10 Best Countries for Expats to Live in 2025 (According to InterNations Expat Insider 2024 Survey)

In today’s increasingly borderless world, choosing where to live is perhaps the most important decision a global citizen can make. It affects everything from your tax burden and career trajectory to your daily quality of life and long-term financial security.

The InterNations Expat Insider 2024 survey cuts through marketing hype to deliver data-driven insights from 12,543 expats living across 53 countries. This comprehensive analysis reveals fascinating patterns in where expats are thriving –and why the conventional wisdom about “best places to live” often misses the mark.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top 10 destinations that positioned themselves as premier expat havens in the InterNations 2024 survey, with practical insights on everything from financial satisfaction to social integration and quality of life factors to consider for your 2025 relocation plans.

Key Findings and Trends from the 2024 Survey

Before diving into individual countries, it’s worth noting several overarching patterns that emerged from the 2024 data:

1. Affordability trumps prestige: Countries offering financial breathing room consistently outranked traditional “prestige” destinations. Vietnam’s #1 ranking in Personal Finance for the third consecutive year exemplifies this trend.
2. Social integration is critical: The ease of building local connections and feeling welcomed significantly impacts overall satisfaction. Mexico and the Philippines excelled here, with high percentages of expats reporting feeling warmly received.
3. Work-life balance eclipses career advancement: Countries with shorter workweeks and flexible work cultures (Panama, Indonesia) outperformed career powerhouses with high-pressure environments.
4. Healthcare accessibility matters more than ever: Spain’s exceptional healthcare system substantially boosted its overall appeal, while countries with healthcare challenges (Indonesia, Philippines) saw this affect their rankings despite other strengths.
5. Digital infrastructure has become essential: As remote work normalizes, countries with reliable internet and digital services gain competitive advantages. Indonesia’s bottom-tier ranking in digital infrastructure represented its most significant growth opportunity.

Countries Compared: 2024 InterNations Rankings by Category

According to the InterNations Expat Insider 2024 survey, here’s how the top 10 countries performed across key indices:

Country	Overall Ranking	Quality of Life	Ease of Settling In	Working Abroad	Personal Finance	Expat Essentials
Panama	1	11	6	3	8	4
Mexico	2	17	2	22	10	13
Indonesia	3	46	10	1	3	47
Spain	4	1	18	30	22	19
Colombia	5	42	8	15	2	36
Thailand	6	32	13	7	5	43
Brazil	7	38	7	12	15	29
Vietnam	8	45	25	2	1	45
Philippines	9	40	3	14	7	42
UAE	10	16	16	6	24	1

These trends reflect a fundamental shift in expat priorities: quality of life and financial sustainability now outweigh traditional markers of success like prestigious career opportunities or luxury amenities.

Now, let’s examine the top 10 countries and what makes each unique for expats considering relocation in 2025.

Top 10 Countries for Expats in 2024

1. Panama: Financial Freedom and Tropical Living

Panama held the #1 position in the 2024 rankings, combining exceptional financial satisfaction with streamlined visa processes and an enviable work-life balance.

Key Stats:

• Overall Ranking: #1
• Financial Satisfaction: 74% (vs. 54% global average)
• Affordable Housing: 62% positive ratings
• Average Workweek: 41 hours
• Social Integration: 73% feel “at home”

What Makes Panama Stand Out:

Panama’s strong performance across multiple indices creates a well-rounded expat experience. The country ranked 4th in Expat Essentials, with administrative processes that are remarkably straightforward by Latin American standards. According to the InterNations survey, visa processes and administrative procedures received significantly higher satisfaction ratings than neighboring countries.

Work-life balance represented another significant advantage, with Panama ranking 3rd globally in this category. The 41-hour average workweek—shorter than the United States or much of Asia—creates space for expats to enjoy the country’s natural beauty.

The financial picture is particularly compelling. While Panama uses the US dollar (eliminating currency exchange complications for Americans), the cost of living remains significantly lower than the United States or Western Europe. Housing ranks as especially affordable, with 62% of expats reporting satisfaction—a figure that stands out at a time when housing costs are creating pressure for expats globally.

