20 Best Countries for American Expats
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It has never been easier for Americans to take the plunge on moving abroad as remote work frees people to relocate to new cities and countries. While there are many nations to consider for your new home, we’ve narrowed down this list of the best countries for expats by prioritizing a range of factors including safety, friendliness, quality of life, and access to culture and outdoor activities.
Other major aspects to consider in your search include work-life balance and the cost of living. For this article, we also factored in the latest survey by InterNations, which was answered by nearly 12,500 expats representing 175 nationalities in 174 countries or territories, and ranks the world’s best cities for expats.
Work-life Balance
In such a connected world, you may find yourself putting in longer hours to stay in touch with colleagues and clients in different time zones. This can lead to isolation and exhaustion. You’ll want to pick a country that offers a healthy and productive work-life balance. Look into co-working spaces, community events, clubs, gyms, and access to serotonin-inducing activities — like running groups, cooking classes, and language courses — all of which can help you keep the balance and mingle with locals and fellow expats.
Cost of Living
A major factor, if not the most important one, when considering a move abroad is the cost of living. This umbrella term covers the price of housing, of course, but also healthcare, taxes, and tax incentives as well as transportation and things like internet, groceries, dining out, and even your daily cappuccino. If budget is a concern, look beyond the biggest and most expensive city of the country you’re interested in and consider smaller cities and up-and-coming tech hubs where you can find lower prices and, potentially, a better quality of life.
To help you get started, here are 20 of the best countries for expats and some practical steps to make your dreams a reality.
Portugal
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The trendsetting country on the Atlantic continues to attract young expats, particularly entrepreneurs, given its relatively low cost of living and welcoming business incentives that help stretch your hard-earned dollars. Lisbon is usually the first choice city, but also consider Porto, which is buzzing with creative energy as a manufacturing and textile hub. On a day off, take advantage of the city’s hilly, cobbled streets with cool cafes, historic churches, and port distilleries. You can also ride your bike to a string of beaches, or take a boat ride through the Douro Valley, the oldest wine region in Europe.
Less than an hour from Porto is Portugal’s third city, Braga, nicknamed the “Rome of Portugal” because of its Baroque architecture. Braga also offers attractive green spaces, international schools, and tech job opportunities for qualified candidates. Further south is the Algarve coast, which boasts about 330 sunny days per year. You may even want to check out the Azores archipelago out in the Atlantic. No matter where you choose to move in Portugal, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a kinder nation to call home.
How to move to Portugal: Portugal offers different types of digital nomad visas, also known as temporary stay visas, which will allow you to live in the country for up to one year with an option to extend up to five years.
Costa Rica
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Relocating to well-trodden Costa Rica isn’t a novel idea for anyone who has visited the country and met a few friendly expats along the way. Situated between the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, this utopic Central American nation wins people over with its volcanoes, cloud forests, and wildlife like sloths, capuchin monkeys, and toucans. More than that, it’s the pura vida (pure life) philosophy for good living that sums up the atmosphere of this peaceful country.
Sweetening the deal, Costa Rica offers a straightforward residence program, affordable dental and healthcare, a stable democracy, and easy flights to the U.S. from two international airports in San Jose and Liberia. While the capital of San Jose has notable food and arts scenes, expats can head to either coast for long stretches of undeveloped beaches, seaside villages, surfing and yoga classes, neighborly expat communities, and business ventures often tied to ecotourism. If you prioritize a healthy, laid-back lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty, then this might be the place for you.
How to move to Costa Rica: With the country’s new digital nomad visa, remote workers can stay in Costa Rica for up to a year with an option to extend for another year.
South Korea
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The country of K-pop, K-barbecue, K-beauty, and 24-hour jjimjilbangs (Korean bathhouses) draws expats wanting to take part in this epicenter of popular culture. The sleek city of Seoul, which has one of the largest economies in Asia, will provide you with killer restaurants, shopping, entertainment, night markets, and a high-tech scene with international workers who partake in the work-hard, play-hard mentality. Professionals based here will find tight-knit social groups and regular networking events for those looking to hobnob over soju cocktails.
But don’t overlook Busan, South Korea’s edgy second city with beaches, fresh fish, and an international film festival. There are also rugged mountains and thousands of islands offering plenty of outdoor adventures like winter skiing and treks to seventh-century temples.
