Global Mobility Trends 2026: Top Expat Choices

Global Mobility Trends 2026: Affordable, Welcoming Places to Live

Published Date: September 17, 2025

When the Nguyens touched down in Auckland on a crisp autumn morning, they carried little more than two suitcases, a dog-eared photo album, and a dream of a calmer life. Back in Ho Chi Minh City, Minh Tâm’s long workdays left her yearning for weekend hikes, quiet family dinners, and the simple joy of watching her children play outside. Here, in their modest rental overlooking native bush, the family discovered an oasis: their children could bike to school safely, and evenings were filled with laughter instead of traffic horns.
Their story is not unique. Across the globe, families and professionals are making bold moves in search of the same balance, community, and freedom the Nguyens found. InFebruary 2025 alone, 63,700 Americans arrived in New Zealand, a record-breaking monthly total and an increase of over 9,100 compared to the same month in 2024. Stories like these illustrate a broader wave of global mobility, where work, lifestyle, and personal fulfillment are reshaping the very idea of home.
In this article, we’ll explore the evolving landscape of global mobility as 2026 approaches, highlighting emerging visa programs, top destination trends, corporate mobility models, and the lifestyle drivers shaping where and how expats are making their next move.

Global mobility trends & drivers

Imagine Emma, a software engineer from London, who spent months searching for a place where her skills would be valued and where her children could grow up in a safe, vibrant community. She chose Canada, a nation grappling with an aging population and a shortage of skilled workers, where immigration pathways now actively welcome professionals like her. Emma’s story is part of a much larger shift: the world of global mobility is being rewritten before our eyes.
Here are the powerful forces driving this change:

– Labor & skill gaps

Countries from Canada and Belgium to Japan are facing aging populations and shrinking workforces.

Immigration is becoming a lifeline, fueling policy reforms, visa expansions, and new pathways to attract global talent.

– Remote work & digital nomad visas

The pandemic’s legacy, combined with advances in technology, has untethered workers from physical offices.

More people now choose where to live based on lifestyle, not office location.

Nations are racing to design flexible visa programs for remote professionals seeking both balance and adventure.

– Wealth migration

In 2024, about 134,000 high-net-worth individuals relocated across borders, with numbers projected to rise to 142,000 in 2025.

Destinations like the UAE, USA, and Italy attract this group with safety, tax advantages, and elevated lifestyle options.

This trend intensifies competition among countries to simultaneously serve both wealthy newcomers and the skilled workers who sustain daily economies.

– Boom in relocation services

The global expatriate relocation services market is projected to surpass USD 20 billion by 2026.

Growth is driven by corporate strategies blending traditional expatriate packages with short-term assignments and hybrid roles, a sign of how mobility is adapting to modern work.

At its heart, the decision to move is no longer just about finding a job or following family. It’s about navigating a complex mix of economic needs, lifestyle choices, and future readiness. As 2026 approaches, these trends form the powerful currents guiding where (and why) millions are choosing to make a new country their home.

Which EU countries are making it easier for expats to move in 2025

Ups and emerging destinations

Picture Ana and Carlos, a young couple from Chicago, who were drawn by stories of turquoise waters and vibrant street markets to Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Their move wasn’t just about trading skyscrapers for palm trees, it was about choosing affordable living wrapped in rich culture and a warm, welcoming community. Stories like theirs are fueling a dynamic shift in expat migration, highlighting destinations that blend cost, comfort, and connection.

Affordable, welcoming places

Asian countries continue to dominate affordability rankings, making them top choices for expats seeking quality of life without breaking the bank. Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia are favored for their low living costs paired with rich cultural experiences.
In Latin America, Colombia, Panama, and Mexico offer attractive living conditions and growing infrastructure for remote workers. According to InterNations’ 2025 rankings, the very best destinations for expats include Panama, Colombia, Mexico, followed by Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia, balancing affordability with amenities and community life.

Americans abroad: European and Latin favorites

Europe remains magnetic for many Americans, drawn by climate, culture, and strong visa policies.
Spain stands out, especially for retirees, with an inviting lifestyle and healthcare system at an estimated monthly cost of $2,000–$2,500.
Hotspots like Portugal, Italy, France, and Spain continue to attract U.S. expats for their blend of tradition, accessibility, and quality of life.
In Latin America, Mexico endures as an expat magnet, with Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, and Playa del Carmen thriving due to vibrant communities, affordability, and proximity to the U.S.. Other Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, are gaining traction for their natural beauty and stability, while Canada and parts of Europe like Germany and France draw those seeking strong infrastructure and economic opportunities.

Growing Island and European markets

Smaller island nations like Cyprus and Malta have leapt in quality-of-life rankings, appealing to expats and remote workers alike for their Mediterranean charm and relaxed pace. Demand for international schools and upscale housing is surging in established European markets such as France, Spain, Switzerland, and Middle Eastern hubs like Dubai, where economic growth and expat-friendly policies continue to attract a diverse international population.

Growing Island and European markets

While the dream of a new life abroad shines brightly, every expat story carries its share of hurdles. Moving to a new country is as exhilarating as it is complex, and understanding the challenges can mean the difference between thriving and merely surviving.

CHALLENGE	DESCRIPTION & EXAMPLES
Rising Costs & Housing Pressures	Soaring rents in Dubai or cities like Paris, Zurich, and London can strain budgets, forcing adjustments in lifestyle or location.
Cultural Integration & Social Isolation	Adapting to a new language, customs, and social norms can take years; even idyllic destinations like New Zealand may feel isolating.
Bureaucracy & Visa Complexities	Navigating residency, work permits, and tax obligations can be confusing; policies often change, requiring vigilance.
Healthcare & Education Access	High-quality healthcare and international schooling can be costly, particularly in smaller or emerging markets; families must weigh availability and affordability.