Visa Options:

Panama offers several accessible visa pathways:

• Friendly Nations Visa: Available to citizens of 50+ specific countries, now requires US $200 k property purchase or 3-year $200 k certificate of deposit; applicant first receives a 2-year temporary card before converting to permanent residency.
• Pensionado (Retirement) Visa: For retirees with a lifetime pension of at least $1,000/month
• Qualified Investor Visa: Real estate investment option, investment floors raised Oct 2024: real-estate $500 k, securities $500 k, or bank deposit $750 k.
• Professional Employment Visa: For those with job offers from Panamanian companies

The Pensionado program deserves special mention, as it offers not just residency but benefits for retirees that enhance their purchasing power.

Areas for Improvement:

Panama’s weakest performance in the InterNations survey comes in infrastructure quality. While digital connectivity has improved in urban areas, rural regions still face reliability challenges. Additionally, public transportation outside Panama City remains limited, making car ownership essential for those living beyond the capital.

Perfect For:

Retirees, remote workers, entrepreneurs, and investors seeking financial efficiency with a tropical lifestyle. Panama particularly shines for those looking to optimize tax efficiency without sacrificing quality of life.

2. Mexico: Cultural Richness and Social Warmth

Mexico’s #2 ranking underscores its extraordinary social environment and cultural appeal, combined with affordable living and growing remote work infrastructure.

Key Stats:

• Overall Ranking: #2
• Ease of Settling In: #2
• Local Friendliness: Highly rated by expats
• Work-Life Balance: 43% fully satisfied
• Safety Concerns: 66% feel safe (vs. 80% globally)

What Makes Mexico Stand Out:

Mexico’s standout performance in the Ease of Settling In Index (2nd place) reflects the genuinely warm reception expats receive. According to the InterNations survey, an overwhelming percentage of respondents praise local friendliness, while many report feeling at home in their communities. This social integration happens more rapidly than in most destinations.

The country’s affordability continues to attract expats from higher-cost regions, with many expressing satisfaction with their cost of living. This economic advantage extends beyond basics, allowing expats to access services that might be luxuries elsewhere—from household help to regular dining out and cultural activities.

Mexico’s embrace of remote work has accelerated, with cities like Mexico City, Mérida, and Puerto Vallarta developing coworking ecosystems. The growing digital nomad community has prompted investment in better internet infrastructure, though reliability varies significantly by location.

Visa Options:

Mexico maintains several accessible visa pathways:

• Temporary Resident Visa: Valid for 1-4 years with minimum income requirements
• Permanent Resident Visa: Available after 4 years as a temporary resident, or immediately with higher income thresholds
• Work Permit: Available for those with job offers from Mexican companies

Areas for Improvement:

Safety remains Mexico’s most significant challenge, with only 66% of expats reporting feeling safe compared to 80% globally. This varies dramatically by region—some states are considered very safe, while others face ongoing security challenges.

The 2024 tax reforms created new considerations for some expats, as residents staying longer than six months must declare global income. According to the InterNations data, this prompted 28% of surveyed expats to seek professional tax advice.

Perfect For:

Digital nomads, creative professionals, early retirees, culture enthusiasts, and those prioritizing social connections and affordability over maximum safety and infrastructure quality.

3. Indonesia: Work-Life Harmony and Affordability

Indonesia’s surge to 3rd place highlights its remarkable combination of affordability, job satisfaction, and work-life balance—despite significant infrastructure challenges.

Key Stats:

• Overall Ranking: #3
• Overall Expat Satisfaction: 84%
• Digital Infrastructure Ranking: 46th
• Personal Finance Ranking: 3rd
• Average Workweek: 38.8 hours
• Job Satisfaction: 1st globally

What Makes Indonesia Stand Out:

Indonesia achieves something remarkable in the InterNations survey: delivering 84% overall expat satisfaction despite ranking near the bottom (46th) for digital infrastructure. This apparent contradiction reveals how affordability and lifestyle factors can compensate for technical limitations.

The financial picture is especially compelling, with Indonesia ranking 3rd in Personal Finance. According to the survey, 86% of expats report that their income is sufficient for comfortable living—far above the global average of 70%. This affordability extends across housing, transportation, food, and services, creating opportunities for lifestyle upgrades that would be financially impossible in many Western countries.

Work culture represents another Indonesian strength according to the InterNations data. The country’s average 38.8-hour workweek falls well below global averages, while job satisfaction ranks 1st globally. This creates a remarkably balanced environment for professional expats, combining career fulfillment with ample personal time.