How to move to South Korea: South Korea has officially launched its Digital Nomad Visa, but there are requirements — applicants must be formally employed by an overseas company and have a minimum income. Freelancers must go the old route of obtaining a study or work visa.
Canada
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Not only is it easy to get to, but Canada also remains a top contender for American expats for several reasons, such as affordable education, cultural diversity, stability, and opportunities for adventures in the unspoiled natural wilderness. If you’re seeking a big-city environment, consider Toronto, where you’ll find the majority of Canada’s work opportunities in addition to sophisticated dining and shopping. Vancouver, to the west, is surrounded by sea and mountains, and living here allows you to plan weekend trips to Whistler for skiing or Tofino for surfing or storm watching.
Meanwhile, the more affordable city of Calgary offers cool eateries, hip neighborhoods, and proximity to the best trails in the Canadian Rockies — Banff National Park is only an hour away. Cyclists should also take note that Calgary is home to the largest urban pathway in North America. Then there are the French-speaking cities of Montreal and Quebec City in the east for those who want a hint of European living without the long flights.
How to move to Canada: Depending on your circumstances, there are several ways to start the residence process. There are also visas for entrepreneurs who can pitch their business ideas and get a work permit while they wait for their applications to be reviewed.
Austria
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This highly livable Central European country can have you hiking in the Alps one day and enjoying a performance in a famous opera house the next. Austria’s capital, Vienna, has been recognized for its quality of life and low crime rates, as well as an exciting food and wine scene focused on organic, local ingredients. It’s also a good choice for those looking for affordability, healthcare, and superb international schools.
Further south is the youthful city of Graz, which offers Renaissance and Baroque architecture as well as abundant parks and upbeat nightlife. Beyond all of the aforementioned pleasures of living in Austria, along with work opportunities in various high-level sectors, you’ll also have many new and exciting neighbors since Austria’s borders touch Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Slovenia.
How to move to Austria: You will need to obtain a student or work visa to relocate to Austria, as there are few options for self-employed workers, digital nomads, or retirees.
Ghana
This West African nation’s diverse expat community continues to grow each year thanks to the friendly locals and the laid-back culture. To commemorate the 400 years since the first enslaved Africans were brought to America, Ghana launched a multiyear program now known as “Beyond the Return.” Its goal is to welcome American expats seeking booming business opportunities, low crime rates, and stable democracy. The program includes a path to citizenship through the Right of Abode law for African descendants planning to leave the U.S. and a program that entices residents to keep their talents in the country for at least 10 years.
The vibrant capital of Accra offers a great quality of life for skilled workers, while job hunters and digital nomads will have their pick of social support groups, networking events, and associations to join. On weekends, venture to the country’s beautiful beaches, national parks, and waterfalls, as well as one of the many UNESCO-listed forts and castles on the Atlantic coast. An additional plus: Ghana uses English as its official language.
How to move to Ghana: Ghana does not offer a digital nomad visa, so if you are interested in relocating to Ghana, you will first need to apply for a work permit. Or, if you are of African descent, you can apply for the Right of Abode.
Singapore
The affluent city-state of Singapore often ranks among the best countries for expats to live and work, offering job security, high-quality schools, and one of the world’s most efficient public transport systems that can get you all over the city in a jiffy. There’s an incredible food scene, thanks to its melting pot of cultures, from night markets to hawker centers and Michelin-starred restaurants, as well as stellar shopping malls, sustainable skyscrapers, and remarkable public gardens.
When you’re ready to travel (Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali are a hop, skip, and jump away), you’ll fly through Changi Airport and see the “Rain Vortex,” the world’s tallest indoor waterfall and five-story garden featuring thousands of tropical plants, trees, and shrubs. With this abundance of lush greenery incorporated into new buildings and terminals, Singapore’s “City in a Garden” moniker comes to life.
How to move to Singapore: Singapore doesn’t offer a digital nomad visa, but you can apply for an Employment Pass if you have work lined up or an EntrePass if you are an entrepreneur interested in starting a business in Singapore.
