Bangkok: Thailand has been ranked 3rd in the world as the country where foreigners most want to move to, work, and live by 2026. This ranking highlights Thailand's appeal due to factors such as low cost of living and the friendliness of its locals.
According to Thai News Agency, the InterNations website released its 2026 Expat Insider survey, which was based on the opinions of expats who have relocated to work and live in 31 countries worldwide. The survey took into account key factors such as quality of life, ease of adjustment, work opportunities, cost of living, and essential services like housing and digital connectivity. The results indicated that the friendliness of locals and an affordable cost of living were the most influential factors for expats. The top 10 countries were noted for being easy to settle into, with the top 5 excelling in personal financial management.
The survey revealed that Panama holds the top position for the third consecutive year, excelling in both working abroad and personal finance. A notable 87% of expats in Panama reported happiness, significantly above the global average of 70%, and 90% found it easy to secure accommodation. Mexico ranks second, leading in ease of settling in, with expats feeling most at home. A significant 73% of expats found it easy to make friends with locals, with the proportion of people having local friends being twice the global average.
Thailand's performance was impressive, securing the 3rd position globally and being recognized as the happiest country for expats. An impressive 86% of expats in Thailand reported satisfaction and happiness with their life abroad. The country scored highest in cost of living, with 85% giving positive feedback, which is twice the global average. Thailand also received commendations for the friendliness of its locals, though it did receive a lower score for traffic congestion issues.