Top 10 Countries for Finding a Job Abroad : Best for Job Security, Housing, and Quality of Life

For individuals seeking to advance their careers, improve their financial standing, and experience a higher quality of life, moving abroad for work has become an increasingly attractive option. Recent surveys highlight a shift towards Asian and Latin American countries as prime destinations for expats, driven by factors like affordability and welcoming cultures . This article explores the top 10 countries that excel in job security, housing, and overall quality of life for those looking to work abroad.

The InterNations Expat Insider Survey 2025: Key Findings

The InterNations Expat Insider survey, a comprehensive study involving over 10,000 expats from 172 nationalities, provides valuable insights into the best countries for living and working abroad . The 2025 edition ranked 46 destinations based on five key categories: Working Abroad, Personal Finance, Quality of Life, Expat Essentials, and Ease of Settling In . A significant trend observed is the growing importance of personal finance among expats, reflecting global economic uncertainties and inflation .

Top 10 Countries for Expats in 2025

The 2025 InterNations Expat Insider survey identifies the following countries as the top 10 for expats:

1. Panama
2. Colombia
3. Mexico
4. Thailand
5. Vietnam
6. China
7. UAE
8. Indonesia
9. Spain
10. Malaysia

Panama: The Reigning Champion

For the second consecutive year, Panama secured the top spot as the best country for expats . Expats in Panama report high levels of happiness, with 94% satisfied with their life abroad . The country excels across all five survey indices, particularly in Quality of Life (3rd), Ease of Settling In (2nd), and Working Abroad (1st). Panama is especially appealing to retirees, with 35% of expats already retired and 18% moving there specifically for retirement . Its affordability, pleasant climate, and open, friendly culture contribute to its high ranking . The cost of living in Panama is significantly lower than in the U.S., with comfortable living possible for $800-$1,500 per month in smaller towns and up to $2,500 in Panama City . Panama offers various visa options, including the Friendly Nations visa, Pensionado Program, and Remote Worker visa.

Colombia: A Significant Leap Forward

Colombia climbed from fifth place in 2024 to second in 2025 . Its strong performance is largely attributed to personal finance, with 81% of respondents satisfied with their financial situation and 92% finding their disposable income sufficient for a comfortable life . The cost of living in Colombia is remarkably low, with overall costs 62.2% lower and rent prices 76.2% lower than in the United States. Expats also praise Colombia for its ease of settling in, friendly population, and cultural integration . Common visa options include the Type M (Migrant) and Type V (Visitor) visas, with subcategories for investment, work, retirement, and digital nomads .

Mexico: Welcoming Culture and Affordability

Mexico, a consistent top performer, ranks third in 2025 . It is particularly lauded for its welcoming culture and ease of settling in, ranking first in this category. Expats find it easy to make local friends and feel at home . Financially, Mexico also performs well, offering affordability, especially in cities like Mérida where monthly expenses can be 50% less than in the U.S. While safety and air quality remain concerns, the country’s vibrant culture, delicious food, and accessible healthcare make it a popular choice . The Temporary Resident Visa is a common pathway for expats .

Asian Countries: Financial Satisfaction and Affordable Housing

Half of the top 10 spots are occupied by Asian countries: Thailand (4th), Vietnam (5th), China (6th), Indonesia (8th), and Malaysia (10th) . These nations stand out for their strong performance in personal finance, affordability, and the ease and low cost of finding housing . China, in particular, saw a significant improvement, climbing from 19th place in 2024 to 6th in 2025, largely due to improved career prospects, job security, and work-life balance.

UAE and Spain: Quality of Life and Diverse Offerings

The UAE (7th) and Spain (9th) ,Both rank highly in Quality of Life, with the UAE also performing well in Expat Essentials and Working Abroad . Spain is the sole European country in the top 10, recognized for its vibrant cities, Mediterranean coastlines, and relaxed pace of life . Its public healthcare system is among the best in Europe, and it offers a Non-Lucrative Visa for those with proof of income .

Factors Influencing Expat Choices

Several factors consistently influence expats’ decisions when choosing a country for work and life abroad:

• Cost of Living: This includes housing, food, transportation, and other basic expenses. Countries with a lower cost of living often rank higher, especially in the current economic climate .
• Quality of Life: Encompasses safety, healthcare, education, environment, and leisure options . Countries like Denmark, Norway, Finland, Iceland, and Sweden consistently rank high for overall quality of life .
• Job Opportunities and Security: A strong job market, career prospects, and job security are crucial for expats . Germany, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Sweden are noted for their robust job markets in Europe .
• Ease of Settling In: This involves the friendliness of locals, ease of making friends, and cultural integration . Latin American countries often excel in this area .
• Healthcare System: Access to quality, affordable healthcare is a significant consideration. Countries like France, Italy, Spain, Japan, and Canada are recognized for their outstanding healthcare systems .
• Political and Economic Stability: A secure political system, low crime rates, and a reliable legal framework are essential for a stable expat experience . Liechtenstein, Andorra, Aruba, Singapore, and New Zealand are among the most stable countries .
• Housing: The availability and affordability of housing are key practical considerations.

The United States: A Downward Trend

The United States continued its downward trend in the 2025 survey, falling one spot to 36th out of 46 countries . Expats cited concerns across various indices, including a lack of affordability, availability, and equal access to healthcare, which was perceived as substandard . Political instability and personal freedom also received the worst ratings in years, with only 58% of expats feeling they could openly express themselves, lower than the global average . Other issues include expensive housing, challenges with social integration, and dissatisfaction with work-life balance.

Conclusion

The landscape for expats is continuously evolving, with a clear trend towards countries offering a combination of affordability, strong personal finance prospects, and a welcoming culture. While traditional expat destinations in Europe still hold appeal, the rise of Latin American and Asian countries in the rankings reflects a global shift in priorities for those seeking a fulfilling life and career abroad.