The 2018 report released by HSBC is based on a survey of 22,318 expats based all around the world and measures each country on various factors including salary, overall well-being, well-being of children, risk of financial issues and more.
While money is a definite factor for people to move to new countries as expats (two-thirds of expats globally get an extra US$21,000 annually on average in equivalent jobs after the move), the report also looks at human-interest and life factors.
10. United Arab Emirates
It’s hardly surprising that UAE has been featured in the best of this list given that more than 70 per cent of the residents here are expatriates.
9. Taiwan
Most Taiwanese expats are from North America (53 per cent) and Europe (20 per cent). While ranked ninth overall, Taiwan ranks third for the 'experience' category. This includes physical and mental well-being, ease of integration and positive work-life balance.
8. Switzerland
Ranked first for 'economics' based on financial security, personal finance and career goals, Switzerland is rated high for boosting income. While cost of child care is a common issue for expats, most people move there to improve earnings and quality of life, as well as to progress their careers.
7. Sweden
According to expatarrivals.com, a website dedicated to prospective expats, people move to Sweden for a balanced yet prosperous life that combines liberal values, cultural respect, modern technology as well as closeness to nature.
6. Australia
Another high-ranker for 'experience', Australia's expats think the country's great for maintaining physical health. The country also has a higher percentage of elderly expats in the age group of 55 and above, which adds to the realtively high number of retired expats (17 per cent) living in Australia.
5. Bahrain
It's not the first time that this Middle Eastern nation has been so high on expat wish lists. Offering good earnings, ease of intergartion and friendly people, Bahrain is also touted as a great place to raise a family.
4. Canada
45 per cent of expats in Canada are in the age group of 55 and above, and 26 per cent of the total expat population are retirees. In another high, 63 per cent of expats own property in the country. Most people gave a better quality of life as a key reason for choosing Canada to move to.
3. Germany
Germany isn't the easiest place to move to on a whim as knowing the language is not only a plus, but in most cases a requirement for gainful employment. However, quality of life, physical and mental well-being and other life factors are some of the best ranked in this European nation.
2. New Zealand
While New Zealand ranks low on social life and savings (in comparison to other factors), the country is best-liked for its safety rankings, financial security and quality of life.
1. Singapore
Expats in Singapore commented that the nation offers the best opportunities for career growth, however, it ranks lower on work-life balance. Most expats move there for career progression and a better quality of life, and hence, the country ranks third in the 'economics' category offering financial security, savings and other finance factors for life.