Sweden
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Scandi-fans in search of constant fresh air and a sense of space might want to consider moving to Sweden. The design-forward capital of Stockholm offers walkable access to the enchanting historic center, world-class museums, and impeccably stylish cafes. Those on a budget can check out Sweden’s more affordable second city of Gothenburg, which has been called the world’s most sustainable destination by the Global Destination Sustainability Index for several consecutive years. Here, you can browse ethical fashion shops and dine at zero-waste restaurants.
Summer months offer lively Midsummer festivals, swimming, and kayaking, while winters above the Arctic Circle feature the northern lights, Sami culture in Swedish Lapland, and dog sledding. Not to mention, you’ll be close enough to plan weekend trips to countries like Denmark, Norway, and Finland. Overall, there’s a natural ease to the work-life balance in Sweden; for starters, most employees begin with around five weeks of paid vacation and new parents will benefit from months-long paid maternity and paternity leaves.
How to move to Sweden: Without any visas available for digital nomads, you will have to obtain a residence permit to relocate to Sweden through work, self-employment, or a student visa.
New Zealand
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Americans looking to fine-tune their mental well-being and work-life balance will be drawn to New Zealand’s safety, friendliness, and high quality of life. The adventure capital of the world’s huge variety of activities should be enough of a draw, but those seeking fine culinary experiences will find plenty to please with fresh seafood and wine tastings.
Auckland is the modern hub of commerce and culture, but future residents might also want to consider the capital of Wellington (with its charming Victorian timber architecture) or Queenstown — known for adrenaline sports — as their home. With ferry service between the North Island and South Island, plus plenty of affordable domestic flights, residents are free to explore the impressive array of mountains, glaciers, hot springs, lakes, beaches, and ski slopes.
How to move to New Zealand: New Zealand offers a Working Holiday Visa, which allows Americans between the ages of 18 and 30 (or 35 for select other nationalities) to stay in New Zealand for up to one year. If you are past the age requirements, you can look into other kinds of work and study visas that may be available to you.
Spain
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Spain is always a convincing choice for those who wish to live a sophisticated working life or retire among passionate and tolerant locals. For starters, it has some of the lowest living costs in Western Europe, so you can find affordable housing and quality Rioja bottles that cost only a few euros. Spain also has great public healthcare (and healthcare reimbursements) and international schools.
You can gravitate toward one of the big cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, or Seville. Just don’t discount Valencia or the Balearics in the Mediterranean — home of islands like Mallorca and Ibiza — or the tropical Canary Islands in the Atlantic. Then there’s Andalusia’s stunning citrus coast with Moorish history and beautiful beaches, plus English-speaking expat communities in hot spots like Marbella. LGBTQ+ expats will also find one of the world’s safest and most open-minded countries.
How to move to Spain: Spain now offers a digital nomad visa that allows travelers to reside for up to one year with the option to extend by applying for a residence permit. In 2024, the Spanish government voted to cancel its non-lucrative, or “Golden Visa,” program that granted residency to those who make large investments in areas like real estate. The deadline to apply before the program ends is April 2025.
Netherlands
Imagine riding your bike through a colorful tulip field, a hot stroopwafel in hand, and maybe a distant windmill casting a silhouette on the horizon. That may be the Dutch dream, but the country has many more practical advantages for expats than sweet caramel cookies and its reputation for being one the most bike-friendly places on the planet. In the Netherlands, you’ll find a large international community, with many English speakers and international schools, as well as an open-minded and liberal culture and a large job market.
It may not be the most affordable city in Europe, but Amsterdam ranked fifth on the InterNations 2024 Working Abroad Index, with a high score in work culture and satisfaction. Plus, the Netherlands has way more to offer beyond Amsterdam, with very livable cities like Rotterdam, home to some fantastic museums and architecture, and Eindhoven, which is a huge hub for the technology sector. And for such a small country, there’s plenty to explore, like the beautiful canals of Delft and Utrecht and many historic windmills.
How to move to the Netherlands: The Netherlands does not offer a digital nomad visa, but you can apply for a long-stay visa if you’re moving for work or study, or if you’re an entrepreneur or investor. If you’re self-employed, you can apply as an independent worker as long as you meet the general requirements.
United Arab Emirates
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In the Middle East, Dubai has been dazzling travelers with opulent hotels, some of the world’s best dining options, and the Burj Khalifa — the tallest building on the planet. Many expats have not only been drawn to this modern city of three million but also to the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi. Both cities took the top two spots on the InterNations 2024 Expat Essentials Index, which compares cities by the ease of settling in, factoring in the less dreamy parts of moving abroad like opening a bank account and general bureaucratic housekeeping. Of course, many expats also enjoy the zero percent income tax.
