Updated: February 12, 2025
With several countries across the globe offering easy pathways to relocation, there are certain nations that are considered to top the lists – based on attractive visa options, straightforward application processes, ease of integration, investment and work opportunities, and quality of life – when it comes to moving country.
As more individuals look to secure a new home in a beautiful new location, in this guide we’ll delve into 13 of the easiest countries to immigrate to for a better quality of life.
The 13 Easiest Nations to Immigrate to in 2025
From the stunning island of Malta in Southern Europe to the bustling cities of Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver in Canada, it can be difficult to know where to have your base. Below, we delve into the top 13 countries that are considered the easiest nations to immigrate to.
It’s worth bearing in mind that this list is by no means exhaustive, and there is a wide array of other countries that could provide the perfect home for you. From the Thailand Elite Residence Program to the Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment program, there are options across the globe to consider.
When choosing a foreign country to relocate to, make sure to take into account your preferences and what you’d like to get out of your move, whether it’s great job opportunities, more stability, or a better quality of life. All this will have a bearing on which foreign country would be an excellent fit or you.
1. Portugal
Portugal has seen a record number of immigrants relocate to the country in recent years, with this southern European gem now being home to more than 1,044,606 foreign residents. And a key reason why so many expats are moving to Portugal, alongside the sublime climate, welcoming locals, delectable gastronomy, and jaw-dropping landscapes and beaches, is the fact that there are a wide range of residency options on the table. To put it simply, Portugal is one of the easiest countries to immigrate to in Europe.
- The Portugal D7 Visa offers a route to residency in Portugal for those with a passive income of €820 ($844) per month, providing a two-year residency permit that can then be renewed for a further three years. After applying for the D7 Visa, you will get a temporary residence permit valid for two years, which can then be renewed for a further three years. After five years of legally living in the country, you can apply for permanent residency and Portuguese citizenship, unlocking the doors to be able to live, work, and study in any EU member state.
- Another option is the Portuguese Golden Visa, where you can secure residency in return for an investment in the country. Since its inception in 2012, the investment program has become one of the most successful and popular in the world, with a minimum investment of €250,000 ($257,552) required.
- The Portugal Digital Nomad Visa is another attractive option, allowing remote workers to move to the country provided they work for a foreign (non-Portuguese) company or are freelance and earn four times the Portuguese minimum wage (currently €3,480 ($3,585).
Portugal’s range of residency options, coupled with the fact that English is a widely spoken language (Portugal ranks 6th in the English Proficiency Index), a very safe country (ranking seventh in the 2024 Global Peace Index), and has a low cost of living are each key reasons why many expats seek out Portugal as their favored relocation spot.
Portugal has fast become one of the best countries for Americans to move to. For retirees, Portugal ranks in second position in the Intelligence Unit’s Retirement Guide for Americans by our residency and citizenship division, Global Citizen Solutions, thanks to its high quality of life, security and integration, and economics, second only to Spain.
You can find out more in our article on What are the Best Countries for American Expats and Retirees.
2. Malta
Those looking to secure residency in a charming island nation in Europe, where the sun is usually shining (more than 300 days a year you’ll find sunkissed skies) and where you can enjoy a high quality of life abroad may choose Malta.
The Malta Citizenship with Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment program allows applicants to secure citizenship within as little as 12 or 26 months, depending on the chosen pathway, provided they make a significant property investment, government contribution, and philanthropic donation.
The Malta Residency by Investment Program program also offers a fast-track route to permanent residency in exchange for an investment into property, a non-refundable government contribution, and a donation.
Strategically located in Europe, Malta provides a top base for businesses, investors, and families, looking for a beautiful country to immigrate to. English is an official language, and you’ll find the Maltese culture to have one of the richest histories in the world, with the first inhabitants gracing the islands around 5900 BC.
3. Spain
Go where you’re welcomed! And, if that’s the case, then Spain is certainly a top contender. There are many different residency options – Spain is perhaps the easiest country to migrate to in Europe, alongside Portugal – with the Spain Non-Lucrative Visa being one of the best residency programs the country offers. This visa provides a pathway to residency for foreign nationals, provided they have a monthly income of at least €2,400 ($2,473). The residency permit can be renewed, and holders are eligible to apply for permanent residency after five years.
A country dripping in culture and heritage, Spain has a wide range of locations and cities, with something for everyone. The major cities of Barcelona and Madrid are well known across the globe. With a top cuisine, bustling cities, and where it is easy to get wrapped up in the dynamic beating heart of the country, Spain is an option worth exploring. The cost of living is also a winning factor, alongside the beautiful climate and laid-back vibe.
4. Greece
There is a running theme, with southern Europe being one of the top parts of the world for expats and investors to opt for.
Greece is no different, offering a range of options to get residency including the Greece Golden Visa program.
The requirements are a €250,000 ($257,552) property investment and, in return, you’ll be able to get a residence permit that can then be renewed.
The country’s tax system makes Greece even more attractive, with Golden Visa holders paying a flat annual fee instead of global income tax.
The low cost of living in Greece, alongside the country’s sublime climate, makes it one of the top options for expats looking to retire in style.
