The 7 Friendliest Countries for Expats
When it comes to moving abroad, a warm welcome can make all the difference. Discover the 7 friendliest countries for expats based on our annual Expat Insider survey results.
1. Brazil
Brazil’s locals are the friendliest towards foreigners, according to more than nine in ten expats living there (92%). Many expats find Brazilians legendary for their friendliness, with one US respondent noting that this reputation is completely justified.
In fact, 57% of expats in Brazil would possibly stay forever, drawn in by the welcoming atmosphere.
2. Costa Rica
Looking for an adventure? Many expats in Costa Rica moved to experience the excitement of living there, so a welcoming community is definitely a bonus. Around 90% of respondents agree that locals in Costa Rica are friendly towards foreigners.
Additionally, 85% are happy with their life abroad, a testament to the welcoming nature of the country.
3. Indonesia
“The people are warm and friendly, and the country has beautiful places to explore,” shares an Indian respondent in Indonesia.
It seems hardly surprising then that expats are very happy with their life in Indonesia (84%).
And with 41% planning to possibly stay there forever, it seems Indonesia has truly captured the heart of many.
4. The Philippines
Thinking of retiring but don’t know if you’ll make new friends?
The Philippines is quite welcoming, with 84% of expats agreeing that the locals are friendly. And more than half of expats in the Philippines (58%) plan on staying forever.
5. Vietnam
Vietnam is a popular destination among expats who’re relocating because they simply enjoy living abroad.
With its welcoming nature — 89% of respondents find that locals are friendly towards foreign residents — Vietnam makes an ideal country for those seeking a fresh start. Over four in five expats in Vietnam (81%) are happy with their life there.
6. Mexico
“I love the laid-back and welcoming attitude of the locals and their enjoyment of life,” a US American respondent shares.
In Mexico, 40% of expats consider staying forever, drawn in by friendly and life-loving locals, among other positives. In fact, Mexico ranks 2nd overall in the Expat Insider survey.
7. Colombia
Colombians are known for their warmth, with 86% of expats agreeing that they’re friendly. And with welcoming locals making it easy to feel at home, at least 80% of respondents in Colombia are happy with their life abroad.
As a British expat points out: “I really appreciate the genuine, honest, helpful, sincere, and good people here.”
About Shaldene Edwards
Shaldene is the Marketing and Communications Intern at InterNations. She is currently completing her studies in International Management as a bachelor's student. She likes travelling, learning about new cultures, and meeting new people.
Article topics
Related articles
Three Types of Friends You Can’t Live Without as an Expat
Moving abroad is a daunting thought, to say the least, so surrounding yourself with supportive and positive people becomes more important than ever. Here are three types of friends that are essential to making your expat journey a memorable one.
Four Things Your Local Friends Can Teach You
Stepping outside of the expat bubble can sometimes be a little tricky. But connecting with local friends is truly invaluable — not only because when it comes to friends, you can never have enough. Here are four things your local friends can teach you.
Expat Tips: Plan a Get-Together
Moving abroad, especially for professional reasons, is a big change. When you combine the lonely feeling with being homesick, you can often become overwhelmed with the whole move. Here are nine tips to help you organize a get-together to make friends and long-lasting memories.
Expat Tips: Making a House into a Home
Whether you’ve moved to an empty apartment with only paper plates to eat off of or you’ve brought everything — including the neighbor’s cat — moving to a new home can often feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, it won’t always be this way! Here are five tips for turning your new house into a home.
How to Avoid Falling into Hibernation: Winter Sports
Winter is a time of festivities and celebrations. However, sometimes — amidst all the holiday parties, food, and festive cheer — we forget to take care of ourselves. Winter sports are a great opportunity to get into shape for the summer and to help you stick to your new year’s resolutions.