These Are the 25 Best Countries in the World for Expats, According to a New Global Report - AOL

Global expat satisfaction depends on where international residents feel secure, welcomed, and able to settle easily. A 2025 evaluation of 25 destinations used responses from at least 50 expats and measured quality of life, ease of settling in, personal finance, and access to essential services. Panama took first place for a second year, with 94% of expats reporting happiness abroad. Retirees form a large share of respondents, attracted by high quality of life. Panama also scores strongly for personal finance and settling in, with many reporting income supports their lifestyle, plus convenient public transport, rich natural environments, and strong flight connections through Copa Airlines. Colombia ranked second for affordability, personal finance, social integration, and relaxed living, despite safety, political stability, language, and online service challenges.

"Countries were evaluated based on quality of life, ease of settling in, personal finance, and access to essential services, with a minimum of 50 responses required for inclusion in the report. For the second consecutive year, Panama claimed the top spot."

"In Panama, 94 percent of expats say they are happy with their life abroad, one of the highest rates in the survey. The country is particularly popular with retirees -more than one-third of respondents-who are drawn to the country's high quality of life. Panama ranks highly for personal finance and ease of settling in, with many expats reporting that their income comfortably supports their lifestyle."

"Expats also enjoy convenient public transportation, a lush natural environment, including spots like the San Blas Islands and Bocas del Toro, and excellent flight connectivity, since the national carrier Copa Airlines serves more than 80 destinations across the Americas."

"Colombia ranks second, offering a mix of lively cities and a relatively low cost of living. The country performs particularly well in personal finance, allowing expats to stretch their income further, and housing remains affordable and easy to find. Many are drawn to the country's slower pace and more relaxed way of life. Colombia also scores highly for social integration, with expats reporting that it is easy to meet people and form connections."

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