5. Cyprus
Cyprus has favorable immigration routes, making it relatively easy for foreign nationals to relocate here.
The Cyprus Golden Visa provides a route for investors to get permanent residency in return for a minimum investment of €300,000 ($309,063).
The short processing times is appealing to investors, while the country’s relaxed lifestyle and countless sunny days mean relocating here a pleasure from day one.
Cyrpus has another arrow in its quiver.
The tax system is attractive, with there being no gift-inheritance, or capital gains on foreign assets and a low corporate tax rate of just 12.5 percent.
6. Italy
On the hunt for la dolce vita? Italy offers an unparalleled good life, with arguably the best cuisine in the world and a rich history.
The Italy Golden Visa and Italy Digital Nomad Visa are attractive options. The Golden Visa requires a minimum investment of €250,000 ($257,552), and in return, you’ll score a residency permit, which, after five years, you can swap for permanent residency.
On the other hand, the Digital Nomad Visa is perfect for remote workers working for non-Italian companies, with a minimum income requirement of €2,066 ($2,128) per month required to make the most of the residency scheme, alongside proof of continued employment and sufficient funds to support yourself.
When it comes to the easiest countries to move to from USA, Italy is a top contender in Europe, alongside Spain and Portugal. If you’re an American looking to relocate across the pond, then these three countries could be good places to begin your search.
Greece, Malta and, Cyprus are also attractive options for those seeking a rich island lifestyle in Europe. These are also amongst the easiest countries for Americans to move to.
7. Canada
Taking a break from Southern European countries and Canada is a top option, particularly for Americans, given the similarities in the culture, the language, and close proximity.
Canada offers immigration programs for entrepreneurs and skilled works that include the Provinical Nominee Program and the Canada Statup Visa.
The Provincial Nominee Program is best placed for entrepreneurs, investors, and workers, and offers permanent residency, while the Startup Visa provides foreign entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas. The political stability in the country, alongside its strong economy, makes Canada an appealing country to relocate to.
8. St Lucia
If you are looking for unrivaled island life, then St Lucia may be just the ticket! St Lucia is a stunning island in the Eastern Caribbean full of luxury resorts, rich ecology, and reef diving.
St Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment program has become one of the most popular in the world. Applicants have the opportunity to invest in property, contribute to the National Development Fund, or invest in a government-approved business, with the minimum investment required being $240,000 (around €232,962).
One of the perks of the Citizenship by Investment program is the quick processing time, with the entire process often taking around ten months to complete. Successful applicants will be able to enjoy no tax on worldwide income, a peaceful environment, low crime rates, and outrageous natural beauty.
9. St Kitts and Nevis
Another Caribbean country that should be on your shortlist is St Kitts and Nevis, home to lush rainforests, a beautiful shoreline, and majestic mountains.
With one of the easiest citizenship-by-investment programs and short processing times of four to six months, and with a required minimum investment of $250,000 (€242,751) in the Sustainable Growth Fund, the St Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment program has become a top option for investors. The other popular option is to invest $325,000 (€376,933) in real estate.
St Kitts and Nevis offers a plethora of advantages, such as visa-free travel to 160 countries, which extends to the UK and the EU. This island nation also has significant tax benefits, such as no personal income, inheritance taxes, or capital gains, making it a top country to consider for second citizenship. The political stability, warm climate, and welcoming locals add another layer to the country’s appeal.
10. Antigua and Barbuda
Known for its splendid beaches, dreamy resorts, and lush rainforests, Antigua and Barbuda is a top choice for many expats seeking a high quality of life amidst a postcard-worthy setting.
The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program provides a route for individuals and their families to acquire citizenship in return for an investment of $230,000 (€223,187), typically in the form of a donation to the National Development Fund or through an investment of $300,000 (€291,114) in real estate or a business.
These picturesque islands are a great option as the entire immigration process takes as little as four to six months, and the only residency requirement is a short five-day stay within the first five years. The Antigua and Barbuda passport grants access to 148 countries and tax benefits, which include no wealth tax, gift tax, inheritance tax, and capital gains tax.
11. Dominica
Wrapping up the last Caribbean island nation on our list is Dominica. The Dominica Citizenship by Investment scheme is a popular one, requiring just a $200,000 (€194,075) contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund or a real estate purchase also with at least $200,000 (€194,075). As is the case with Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica’s processing time is short, taking just six to nine months for completion. Dominica also has no residency requirements.
With beautiful natural landscapes across the island and a focus on eco-tourism and working with nature to create a better quality of life, sustainability is at the forefront of life in Dominica. The attractive tax scheme, with no taxes on worldwide income and no inheritance tax, alongside no capital gains, makes is a very attractive destination.
Processing takes six to nine months, and no residency requirements exist. Citizens enjoy visa-free travel to over 145 countries, including the Schengen Area and the UK.
12. Turkey
Turkey is the melting pot of Western and Eastern cultures, with a beautiful Mediterranean climate, spectacular scenery, and a high quality of life. The range of landscapes, delicious cuisine, and rich history have made the country a popular destination for expats and foreign investors.
