Best countries for expats to move and easy relocation in 2024

There are not many cities on Malta as it is actually a small island. 

The island offers a low cost of living combined with a high quality of life due to the fact it is very safe. The work-life balance is good, as the place is famous for its relaxed style and healthcare is at a high level, plus affordable! 

There are many beautiful cities in Portugal, but Lisbon, Chaves, Porto, Braga and Aveiro are the top places to move too. 

Italy is known for its rich history, art and cuisine. Expats will face a welcoming environment that fosters connections and new friendships. Living in Italy as an expat can be a rewarding experience, offering a mix of culture, natural beauty, and a nice climate.

Spain is a popular destination for expats due to its beautiful weather, rich culture, and high quality of life. Spain offers a great balance of work and leisure, with a laid-back lifestyle that many expats find attractive. 

A non-EU national has to apply for a visa in the home country at the embassy/consulate of the country where you want to move to.

The application should be done between 6 months to 15 days before departure. Keep in mind that it is possible that the procedure can take up to 45 days in certain cases.

General documents that are required:

• Long-stay visa application form, completely filled in and signed,
• Passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the visa expires with 2 blank pages,
• 2 passport pictures according to Schengen requirements,
• Absence of police criminal record certificate for any person of 18 years and above,
• Health insurance (at least 30,000 euros of coverage for medical costs).

Kenya is one of the main destinations for those wanting to go on a safari, and the cost of living here is the lowest in Africa. It is continuously mentioned as one of the best countries in Africa to become an expat. 

• As the capital, Nairobi offers a diverse expat community, good healthcare facilities, and a range of international schools. Nairobi has been completely changed and improved, resulting in a great place to live. Public transport and infrastructure is also improved. The city is one of the major political and financial centers in Africa.
• A coastal city Mombasa provides a more relaxed lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and a warm climate that appeals to many expats. Infrastructure is good and healthcare is on a good level. A mix of locals, expats, and tourists, makes Mombasa and Kenya’s coast an very interesting, diverse and cosmopolitan place to live. 
• Known for its high altitude and cool climate, Eldoret offers a quieter pace of life and proximity to natural attractions like the Rift Valley. Infrastructure is ok and mostly organized with small minivans (matatus). Healthcare is good but safety can be a point of attention.

One of the most diverse countries on the globe, geographically and in people. It offers a variety of cities that are popular among expats. 

• Cape Town is known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene, making it a top choice for many. The climate is almost perfect. Cost of living is low.
• Johannesburg, as the largest city, offers a bustling urban lifestyle with diverse job opportunities. It is South Africa’s largest business center. The largest part of businesses has opened their African headquarters in this colorful and lively city. 
• Durban attracts expats with its warm climate and beautiful beaches. The city offers a diverse cultural experience and a welcoming community for newcomers. With its stunning landscapes and vibrant city life, expats in Durban can enjoy a high quality of life. The cost of living in South Africa is affordable, making it an attractive choice for many, besides, the city is a hub for the technology and medicine sector which generates many job opportunities.

Thailand offers expats an open and warm culture, delicious cuisine, and affordable living costs. The warm climate and beautiful beaches make it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. Expats even have free healthcare in the country!

• As the capital, Bangkok offers a nice mix of modern amenities, cultural experiences, and a bustling expat community with diverse job opportunities. The city's rich culture and affordable cost of living make it an attractive destination.
• Known for its laid-back lifestyle, Chiang Mai is popular among expats for its affordable cost of living and beautiful natural surroundings.Chiang Mai is one of the safest cities in Southeast Asia, which is reflected by its low crime rates. The easiest and cheapest way of public transport is the songthaew. Fares range from around ฿20 to ฿30 for city stops. Unfortunately air pollution is a serious concern across Thailand, due to traffic but also forest fires affect Chiang Mai during crop-burning season (December to April). 
• Expats looking for a beach lifestyle often choose Phuket, with its stunning beaches, water activities, and lively entertainment scene. Due to the many tourists, the tourism sector is generating a lot of job opportunities. Healthcare in the city is outstanding and the cost of living is low. All cities have its benefits and appeal, making Thailand a diverse and welcoming destination for expatriates looking to live abroad.

