Where Are German Emigrants Most Welcome? The 2025 Country Guide

Where do German emigrants actually feel welcome?

In 2024, more than 1.26 million Germans and Germany-based residents left the country (Federal Statistical Office). Many head for neighbouring countries like Switzerland and Austria, but overseas destinations from Panama to Thailand to Mexico are equally popular.

The "where am I welcome?" question is deeply individual. For one person it is quality of life; for another, climate, career prospects, or tax efficiency. What every emigrant shares is the wish to find connection quickly — new friends, friendly locals, the sense of actually arriving. Social ties in the new country are the biggest perceived obstacle for many. But in which countries does that connection actually come easier?

Over the past eleven years we have walked more than 40,000 people through the move out of Germany and learned a lot about which countries our customers prefer and where they settle in fastest. This guide combines our day-to-day experience with the data from the Expat Insider 2025 study by InterNations, in which more than 10,000 expats from 172 nationalities living in 174 countries participated. The result: a ranking of 46 destinations that covers every aspect of expat life — from settling in to career outlook.

At a glance

• German emigrants are welcome in many countries, but particularly in Panama, Colombia, Mexico, Thailand, and Vietnam (Top 5 in the Expat Insider ranking 2025).
• Other countries in the Top 10: China, UAE, Indonesia, Spain.
• In Europe, Switzerland (29th) and Austria (23rd) are popular targets thanks to the low language barrier, but they score below average on settling in. European leader: Spain (9th).
• In North America, the US lands 36th and Canada 40th — both popular targets but weak on quality of life and finances.
• Latin America dominates the 2025 ranking — the top 3 worldwide are all in this region.
• Practical tip: the country alone does not decide your happiness — your preparation does. Get to know the language, culture, bureaucracy, and local contact points before you go.

Planning your move? Download our free leaving Germany checklist — it makes sure you do not forget anything.

Related reading: General numbers and facts about emigrating from Germany, the most popular destinations, and the most common reasons are in our guide Emigrating from Germany.

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The most hospitable countries in Europe

Many Germans move to a neighbouring country. Switzerland and Austria are the most popular destinations for Germans in 2024 — the low language barrier and the familiar cultural orbit are the main reasons. But do these countries also rank as the most emigrant-friendly in Europe? Which other European countries score well in the current Expat Insider ranking? An overview.

#29 Switzerland — high quality of life is not enough on its own

Emigrants who started a new life in Switzerland discover that high quality of life alone is not enough to feel at home abroad. After ranking 23rd in 2023, Switzerland fell to 34th in 2024 and recovered slightly to 29th of 46 in 2025.

Switzerland enjoys an excellent reputation among expats for quality of life (11th), stable infrastructure, and stunning landscape. But it is not enough to settle in. On the settling-in dimension, Switzerland is 39th — among the worst for the third time in a row.

Only some of the respondents experience the local population as open to newcomers. More than half report that their social contacts happen almost exclusively within the expat community. The cost of living is another major topic: 62 percent rate the cost negatively, well above the global average. That said, 74 percent feel that their income is enough for a good life.

The Swiss job market scores on high salaries and good work-life balance, but lags on workplace culture and career advancement. Germans benefit linguistically from High German — Swiss German dialects in everyday life remain a hurdle for many.

"The local dialect is hard to understand even with good German. It makes it harder for expats to integrate into the local community." — Irish expat in Basel

#23 Austria — better than Switzerland on settling in

Austria sits at 23rd, ahead of Switzerland, with outstanding quality of life (4th) and good work conditions (15th). Since the ranking started in 2014, Austria has continuously been among the top ten countries for quality of life. Expats appreciate the urban and natural environment — almost everyone (97 percent) rates nature and landscape positively (globally: 83 percent).

But the country is again among the bottom feeders on settling in (41st). Many expats experience the population as not particularly open, which makes arrival harder. Once again: language alone is not enough for actual integration. Still: 69 percent of respondents are satisfied with their life in Austria — housing quality, the health system, and safety all convince, even when social connection is hard work.

