TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Choosing among the best countries for living and working abroad is about far more just than securing a job or landing a low cost of living. A comfortable environment, friendly locals, a good quality of life, and pleasant weather play an equally critical role when settling in a foreign country.
Data from the InterNations Expat Insider 2026 survey and global destination reports highlight the best countries for expats that combine career opportunities, affordable living, and high life satisfaction.
Best Countries for Expats
1. Panama
Panama secured the top spot in the Expat Insider 2026 survey for the third consecutive year. The Central American nation scored exceptionally high in the Working Abroad and Personal Finance categories, with 87 percent of surveyed expats expressing overall satisfaction with their lives there. Relatively affordable living costs, accessible housing options, and a laid-back lifestyle are among the draws for international residents.
2. Mexico
Ranking second overall, Mexico earned the highest score worldwide in the Ease of Settling In category. Many expats find it easy to make local friendships and build a social life. The country's affordable living costs is another attraction, though safety ratings remain below the global average.
3. Thailand
Thailand claimed the third place in the global ranking, backed by an 86 percent expat satisfaction rate. The country also earned top scores for its low cost of living. Its friendly people, rich local culture, and accessible lifestyle continue to make expats feel at home.
4. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE placed fourth overall, driven by strong scores in Career Prospects and Expat Essentials, which evaluates administrative ease, language accessibility, and visa processing. Dubai stands out for its modern, comfortable lifestyle that expats navigate with ease. Outside Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah also offers a more relaxed pace of life.
5. Brazil
Brazil entered the top five for the first time in 2026. The country scored high for happiness, ease of settling in, local friendliness, and cultural openness. For many expats, the warmth of local residents is the main reason they feel so welcomed.
6. Portugal
Portugal appeals to expats through its high quality of life, accessible healthcare, reliable infrastructure, and relatively mild climate. Southern and coastal areas experience moderate temperature shifts, featuring gentle winters and warm summers free from extreme heatwaves. Atlantic breezes further temper heat and humidity throughout the year.
7. France
France draws foreign residents with its robust healthcare system, efficient public services and high quality of life. Daily life encourages an active outdoor culture, from leisurely walks to al fresco dining. The country's western and southern regions benefit from maritime weather patterns, yielding moderate temperatures, mild winters, and comfortable summers.
8. Colombia
Colombia has become increasingly popular among expats thanks to its affordable cost of living, developing healthcare services, and modernized urban centers. Many popular expat destinations sit at high elevations in the Andes mountain range, where stable year-round temperatures earn regions a reputation for enjoying an "eternal spring."
AQILA FIRDA ZAHRO (Intern)
Read: 10 Best Countries for Digital Nomads with Accessible Visas