The country offers a unique mix of modernity and tradition, healthy, cheap and tasty food on every corner, and Pho soup for breakfast. Expats in Vietnam can enjoy a great social life as well, though it will take time to get local close friends. Vietnam's strategic location in Southeast Asia makes it a gateway to explore other countries in the region easily, up to Australia. 

Prepare to use your bike a lot, as the main means of transportation here is motorcycles. And keep your helmet and face mask close.

Malaysia offers expats a relatively affordable cost of living, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. The tropical climate in Malaysia is a big draw for expats seeking sunny weather year-round. 

• Kuala Lumpur offers an interesting expat community and a wide range of amenities. It's a bustling city with diverse cultures and great job opportunities.Cost of living is low but increasing. 
• Penang is known for its beautiful beaches and rich heritage. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option. There are many high-tech electronics plants. Other major sectors are tourism, financial services, and shipping. 
• Close to Singapore, Johor Bahru is a convenient choice for expats who need to travel frequently. It offers a mix of modern infrastructure and natural beauty, making it a well-rounded city for expats. It is one of the biggest industrial complexes in Malaysia and several large multinationals in various industries such as petrochemical, chemical, and manufacturing are located here.

Canada is a popular choice for expats due to its high quality of life, diverse culture, and strong economy. The country's universal healthcare system and excellent education opportunities are also attractive factors. 

• Toronto is one of the most multicultural cities in the world, offering a welcoming community for expatriates. It should be noted that the cost of living is high, but there are numerous job opportunities. Toronto is home to numerous international companies, so finding a job here is quite easy.
• Vancouver is a popular destination for expatriates due to its diverse culture, stunning natural scenery and high quality of life. The city offers a range of opportunities for career advancement, particularly in sectors such as technology, film, and tourism. Surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, it attracts expatriates with its outdoor lifestyle and temperate climate. 
• The bilingual nature of Montreal, with both English and French widely spoken, facilitates the integration of expatriates into their new environment. Montreal's relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major North American cities makes it an attractive destination for expatriates. The quality of healthcare is excellent.

The United States is a melting pot of cultures from all over the globe. This makes it a great place for expats to immerse themselves in different traditions and lifestyles. It's also a hub for various industries, offering expats a wide range of job opportunities. This can be especially beneficial for those looking to advance their careers or explore new fields.New York City is a global hub offering a diverse range of opportunities. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene and a wealth of career opportunities for expatriates. However, the cost of living is high and healthcare is expensive, with no state programme available to expatriates. 

• Los Angeles offers a diverse cultural environment, providing expatriates with the opportunity to establish a sense of community and familiarity. The year-round mild climate in Los Angeles is a significant factor in the decision-making process for many expats. The city is a major center for a number of industries, offering expatriates a diverse range of employment opportunities across various sectors. The cost of living is comparatively lower than in New York, although still high. 
• San Francisco is a diverse city with a rich cultural scene, offering a vibrant and dynamic environment for businesses and professionals. Expats in San Francisco can enjoy a diverse range of international cuisines, vibrant neighborhoods and a strong sense of community. San Francisco’s robust economy and abundance of tech-related job opportunities make it an appealing destination for expats seeking to advance their careers. The cost of living is considerable. 
• Seattle is a popular choice for expatriates due to its vibrant culture, thriving arts scene and robust job market. The city's proximity to nature provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. Seattle offers a wide range of high-quality educational opportunities, cutting-edge healthcare facilities and a secure environment. The USA is an interesting country in which to relocate and work, offering a wealth of opportunities. However, improvements could be made in the areas of healthcare and cost of living. 

There are lots of reasons why expats are drawn to Mexico. Mexico has a fascinating culture, delicious food and a lovely warm climate. On top of that, the cost of living is often lower than in many Western countries, which makes it an attractive option for retirees or those looking for a more affordable way of life. Mexico’s diverse landscapes and rich history also offer expats plenty of chances to explore and have adventures, which is why it’s a popular destination. 