"Austria offers affordable cultural activities, quiet and safe cities, plus cheap and excellent public transport." — US expat in Baden near Vienna

#9 Spain — Europe's leader

Spain has been in the Top 10 since 2022 and ranks first on quality of life for the fourth year in a row. The warm population, the Mediterranean climate, and the relaxed lifestyle convince. On settling in (13th) and personal finances (11th) the country scores well too. 84 percent of expats are satisfied with their life (globally: 67 percent).

Three quarters of expats feel both at home (75 percent vs 58 percent globally) and welcome in the country (75 percent vs 62 percent). 41 percent plan to stay forever (globally: 24 percent). Career options are average, but that is rarely the main reason for the move — one in five names better quality of life as the main motivation.

Practical for Germans: Spain is an EU member, the residence change is bureaucratically simple. Retirees benefit from the favourable double-taxation treaty. Younger emigrants tend to go to Barcelona, Madrid, or the Costa del Sol — established German-speaking communities ease the start without making integration into local society optional.

Other European countries in comparison

Beyond the three big ones (Switzerland, Austria, Spain), other European countries are popular with German emigrants:

• Cyprus (14th): Strong sense of community, easy social entry, Mediterranean climate, and low cost of living make this island attractive — especially for self-employed people who benefit from the tax system.
• Portugal (17th): High quality of life (8th) and good climate attract many emigrants. The job market is weaker (36th), and rental prices in Lisbon and Porto have climbed significantly in recent years. The NHR tax scheme was sharply restricted at the end of 2023.
• Luxembourg (18th): Excellent salaries, high safety, political stability — but housing costs are among the highest in Europe. Popular with finance and EU professionals.
• Czech Republic (21st): Efficient infrastructure, good work-life balance, low cost of living. Prague has been an insider tip for young Germans in IT and creative sectors for years.
• Netherlands (22nd): Excellent work environment and digital infrastructure, many English-speaking jobs in Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Harder to settle in — the Dutch are friendly but reserved when it comes to friendships.
• Denmark (25th): Excellent work conditions, high safety, top social system. The culture is considered closed; new friendships take time.
• France (27th): Very good quality of life, especially in the regions. Bureaucracy and language are challenging; without French, everyday life is tough.
• Germany (42nd): In its own ranking only 42nd of 46 — a clear signal of why so many want to leave.

Related reading: Planning to emigrate with children? Read our relocating with kids guide.

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Hospitable countries in North America

North America with the US and Canada is a long-standing emigration target for Germans. Canada offers vast wilderness, forests, and stunning untouched nature. Beyond the landscapes, it has international cities with diverse populations and a stable economy. Toronto, Vancouver, and Ottawa attract emigrants with low unemployment and strong job opportunities.

The US is also a popular emigration country. Many Germans value the US for career opportunities and the chance to realise their personal American dream. In the Expat Insider 2025 ranking, however, both countries score below average.

#36 United States — popular but middling

In the statistics of most popular German emigration targets, the US ranks third (Destatis). The United States has been a top destination for over 20 years. In 2024, more than 26,700 people moved from Germany to the US.

Still, the US lands at 36th of 46 in the Expat Insider 2025 ranking. Particularly negatively rated:

• Quality of life, healthcare, personal finances — high cost of living and a practically unaffordable health system are sharply criticised.
• Work-life balance — rated poor, even though income is solid and career options good.
• Visa and housing cost — bureaucracy and the rental market drag down the perception.

Positive: the US scores on digitalisation and administration. Overall expats feel moderately welcome, but not truly at home. Anyone moving to the US should start the visa process very early — the Green Card lottery, work, or investor visas often need years of lead time.

"The US is a polarised destination. Career options can be outstanding, but the missing social safety net catches many of our customers off guard — especially when illness hits." — Oliver Frankfurth, founder of deregistration.de

#40 Canada — an alternative to the US?

From 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024, over 464,000 people moved to Canada. Officially 2,004 Germans in 2024. The number of international immigrants is at its highest level in more than 20 years — Canada is a classic immigration country: 21.5 percent of the population is foreign-born.