Lamentably, the UAE is a very conservative country where homosexuality is illegal, as is alcohol consumed outside of designated tourist areas. However, certain venues have been granted licenses to serve alcohol to tourists and residents. Despite these restrictions and intolerance, many expats find the UAE to be a desirable place to live. According to InterNations, many people living in the UAE reported a high level of personal safety, a welcoming environment, and a satisfying social life.
How to move to the UAE: One of the biggest draws for expats is how easy it is to get a remote working visa. Each emirate is governed separately, so the requirements may differ depending on whether you decide to apply in Abu Dhabi or Dubai.
Cyprus
In the eastern Mediterranean, the climate and scenery of Cyprus are ideal for beach-loving expats who will enjoy their time off swimming in some of the cleanest waters in Europe and checking out the underwater museum. Cyprus boasts a large expat community, English is spoken throughout, the cost of living is low, and there are many options for parents who wish to enroll their kids in an international school.
Travelers should be aware of the political situation as the island has been divided into two parts since 1974: Northern Cyprus controlled by Turkey, and the Republic of Cyprus, which is part of the EU. Tourists should have no problem crossing the border, which passes through the capital of Nicosia, but the procedure is strict.
How to move to Cyprus: The Republic of Cyprus has introduced a digital nomad visa, which allows remote workers to live in Cyprus for up to two years. Investment visas are also available, which allow longer residencies. To apply, you will need to make an appointment through the Cypriot embassy or consulate.
Mexico
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For Americans living abroad, Mexico has numerous benefits beyond its delicious street food and abundance of beautiful beaches. Generally, the cost of living in Mexico is much lower and expats also benefit from huge international communities that can be found beyond Mexico City, from resort areas like the Riviera Maya to the wild coast of Oaxaca.
Mexico satisfies travelers at every turn, enticing more and more people to go beyond the resorts and beaches and check out historically fascinating and culturally rich cities like Guadalajara and San Miguel de Allende. According to real estate experts, some of the best places to move to in Mexico include the under-the-radar cities of Puebla and Mérida, as well as the classics you might have already heard of like Monterrey and Los Cabos.
How to move to Mexico: Mexico does not offer a digital nomad visa. However, expats looking to make a long-term move can spend up to four years in Mexico with a Temporary Resident Visa. For official retirees, there is also the option to apply for a Permanent Resident Visa.
Indonesia
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There is no denying that Bali is a hot spot for travel in Indonesia, but it’s not the only island with fantastic beaches in this massive multicultural archipelago in Southeast Asia. Across the country’s many islands (over 17,000 if you count uninhabited ones), you’ll also find exciting jungles and impressive volcanoes. There are large expat communities on islands like Lombok and Sumba and around the capital of Jakarta in neighborhoods like Kemang. Not to mention, you’ll be in a prime position to explore some of the country’s quieter and more remote regions — and incredible snorkeling destinations — like the Banda Islands or the Gili Islands off the coast of Lombok. Indonesia also ranked highly in terms of ease of settling in the latest InterNations survey; expats reported high job satisfaction and affordable housing options.
Expats in Indonesia enjoy a low cost of living in a welcoming culture and endless vacation options from beach trips and surfing excursions to visits to natural areas like Komodo National Park in Java and Sipiso-piso Waterfall in Sumatra. While the heat, distance, and traffic are drawbacks for some expats, there’s no denying that Indonesia is an attractive destination where you can devote yourself to hobbies like diving and surfing while never running out of places to explore.
How to move to Indonesia: To stay in Indonesia long-term, you will need to apply for a Temporary Stay permit and obtain a residence card, also known as KITAS.
Taiwan
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While it might not be top of mind when you think of dream destinations, Taiwan has won over many expats with its high quality of life. The country is financially stable, welcoming, and safe, but one of the biggest benefits for expats is the affordability and high quality of the healthcare system that all residents are required to sign up for.
