A Place under the Sun: Immigration Index and the Best Countries

Immigration offers millions of people the chance to change their lives — whether in search of a better quality of life, safety, or more promising career opportunities. There are approximately 281 million international migrants in the world, making up 3.6% of the global population.

With such a wide variety of countries open to new residents, how do you choose the best place to live?

That’s what the first edition of the Immigration Index by Remitly was created for. The report ranks 82 countries based on 24 key factors affecting the comfort of life for migrants. Each country received a final score on a 100-point scale, reflecting its attractiveness for relocation.

The evaluation considered healthcare quality, economic stability, safety, digital infrastructure, and family-friendly conditions. The analysis of thousands of indicators helped identify the best countries for living abroad.

In the report available on Remitly's website, you can find:

• Best countries to move to in 2025
• Most digitally developed countries
• Countries with the best healthcare
• Countries with the most stable economies
• Most environmentally friendly countries
• Countries with the largest migrant communities
• Most family-friendly countries
• Countries with the lowest unemployment
• Countries with the highest salary potential
• Safest countries for migrants
• Happiest countries
• Countries with the best public transport
• Countries with the easiest banking access
• Countries with the highest cost of living

Top 10 Best Countries for Immigrants in 2025

1. Iceland (58.4) – One of the safest countries in the world with high happiness levels, clean environment, and easy access to banking.
2. Switzerland (55.8) – A leader in salaries, economic stability, and quality of life.
3. Luxembourg (55.7) – Free public transport, low crime, and a strong economy make it one of the best options for migrants.
4. Norway (53.7) – High living standards, a developed welfare system, and environmental care.
5. UAE (52.5) – With 88% of the population being migrants, the country is one of the most open. Low taxes and minimal unemployment attract specialists from around the world.
6. Ireland (52.4) – An economically developed, English-speaking country with high GDP per capita.
7. USA (52.2) – One of the largest job markets with wide career opportunities and advanced infrastructure.
8. Denmark (52.0) – Great work-life balance, happiness, and quality healthcare.
9. Netherlands (52.0) – A progressive country with a tolerant society and strong digital infrastructure.
10. Australia (51.7) – Excellent healthcare, comfortable climate, and low population density ensure high quality of life.

Key Immigration Trends:

• Northern Europe dominates: countries like Iceland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, and Finland offer safety, sustainability, social guarantees, and high incomes.
• UAE and Singapore are top career hubs: low taxes and a favorable business environment attract expats.
• USA, Canada, and Australia remain popular but are slipping in rankings due to high living costs.
• UK (19th place) lost attractiveness due to tighter visa policies and rising prices.

Key factors for choosing a relocation country

• Economic stability – Luxembourg, Ireland, and Switzerland lead in GDP per capita.
• Best healthcare – South Korea, Australia, and Canada offer top medical systems.
• Safety – UAE, Oman, and Armenia are the safest for migrants.
• Environment – Iceland, New Zealand, and Finland lead in cleanliness and sustainability.
• Largest migrant communities – UAE, USA, and Kuwait.
• Banking services – Easiest in Thailand, Guatemala, and South Korea.
• Best transport – Luxembourg (free), Poland, and Hungary (most affordable).
• Visa accessibility – UAE and Singapore offer the best programs for skilled workers.

United Arab Emirates – 52.5 out of 100

Closing the top five, UAE offers unique opportunities for expats worldwide. High migrant integration and public transport accessibility create comfort for newcomers.

The country's economic appeal is clear: the average annual salary is $53,290, and the job market remains stable thanks to low unemployment. Cosmopolitan cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are innovation and culture hubs that prioritize safety and urban convenience.

Despite high daycare costs and some other expenses, the country’s rapid development, vibrant lifestyle, and zero income tax make UAE a top choice for career growth and family relocation.

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