German Canadians are today the third-largest ethnic group in Canada; many families have been there for generations. The two official languages — French and English — draw people from the UK, Ireland, and France as well.

After a year off the list, Canada returned in 2025 — with a disappointing result: 40th of 46. Particularly weak:

• Personal finances (46th) — high cost of living, especially in Vancouver and Toronto.
• Quality of life (35th) — expats complain about difficult access to good healthcare and mediocre leisure options.
• Working abroad (34th) — salary, security, and work-life balance rated weakly.

Canada scores on digital administration and administrative topics generally. But high housing cost and difficult settling-in lead to low overall satisfaction. For classic emigrants with family ties in the German-Canadian community, it remains an interesting destination — otherwise it pays to look at the US or Latin America.

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Hospitable countries in Central and South America

Latin American countries take the top three slots in the 2025 Expat Insider ranking. We see the same pattern in our customer base: more deregistrations are heading to Central and South America. What sets the region apart: the population is rated as exceptionally open and warm, value-for-money is excellent, and the climate is a bonus for many emigrants.

"Since 2014 I have seen a clear trend: Latin America has displaced Europe as the dream destination for many of our customers. Five years ago, 80 percent of deregistrations went to Europe; today it is more balanced. Panama, Mexico, and Colombia are now in our top 10 destination countries." — Oliver Frankfurth

#1 Panama — best country for emigrants two years running

Panama was named the best country for emigrants in both 2024 and 2025. The majority of respondents moved to Panama for financial reasons — either for retirement or for better quality of life. 82 percent are satisfied with their life there (globally: 68 percent).

88 percent of expats experience the population as friendly toward foreigners; 55 percent have a mixed friend circle; 35 percent plan to stay forever. Financial figures convince too:

• 78 percent are satisfied with their financial situation (globally: 54 percent)
• 90 percent find housing without trouble
• 97 percent feel safe
• Rental costs in Panama City are 40–60 percent below US levels

Panama is particularly attractive for retirees (18 percent of expats) thanks to the Pensionado Visa and for digital nomads (34 percent work fully remote). The Friendly Nations Visa simplifies residency for citizens of 50 countries, Germany included. The US dollar as the official currency eases international business.

#2 Colombia — one of the best countries for expats

Colombia ranks 2nd and scores particularly well on finances (2nd, second year running) and on social settling-in (3rd). About 81 percent of expats are satisfied with their finances, 79 percent feel welcome, and 88 percent perceive Colombians as friendly to foreigners. Particularly strong: the personal support network (1st worldwide).

"I love Colombia's diverse landscapes, culture, and biodiversity — and the hospitable population." — British expat in the Sierra Nevada

Medellín is now considered one of the most popular digital-nomad destinations worldwide. Rental costs for a modern 2-bedroom apartment in a central location start at EUR 500/month; restaurant visits cost a fraction of German prices. Learning Spanish opens the door to local circles fast.

Security remains the issue (39th). Two in five expats consider the political situation unstable. Anyone who can accept that and stays in safer neighbourhoods finds one of the most welcoming and affordable countries worldwide.

#3 Mexico — settling in is easiest

Since the first Expat Insider survey in 2014, Mexico has consistently scored well on settling in, and in 2025 it lands #1 in the "Ease of Settling In" index. The numbers are striking:

• 88 percent of expats feel welcome (globally: 62 percent)
• 79 percent feel at home
• 70 percent say it is easy to make local friends (globally: 41 percent)
• 85 percent say their income is enough for a comfortable life

On top of that, good value-for-money and a growing expat community in Mexico City, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta, and Mérida. Beach and tropical climate lovers find more than 9,000 kilometres of coastline along the Pacific and Caribbean. Mexico City scores on culture, food, and a surprisingly pleasant high-altitude climate.

Personal safety (39th) and air quality (39th) remain a concern. But the open society and warm climate outweigh those for most. The Temporary Resident Visa is achievable with modest income proof (~USD 3,000/month for 6 months).

