![Source: Marc Fanelli-Isla, Unsplash](https://editor.luxtoday.lu/uploads/marc_fanelli_isla_1bdr5_SY_n_Zo_unsplash_b17980dc0e.jpg)
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_european_union_1f1ea_1f1fa_12a494bb1b.png&w=32&q=75)
Best countries for expats to move and easy relocation in 2024
If you are considering moving to another country for work or after retirement, this article about the best places all over the world will help you decide on the grounds.
Whether you want to move to Asia, Africa or Europe, you need to consider many factors, such as taxation, documents required and the procedures you must comply with. In some places it is easier, in some harder, but there is definitely a place to call home. For millions of years people have been moving and immigrating to improve their life. The outcome of the last count in 2020 was that 281 million people are already living somewhere else!
Relocation and expats in our modern world
People move for different reasons. Push factors are negative things about where you live that make you want to leave. Bad living conditions, bad weather, few jobs, poor healthcare, lack of education and politics are all reasons people leave a place. Good weather, high salaries, better education and a safe, affordable place to live are on the contrary the main reasons people move to another place.
For every person those reasons can be unique and different. It is always a mix of push and pull factors where the decision to move is based on. Well, and moving between countries has been getting easier the last decade as many jobs nowadays can be done remotely. Certainly the period of pandemic showed that working remotely can be a big advantage for both employees and companies.
They are not mad
It is one of the reasons for the growing group of people that like to be called digital nomads. They are traveling the world while working remotely. The top 5 places to stay and work as a digital nomad have been already selected. Those are Bangkok and Chiang Mai in Thailand, Mexico City in (you'll never guess) Mexico, South Korea's busy city Seoul, and one of the most densely populated territories in the world – Hong Kong.
What about working remotely in Luxembourg?
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fdan_dimmock_s_Nwnjxm8e_TY_unsplash_dcad6a4aa9.jpg&w=640&q=75)
Top 5 places for expats in the European Union
The European Union (EU) is a magnet for expats for a reason; good weather, great historical sites, fantastic food, political stability and very good social security systems are just a few things to mention. As the number of expats grows, countries are taking steps to benefit highly educated expats by using special nomad visas to attract people, especially in areas where there is a shortage of experienced workers. This also means that some locations are more attractive to expats than others.
Which countries are the best for easy relocation?
Each country has its own unique advantages for expats, making them the ideal destinations for relocation in Europe. Factors like quality of life, cost of living, safety and job opportunities all weigh differently for expats to make a personal choice. Malta, Cyprus, Portugal, Italy and Spain are the 5 easiest countries to relocate to in Europe nowadays. Let's take a closer look.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_malta_1f1f2_1f1f9_73243ba77e.png&w=48&q=75)
There are not many cities on Malta as it is actually a small island.
The best locations are Sliema, St Julian’s and Valletta.
- Sliema is well known for its lively atmosphere, the promenade at the seafront and closeby to shopping and restaurants.
- Expats go to St Julian's for its nightlife and entertainment options, St Julian's is a hotspot for expats looking for a lively social scene.
- Valletta is the capital of Malta, Valletta offers expats a mix of historic charm, cultural attractions and convenient access to amenities.
- Each of these locations has its own unique appeal and caters to the different preferences and lifestyles of expats living in Malta.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_cyprus_1f1e8_1f1fe_06b3048ae9.png&w=48&q=75)
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!
Expats are living mostly in 4 cities, Nicosia, Limassol, Paphos, and Larnaca.
- Nicosia is the capital of Cyprus. This city is the business center of the island.
- Limassol is the favorite place of many "local" expats. Located on the southern coast of the island, with a modern atmosphere.
- Paphos has one of the international airports of the island, it is situated on the coast and has plenty of activities.
- Lamaca has the second active international airport, it also has a mix of tourists and expats which makes it a very lively city in the summer but relaxed in the winter. Cost of living is more affordable here than in Nicosia and Limassol.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_portugal_1f1f5_1f1f9_46e139db50.png&w=48&q=75)
There are many beautiful cities in Portugal, but Lisbon, Chaves, Porto, Braga and Aveiro are the top places to move too.
Here they are
- Lisbon, the capital of Portugal and a very beautiful city. Lisbon is obviously a great place and attracts many expats. Lisbon offers a wide range of diverse lifestyles across the Lisbon neighborhoods.Public transport is well organized and Lisbon has an interesting local labor market.
- Chaves is not a big city, rather a small rural town. Chaves is a great old city with a fantastic architecture dating back to Roman times. The summers are a bit shorter but still the winters are mild.
