In 2025, the global landscape for expatriates seeking new homes and career opportunities continues to evolve, driven by factors like affordability, quality of life, and ease of settling in. The InterNations Expat Insider survey, polling over 12,500 expats across 175 nationalities, ranks the top 10 countries for expats in 2025, with Panama leading due to its financial stability and welcoming environment. These destinations, spanning Latin America, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, offer unique advantages for expats. This article explores why these countries are the best for living and working abroad in 2025.
Status
1. Panama
Panama claims the top spot in 2025, rising from third in 2023, with 82% of expats reporting happiness with their lives. Panama City’s modern infrastructure, high-speed internet, and use of the U.S. dollar simplify financial transitions. In 2025, the pensionado visa attracts retirees, while a low cost of living ($2,500/month for couples) and affordable housing (62% satisfaction) draw expats. The country ranks first for financial satisfaction, with 74% of expats content, and offers a pleasant climate and easy visa processes, making Panama a top choice in 2025.
2. Mexico
Mexico secures second place in 2025, a consistent favorite with 89% of expats happy with their lives. Cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara offer a low cost of living ($300–$700/month for apartments) and vibrant culture. In 2025, Mexico’s friendliness (86% rate locals as welcoming) and ease of settling in make it ideal. The job market ranks eighth globally, with 43% of expats satisfied with work-life balance. Despite safety concerns (66% feel safe vs. 80% globally), Mexico’s cultural richness and affordability shine in 2025.
3. Indonesia
Indonesia leaps to third in 2025 from 13th in 2023, with 84% of expats satisfied with life in cities like Bali and Jakarta. The country excels in affordability, with 64% praising housing costs and 86% finding their income sufficient. In 2025, Indonesia’s short workweeks (38.8 hours vs. 42.5 globally) and top ranking for job satisfaction attract professionals. Despite challenges in digital infrastructure (46th globally), the friendly locals and low living costs make Indonesia a rising star for expats in 2025.
4. Spain
Spain, fourth in 2025, is Europe’s top destination, with 84% of expats happy in cities like Málaga and Madrid. Ranking first for quality of life, Spain offers affordable rents ($600–$1,200/month) and 300+ sunny days annually. In 2025, the Digital Nomad Visa and Golden Visa attract remote workers and investors. Spain’s vibrant culture, from flamenco to tapas, and universal healthcare ensure a high standard of living, making it a favorite for expats seeking leisure and affordability in 2025.
5. Colombia
Colombia climbs to fifth in 2025 from 17th in 2023, with cities like Bogotá and Medellín drawing expats for their low cost of living ($270–$670/month for apartments). Ranking second in personal finance, 62% of expats are satisfied financially. In 2025, Colombia’s warm locals and ease of settling in (77% feel at home) enhance its appeal. Affordable healthcare and a vibrant cultural scene, from salsa to street art, make Colombia a dynamic expat destination in 2025.
6. Thailand
Thailand ranks sixth in 2025, celebrated for its friendly locals and affordability. Bangkok and Chiang Mai offer rents as low as $300/month and a welcoming atmosphere (74% feel at home). In 2025, Thailand’s upcoming Digital Nomad Visa and Elite Visa cater to remote workers and long-term residents. The country ranks first for housing affordability, with 60% of expats praising costs. Thailand’s rich cuisine and tropical climate make it a top expat haven in 2025.
7. Brazil
Brazil jumps to seventh in 2025 from 15th in 2023, with 79% of expats satisfied with their financial situation in cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Affordable rents ($400–$600/month) and a warm welcome (85% feel at home) drive its appeal. In 2025, Brazil’s vibrant culture, from Carnival to samba, and low living costs attract expats, though safety concerns persist. The country’s focus on personal finance and ease of settling in makes it a compelling choice in 2025.
8. Vietnam
Vietnam, eighth in 2025, tops the personal finance index, with 86% of expats praising its low cost of living ($170–$400/month for apartments). Cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi offer affordable healthcare and high job satisfaction. In 2025, Vietnam’s relaxed work environment (46% work full-time) and cultural richness, from phở to lantern festivals, draw expats. Despite average job security, Vietnam’s affordability and friendly locals make it a top destination in 2025.
9. Philippines
The Philippines ranks ninth in 2025, with 68% of expats happy with their social life in cities like Manila and Cebu. Affordable living ($200–$800/month for apartments) and English as a widely spoken language ease transitions. In 2025, the Philippines excels in job satisfaction and friendliness, with 41% of expats forming close local friendships. The country’s tropical beaches and vibrant festivals make it an underrated expat hub in 2025.
10. United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates rounds out the list in 2025, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi offering high quality of life and no income tax. The UAE ranks high for expat essentials, with 80% noting minimal language barriers. In 2025, the Golden Visa program attracts investors, while efficient public transport and healthcare enhance livability. Despite higher living costs, the UAE’s safety (90% feel secure) and career prospects make it a top choice for expats in 2025.
Conclusion
In 2025, Panama, Mexico, Indonesia, Spain, Colombia, Thailand, Brazil, Vietnam, Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates lead as the best countries for expats, as per the InterNations Expat Insider 2025 survey. These nations, with high satisfaction rates (68%–89%), offer affordable living ($170–$2,500/month), welcoming cultures, and strong work-life balance. From Panama’s financial stability to the UAE’s career opportunities, these destinations provide diverse, enriching experiences for expats seeking to live and work abroad in 2025.