Social integration happens organically in Indonesia, with the InterNations survey showing 91% of expats describing locals as friendly and welcoming. Cultural immersion is accessible even for newcomers.

Visa Options:

Indonesia has expanded its visa options in recent years:

• Second Home Visa: Multi-year visa for those with sufficient financial resources
• Digital-Nomad Path: no dedicated permit yet; most remote workers use the 180-day B211A visitor visa or the Second-Home Visa (2–5 yrs with Rp 2 bn deposit).
• Retirement Visa (KITAS): For retirees over 55 with proof of pension
• Work KITAS: For those employed by Indonesian companies

Areas for Improvement:

Indonesia faces significant challenges in two critical areas: healthcare (ranked 48th) and digital infrastructure (46th). Medical facilities outside major urban centers often fail to meet Western standards, prompting many expats to maintain international health insurance.

Internet reliability varies dramatically between locations, with major cities offering more stable connections while more remote areas face frequent disruptions. Air quality concerns (45th ranking) affect urban areas during certain seasons, creating health challenges for those with respiratory conditions.

Perfect For:

Digital nomads, entrepreneurs, creative professionals, early retirees, and those seeking dramatic lifestyle upgrades through cost arbitrage. Indonesia particularly shines for those who value cultural immersion and natural beauty over infrastructure reliability.

4. Spain: Mediterranean Lifestyle and Healthcare Excellence

Spain’s 4th-place ranking reflects its extraordinary quality of life, world-class healthcare system, and cultural richness—despite persistent economic challenges.

Key Stats:

• Overall Ranking: #4
• Quality of Life Ranking: #1
• Healthcare Ranking: 3rd globally

What Makes Spain Stand Out:

Spain achieves the #1 ranking in Quality of Life through a combination of positive factors: Mediterranean climate, outstanding healthcare, rich cultural heritage, excellent public transportation, and diverse leisure options.

The healthcare system deserves special attention, ranking 3rd globally in the InterNations survey while combining affordability with accessibility. Public healthcare becomes available to residents through the Spanish social security system, while private insurance remains affordable compared to many Western countries.

Cities like Valencia, Málaga, and Alicante have become expat havens, offering the Mediterranean lifestyle at accessible price points compared to Northern European or North American alternatives.

Visa Options:

Spain has expanded its visa offerings to attract different types of expats:

• Digital Nomad Visa: Introduced in recent years, offering benefits for remote workers
• Non-Lucrative Visa: For those with sufficient passive income
• Entrepreneur Visa: For those starting businesses in Spain

Areas for Improvement:

Spain’s primary challenges remain economic according to the InterNations data. The job market for foreigners can be challenging, with limited opportunities and lower salaries compared to Northern Europe. Bureaucracy represents another friction point, with administrative processes often requiring multiple steps despite recent digitalization efforts.

Language barriers can also present challenges outside major cities and tourist areas, with English proficiency varying dramatically by region and generation.

Perfect For:

Remote workers, digital nomads, retirees, families prioritizing quality of life, and anyone seeking excellent healthcare combined with Mediterranean living at reasonable costs.

5. Colombia: Rising Star in Affordability

Colombia’s jump to 5th place in the InterNations survey reflects its growing appeal as an affordable destination with strong social integration and improving conditions.

Key Stats:

• Overall Ranking: #5
• Personal Finance Ranking: #2
• Income Sufficiency: Highly rated by expats
• Housing Affordability: 69% satisfaction
• Ease of Settling In Ranking: #8

What Makes Colombia Stand Out:

Colombia’s extraordinary performance in Personal Finance (2nd place) drives its overall ranking. According to the InterNations survey, a very high percentage of expats report that their income is sufficient for comfortable living. Housing affordability receives 69% satisfaction, allowing expats to secure spacious accommodations in desirable neighborhoods at competitive prices.

Social integration represents another Colombian strength, with the country ranking 8th in Ease of Settling In. Colombian culture emphasizes hospitality and relationship building, creating natural pathways for expats to establish meaningful connections. Many expats report forming deeper local friendships more quickly than in traditionally “easier” expat destinations.

The growth of digital infrastructure in cities like Medellín and Bogotá has created ecosystems for remote workers, with coworking spaces, improving internet connectivity, and digital nomad communities flourishing. Medellín in particular has leveraged its year-round climate to attract location-independent professionals from around the world.