- Porto is situated on the banks of the Douro River. Porto is the second city in Portugal and has an airport. Its historic center was classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Summers in Porto are hot, winters are cold and wet.
- Braga is situated in the north of Portugal and has good connections to Porto. Braga is a historic city, it is the oldest city in the country. This nice city is full of lively cafés and high-end boutiques. Summers are short and hot, and winters are colder and wet.
- Aveiro, this city is located in the center of Portugal, it is called the Venice of Portugal due to its fantastic canals and beautiful moliceiros, boats like the gondolas. The city has great architecture.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_italy_1f1ee_1f1f9_2d7cea9604.png&w=48&q=75)
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.
Here are the top cities to consider for living
- Milan is known for its interesting culture and rich history. Milan's efficient public transport system makes it easy for expats to navigate the city.The climate has hot summers and cold, foggy winters.
- Bolzano, located in the northern region of Italy, offers a unique blend of Italian and Austrian cultures. Bolzano's efficient public transportation system and high quality of life make it an attractive choice for expatriates looking for a great place to live. The climate is continental which means cold winters and hot summers.
- Florence is a beautiful city in Italy that attracts expats from all over the world. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and exciting cultural scene make it an ideal destination. Florence has a Mediterranean climate, which means hot summers, but the winter months are cold and wet. The cost of living is moderate.
- Bologna is well known for its ancient university, so it is attracting students from all over the world. As in the rest of Italy, the cuisine is fantastic. Unfortunately there are limited job opportunities. The city’s climate is humid subtropical, summers are hot with higher temperatures than cities on the coast.
- Rome obviously has an ancient history and many famous landmarks. The cost of living in Rome is moderate to high. Best is to use the well developed infrastructure of the public transport as traffic can be a challenge, Rome stands out as a place that not only has a famous and rich cultural heritage but also provides a modern and dynamic life.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_spain_1f1ea_1f1f8_5fcd1259fa.png&w=48&q=75)
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.
Five interesting cities to explore are Malaga, Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia and Seville.
- Málaga has emerged as one of the favorite cities for expats, and number one in the Expat City Ranking 2023. Malaga ranks highly for offering a high quality of life, including its acclaimed climate and leisure options.
- Madrid is the capital of Spain. It is also the center of the country, so it is easy to reach other parts of the country and spend a few fascinating days.
- Barcelona is one of the premier locations for expats in Spain, well known for its fantastic atmosphere and a constant flow of tourists. Many people are attracted by the city’s exceptional quality of life.
- Valencia is the third largest city in Spain. It is a beautiful city, with a long history. It has a lower cost of living compared to other cities in Spain. The public transport system is well developed and easy to use.
- Seville is one of the major cities in Spain but feels like a small rural town. Located in the south of Spain, the climate is sunny. The cost of living is lower. Spain is considered a safe country, but be aware of the touristic places. Cost of living is moderate.
How much does it cost to live?
Cost of living in the European Union can vary a lot. Differences between countries and regions are obvious. Portugal has the lowest cost of living, for a single person 670 euro per month and for a family of four the cost is 2,355 euro. Cyprus has the highest cost of living for a single person, 859 euros, and for a family of four it comes to 3,017 euros per month.
The prices mentioned even without rent. Rent fees are somewhat similar for all countries for a one room apartment. You can check the cost of living directly for the place you want to live in on the website dedicated to rent and buying property.
Country | Cost-of-living for a single person (EU/per month) | Cost-of-living for a family of four (EU/per month) | Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment (EU/per month) | Average income in the country (EU/per month) |
Malta | 787 | 2,866 | 783 | 1,400 |
Cyprus | 859 | 3,017 | 732 | 1,537 |
Italy | 856 | 2,988 | 566 | 1,582 |
Spain | 707 | 2,495 | 722 | 1,718 |
Portugal | 670 | 2,355 | 727 | 1,033 |
What are the required documents procedures?
To move to any European country as an expat and stay longer than the regularly allowed 90 days, EU-nationals and non-EU nationals need to apply for a national visa to live and work there legally. This will be a type D visa (national) or a nomad visa if the country provides it.
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).
Advice
For every country there are some additional documents/requirements, please check the specific websites of the countries before applying to make sure.
Which countries offer a nomad visa in Europe?
Malta, Cyprus, Italy, Spain, Portugal all offer a nomad visa for non-EU nationals. The granted period for a non interrupted stay is 1 year. Most countries allow an extended stay with 1 or 2 years time frames. Furthermore there are some extra requirements as a minimum income, and proof of renting accommodation.