#15 Brazil — friendly locals vs security concerns

Brazil scores on warm reception (6th on settling in) and solid value-for-money (10th on finances). Friendliness of locals (5th), easy cultural integration (5th), and ease of making friends (9th) make the country particularly welcoming.

Major safety concerns (42nd) and weak quality of life (36th) cloud the picture. In São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, neighbourhood-specific safety rules are mandatory — Belo Horizonte and Florianópolis are considered much more relaxed alternatives by expats. Still: 28 percent of expats plan to stay forever — the Brazilian lifestyle pulls people in deep.

Insider tip: Paraguay

Paraguay rarely appears in official rankings but comes up regularly in our consultations. The appeal: comparatively simple residency law, low cost of living, a German immigration history with established communities. What really lies behind it — and which trip-wires emigrants hit in 2025 — is covered in Oliver's deep-dive:

The video is in German — turn on YouTube's auto-translated English subtitles (CC button → settings).

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Hospitable countries in Asia

In 2024, over 15,900 Germans emigrated to an Asian country. Particularly popular: Thailand, Vietnam, China, the UAE, and Indonesia. We see this trend in our deregistrations too: Asia has been growing in popularity for years — especially with retirees on tighter budgets and digital nomads looking for an affordable lifestyle destination.

#4 Thailand — overall very satisfied expats

Low cost of living, good climate, relaxed lifestyle — Thailand is particularly popular with retirees. Just over 2,300 Germans officially moved there last year. On personal finances the country ranks 5th: modest starting capital is enough for a comfortable life.

Settling in is easy too (9th), and housing convinces with a wide range of affordable real estate — from city apartments in Bangkok to beach bungalows on Koh Samui. On overall happiness, Thailand even ranks 2nd of 46 countries.

Challenges: environment and climate (40th, especially Bangkok and Chiang Mai air quality in dry season) and security (36th, with politically unstable regions). For longer stays, retirees need the Retirement Visa (50+ years, income or asset proof), which enables a long-term residence.

Related reading: Planning to retire abroad? Read leaving Germany in retirement.

#5 Vietnam — best country for expat finances five years running

Vietnam has held the #1 spot on personal finances for five years straight. The low cost of living is the main driver: a meal at a local restaurant costs EUR 1 to EUR 3; a modern apartment in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City costs USD 300–600/month.

Career prospects (11th), job security, and work-life balance all convince — especially in the growing tech and tourism sectors. Settling in is easy (12th) because people are perceived as friendly and it is easy to make contacts. On overall happiness, Vietnam reaches 8th of 46 countries.

Weaknesses: quality of life (34th) and administrative/digital infrastructure (31st). Anyone coming from Germany has to expect slower bureaucracy — but the lifestyle compensates.

#6 China — high quality of life and good career options

China scores on quality of life (6th), attractive career options (9th), and the best transport links worldwide (1st). Low cost of living (4th on finances) and diverse leisure options (5th) contribute to the positive overall picture.

Settling in is mid-table (15th), while language barriers and digital infrastructure (38th) remain challenges. Anyone arriving without Mandarin needs patience in business and daily life. WeChat as an all-in-one app is mandatory — Western services (Google, WhatsApp, Instagram) are blocked.

Popular cities for Germans: Shanghai (international, easy entry), Beijing (politics, culture), Shenzhen (tech hub). For residency, emigrants need a Z visa (work) or a D visa (Permanent Residence).

#7 United Arab Emirates — high quality of life

The UAE is one of the most popular emigration destinations in Asia, with about 2,674 German emigrants. Dubai is considered a cosmopolitan metropolis with tax advantages — the UAE levies no personal income tax. The government actively encourages immigration via the Golden Visa programme.

The UAE offers one of the highest qualities of life worldwide (2nd) and ranks 1st again on the Expat Essentials index:

• 79 percent say it is easy to get a visa
• 82 percent get by without the local language — English is enough across daily life
• Digital administration ranks among the best in the world

That said, 40 percent of expats feel their income is not enough — the perceived standard of living is expensive. And the workweek is 46.2 hours, above average. High-skilled professionals and self-employed people benefit most; for families with middle incomes, Dubai gets expensive fast.