Visa Options:

Colombia offers several accessible visa pathways:

• Digital Nomad Visa: Recently introduced for remote workers
• Retirement Visa: For pensioners with monthly income
• Investment Visa: Investment-based residency option
• Entrepreneur Visa: For those starting businesses in Colombia

Areas for Improvement:

Safety remains a concern according to the InterNations data, though the situation varies dramatically by region and neighborhood. Urban areas require standard city precautions, while some rural regions still face security challenges. Expats typically adapt by learning from locals about which areas are safe and which require caution.

Infrastructure outside major cities can be limited, with transportation networks and reliable internet primarily concentrated in urban centers. While medical care in major cities often meets international standards, rural healthcare access can be challenging.

Perfect For:

Digital nomads, entrepreneurs, early retirees, Spanish language enthusiasts, and those seeking dramatic lifestyle improvements through cost arbitrage. Colombia particularly shines for socially adaptable expats who value cultural immersion and affordability over maximum convenience and infrastructure quality.

6. Thailand: Culinary and Recreational Appeal

Thailand’s 6th-place ranking highlights its exceptional combination of affordability, recreational options, and cultural depth—despite urban challenges and environmental considerations.

Key Stats:

• Overall Ranking: #6
• Leisure Options Ranking: #2
• Healthcare Affordability: Highly rated by expats
• Housing Satisfaction: 64%
• Local Friendliness: Highly rated by expats
• Average Workweek: 40 hours

What Makes Thailand Stand Out:

According to the InterNations survey, Thailand achieves the #2 ranking in Leisure Options through its combination of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, culinary excellence, and entertainment options. From pristine beaches to mountain treks, ancient temples to modern shopping centers, Thailand offers diversity that few destinations can match.

Affordability remains a core attraction, with 64% of expats expressing satisfaction with housing costs. Healthcare deserves special mention—while quality varies by facility, private hospitals in major cities often offer excellent standards at competitive prices compared to Western countries.

Work culture provides another advantage according to the survey data, with a 40-hour average workweek and growing acceptance of remote work arrangements. Major cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai have developed coworking ecosystems, while island destinations like Koh Samui and Phuket attract digital nomads seeking beach living with connectivity.

Visa Options:

Thailand has improved its visa offerings:

• Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa: A 10-year visa for qualified professionals, executives, investors, and digital professionals.
• SMART Visa: For technology specialists and investors in priority sectors.
• Thai Elite Visa: A premium program offering multi-year stays with concierge-level services.
• Retirement Visa: For those over 50 with qualifying financial resources.
• Destination Thailand Visa (DTV): launched Dec 2024; multi-entry sticker valid five years, max 180 days per entry, aimed at remote workers & “work-cation” visitors

Areas for Improvement:

Urban pollution remains Thailand’s most significant quality-of-life challenge according to the InterNations survey, with a high percentage of expats citing air quality concerns, particularly during the burning season (February-April). Bangkok’s traffic congestion creates daily frustrations for city dwellers, though the expanding mass transit system provides alternatives in central areas.

The language barrier can create challenges outside tourist and expat areas, though English proficiency is improving in major cities and tourist destinations.

Perfect For:

Digital nomads, entrepreneurs, retirees, and anyone seeking an optimal balance of affordability and amenities. Thailand particularly shines for those who value cultural experiences, culinary excellence, and lifestyle flexibility.

7. Brazil: Vibrant Culture and Economic Growth

Brazil’s climb to 7th place reflects its improving economic conditions and extraordinary social environment—despite persistent challenges in safety and bureaucracy.

Key Stats:

• Overall Ranking: #7
• Social Welcome: 74% feel warmly received
• Economic Stability: Improving according to survey data
• Housing Affordability: 44% satisfaction
• Average Workweek: 42 hours

What Makes Brazil Stand Out:

Brazil offers a combination of affordability, cultural vibrancy, and improving economic conditions according to the InterNations survey. Cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro provide urban environments with world-class dining, arts, and nightlife, while coastal regions offer beach living at accessible price points.

Social integration represents Brazil’s standout strength, with 74% of expats reporting feeling welcome upon arrival. Brazilian culture places high value on relationships and hospitality, creating natural pathways for newcomers to establish connections. Many expats report forming deeper friendships more quickly than in countries with more reserved social norms.