English is widely spoken in Taiwan, but learning some Mandarin is generally recommended to help you get around. Taiwan is a fairly urbanized island, famous for its Taipei skyscrapers, but it’s not without its natural beauty too. Nine miles from the city center, Yangmingshan National Park was named by Quiet Parks International as the World’s First Quiet Park, and it’s easily accessible by bus from the capital. The island is home to many other natural wonders like the Taroko Gorge, the world’s deepest marble canyon, and stunning Sun Moon Lake surrounded by mountains on all sides — not to mention the hundreds of natural hot springs you’ll find all over the island.
How to move to Taiwan: You’ll need a work permit to relocate to Taiwan, which can be obtained through a Taiwanese employer. Taiwan does offer a working holiday visa for citizens of certain countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada, but unfortunately, the United States is not included.
Ireland
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Beyond the iconic sights you can visit on a one-week vacation (like the famous Cliffs of Moher), Ireland has plenty of nooks and crannies to explore, from historic countryside castles to charming small towns. Despite the notoriously rainy weather, expats in Ireland are highly satisfied with the quality of life found here. This is especially true for families who reap social benefits like nine weeks of paid maternity and paternity leave.
According to InterNations, Dublin offers some of the best career opportunities in the world, thanks to the many businesses that are headquartered there. However, Cork in the southwestern part of the country is also a popular option, being a large city that often feels like a small town. Ireland is part of the European Union, so residency there will make it easier to travel across the continent.
How to move to Ireland: Ireland does not offer a digital nomad visa, so you will need to obtain a residence permit through a work, working holiday, or study visa. Alternatively, if you are financially independent, you may have the option to retire in Ireland.
Thailand
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Known affectionately as the Land of Smiles, Thailand has a long reputation for hospitality and welcoming expats. With the two main nomad and expat hubs in Chiang Mai and Bangkok, it’s easy to settle in quickly and make connections with fellow foreigners and locals. Expats will find great food and endless beach resorts to explore, plus great returns on the cost of living, especially in Bangkok. The city came fifth in the latest InterNations Personal Finance Index with 82 percent of respondents saying that their income can support a comfortable lifestyle.
While housing is affordable and the people are friendly, Thailand doesn’t rank as highly as other countries for job satisfaction and quality of life. However, one of the biggest perks of living in Thailand may be the location. Not only is there plenty to see domestically — like some of the world’s top beaches — but you’re just a border crossing or short flight away from other exciting countries like Vietnam, Singapore, Cambodia, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
How to move to Thailand: Aspiring Thailand-bound expats can apply for the Long Term Resident Visa, which permits them to spend up to 10 years living in Thailand. In 2024, it became possible to apply for the new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), which will allow you to stay in Thailand for up to five years.
France
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When it comes to living la vie en rose, you can’t do better than France. Whether you’re dreaming of a pied-à-terre in Paris or a château in a lavender-covered countryside, France offers American expats and retirees a grand variety of lifestyles and landscapes. The country scores fairly well on InterNations’ indexes for Quality of Life, and although the language barrier can be an issue, there are many English-speaking expat communities beyond Paris in big cities like Lyon and Strasbourg.
France can be a very expensive place to live. However, there are numerous social benefits for residents, such as universal healthcare, economic stability, and easy access to travel across the European Union.
How to move to France: France does not offer a visa for digital nomads, but you can apply for a long-stay visa for work or study reasons. France also offers a Working Holiday Visa to citizens from select countries, but U.S. citizens are not eligible.
Vietnam
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In a country as culturally rich and historically layered as this one, expats have found a lot to love in Vietnam. With both beaches and mountains, plus a climate that can be surprisingly cool in some areas, it offers plenty to explore. Vietnam has many large cities to choose from, where you’ll find a low cost of living and lots of other expats. In Hanoi, remnants of French colonialism influence the city’s architecture and cuisine, while in Ho Chi Minh City, many neighborhoods distinctly appeal to expats since they’re more westernized.
According to InterNations data, 86 percent of expats in Vietnam are happy with the cost of living, and the country ranked first in the Personal Finance index. More than half of surveyed expats reported that it’s easy to make friends with both fellow expats and locals. Although challenges include healthcare and job satisfaction, the economy has been on an upswing and there are many international school options for families.
How to move to Vietnam: Vietnam has not introduced a digital nomad visa, so if you want to stay beyond the 30 days of the standard tourist visa, you will need a work permit.
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