#8 Indonesia — best work-life balance

Indonesia has the friendliest population in the entire ranking (1st). The tropical climate, low cost of living, and short working hours make the world's largest archipelago attractive. Bali has been the hotspot for digital nomads for years — Ubud, Canggu, and Seminyak have developed into coworking hubs with international communities.

You have to make compromises on quality of life (40th) and digital infrastructure. Outside the tourist zones, daily life gets noticeably more rural. The B211A visa is valid for 60 days and renewable; the KITAS residence visa suits longer stays. Since 2024, the digital-nomad visa (E33G) has been available, enabling a 5-year stay without local tax liability — provided the income is generated outside Indonesia.

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Hospitable countries in Africa

Even though Africa is not on most emigration shortlists, almost 4,700 Germans found a new home there last year. Low cost of living, plenty of sun, untouched nature, and in many cases uncomplicated immigration rules are the main drivers. African countries often score lower in global rankings because infrastructure and security weigh heavily — but on social settling-in and lifestyle they often rank at the top.

#16 Kenya — satisfied expats with security concerns

In Kenya it is particularly easy to make new friends (5th) and meet locals (9th). The authentic warmth and hospitality of Kenyans is a trademark of the country. On settling in, Kenya scores considerably better than many European top economies.

Nairobi is now considered an important East African tech hub — coworking spaces and a growing international community make the entry easier than many expect. However: major security concerns (45th) and weak infrastructure (46th on travel and transit) drag down the overall score. Anyone who lives in protected neighbourhoods and assesses the national security situation realistically can build a fulfilling life here — families with children should review the school market carefully (international schools are pricey).

#35 South Africa — security is the biggest concern

South Africa convinces with nature, climate, and good healthcare (each 16th). The cost of living is 20–30 percent below Germany, although Cape Town is considerably more expensive than Johannesburg. In 2024, 640 Germans emigrated to South Africa.

Security problems are acute — on personal and political security the country still ranks last. Crime rates in larger cities demand caution in daily life: gated communities, no cash in public, no late walks. Still: those who can accept that find an English-speaking society, stunning landscapes, and a considerably warmer climate than at home. The Retired Persons Visa and the Critical Skills Visa are popular routes for German emigrants.

Tanzania — the safer alternative

Tanzania did not make this year's InterNations ranking but is still a very attractive country. It is very peaceful by global standards, ranking 65 of 163 in the Global Peace Index 2024 — far ahead of South Africa (127th).

Tanzania sits near the equator on the Indian Ocean and is about three times the size of Germany, with only around 60 million inhabitants. Over a hundred different languages are spoken in the country; Swahili and English are used between locals and foreigners. Emigrants to Tanzania can look forward to a 1,400-kilometre coastline and tropical climate — the islands of Zanzibar and Mafia add a Caribbean feel.

For prospective emigrants, it is easy to apply for a 90-day tourist visa and form a first impression. The government's visa site (eservices.immigration.go.tz) lets you apply for an e-visa in a few steps. Processing takes up to 10 days; you need a passport valid for at least 6 more months and pay EUR 50. For longer stays there are Residence Permits with investment or employment proof.

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Hospitable countries in Oceania

Australia and New Zealand are popular dream destinations that combine unbelievable nature with a Western lifestyle similar to the German one. Both countries have strict immigration policies — preparation is essential.

#19 Australia — a popular European destination

In 2024, around 2,900 Germans made the leap Down Under. Australia scores on working abroad (10th), particularly on work-life balance (4th) and workplace culture (7th). Quality of life (15th) is solid too — thanks to climate, safety, and leisure options.

High cost of living is a real burden. Sydney and Melbourne are among the most expensive cities in the world; rents in central districts are comparable to or above German capital levels. The housing market is tight, with many properties sold via auctions.

Australia is very restrictive on visas. As a German you should aim for a Skilled Worker Visa or a work visa (TSS-482). There is a major skills shortage, so your chances are good if you bring the requested qualifications — especially in nursing, construction, IT, and teaching. For young emigrants, the Work and Holiday Visa (462) is available up to age 35, enabling a first year without permanent commitment.

