Best Countries for Expats with Families
Taking the plunge of becoming an expat with your family and looking for advice? Well, you’ve come to the right place!
Moving abroad with your family can be both an exciting and daunting experience. Whether you’re searching for better job opportunities, a higher quality of life, or simply an adventure, choosing the right destination is crucial. So, where should you go? Let’s dive into some of the best countries for expats with families and see why these spots stand out.
Table of Contents
Why Move Abroad?
First off, let’s talk about why moving abroad can be such a fantastic experience for families. Exposure to different cultures can be a massive boon for kids. They become more adaptable, open-minded, and globally aware. Plus, some countries offer amazing benefits for families, from excellent healthcare and education systems to a better work-life balance for parents. Now, let’s explore 10 of the best countries for expats with families.
1.) Canada
Why It’s Great: Canada consistently ranks as one of the best countries for expats with families. With its friendly people, stunning natural beauty, and high quality of life, it’s a top pick.
Education and Healthcare: Canada boasts one of the best public education systems in the world. The healthcare system is another major draw, offering comprehensive and free services to residents.
Family-Friendly Activities: Outdoor activities are abundant in Canada. From skiing in the Rockies to exploring the vast national parks, there’s never a dull moment.
Tips:
- Consider cities like Toronto and Vancouver for diverse cultures and excellent amenities.
- If you prefer a quieter lifestyle, check out smaller towns like Victoria or Halifax.
2.) Australia
Why It’s Great: Australia offers a laid-back lifestyle, making it one of the best countries for expats with families. The country’s focus on outdoor activities and the overall friendly vibe are major attractions.
Education and Healthcare: Australia provides a top-notch education system with various public and private options. The healthcare system is robust, with Medicare covering most services.
Family-Friendly Activities: Australia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Beaches, zoos, and family parks are just the beginning. Cities like Sydney and Melbourne have a plethora of kid-friendly activities and parks.
Tips:
- Consider enrolling your kids in swimming classes early – water safety is crucial in Australia.
- Join local community groups to meet other expat families and build a support network.
3.) Germany
Why It’s Great: Germany is renowned for its efficient systems and family-centric policies. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for stability and a high standard of living.
Education and Healthcare: Germany offers free public education and a dual education system that combines apprenticeships with vocational education. Healthcare is excellent, with compulsory health insurance providing extensive coverage.
Family-Friendly Activities: Germany is filled with castles, forests, and cultural festivals that can enthrall children and adults alike. Cities like Berlin and Munich are both culturally rich and family-friendly.
Tips:
- Learn some basic German to help with the transition and make everyday interactions smoother.
- Explore the extensive public transportation system, which is very family-friendly.
4.) New Zealand
Why It’s Great: New Zealand, with its stunning landscapes and friendly communities, is often considered one of the best countries for expats with families. The relaxed pace of life is a significant draw.
Education and Healthcare: New Zealand’s education system is excellent, offering a broad curriculum with a strong focus on outdoor activities and creativity. The healthcare system is reliable and affordable.
Family-Friendly Activities: The outdoor lifestyle is part of New Zealand’s charm. From hiking and beach trips to exploring the Hobbiton movie set, there’s something for every family member.
Tips:
- Consider smaller cities like Wellington or Christchurch for a more relaxed pace.
- Get involved in local sports clubs to help kids make friends and integrate more easily.
5.) Sweden
Why It’s Great: Sweden’s focus on family welfare and work-life balance makes it one of the best countries for expats with families. The country is known for its high quality of life and safety.
Education and Healthcare: Sweden offers free education, including university. The healthcare system is top-notch, with a focus on preventive care and family health.
Family-Friendly Activities: Sweden is perfect for outdoor activities, from skiing and ice skating to summer picnics in the countryside. Stockholm and Gothenburg are great cities for families, with numerous parks and cultural activities.
Tips:
- Take advantage of Sweden’s generous parental leave policies.
- Learn about the Swedish tradition of “fika” – a daily coffee break that’s great for socializing and relaxing.
6.) Singapore
Why It’s Great: Singapore is a melting pot of cultures with an excellent standard of living, making it one of the best countries for expats with families. It’s clean, safe, and extremely well-organized.
Education and Healthcare: Singapore has a world-class education system, with numerous international schools offering various curricula. The healthcare system is efficient and high-quality, though it can be pricey without insurance.
Family-Friendly Activities: Singapore offers a plethora of activities for families. From the famous Singapore Zoo and Sentosa Island to numerous parks and cultural festivals, there’s always something happening.
Tips:
- Look into housing options early, as demand can be high and prices steep.
- Explore local hawker centers for affordable and delicious meals.
7.) The Netherlands
Why It’s Great: The Netherlands is famous for its progressive attitudes and high quality of life, making it a top pick for expat families. It’s also known for its excellent infrastructure and safety.
Education and Healthcare: Dutch education is among the best in Europe, with a wide range of international schools. The healthcare system is accessible and comprehensive.
