5. Portugal
Permanent Residency Score: 71
Labor Market Mobility Score: 94
Health Score: 65
Education Score: 69
Insider Monkey Average Score: 74.75
Among European countries, Portugal stands out as one of the most stunningly beautiful places to settle down and is a haven for expats. Offering residents a luxurious lifestyle at an affordable cost, Portugal excels in excellent education and healthcare standards, ranking as one of the safest countries in the world. The business environment is highly beneficial for young investors and entrepreneurs. Permanent residency seekers will find good news, as the Portuguese government has enacted policies ensuring easy integration of immigrants into essential elements, including residency status, health, education, and labor market access. This makes Portugal one of the best countries for permanent residency worldwide and also one of the easiest for obtaining a second passport for U.S. residents.
4. Norway
Permanent Residency Score: 71
Labor Market Mobility Score: 85
Health Score: 75
Education Score: 71
Insider Monkey Average Score: 75.5
Norway, one of the world’s most developed nations, is highly sought after as a permanent residency destination. With a thriving economy and welcoming locals, the country offers excellent and free education– a major draw for those aspiring to permanent residency. The abundance of work opportunities further entices expats. Norway’s advanced technological approach and high standard of living make it an attractive destination for those seeking a lucrative move abroad. The country has already welcomed numerous expats from around the world. Moreover, high scores in permanent residency security, access to the labor market, education, and health facilities reflect the country’s dedication to ensuring the easy integration of new entrants into society.
3. Canada
Permanent Residency Score: 77
Labor Market Mobility Score: 76
Health Score: 73
Education Score: 86
Insider Monkey Average Score: 78
Canada is another welcoming destination for those applying for permanent residency. As one of the world’s welfare states, it provides residents with a luxurious life. The country is renowned for its diversity, attracting people from around the globe. With political and economic stability, Canada is a haven for those seeking a comfortable life. High-quality education and healthcare further enhance its appeal to incoming immigrants. The business environment is also conducive to success. It’s no wonder that the country is adept at settling its immigrants comfortably, making it one of the top permanent residency destinations in the world.
2. Finland
Permanent Residency Score: 96
Labor Market Mobility Score: 91
Health Score: 67
Education Score: 88
Insider Monkey Average Score: 85.5
Ranked as the leader in the UN’s World Happiness Report, Finland is one of the most popular European countries for permanent residency worldwide. Its high-quality education and affordable, excellent healthcare are among its many attractions. The generous range of salaries further enhances the allure of life in Finland, where standards can be improved with high income and low living costs. Economically and politically stable, the country meets all the criteria for making a permanent move. The government has not only welcomed thousands of expats already, but their immigrant integration policies covering all aspects, including residency status, health, education, and labor market access, are also highly encouraging.
1. Sweden
Permanent Residency Score: 90
Labor Market Mobility Score: 91
Health Score: 83
Education Score: 93
Insider Monkey Average Score: 89.25
While Sweden offers natural beauty, it provides much more for expats seeking a high quality of life. With top-notch healthcare, free education, and a tranquil living environment, residents enjoy a peaceful life. The low population density offers reprieve from overcrowded surroundings. Ranked 10th on InterNation’s 2022 Working Abroad Index, Sweden’s government is welcoming towards new residents and prioritizes immigrant integration for successful permanent residence. Thus, the country secures the top spot on our list of the best countries for permanent residency worldwide.