Top 5 places for expats in Asia and Africa
Just like other parts of the world, Asia and Africa are also very interesting and popular among expats. These regions often provide unique cultural experiences that can enrich one's life, maybe that's the reason you will find a lot of hostels and a lot of young international tourists here.
The cost of living in many Asian and African countries is relatively lower compared to Western countries, allowing people to save money or live a more luxurious lifestyle. Warm (and even hot) climate in these regions can be a welcome change for those coming from colder climates, promoting a healthier and more active lifestyle. Besides, it is a great place to spend a dull European winter in.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fpot_of_food_1f372_d819a26a23.png&w=48&q=75)
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fmoney_with_wings_1f4b8_ef479ea541.png&w=48&q=75)
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fchart_increasing_1f4c8_a5d4252cce.png&w=48&q=75)
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fpolice_officer_1f46e_145430bf5c.png&w=48&q=75)
Which countries are the best for easy relocation?
Asia and Africa are huge continents with lots of big countries, so there are loads of great places for expats to choose from. Malaysia and Thailand in Asia, and South Africa and Kenya in Africa, are great examples of countries that are really welcoming towards expats. They offer a good balance of affordable living costs, cultural diversity, and ease of integration for foreigners. Expats often find it relatively easy to settle in these countries, which is why they’re so popular choices for relocation in Asia and Africa.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_kenya_1f1f0_1f1ea_f36c37dbfc.png&w=48&q=75)
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.
The job market is developing fast as there are many jobs in the manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare industry. Each city has its unique charm and amenities that cater to the needs and preferences of expatriates living in Kenya.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_south_africa_1f1ff_1f1e6_4ecd06536d.png&w=48&q=75)
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.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_thailand_1f1f9_1f1ed_c737bfbecd.png&w=48&q=75)
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.
Hangover Part Two
Well, what attracts many people in the country apart from its cultural and international significance is that drugs are fully legalized here. Pay attention to this fact, as the city of Bangkok, for example, is a very famous party place.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_vietnam_1f1fb_1f1f3_269a426bef.png&w=48&q=75)
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.
Vietnam offers a variety of great locations for expats to live.
- Ho Chi Minh City, known as Saigon and famous for its interesting culture and city life. Infrastructure is well developed and public transport is easy to use. Cost of living is low, but the traffic is rather busy.
- Hanoi, the capital city, offers a mix of historical charm and modern amenities. Cost of living is low, healthcare is good and affordable for expats. Public transport is cheap and easy to navigate through the city. Due to the growing economy in the city, there are enough job opportunities for expats.
- Da Nang, with its beautiful beaches, is another top pick. Progressive, clean city, modern, and growing. Da Nang is known as the industrial center of the country. Unfortunately the air pollution can be higher than expats are used to.
Prepare to use your bike a lot, as the main means of transportation here is motorcycles. And keep your helmet and face mask close.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_malaysia_1f1f2_1f1fe_c5cb38f4f0.png&w=48&q=75)
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.
How much does it cost to live?
Cost of living in Asia and Africa can vary a lot depending on your lifestyle and place that you choose. There are big differences between countries and regions, because they have metropolises that are quite popular with tourists and expats, which makes prices go up. Do not forget to check less touristic spots, if you would like to be closer to local traditions and low prices of life.
Country | Cost-of-living for a single person (EU/per month) | Cost-of-living for a family of four (EU/per month) | Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment (EU/per month) | Average income in the country (EU/per month) |
Kenya | 474 | 1,698 | 133 | 356 |
South Africa | 549 | 1,909 | 323 | 1,251 |
Thailand | 520 | 1,848 | 219 | 495 |
Vietnam | 430 | 1,516 | 209 | 406 |
Malaysia | 447 | 1,580 | 221 | 806 |
What are the required documents procedures?
All countries have a form of national visa that will allow the expat to stay longer than 90 days in the country, mostly up to 1 year but some even longer. Due to the differences in those procedures it is better to visit the website of the country you plan to visit and live in directly.
![](/assets/images/info-card-point-up.png)
![](/assets/images/info-card-point-up.png)
Which countries offer a nomad visa?
Both Kenya and Vietnam are not offering a nomad visa, but maybe in the future they will, as the destination is quite popular for remote workers. Still, the procedure of visa-run exists and works legally. South Africa, Thailand and Malaysia do offer a nomad visa!
The granted period varies between 6 months and 1 year, and most countries allow an extended stay. Furthermore there can be some extra requirements as a minimum income, and proof of renting accommodation, proof of work contract.
