World’s worst country for expats in 2024 has 50C weather and ‘unfriendly’ locals

Many of us dream of the adventure of moving abroad to live and work – perhaps to learn a new language, take on a new challenge, enjoy warmer climes, or to change your financial situation.

However, if you’re seriously planning to leave the UK and move abroad then you should consider this list.

According to new research, these are the worst countries for expats to up sticks and make the move to in 2024. With emigrating being such a huge, often emotional decision, it is one many of us hope to get right first time.

READ MORE: British expats in Greece highlight ‘biggest’ culture shock over unexpected social norms

Online expat platform InterNations has published its 2024 Expat Insider Survey which looks at where expats are happiest.

Research found that Kuwait is the worst country to move to to live due to its soaring temperatures which in summer can reach a staggering 50C or more. The county also ranked poorly with its healthcare with just 22 percent of expats being happy with provisions in the UK, The Express reports.

What’s more, less than three in ten expats (26 per cent) agree that people are generally friendly towards foreign residents vs 61 per cent globally.

Turkey ranks second on the list, with results showing it as the worst place for expats to work abroad, with 34% of respondents saying that the country was unable to improve career prospects.

Where do other countries land on the list?

The 10 worst countries for expats to live in 2024

1. Kuwait
2. Türkiye
3. Finland
4. Germany
5. Canada
6. Norway
7. Italy
8. Malta
9. Ireland
10. UK

But, at the other end of the spectrum, there are still some really exciting spots for expats to consider.

Panama, the country that links South and Central America, took the top spot, climbing two places on last year. Researchers found that a whopping 82% of expats were happy with their lives there, 14% higher than the global average and almost 75% were happy with their financial situation.

Where then offers expats the best opportunities and happiness?

The 10 best countries for expats to live in 2024

1. Panama
2. Mexico
3. Indonesia
4. Spain
5. Colombia
6. Thailand
7. Brazil
8. Vietnam
9. Philippines
10. UAE