21 Highest Paying Countries For Expats

Expats face a tough life, having to live away from home and family, but the 21 highest paying countries for expats help in reducing the burden.

You might consider it to be counterproductive, living in a country where the culture is foreign to you, you may not even speak the language properly and you barely know anyone, while having to spend months or years without visiting your family. However, there are several reasons why people become expatriates.

Firstly, a person should always be willing to try new things, instead of focusing on the same routine, which inhibits growth. Exposing yourself to new cultures and new ideas leads to a broadening of the horizons. On the other hand, if you have a family, you aren’t just thinking about yourself and your future, but theirs too. One of the main reasons why a person moves from his home country is to provide a better future for his family, by going to a country that has an excellent education system and childcare opportunities. In fact, in a major survey conducted by HSBC, nearly half of the people stated that the level of education in their adopted country surpassed that of their home country. Similarly, 43% also believed that the childcare system in the new country was better.

If you are a teacher looking for a job in another country, then we have even the better suggestions for you on this list of 13 Highest Paying Countries for Teachers

If you are considering moving to a country based on the promise of high salaries, you might want to sink your teeth into this list of the 21 highest paying countries for expats below. To find out those countries, we used the MyExpatriate Markey Pay Survey, which considered the total expatriate pay packages for middle managers in different countries. To determine the pay package of each country, three things were considered in the survey, namely salaries, benefits and tax implications. Now, finally, let’s check those countries that offer the best financial benefits to expats. 

21. Germany

Total expatriate package cost: $199,392

You already know that the salary package here is incredible and that Germany has one of the strongest economies in Europe. The standard of living is extremely high and second to none. Even a long distance job in Germany will not be a hassle as the public transport system is incredible and ensures that a car is more of a luxury than a necessity.

20. Irish Republic

Total expatriate package cost: $202,973

Ireland ranks 20th in our list of the highest paying countries for expats. Moving to Ireland leads to a myriad of benefits, not least because you are moving to a country with the highest standards of living in the world. Even when Europe collapsed during the 2009 Recession, Ireland continued to gain wealth.

19. Luxembourg

Total expatriate package cost: $204,396

One of the smallest countries in the world, Luxembourg is used to punching well above its weight, and making the list of the 21 highest-paying countries for expats simply proves this point. If the high-flying, intense pressure life is not for you, Luxembourg will be a heaven, where you have an opportunity to slow down your life, stop and smell the roses, to use a worn-out cliche.

18. The Netherlands

Total expatriate package cost: $207,695

The Netherlands is the epitome of an accepting country, with the secular, advanced and diverse culture open to any and every idea, without any discrimination.

17. Canada

Total expatriate package cost: $213,353

One of the most beautiful and diverse countries in the world, Canada is one of the best destinations for expats, exemplified by the fact that the government is working quickly to hire qualified immigrants.

16. Taiwan

Total expatriate package cost: $220,668

Taiwan ranks 16th in our list of the highest paying countries for expats. Taiwan has an extremely advanced economy, which is the fact only a few are aware of. This has led to the creation of jobs and stability in the region, which is why it is one of the hottest destinations for expats.

15. Sweden

Total expatriate package cost: $226,166

Social welfare in Sweden is rivaled by a few other countries. This, combined with the highly liberal outlook, and the job opportunities available at high wages, make Sweden one of the most sought after countries by expats.

14. Morocco

Total expatriate package cost: $227,263

More popular for its scenic beauty and the culture and tradition associated with the country, Morocco actually has one of the highest salary packages for expats.

13. Austria

Total expatriate package cost: $235,105

In a list dominated by European countries, it is no surprise to see that Austria, with its wealth and significant international relations, remains a hotbed for expats throughout the world.

12. Singapore

Total expatriate package cost: $239,396

Singapore ranks 12th in our list of the highest paying countries for expats. Singapore has been an attractive country for expats mainly due to its location, serving as one of the main hubs for sea transport in the world. However, it is important to know that the cost of living is extremely high in the country as well, especially the rent which is among the highest in the world.

11. Korea Republic

Total expatriate package cost: $244,386

This may be a surprise entry on the list, but South Korea has been one of the main reasons behind technological advancements in the recent decades and is home to giants which include LG and Samsung.

10. Switzerland

Total expatriate package cost: $246,971

What can you possibly dislike about Switzerland? Considering it is a country with the most incredible scenic beauty, a financial powerhouse with some of the biggest banks, has a friendly population and is famous for its chocolates. Few expats would regret moving to this country.

9. The United States of America

Total expatriate package cost: $252,903

The most powerful country in the world has opportunities for everyone, which is why it is considered to be the perfect country for expats.

8. France

Total expatriate package cost: $255,288

France ranks 8th in our list of the highest paying countries for expats. Home to the city of love, France is the perfect combination of both history and modernism, and while it may not be easy to immediately feel at home in the country, the feeling of belonging will be acquired after some time.

7. Argentina

Total expatriate package cost: $255,648

Argentina has swaths of unused land, which is why it is host to tons of picturesque sites. The country has one of the highest GDPs in the area, but it is important to note that economic stability is not one of its strong points.

6. Australia

Total expatriate package cost: $264,963

Australia has consistently been ranked among the happiest as well as safest countries for expats to move to, mainly due to high-quality education and an excellent standard of living.

5. Turkey

Total expatriate package cost: $266,298

Turkey ranks 5th in our list of the highest paying countries for expats. Turkey has long been a diverse country, encouraging immigrants of all kinds while maintaining economic and political stability. However, it has been the target of recent terrorist attacks, which has diminished its value among expats somewhat.

4. Hong Kong

Total expatriate package cost: $267,003

Expats prefer Hong Kong for the various employment opportunities it provides, while also maintaining economic growth and excellent infrastructure.

3. China

Total expatriate package cost: $290,254

Considering that China is one of the greatest economies in the world with no signs of slowing down, it is logical to see that it offers so high-paid packages. However, the large number of expats moving to China has resulted in high competition and has, in turn, led to packages falling slightly.

2. Japan

Total expatriate package cost: $328,723

Japan ranks second in our list of the highest paying countries for expats. Japan has always had a strict work ethic, which, combined with its part in global technological developments, has led to a high demand for skilled workers that has attracted expats.

1. The United Kingdom

Total expatriate package cost: $390,189

Even though the UK pound has depreciated against the dollar, the UK tops the list of the 21 highest-paying countries for expats, with the package worth nearly $400,000!