Top 5 places for expats in North and South America
When considering relocation as an expat, it might be helpful to think about some of the top destinations in North and South America. For example, cities like Vancouver, Canada, are often seen as offering a high quality of life and diverse culture. Similarly, Medellin, Colombia, is frequently praised for its pleasant climate, low cost of living, and welcoming locals. These cities offer expats a mix of modern amenities, cultural experiences, and a sense of community that can make adapting to a new country easier.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fcityscape_1f3d9_fe0f_f8b162b4f4.png&w=48&q=75)
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Ffork_and_knife_with_plate_1f37d_fe0f_922615c308.png&w=48&q=75)
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fwoman_dancing_1f483_f9e2ab2f56.png&w=48&q=75)
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fnational_park_1f3de_fe0f_1d629e7218.png&w=48&q=75)
Which countries are the best for easy relocation?
History books do not lie. There are many countries in North and South America welcoming people from other countries. All of them are very interesting to move to but here we will focus on Canada, USA, Mexico, Colombia and Argentina as top spots for home-seekers worldwide.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_canada_1f1e8_1f1e6_5e7d1bf802.png&w=48&q=75)
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.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_united_states_1f1fa_1f1f8_7b57938686.png&w=48&q=75)
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.
Come to study!
The United States is home to many prestigious universities and educational institutions, making it an attractive destination for expats and students alike. One Silicon Valley boasts many dreams of the future.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_mexico_1f1f2_1f1fd_ee7ea1a8a0.png&w=48&q=75)
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.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_colombia_1f1e8_1f1f4_41ff8e1db6.png&w=48&q=75)
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.
![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Feditor.luxtoday.lu%2Fuploads%2Fflag_argentina_1f1e6_1f1f7_de494d4fc2.png&w=48&q=75)
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.
How much does it cost to live?
Cost of living in North America compared to South America is very high. South America is much more affordable, but keep in mind that local salaries are also much lower. There are significant differences between the countries.
Country | Cost-of-living for a single person (EU/per month) | Cost-of-living for a family of four (EU/per month) | Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment (EU/per month) | Average income in the country (EU/per month) |
Canada | 977 | 3,513 | 1,138 | 2,665 |
USA | 1,076 | 3,831 | 1,327 | 4,176 |
Mexico | 611 | 2,211 | 415 | 679 |
Colombia | 486 | 1,634 | 285 | 339 |
Argentina | 446 | 1,598 | 223 | 402 |
What are the required documents procedures?
All countries have a form of national visa that will allow the expat to stay longer than 90 days in the country, mostly up to 1 year or even longer. Due to the vast differences in those procedures it is better to visit the website of the country you want to be an expat in.
![](/_next/image?url=%2Fimages%2Fexample-icon.png&w=48&q=75)
A green card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, is a government-issued document that grants a foreign citizen the right to live and work permanently in the United States. Every year, the US Diversity Visa Lottery offers a golden ticket to thousands of lucky individuals and their families to live and work in the United States.
If you're selected, you'll have the chance to start a new life in one of the world's most dynamic countries. World-class education, thriving job markets, and endless opportunities for you and your loved ones.
Which countries offer a nomad visa?
Both the USA and Mexico are not offering a nomad visa currently. The USA is not offering an official nomad visa, but there are options to work for 6 months depending on a type of a tourist visa. For Mexico the situation is the same: there is no official nomad visa but it is possible to use a temporary resident visa to stay and work. Canada, Colombia and Argentina offer a full nomad visa to people wanting to come and contribute to their economy.
The granted period varies between 6 months and 1 year, and most countries allow an extended stay. Furthermore there can be some extra requirements as a minimum income, and proof of renting accommodation, proof of work contract.
![faq](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Ffaq-icon.b151a24c.png&w=96&q=75)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does every country have a digital nomad visa?
Why are for some countries the average salaries so low?
Does an expat have to learn the local language?
Source: globalrefuge.org, nomadlist.com, ec.europa.eu, internationalcitizens.com, newsbook.com.mt, gersonrelocation.com, imin-cyprus.com, numbeo.com, imin-portugal.com, myspainvisa.com, migrun.tech, nomadcapitalist.com, sendmybag.com, visaguide.world, entriva.com, sandinmycurls.com, whc.unesco.org
We took photos from these sources: Marc Fanelli-Isla on Unsplash
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2F4.82151d3c.png&w=64&q=75)
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2F3.78abd323.png&w=64&q=75)
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2F2.f97e798e.png&w=64&q=75)
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2F1.f89911c3.png&w=64&q=75)