New Zealand — a popular target with strict immigration

New Zealand did not make the 2024 or 2025 ranking. In its last assessment (2023) it was 45th of 53, especially because of extreme cost of living (last place on personal finances). Immigration is stricter than in Australia: excellent English and one of the sought-after qualifications are required.

In 2024, about 840 Germans emigrated to New Zealand. The landscape is breath-taking — mountain ranges, fjords, volcanic regions, and endless coastlines. Auckland and Wellington offer international communities; rural regions often have tight-knit neighbourhood structures. Anyone making the move should plan two to three years of preparation — visa, job search, and housing search take patience and lead time.

Popular destinations within Australia and New Zealand:

• Melbourne (AU) — culturally diverse, the best cafés in Australia, good public transport
• Sydney (AU) — economic centre, harbour location, very expensive
• Brisbane (AU) — pleasant climate, growing tech scene, cheaper than Sydney / Melbourne
• Perth (AU) — west coast, high quality of life, mining economy
• Auckland (NZ) — largest city in New Zealand, multicultural, high housing costs
• Wellington (NZ) — capital with tech and film industry (Weta Workshop), creative scene

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How is the Expat Insider ranking built?

The ranking comes from InterNations — the largest community for emigrants and expats worldwide, with over 5 million members. The annual study surveys members online on every relevant aspect of life abroad. For 2025, 10,085 people from 172 countries participated, living in 174 countries and territories.

Five core indices with 56 detail factors were assessed:

1. Quality of Life — climate, safety, health, leisure, transport, digital infrastructure.
2. Ease of Settling In — friendliness of locals, finding connection, cultural integration.
3. Working Abroad — career opportunities, work-life balance, salary, workplace security.
4. Personal Finance — ratio of income to cost of living, financial satisfaction.
5. Expat Essentials — housing, language, digital + administrative bureaucracy, visa.

For the final 2025 ranking, 46 countries / territories qualified — those with at least 50 expat responses. Countries with fewer responses dropped out, such as New Zealand, which is therefore only referenced from the 2023 survey.

The results reflect the perception of expats, not objective quality-of-life indices. When you read "country X is 36th", it means: that is how expats experience it — not necessarily how the country fares on economic or democratic measures.

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Trends: what changed in 2025?

Compared to the 2024 ranking, clear movements show up:

• Latin America still dominates — Panama stays at 1, Colombia and Mexico hold 2 and 3. Five years ago these countries were barely in the Top 15.
• Vietnam ranks first on personal finances for the fifth year running — the combination of low cost and solid career options makes it an insider tip.
• German-speaking neighbours keep losing points: Switzerland and Austria slide into the bottom for settling in. People who move only for the language underestimate the cultural distance.
• Spain leads Europe. Despite rising rents in Madrid, Barcelona, and Mallorca, the country remains first on quality of life for the fourth year running.
• Canada drops surprisingly — high housing costs and a weakening health system tarnish the image of the classic immigration country.
• New Zealand missed the ranking again in 2025 (too few participants for valid statements). The German reality there: a solid standard of living, high costs, strict visa rules.
• Tanzania is increasingly discussed in expat circles as a safer alternative to South Africa — politically more stable, much better in the 2024 Global Peace Index.
• Digital-nomad visas are spreading fast: Indonesia (E33G), Portugal (D8), Spain (DNV), Croatia, Estonia, Brazil, Mexico (Temporary Resident). These visas grant legal residence for remote workers with local insurance, often without local tax liability in the first years.

What the study does not capture but we see in our practice: the importance of digital administration is growing fast. Emigrants increasingly avoid countries with weak online bureaucracy — Germany is itself a negative example here and one of the emigration drivers.

