Best Countries to Live in as a Foreigner
Not every country is built for foreigners.
Some make it easy. Some make it possible. Some make it quietly difficult.
In 2026, choosing where to live isn’t just about salaries or weather.
It’s about:
- How easy it is to stay legally
- How locals treat outsiders
- How systems actually work
- And whether your life feels sustainable
Here are some of the best countries to live in as a foreigner — based on real-world experience, not just rankings.
1. Portugal 🇵🇹
Portugal continues to attract expats for a reason.
- Relatively flexible residency options
- Relaxed lifestyle
- Strong international community
- Good balance between cost and quality of life
Portugal isn’t the cheapest anymore, but it’s still one of the easiest entry points into Europe.
2. Spain 🇪🇸
Spain is where lifestyle meets livability.
- Social culture and daily interaction
- Digital nomad pathways
- Strong healthcare system
- Diverse cities (from Madrid to Valencia)
If you value human connection and daily life quality, Spain stands out.
3. United Arab Emirates 🇦🇪
The UAE is one of the most foreigner-driven countries in the world.
- Large expat population
- No personal income tax
- Modern infrastructure
- Fast-moving systems
👉 Explore United Arab Emirates →
But it’s not cheap, and lifestyle expectations can quickly increase your expenses.
4. Estonia 🇪🇪
Estonia offers something rare: digital simplicity.
- Fully online government systems
- Remote-friendly environment
- Easy administrative processes
- Growing tech ecosystem
It’s not the warmest country — but it’s one of the easiest to navigate.
5. Mexico 🇲🇽
Mexico has become a major hub for foreigners.
- Affordable lifestyle (outside tourist hotspots)
- Strong expat communities
- Flexible residency options
- Cultural richness
It works especially well if you earn in USD.
6. Germany 🇩🇪
Germany offers structure, stability, and opportunity.
- Strong economy
- Clear systems
- High-quality infrastructure
- Long-term security
It’s less “fun” than southern Europe — but extremely reliable.
7. Thailand 🇹🇭
Thailand is still one of the most accessible countries for foreigners.
- Low cost of living
- Established expat ecosystem
- Great food and lifestyle
- Good infrastructure in major cities
The main challenge is long-term visa planning.
8. Canada 🇨🇦
Canada remains one of the most immigration-friendly countries.
- Clear pathways to residency
- High quality of life
- Multicultural society
- Strong public services
Costs are rising, but the system works.
What Actually Makes a Country “Good for Foreigners”?
It’s not just about income.
The best countries for expats usually offer:
- Clear and realistic visa pathways
- Functional systems (banking, healthcare, admin)
- Cultural openness
- Reasonable cost relative to income
- Long-term stability
A country can be rich — and still hard to live in.
Another can be average — but easy and welcoming.
Final Thoughts
Living abroad is not just about where you go.
It’s about how easily you can stay, adapt, and build a life.
Some countries look great on paper. Others actually work in practice.
The difference matters more than most people expect.
The smartest move isn’t chasing rankings.
It’s choosing a place where life feels manageable — not just possible.
About the author
Noah Walker
Editorial writer for Country To Live, covering relocation research, visas, taxes, and quality-of-life comparisons.