Economic improvements have enhanced Brazil’s appeal, with strengthening currency and growing business opportunities in sectors like technology, renewable energy, and tourism. For entrepreneurs and investors, Brazil offers a large internal market combined with strategic positioning for accessing other Latin American economies.

Visa Options:

Brazil offers several visa pathways for expats:

• Digital Nomad Visa: Recently introduced for remote workers
• Retirement Visa: For pensioners with sufficient monthly income
• Investment Visa: Investment-based residency option
• Family Reunification: For those with Brazilian family members

Areas for Improvement:

Safety remains Brazil’s most significant challenge according to the InterNations data, requiring situational awareness particularly in major cities. Security varies dramatically by neighborhood, with expats typically adapting by learning local patterns and precautions.

Bureaucracy presents another persistent friction point, with administrative processes often requiring significant time and documentation. The language barrier can exacerbate these challenges, as Portuguese proficiency becomes essential for navigating systems and solving problems.

Perfect For:

Entrepreneurs targeting Latin American markets, creative professionals, adventurous retirees, and those who value vibrant culture and social connections over administrative efficiency and predictability. Brazil particularly shines for extroverted, adaptable expats who embrace the country’s flexible approach to challenges.

8. Vietnam: Cost-Effective Living and Career Growth

Vietnam’s 8th-place ranking reflects its unmatched affordability combined with improving digital infrastructure and growing career opportunities.

Key Stats:

• Overall Ranking: #8
• Personal Finance Ranking: #1 (third consecutive year)
• Cost of Living Satisfaction: 86%
• Disposable Income: 68% report “more than enough”
• Average Workweek: 39 hours

What Makes Vietnam Stand Out:

Vietnam achieves the #1 ranking in Personal Finance for the third consecutive year according to the InterNations survey—an extraordinary achievement that reflects the country’s exceptional value proposition. The survey shows 86% of expats praise the low cost of living, while 68% report having more disposable income than they need for comfortable living. This financial advantage creates opportunities for lifestyle upgrades, accelerated savings, and investment potential rarely found in more developed economies.

Digital infrastructure has improved in recent years, with major cities now offering connectivity that supports remote work and digital entrepreneurship. Coworking spaces have proliferated in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang, creating ecosystems for location-independent professionals and startups.

Work-life balance represents another Vietnamese strength according to the survey data, with a 39-hour average workweek and growing acceptance of flexible arrangements. This creates space for expats to explore the country’s extraordinary cultural and natural diversity.

Visa Options:

Vietnam offers several visa pathways for expats:

• Work Permit and Temporary Residence Card: For those employed by Vietnamese companies
• Business Visa: For investors and entrepreneurs
• Digital Nomad Options: While not formally structured, Vietnam accommodates remote workers
• Retirement Options: Available through various arrangements
• 90-Day e-Visa: rolled out Aug 2023 for citizens of 200+ countries; multiple entries within validity.

Areas for Improvement:

Traffic congestion remains Vietnam’s most visible quality-of-life challenge according to the InterNations survey, particularly in major cities. The motorbike-dominated transportation culture requires adjustment for many Western expats, though ride-sharing apps have simplified mobility for newcomers.

Administrative processes can be complex, with requirements sometimes changing. Language barriers present significant challenges outside expat areas, as English proficiency remains limited beyond tourism and international business sectors.

Perfect For:

Digital nomads, entrepreneurs, English teachers, early-career professionals, and those seeking maximum lifestyle arbitrage through cost advantages. Vietnam particularly shines for adaptable, adventure-oriented expats who value financial efficiency and cultural immersion.

9. Philippines: Hospitality and Island Living

The Philippines’ 9th-place ranking highlights its exceptional social environment and affordability—despite infrastructure and healthcare challenges.

Key Stats:

• Overall Ranking: #9
• Ease of Settling In Ranking: #3
• Feeling Welcomed: 80% of expats
• Cost of Living: Highly rated in the survey
• Income Sufficiency: 67% report incomes exceeding needs

What Makes the Philippines Stand Out:

The Philippines achieves the #3 ranking in Ease of Settling In according to the InterNations survey—an extraordinary result that reflects the country’s genuine hospitality toward foreigners. The data shows 80% of expats report feeling welcomed, while English proficiency throughout the archipelago eliminates the language barriers common in many Asian destinations.

Affordability represents another significant advantage according to the survey, particularly for housing and services. Expats can secure coastal living at competitive prices compared to other destinations.

