Best European Countries for Expats in 2023

Europe offers incredible diversity in cultures, landscapes, and lifestyles, making it a top choice for expats from around the world. Here are the best European countries for expats in 2023:

1. Portugal

Portugal has become an expat favorite for good reason. Its combination of affordable living costs (compared to other Western European countries), excellent climate, safety, and friendly locals make it an ideal destination. The country also offers accessible residency options through the D7 visa and Golden Visa programs.

Best cities for expats: Lisbon, Porto, Algarve region

2. Spain

Spain offers a laid-back lifestyle, excellent healthcare, rich culture, and diverse regions to choose from. The non-lucrative visa provides a pathway for retirees and those with passive income, while the new digital nomad visa opens doors for remote workers.

Best cities for expats: Valencia, Barcelona, Málaga

3. Germany

For those seeking economic stability and career opportunities, Germany stands out. The country offers excellent public services, efficient infrastructure, and a high standard of living. While the cost of living is higher than southern Europe, salaries typically compensate accordingly.

Best cities for expats: Berlin, Munich, Hamburg

4. The Netherlands

The Netherlands offers an excellent quality of life with its cycling culture, efficient public services, and widespread English proficiency. The Dutch-American Friendship Treaty provides a pathway for American entrepreneurs, while the highly skilled migrant program caters to professionals.

Best cities for expats: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Utrecht

5. Estonia

Estonia has positioned itself as a digital leader in Europe, with its e-Residency program and digital nomad visa. The Baltic nation offers a high quality of life, beautiful natural landscapes, and a forward-thinking approach to governance and technology.

Best cities for expats: Tallinn, Tartu

6. Greece

Greece combines Mediterranean beauty, rich history, and increasingly expat-friendly policies. The country's Golden Visa program is one of Europe's most affordable, while the new digital nomad visa caters to remote workers. The cost of living remains reasonable compared to other EU countries.

Best places for expats: Athens, Thessaloniki, Greek Islands (Crete, Corfu)

7. Italy

Italy's unmatched cultural heritage, cuisine, and lifestyle continue to attract expats from around the world. The country offers several visa options, including an elective residency visa for those with sufficient passive income and a new digital nomad visa.

Best places for expats: Rome, Florence, Bologna, Sicily

8. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, particularly Prague, offers a high quality of life at a more affordable cost than Western European capitals. The country's central location makes it perfect for exploring Europe, while its zivno visa provides a pathway for freelancers and entrepreneurs.

Best places for expats: Prague, Brno

9. Ireland

Ireland's friendly culture, English-speaking environment, and strong economy make it attractive for expats, particularly those in tech and pharmaceutical industries. The country offers various work permit options and a startup-friendly ecosystem.

Best places for expats: Dublin, Cork, Galway

10. Malta

This small Mediterranean island nation offers year-round sunshine, English as an official language, and tax advantages for certain residents. Malta's Global Residence Programme and Nomad Residence Permit provide options for different types of expats.

Best places for expats: Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian's

Key Considerations for Choosing Your European Home

• Visa requirements - Research residency options based on your situation (retirement, work, business, etc.)
• Cost of living vs. income - Consider how your income or savings will translate to your target country
• Healthcare quality and access - European countries vary in healthcare systems
• Language barriers - Consider how comfortable you are learning a new language
• Climate preferences - Northern and Southern Europe offer vastly different weather patterns
• Tax implications - Consult with tax professionals about your specific situation

Remember that the best country for your expat journey depends on your personal preferences, professional situation, and lifestyle priorities. Many expats find that spending time as a tourist or on a reconnaissance trip before making a permanent move helps ensure the right fit.