The Turkey Citizenship by Investment program provides a simple pathway to Turkish citizenship, with a minimum investment of $400,000 (around €388,150) required for real estate. Other options include making a bank deposit, capital investment, government bonds, and investment fund share – each of which requires an investment of $500,000 (around €485,194) or creating full-time employment for at least 50 people.
13. Brazil
Brazil, home to the largest economy in South America, is a firm favorite with tourists and expats looking for an easy-going and relaxed pace of life. It’s possible to secure permanent residency in Brazil with an investment of $100,000 (€97,038) in a Brazilian company or $200,000 (€194,075) in real estate (or $140,000 (€135,854) if investing in real estate in the northern or northeastern regions).
Not only is Brazil a powerhouse in South America, but you’ll be able to enjoy a colorful new life, with 8.5 million square meters of beaches, jungle, and vibrant communities just waiting to be explored. Cities like São Paolo and Rio de Janeiro are acclaimed across the globe. After just four years of permanent residency you’ll also be able to secure Brazilian citizenship – one of the fastest countries to secure citizenship in the world.
What makes a country easy to immigrate to?
So, what is the easiest country to move to? Below, we provide key factors that influence the ease of relocation for expats across the world.
Visa types
What’s the easiest country to immigrate to? Well, this largely depends on the country’s policies and how favorable they are for expats. A country’s visa policies and visa requirements play a significant role in determining how easy that country is to relocate to. Whether a country has a work visa, family reunification visa, startup visa, or digital nomad visa, can each be an easy route to secure residency in a country.
Accessibility
Getting a specific visa type can be harder or easier, depending on accessibility components. For example, a country may have a quota system that sets a numerical limit or restricts the maximum number of immigrants who can move to the country.
Application process
Countries that have quick and streamlined application processes and clear guidelines also make it much easier for expats looking to relocate – for example, St Lucia and Antigua and Barbuda both have quick processing times and have become incredibly popular as a result of this.
Permanent residence or citizenship
Many countries that we’ve listed above also have pretty straightforward routes to obtain permanent residency and even citizenship, making it possible to protect your future by having two passports. This can be a big incentive for expats and investors to choose one country over another. Having a Plan B in this day and age – having two passports – is increasingly important to many expats and investors.
Job opportunities and economic stability
Many foreigners move abroad to further their careers or for job opportunities. Even if a country offers a work visa, without a strong job market or employment opportunities, expats and skilled workers may face obstacles in securing relevant employment or the local job market that aligns with their background, career goals, and qualifications.
Increasingly, more countries are offering digital nomad visas to cater to remote workers, which allows individuals greater flexibility and global mobility, Digital nomads can enjoy a better work life balance. These days it is increasingly possible to work from anywhere in the world, provided you have stable Wi-Fi.
Quality of life and cultural integration
Many expats choose to relocate in search of a better quality of life, which can include more affordable healthcare, medical services, and education options, a more relaxed lifestyle, or to explore a new culture. The ease of adapting to a new country is another key element in why some countries are more popular amongst foreign nationals than others.
Goldcrest: How We Can Help You
Do you have your heart set on Portugal and are looking to kickstart your property-buying journey? Unsure which location in the country is right for you? From the glamour and natural beauty of the Algarve to the bustling cities of Lisbon and Porto, the opportunities are endless. If you’d like to discuss which part of the country could be just the ticket for you, feel free to get in touch with us today.
If you’re still considering which country could be the right fit for you and where it would be possible to secure residency easily, our residency and citizenship division, Global Citizen Solutions, would be more than happy to assist you. You can contact them today.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Easy Countries to Immigrate to
Which country is easiest to immigrate to?
Portugal is renowned for its accessible immigration pathways, including the D7 Visa for retirees and passive income earners, and the Golden Visa for investors. Its welcoming culture and high quality of life make it an attractive destination.
What is the nicest country to immigrate to?
Many find Portugal appealing due to its pleasant climate, safety – Portugal is the seventh safest country in the 2024 Global Peace Index- and friendly locals. Its diverse visa options and high quality of life contribute to its reputation as a desirable place to settle.
What is the easiest country to immigrate from to the US?
The U.S. Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (Green Card Lottery) offers a pathway for individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the U.S. Eligibility varies annually based on U.S. immigration statistics.
What country can I move to without a job?
Spain’s Non-Lucrative Visa allows individuals to reside without employment, provided they have sufficient financial means to support themselves. This makes Spain an attractive option for retirees and those with independent incomes. Portugal’s D7 Visa and Golden Visa are also attractive options, whereby you will need to have passive income or make a minimum investment into Portugal’s economy, respectively.
Where is it hardest to immigrate to?
Countries like Japan and Switzerland are known for stringent immigration policies, making relocation challenging due to strict requirements in obtaining residency and limited visa options.
What country accepts the most immigrants?
The United States hosts the largest number of immigrants globally, with over 50 million foreign-born residents, reflecting its long history as a destination for migrants.
What are the easiest countries to immigrate to for families?
Canada, New Zealand, Portugal, and Spain offer family-friendly immigration programs, quality education, and high living standards, making them popular choices for families seeking to relocate. For example, the Portugal D6 (family visa) allows family members of foreign nationals living in Portugal to join them in the country.