The Best European Countries to Live in

The world’s largest immigration society, InterNations, has published a ranking of the best countries for living. As part of Expat Insider’s 2024 report, 12,500 citizens of 174 countries were interviewed and were asked to rate countries based on various criteria – from making friends to climatic conditions. According to the answers of the respondents, the ranking of the best and worst countries in Europe for living abroad was published.

Interestingly, only one European country reached the top ten of the global ranking. Spain, which occupies the fourth position on the list, was positively assessed by 84% of immigrants (68% globally). The country is the best choice for those who pay attention to climate, healthcare, and cost of living. For the third year in a row, Spain ranks first in the “Quality of Life Index” and is in the leading position among the best locations for vacations. The majority of immigrants positively evaluate the quality of medical care and the availability of services in the country, although Spain is only in 27th place among the best countries to work.

Compared to last year, Belgium moved up 20 positions and moved to 18th place. The country is particularly popular among expats because of its work-life balance. Career development opportunities and job security in Belgium were also positively evaluated. In the Quality of Life Index, Belgium moved from the 35th to 18th position.

According to the InterNations survey, Turkey turned out to be the worst country to work abroad. In the general ranking of the best countries for living abroad, Turkey occupies the 52nd position. It is interesting that according to almost a third of the respondents, moving to Turkey did not have a positive impact on their career development, on the contrary, they talk about a negative impact. As for the “quality of life index”, in this case, Turkey occupies the 42nd position. Residents positively evaluate the environment, climate, and health care.

As for the general ranking of the best countries for living abroad, in this case, Panama takes the first place, followed by Mexico and Indonesia. In the case of Panama, foreign residents are particularly satisfied with their financial situation. In Mexico, 89% of respondents say they are happy with life, and in Indonesia, this figure is 84%. The global top ten are Panama, Mexico, Indonesia, Spain, Colombia, Thailand, Brazil, Vietnam, the Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates.

In the case of Europe, according to InterNations report, the top ten are distributed as follows:

Spain
Portugal
Belgium
Luxembourg
Austria
Denmark
Netherlands
Greece
Poland
Switzerland

Business Implications for Poland

Economic and regulatory developments in Poland have broad implications for businesses operating in the country. Poland’s economy, the largest in Central and Eastern Europe, continues to attract international investors and entrepreneurs seeking EU market access, competitive costs, and a skilled workforce of over 17 million workers.

For foreign companies and entrepreneurs doing business in Poland, staying informed about economic trends, regulatory changes, and market dynamics is essential for strategic decision-making. Whether you are considering entering the Polish market, expanding existing operations, or optimizing your corporate structure, professional advisory support can help navigate the complexities of the Polish business environment.

Poland offers a comprehensive business infrastructure including special economic zones with tax incentives, a well-developed banking system, modern office space in major cities, and a legal framework aligned with EU standards. These factors, combined with Poland’s strategic geographic position between Western and Eastern Europe, make it an attractive hub for businesses targeting the broader European market.

If you are doing business in Poland or considering entering the Polish market, Zalewski Consulting can help. Learn more about our corporate tax advisory, or contact us for a free consultation.