The geographical diversity of 7,000+ islands creates lifestyle options for every preference: urban energy in Manila, digital nomad communities in Cebu, island living in Palawan or Siargao, and mountain retreats in Baguio. Each environment offers distinctive advantages while maintaining the cultural warmth that characterizes the Philippines.

Visa Options:

The Philippines offers several visa pathways for expats:

• Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV): Available from a certain age with required deposit/investment
• SIRV (Special Investor’s Resident Visa): For those investing a minimum amount
• Work Visa: For those employed by Filipino companies
• Tourist Visa Extensions: Common strategy for short-term residents

Areas for Improvement:

Infrastructure limitations represent the Philippines’ most significant challenge according to the InterNations data. Power outages occur in some areas, while internet reliability varies significantly between urban centers and more remote locations. Transportation infrastructure remains underdeveloped compared to neighboring countries, creating mobility challenges outside major cities.

Healthcare access presents another concern, with quality facilities concentrated in urban centers. Natural disasters, including typhoons and volcanic activity, require preparation and awareness.

Perfect For:

Retirees, digital nomads, English teachers, entrepreneurs, and those seeking tropical living with genuine community integration. The Philippines particularly shines for socially-oriented expats who value relationships and natural beauty over infrastructure reliability and urban amenities.

10. UAE: Career Opportunities and Urban Luxury

The UAE rounds out the top 10, offering exceptional infrastructure, career opportunities, and safety—albeit with significant financial pressure for many expats.

Key Stats:

• Overall Ranking: #10
• Expat Essentials Ranking: #1
• Career Prospects Ranking: #6
• Financial Satisfaction: Mixed, with cost concerns
• Social Integration Ranking: #16

What Makes the UAE Stand Out:

The UAE achieves the #1 ranking in Expat Essentials according to the InterNations survey through efficiency in administrative processes, housing access, and digital services. Visa applications, banking, telecommunications, and government services operate with a streamlined efficiency noted by survey respondents.

Career opportunities represent another significant advantage, with the UAE ranking 6th in Career Prospects. Dubai and Abu Dhabi function as regional headquarters for multinational corporations, creating advancement potential particularly in sectors like finance, technology, logistics, and hospitality. Tax-free income structures enhance earnings potential, though high costs partially offset this advantage.

Safety and security provide peace of mind rarely found in other high-ranking destinations, with women and minorities reporting comfort levels that contrast sharply with some Latin American and Southeast Asian options. The multicultural environment—with many nationalities represented—creates an international atmosphere where newcomers quickly find community.

Visa Options:

The UAE has expanded its residence options:

• Golden Visa: Long-term residence for investors, entrepreneurs, and specialized talents
• Green Visa: For skilled professionals, freelancers, and investors
• Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers earning from abroad
• Retirement Visa: For retirees meeting financial criteria
• Investor Visa: Available for real estate investments
• Employment Visa: Issued to employees working for companies in the UAE.

Areas for Improvement:

Cost of living remains the UAE’s most significant challenge according to the InterNations data, with many expats reporting financial pressure due to housing, education, and healthcare costs. Rental increases have intensified pressure, particularly for families requiring multiple bedrooms and proximity to international schools.

Social integration presents another challenge for some expats, with the UAE ranking 16th in this category—lower than its overall ranking. The transient nature of expat communities can create difficulties in forming deep connections, while cultural and religious differences require sensitivity and adaptation.

Climate extremes limit outdoor activities during summer months, with high temperatures during the hottest season.

Perfect For:

Career-focused professionals, entrepreneurs targeting MENA markets, luxury lifestyle enthusiasts, and those seeking tax efficiency with world-class amenities.

Regional and Thematic Trends

The Dominance of Latin America and Southeast Asia

The 2024 rankings reveal a shift in global expat preferences, with eight of the top ten countries coming from just two regions: Latin America (Panama, Mexico, Colombia, Brazil) and Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines).

Why These Regions Are Leading:

According to the InterNations data, these regions excel in affordability, work-life balance, and social integration. While they may not offer the highest salaries or most advanced infrastructure, they provide an overall lifestyle value that increasingly appeals to mobile professionals and retirees.

These regions outperform in Personal Finance and Ease of Settling In categories, with cost-of-living satisfaction significantly above global averages. For remote workers, digital nomads, and retirees—who collectively make up a substantial percentage of survey respondents—these factors often outweigh traditional concerns like career advancement potential.

