According to a review of the world population, there are over 8 million people from the United States who currently live abroad. The increase in digital nomadic programs and the general flexibility to work from anywhere makes it easier to set up yourself abroad for longer than ever.
If you’re wondering where you’re going to move abroad, the experiences and insights of others who have made the leap may help you make your decision.
Therefore, the International Community, a foreign community with over 5.5 million members worldwide, has published the results of the 12th Annual Expat Insider Survey. Over 10,000 respondents representing 172 nationalities rated satisfaction rates across different aspects of foreign life in 46 countries based on five indices.
Ah, and a note about words foreigner: In the case of international surveys, foreigner It refers to people who live outside their home country. For some, their experience abroad is temporary and others intend to stay (it will make them immigrants). Find out how survey respondents love about adoption countries. That might make you want to move abroad.
10 Best Countries for Foreigners to Live Overseas
- Panama
- Columbia
- Mexico
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- China
- United Arab Emirates
- Indonesia
- Spain
- Malaysia
The best country in the world for foreigners is Panama
After ranking number one in 2024, Panama was once again voted for the best country to live and work abroad, according to Internationals’ annual Expat Insider Survey. 94% of Panama’s expatriates are happy to live there thanks to the country’s beautiful natural environment, affordable living costs and calmness.
According to the company, there are other benefits to living in Panama. International lifePublications dedicated to living abroad, which has placed Panama at the top of its own annual report on the best places to retire include Panama City, the modern infrastructure of the capital. Wide availability of high-speed internet. And the use of US dollars makes finances easier.
Another reason why Panama ranks high in international surveys Pension recipients Visa program. This allows retirees to easily relocate to the country. This visa requires the owner to earn a minimum of $1,000, and there is little stack of documents required.
In fact, Internationals’ Expat Insider Survey found that 78% of Panama’s Expat are satisfied with their financial situation. This came third in financial satisfaction, behind Colombia and Vietnam, compared to the global average of 54%.
With its ease of finding affordable housing, Panama has become an attractive place for relocation, with 71% of foreigners reporting positive experiences (compared to 34% worldwide).
One of the reasons why Panama is such a great base for foreigners overseas is that it offers ample opportunities to travel, eat great food and enjoy the comfortable climate. In fact, what’s very wonderful is that 35% of foreigners say they plan to stay forever (compared to the 24% who say that worldwide).
The best country for foreigners in North and South America
Mexico
In his second year running, Mexico finished second. It has been ranked in the top five since the start of the survey in 2014.
Foreigners love Mexico, and 89% report that they are happy with their lives abroad. The North American country ranked number one for “satisfied” and foreigners were ranked number one, citing the ease with which it was adapted to local culture and the familiarity of local people extends to making new friends. The majority of foreigners (79%) feel they are working from home in Mexico, with 67% satisfied with their jobs, while 31% of foreigners in Mexico have already retired.
Columbia
After ranking fifth in 2025, Colombia is more popular than ever, especially because of its economic benefits. An Expat survey found that 81% of Colombian foreigners report being satisfied with their financial situation (54% worldwide). An impressive 92% say their disposable household income is sufficient to lead a comfortable life (69% worldwide). Colombia is also ranked highly for its warm and welcoming culture and local friendliness, not to mention it has a lot of fun and a good health care system.
Related: This South American destination is known as the “Eternal Spring City”, but music is its soul
The best country for foreigners in Europe
Spain is the only country in Europe, with the top 10 (Cyprus is next No. 14), and after finishing fourth in 2024, it came in ninth place.
That’s not surprising. The 2025 annual report of the Real Estate, Tourism and Economic Development Consulting Group visited or lived in both Madrid and Barcelona among the top 10 cities in Europe. soccerThe country has an affordable, accessible, high quality health care system. Plus, thanks to the excellent public transport infrastructure (including bikes), it’s easy to get around.
The other European countries ranked among the 20 best foreign countries are Cyprus (14), Portugal (17), and Luxembourg (18).
The best country for foreigners in Asia and the Middle East
Asian candidates have wiped out half of their list of best countries overseas. China (No. 6) rose from No. 19 this year, and has increased significantly this year.
Thai foreigners (No. 4) is the second most optimal expatriate population in the world since Panama. They quote how easy it is to find a home, enjoy a wealth of leisure options and earn a comfortable living expenses. Vietnam is now over 5 years old, but was ranked first for its affordability and ease of finding a home. China (No. 6) moved towards the top thanks to relatively affordable living expenses (94% of survey respondents say disposable income is sufficient) and proper access to leisure options. Indonesia (No. 8) ranks highly for friendly locals, ease of calm and affordable prices. Malaysia (No. 10) ranks third in the Expat Essentials Index because of its easy to find a home and widespread English speaking. All five Asian countries are loved by foreigners for their myriad culinary options, from the best street noodles of your life to fine dining restaurants (think Michelin star Peking duck).
Regarding the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates ranked 7th for its impressive ratings on quality of life (despite the high cost of living), great leisure options, ease of calm, essentials for dropping out, quality, accessible health care.
Check the full list to see how all 46 countries in the international search have progressed.
This story was originally published in July 2023 and updated on September 2, 2025, and contains current information.
