16/02/2026
The best countries for expats in 2025
From Panama's jungles to Vietnam's buzzing cities, these five countries offer expats the best mix of affordability, friendliness and quality of life.
More people than ever are living outside of their country of origin: according to the World Migration Report, 3.6% of the global population are considered international migrants. Moving abroad brings both challenges and rewards, but one recent survey suggests a single factor is shaping expat happiness more than ever right now: money.
Internations, a global community for people living and working overseas, surveyed more than 10,000 expats across 172 nationalities. This year, the countries that scored highest for overall happiness also ranked near the top in the survey's Personal Finance index, alongside strong results for quality of life and ease of settling in.
We spoke to expats in each of the top five destinations to understand the best parts about living there – and their advice for others considering an international move.
1. Panama
Ranking 1st out of 46 countries overall, Panama placed in the top three across all five of the survey's major indexes – including first in Working Abroad, second in Ease of Settling in and Expat Essentials (like digital life and housing), and third in Quality of Life and Personal Finance. Popular with freelancers, digital nomads and retirees, Panama attracts people who appreciate its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
