The InterNations community has ranked the countries where foreigners find it most comfortable to live, work, manage their finances, and adapt to the local culture.
Pedro Barata, Head of Portuguese office, shared the survey results.
How the ranking was compiled
The survey was conducted from February 1st to March 31st, 2026[1]Source: The Best & Worst Countries for Expats in 2026. It involved 7,786 expats.
The final ranking included 31 countries, with at least 50 people surveyed in each. Participants rated up to 53 factors on a scale from one to seven. The indicators were grouped into 5 indices:
- Quality of life.
- Working abroad.
- Personal finance.
- Expat essentials.
- Ease of settling in.
The final score also took overall satisfaction with life abroad into account. The study is based on expats’ personal experiences rather than statistical data on the economy, crime, or salary levels.
Results
Top 10 countries for expats in 2026:
- Panama.
- Mexico.
- Thailand.
- UAE.
- Brazil.
- Spain.
- Singapore.
- Portugal.
- Malaysia.
- Luxembourg.
Germany and Norway ranked last. Foreigners most often complained about difficulties with social adaptation, bureaucracy, the high cost of living, and problems making friends.
Pedro Barata,
Head of Portuguese office
Panama’s 1st place in the ranking confirms that the country is suitable for more than just tourism. Expats value its affordability, safety, friendly local population, and the opportunity to obtain permanent residence by investment.
Why expats choose Panama for the 3rd year in a row
Overall, 87% of foreigners are satisfied with life in Panama. The average across all countries in the study was 70%. One in three survey participants plans to stay in Panama permanently.
Personal finance. Nine out of ten expats believe their household income is sufficient for a comfortable life. Around 76% of respondents are satisfied with their financial situation, while 69% positively assess the cost of living.
Working abroad. Panama also received the highest ratings for work-life balance. This aspect satisfies 90% of working expats.
Quality of life. Personal safety in Panama was rated positively by 92% of respondents. All survey participants were also satisfied with the country’s natural environment. Its main attractions include the tropical forests, mangroves, and coral reefs of the Bocas del Toro archipelago, as well as Coiba National Park with its islands and rich marine ecosystem.
Expat essentials. Foreigners find it easy to adapt after moving. Around 90% of respondents consider local people friendly, 84% feel welcome, and 81% call Panama their home. According to 90% of survey participants, it is easy for foreigners to buy or rent property. Another 82% consider the visa application process “fairly simple.”
How to obtain permanent residence in Panama
Foreigners obtain permanent residence in Panama under the Qualified Investor programme. The minimum investment is $300,000. The application may include a spouse, minor children, financially dependent adult children, and parents.
Investors have 3 investment options:
- Purchase real estate — $300,000+. The applicant may buy completed or off-plan residential or commercial property. The property may be rented out to generate income. Once the mandatory holding period ends, it may be sold.
- Invest in securities — $500,000+. The investor may purchase securities through a brokerage company licensed by the Panamanian regulator. The investment must be maintained for at least five years.
- Open a bank deposit — $750,000+. The investor opens a fixed-term deposit with a Panamanian bank for at least 5 years. The funds must come from abroad, and their lawful origin must be confirmed.
Immigrant Invest lawyers will help prepare an application for permanent residence in Panama for your case.
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