals attract expats looking for safety and good quality of life.

While it can be expensive many expats love the vibrant culture of Israel and find it very easy to make new friends.

The great weather and affordable cost of living in Panama make it increasingly popular with expats.

Landlocked between France, Belgium and Germany, the tiny country of Luxembourg rates highly for job security and offers expats a good work-life balance.

If cheap living is your expat goal then look no further than the Bulkan nation of Bulgaria. It took out the top spot in the InterNations Survey for low cost of living.

The increasingly popular Czech Republic (Czechia as it is often referred to) ranks highly with expats for a high quality of family life. Although expats did note that settling in can be hard particularly with the language barrier.

Expats love Malaysia for the friendliness of locals and ease it is to settle in and feel at home.

Ecuador was ranked by expats as number 1 for Personal Happiness thanks to its relaxed pace with a focus on family and friends.

The gulf nation of Bahrain has a large expat population who find it very welcoming and easy to settle in and feel at home.

It is perhaps unsurprising that Singapore, a well known business and travel hub, is also considered the best place for expats who love to travel.

Expats in Spain love weather and quality of life, plus 79% of them said that moving to Spain has made them happier.

Mexico is much loved by expats for its welcoming culture and cheap cost of living.

Portugal is considered the best place for people looking for a fantastic quality of life. Over half the expats surveyed plan on staying in Portugal forever!

With low living costs and great work opportunities it’s easy to understand why Vietnam is a top destination for expats from around the world.

It’s not surprising that Taiwan takes out the top spot given it is well known within the expat community as a ‘hidden gem’. Taiwan is extremely safe, affordable and boasts a great quality of life.