The Best Countries for Expats in 2026
Expats worldwide have rated these countries as the best for them.
Relocating abroad is about more than finding a new home—it is about building a fulfilling life. Each year, the Expat Insider survey by InterNations ranks destinations based on expats' experiences in areas such as quality of life, ease of settling in, personal finances, working abroad, and essential services.
In the 2026 edition, the top ten countries stand out for offering welcoming communities, strong infrastructure, and rewarding lifestyles for international residents.
Panama claims the number one spot for the third consecutive year, earning praise for its affordable cost of living, excellent work opportunities, and straightforward relocation process. Expats also appreciate the country's financial advantages and high overall life satisfaction.
Mexico follows closely in second place, thanks to its friendly local communities, vibrant culture, and ease of making new social connections. Thailand ranks third, attracting expatriates with its affordable lifestyle, warm hospitality, and rich cultural experiences.
The UAE secures fourth place with its modern infrastructure, tax-friendly environment, and abundant career opportunities, making it a favorite among professionals from around the world.
Brazil rounds out the top five, impressing expats with its welcoming atmosphere, lively culture, and strong sense of community. Spain remains one of Europe's most desirable destinations, offering an exceptional quality of life, pleasant climate, and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.
Singapore continues to rank highly thanks to its world-class healthcare, efficient public services, outstanding safety, and thriving international business environment. Portugal attracts expats with its beautiful coastline, mild climate, affordable living in many regions, and growing digital nomad community.
Malaysia combines modern infrastructure with a relatively low cost of living, making it especially attractive for retirees and remote workers. Luxembourg completes the top ten, offering high salaries, political stability, and excellent public services despite its relatively small size.
The 2026 Expat Insider rankings demonstrate that the best destinations for expatriates share common strengths: welcoming communities, reliable infrastructure, financial opportunities, and an excellent quality of life.
While each country offers its own unique advantages, they all provide environments where newcomers can settle comfortably and thrive.
Whether someone is seeking career growth, retirement, cultural exploration, or a better work-life balance, these ten countries represent some of the world's most attractive places to live abroad, according to the experiences of thousands of expatriates who participated in the InterNations survey.