"The 2025 top performers share a common DNA: open society, fair value-for-money, and administration that knows how to handle expats. Exactly the three points Germany struggles with." — Oliver Frankfurth

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The Top 10 hospitable countries 2025 at a glance

A consolidated overview of the Top 10 from the Expat Insider 2025 ranking — sorted by overall score:

The top three slots in 2025 go to Latin America — the same as 2024. The bottom places are dominated by North and Central European countries (including Germany at 42nd) and industrial nations like Japan and South Korea, which are hard for expats to integrate into.

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How to prepare for the move

Whichever country it is — the preparation in Germany decides how smoothly the switch goes. From 40,000+ deregistrations we have learned:

Bureaucratic obligations:

• Deregister your address — mandatory within 14 days of move-out. Also possible from abroad.
• Cancel the GEZ — the Rundfunkbeitrag keeps running otherwise (details).
• Review contracts — electricity, internet, mobile, insurance. Many have a special-termination right on emigration (cancel-contracts service).
• Set up mail forwarding — otherwise refunds and authority post go missing (mail forwarding).

Finances and insurance:

• Bank account — open before the Abmeldung, as many banks require a German address. Details: best bank account for emigrants.
• Securities account — many German brokers terminate accounts after the Abmeldung. Check the terms.
• Health insurance for the destination — travel insurance is not permanent. Check an international or local option (expat health insurance).
• Pension — for third-country moves a refund may be possible (pension refund).

In the destination:

• Visa / residence permit — apply in good time. Some countries process locally; others need preparation from Germany.
• Local account — Wise and Revolut work worldwide as a bridge.
• Language course — even when English is enough, the local language opens doors.

Related reading: Our interactive checklist builds a plan tailored to your situation — what to do when.

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Bottom line: where are German emigrants welcome?

The question of where Germans are welcome cannot be answered with a single country. The Expat Insider 2025 ranking gives a solid orientation — with over 10,000 expats surveyed across 174 countries, it is probably the most comprehensive global dataset. Still, every emigrant is different.

What we have learned from 40,000+ deregistrations since 2014: the country matters less than your attitude and preparation. People who expect everything to work like in Germany hit frustration fast. People who stay open and treat language, culture, and bureaucracy as part of the adventure find connection everywhere.

It takes effort at the start to find your way in a new environment, build contacts, and adjust to language and culture. But if you really want it, it is easier than it looks from here. We have seen that 40,000+ times — from families in Costa Rica to retirees in Thailand to digital nomads in Bali.

Recommendations by life stage:

• Young emigrants with career focus: US, UAE, Switzerland — high salaries, international career paths.
• Families with children: Spain, Portugal, Costa Rica, Mexico — quality of life, climate, good schools.
• Digital nomads: Bali, Medellín, Mexico City, Chiang Mai, Lisbon — community, coworking, visa-friendly.
• Retirees: Panama (Pensionado Visa), Thailand, Spain, Portugal — low cost, good climate, established German-speaking communities.
• Tax optimisers: UAE, Cyprus, Paraguay — but check German exit taxation in advance.

"In 40,000+ deregistrations I have observed one thing: the country does not decide your happiness — your preparation does. Anyone who learns the destination's culture, language, and bureaucracy in advance settles in twice as fast. The paperwork in Germany, we take off your hands." — Oliver Frankfurth

Listen to your gut and pick a country that fascinates you. So you have less stress before departure, we take the paperwork off your plate: your address deregistration, contract cancellations, mail forwarding, and more.

You take the flight. We handle the rest.

Deregister online now

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Video: the best countries to emigrate to

The video is in German — turn on YouTube's auto-translated English subtitles (CC button → settings).

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Frequently asked questions

Related guides

• Leaving Germany checklist — full to-do list + life-stage sub-checklists
• Deregister online — the formal step
• Emigrating from Germany — reasons + top destinations overview
• Leaving Germany in retirement
• Relocating with kids
• Expat health insurance
• German state pension — payouts abroad
• Sell your German life insurance
• Deregister a German business — self-employment
• Tax obligations after leaving Germany
• Best bank account for emigrants

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Last updated 26 May 2026. The Expat Insider survey is conducted annually by InterNations. Rankings cited here apply to the 2025 cohort. All other information without warranty.