Family-Friendly Activities: Cycling is a way of life in the Netherlands, with safe and extensive bike paths. Cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht offer numerous museums, parks, and family-friendly activities.
Tips:
- Invest in good bicycles for the whole family.
- Learn a few Dutch phrases to help integrate into local communities.
8.) Spain
Why It’s Great: Spain’s warm climate, vibrant culture, and relaxed lifestyle make it one of the best countries for expats with families. The country is welcoming and known for its focus on family life.
Education and Healthcare: Spain offers a good mix of public and private schools, including many international options. The healthcare system is public, providing excellent services at low costs.
Family-Friendly Activities: Spain is perfect for family outings, with beautiful beaches, historical sites, and lively festivals. Cities like Barcelona and Valencia are especially welcoming to families.
Tips:
- Embrace the local culture, including siestas and late dinners.
- Take advantage of Spain’s numerous public holidays and festivals for family bonding.
9.) Portugal
Why It’s Great: Portugal offers a high quality of life at a lower cost compared to many Western European countries. It’s friendly, laid-back, and one of the best countries for expats with families.
Education and Healthcare: Portugal has a robust education system, with many private and international schools. The public healthcare system is good, though many expats opt for private insurance.
Family-Friendly Activities: Portugal’s beautiful coastline and charming cities provide endless opportunities for family fun. Lisbon and Porto are particularly popular with expat families.
Tips:
- Consider learning Portuguese to ease the transition and improve communication.
- Explore the local cuisine and get involved in community activities to make friends.
10.) Japan
Why It’s Great: Japan’s blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology creates a unique environment for expat families. It’s safe, clean, and offers a high quality of life.
Education and Healthcare: Japan has an excellent education system, with a strong emphasis on discipline and academic achievement. The healthcare system is efficient and affordable, with extensive coverage.
Family-Friendly Activities: Japan offers a mix of cultural experiences, from temples and historical sites to theme parks like Disneyland and Universal Studios. Cities like Tokyo and Osaka are bustling with activities for kids.
Tips:
- Get involved in local community events to help children adapt to the new culture.
- Explore Japan’s efficient public transport system for easy family travel.
Ready to Move?
Moving abroad with your family can be an enriching and rewarding experience. Each country offers its own unique benefits, so it’s important to consider what matters most to your family. From the friendly communities of Canada and New Zealand to the cultural richness of Japan and Spain, the world is full of amazing destinations waiting to welcome your family. Happy travels! 🌎
Need help with packing? Give our essential packing guide a read for tips and recommendations.
Resources for Expats
Moving abroad can be a thrilling adventure, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. To make your transition smoother. Check out the resources below as well as a couple of recommended products and services for expats:
Expatica
Expatica offers a wealth of information for expats living in or moving to various countries in Europe, as well as other popular expat destinations. The site covers a wide range of topics including housing, employment, education, healthcare, and social life.
InterNations
InterNations s a global community for expats that provides resources, networking opportunities, and local events. It aims to help expats connect with each other and integrate into their new environments.
Money Transfers with Wise (formerly TransferWise)
Managing finances across borders can be tricky. Wise offers fast, secure, and low-cost international money transfers. Save on fees and get real exchange rates to make your money go further.
VPN Services with NordVPN
Keep your online activities secure and access content from your home country with NordVPN. A reliable VPN is essential for expats to ensure privacy and unrestricted internet access.
FAQs
Q: What should I consider when choosing a country as an expat family?
A: Consider factors like the education system, healthcare, safety, cost of living, and the overall quality of life. It’s also important to think about the availability of family-friendly activities and the ease of integration into the local community.
Q: How can I help my children adjust to a new country?
A: Involve them in the decision-making process, help them learn about the new culture, and encourage them to join local clubs or activities. Keeping routines consistent and staying positive about the move can also help ease the transition.
Q: What are some essential tips for moving abroad with a family?
A: Research extensively about your new destination, plan your finances carefully, and make sure all legal documents are in order. It’s also helpful to connect with other expat families and local communities for support and advice.
Q: Is it necessary to learn the local language when moving abroad?
A: While it’s not always necessary, learning the local language can greatly enhance your experience and make daily interactions easier. It can also help your children adjust and integrate more smoothly into their new environment.
Q: How do I find good schools for my children in a new country?
A: Look for recommendations from other expats, check international school directories, and visit potential schools to get a feel for their environment and curriculum. Online forums and local expat communities can also provide valuable insights.
Q: What should I do to ensure my family’s healthcare needs are met abroad?
A: Research the healthcare system of your destination country, consider getting comprehensive health insurance, and identify local healthcare providers before you move. It’s also important to bring medical records and ensure vaccinations are up to date.
Q: Are there any specific countries known for being especially welcoming to expat families?
A: Countries like Canada, Australia, Sweden, and the Netherlands are particularly known for being welcoming to expat families, thanks to their strong focus on family welfare and high quality of life.