• Mexico City is a big metropolis and has culture, historical sites, tasty food, and big shopping malls. There are lots of green areas, so you don’t have to go far to get into nature. Mexico City has plenty of job opportunities, so if you are looking for a local job, it is not hard to find. Living costs are low, but higher compared to other Mexican cities. Safety is definitely a point of attention as some neighborhoods are secure, but others are not. The subtropical highland climate has pleasant summers and mild winters. 
• Puebla is in the foothills of the active Popocatepetl Volcano. Sometimes it sends some ash in the air, which can have an effect on the airports more than anything else. Positive side of it is that rich volcanic ash makes the soil perfect for agriculture. Life in Puebla is very affordable, so digital nomads and remote workers are attracted to it. Unfortunately the internet isn’t as good as you would expect. Puebla is considered the safest city in Mexico.
• San Miguel de Allende is situated in the Central Highlands of Guanajuato. It has fantastic architecture and is declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. The weather includes clean air and cooler weather. Temperatures can drop below freezing in January and February. Job opportunities for expats are mainly in the tourism sector or teaching if you are not a remote worker/digital nomad. Cost of living is higher in the center, but more affordable in the suburbs.

From ancient civilizations like the Aztecs and the Mayans to the colorful traditions of Dia de los Muertos and Mariachi music, embracing Mexico's history and culture can provide expats with a deeper appreciation for the country and its people.

Colombia is becoming an increasingly popular destination for expats due to its affordable cost of living, culture, and diverse landscapes. The country offers a welcoming atmosphere with many cities like Medellín and Bogotá providing modern amenities and a growing expat community.

• Medellin offers a great expat community. The city's temperate climate and lower cost of living make it an attractive destination for expatriates. Once considered a very dangerous city, much has changed, although there are still areas where you have to pay attention (like in any big city), most of the city is safe. Quality of life is considered high. Healthcare is cheap but on a high level. 
• Living in the coffee region gives the same spring-like weather as Medellín. But Pereira, Manizales and Armenia are much smaller. These three cities make up the coffee axis. The cities are modern, have good public transportation, and plenty of activities to keep you busy. The triangle has perfect weather conditions for growing some of the world's richest coffee. The coffee region is becoming popular with retirees and the numbers are continuously growing. The cost of living is lower than Medellín. You can enjoy stunning, green mountain scenery in any of these cities. This area is reasonably safe, but common sense is a benefit. Most jobs available for expats will be in the tourist sector if you are not a digital nomad. 
• Bucaramanga is an attractive destination for expats due to its pleasant climate and affordable living costs. The city's moderate temperatures throughout the year make it an ideal place. The lower cost of living in Bucaramanga compared to other major cities in Colombia can be appealing to expats looking to stretch their budget. This city is considered safe. Most job opportunities are in the tourist sector for English speaking people.

Argentina is an attractive destination for expats due to its interesting culture, great cuisine, and affordable cost of living. The country offers a rich blend of European and Latin American influences.

• Buenos Aires, the capital, is a great place for expats to immerse themselves in the local culture, with its vibrant arts, music, and dance scene. In comparison to many other major cities, Buenos Aires has a relatively low cost of living. This can be a big plus for expats. Expats in Buenos Aires can enjoy a great variety of food, from traditional Argentine steaks to international cuisine. Just a heads-up: the city isn't completely safe, especially in crowded places like markets. Pickpockets are very active there. 
• Córdoba is known for its universities and rich history, and it offers a more relaxed lifestyle compared to Buenos Aires, which makes it a great choice for expats. Córdoba is generally considered safe, although petty crime does occur. Córdoba has a lower cost of living than European cities. Córdoba has lots of job opportunities for expats thanks to the city’s large economy. 
• Mendoza is famous for its wine production and stunning landscapes, so it's a great choice for expats who want to enjoy outdoor activities and a relaxed atmosphere. There aren't many job opportunities for expats, except in the tourist sector or teaching. It's tough to find local jobs with decent pay. As a general rule, the city isn't always safe. The weather is mostly dry and sunny. These cities offer something really special, with amenities and experiences that are perfect for expats looking to settle in Argentina.