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Country revealed where expatriates say they lead the happiest life
Not all destinations offer the same quality of life to those who decide to start from scratch away from home.
According to the Expat Insider 2025 report by the InterNations platform, which analyses the experience of tens of thousands of expatriates in 43 countries, Panama tops the ranking as the place where newcomers feel most satisfied.
Ninety-four per cent of respondents say they are happy with their lives in this small country that links two oceans. Alongside the safety and hospitality of its inhabitants are economic advantages that make it a distinctive destination, especially for retirees. Its Pensionado programme grants residence to those who can prove pension income from 1,000 dollars and opens the door to discounts ranging from 20% on medicines to 50% on transport or cultural activities.
Respondents also highlight the ease of travel, natural wealth, food offering and sporting opportunities. Among the weak points, they point to limited infrastructure for drivers and digital bureaucracy, although they consider these to weigh little against the benefits.
Colombia, Mexico, Thailand and Vietnam complete the top 5, while South Korea, Turkey and Kuwait close the list because of difficulties adapting to work.
Even so, the study reminds us that no ranking replaces personal priorities. Still, Panama is consolidating itself as an example of a country where quality of life, accessibility and support programmes for foreigners go hand in hand.