In this article, we discuss the 5 Worst Countries to Live in as an Expat. If you want to check out our detailed analysis, go directly to 15 Worst Countries to Live in as an Expat.
5. Hong Kong
Expat Insider Index Ranking: 40
Worldwide Expat Index Ranking: 43
Insider Monkey Average Ranking: 41.5
According to Expat Insider and Worldwide Index rankings, Hong Kong is not an ideal place for expats to relocate. Language and the housing situation in the country can cause discomfort for newcomers. The cost of living is also comparatively higher in this Asian country. While career prospects in the country are not very bad, the work culture, salary, job security, and work and leisure aspects do not satisfy expats. Overall, Hong Kong does not rate too high on the quality of life and happiness factor, thereby falling on our list of worst countries to live in as an expat.
4. United Kingdom
Expat Insider Index Ranking: 43
Worldwide Expat Index Ranking: 40
Insider Monkey Average Ranking: 41.5
As an expat destination, the UK has attracted vast numbers of people over the years. While the country has much to offer, there are certain conditions that must be carefully evaluated by immigrants. As a developed nation, this European country can provide great career opportunities, and most expats are satisfied with their jobs, although the salary and job security component is an area of discontent. Of particular significance is the low quality of life with respect to the cost of living and healthcare. A greater number of expats are dissatisfied with their financial situation and housing as well.
3. Italy
Expat Insider Index Ranking: 47
Worldwide Expat Index Ranking: 37
Insider Monkey Average Ranking: 42
From the point of view of expats, Italy’s biggest problem is its working conditions. Ranking low across all major components of working criteria, which takes into consideration career prospects, salary and job security, work and leisure, and work culture and satisfaction, expats are very unhappy with the work situation. Furthermore, while Italy does not perform poorly where the cost of living is concerned, most expats are not very satisfied with their financial conditions. Bureaucracy is yet another sore point for expats. Thus, overall, Italy has some problems that place it in the bottom three of the worst countries to live in as an expat.
2. India
Expat Insider Index Ranking: 36
Worldwide Expat Index Ranking: 58
Insider Monkey Average Ranking: 47
India has not been able to score high on happiness, health, and overall quality of life. In fact, it is one of the worst-rated in the quality of life index, especially with respect to environment and climate. It is also considered an unsafe and chaotic country. Bureaucracy is yet another negative point for the country, causing distress for immigrants. However, expats can live comfortably, enjoying affordable housing and an overall low cost of living. The combined effect of these elements places India at the bottom of the list.
1. South Africa
Expat Insider Index Ranking: 48
Worldwide Expat Index Ranking: 57
Insider Monkey Average Ranking: 52.5
Ranked at the bottom in both indexes, South Africa emerges as the worst country for expats. The quality of life is poor, encompassing both happiness and health categories. Safety and security-wise, this country is considered the worst. In terms of settling down, expats can experience certain hurdles. The working prospects in the country are also not great, and most expats are very dissatisfied with their salary and job security situation. However, South Africa can provide a low cost of living and greater personal financial satisfaction. Thus, all things considered, South Africa stands out as the worst country for expats to live in.
Insider Monkey focuses on uncovering the best investment ideas of hedge funds and insiders. Please subscribe to our free daily newsletter to get the latest investment ideas from hedge funds’ investor letters by entering your email address below. You can also take a peek at 30 Unhappiest Countries In The World and Top 30 Developing Countries in the World in 2024.