Europe’s Mixed Performance

Spain’s 4th-place ranking stands in contrast to the disappointing performance of other European destinations in the InterNations survey. Traditional favorites like Germany (50th) and Finland (51st) faced particular challenges with social integration and financial satisfaction.

These rankings highlight a fundamental tension in the European expat experience: exceptional quality of life and healthcare often come with high costs, difficult job markets, and challenging social integration. Spain and Portugal have emerged as the clear leaders by maintaining Mediterranean quality of life while offering more accessible cost structures and friendlier social environments.

Common Challenges Across High-Ranking Countries

Even the top-performing countries face consistent challenges that prospective expats should consider according to the InterNations data:

• Bureaucracy: Brazil, Mexico, and Indonesia ranked poorly in administrative efficiency
• Digital Infrastructure: Indonesia, Philippines, and Vietnam faced challenges with connectivity
• Healthcare Quality: Indonesia, Philippines, and Vietnam ranked lower in healthcare access
• Safety Concerns: Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico had safety ratings below global averages
• Language Barriers: Vietnam, Thailand, and Brazil presented linguistic challenges

How to Use These Rankings for Your Relocation Decision

While these rankings provide valuable guidance, the “best” country ultimately depends on your specific circumstances and priorities. Here’s a framework for making this data personally relevant:

Define Your Expat Profile

First, identify which expat category best describes your situation. According to the InterNations data, different countries excel for different expat types:

• Remote Workers/Digital Nomads might prioritize internet quality, cost of living, and visa flexibility
• Retirees typically focus on healthcare, affordability, climate, and safety
• Career Expats often prioritize job opportunities, salary levels, and professional growth
• Entrepreneurs/Business Owners may emphasize ease of doing business and startup costs
• Families with Children generally focus on education quality, safety, and family activities

Prioritize Your Factors

Rate these factors based on personal importance:

• Cost of living and financial considerations
• Climate and natural environment
• Healthcare quality and accessibility
• Social environment and ease of integration
• Career opportunities and business climate
• Safety and political stability
• Visa accessibility and residency paths
• Language and cultural accessibility

Test Before Committing

Before permanent relocation, consider:

• Reconnaissance trips in different seasons
• Short-term rentals to experience daily life
• Connecting with local expat groups online before arrival
• Consulting with relocation specialists familiar with your target countries

Final Thoughts: Looking Ahead to 2025

The 2024 rankings highlight a global shift toward cost-effective, socially vibrant destinations with hybrid work flexibility. For policymakers, improving digital infrastructure (Southeast Asia) and bureaucratic efficiency (Latin America) could enhance competitiveness. Expats prioritizing financial stability should consider Vietnam or Panama, while Spain and the UAE remain strong options for quality-of-life seekers according to the InterNations data.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How quickly can I relocate to one of these top countries?
A: Timeline varies significantly by destination. For Americans, Mexico and Panama offer relatively streamlined processes, while Asian destinations generally require more preparation time. The UAE processes some visa categories quickly, making it one of the faster options for qualified applicants.

Q: Which countries are most tax-efficient for remote workers?
A: The UAE (with its 0% income tax), Panama (with its territorial system), Thailand (which only taxes foreign income remitted in the same year), and Vietnam (with its tax treaties) offer advantageous tax situations for remote workers according to the InterNations data.

Q: Are these countries suitable for families with school-age children?
A: Spain, Panama, and the UAE received higher family-friendly ratings due to education options, healthcare, and family-friendly environments. International school availability and costs vary significantly between countries.

Q: How reliable is internet connectivity in these top countries?
A: According to the InterNations survey, the UAE, Panama, and Mexico offered better connectivity in urban areas. Thailand, Vietnam, and Brazil provide adequate connectivity in central areas but can be unreliable in remote locations. Indonesia and the Philippines faced more significant challenges with digital infrastructure.

At Zerra, we specialize in helping clients navigate these complex decisions, providing personalized consultation on the tax, immigration, and lifestyle factors that matter most to your unique situation. Rather than a one-size-fits-all recommendation, we believe in tailored strategies that align with your specific goals.

Whether you’re seeking tax optimization, better quality of life, or new business opportunities, exploring your global options in 2025 could lead to transformative life changes.