Getty Images. Malta. Filled with LGBTQ spaces, cafes, restaurants, and more, the capital city of Helsinki has an incredible gay scene. Art, culture, food, history France has everything. In 2001, the Netherlands became one of the first countries in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. Envision yourself knocking back cava with your husband on a terrace in Madrid? A place that was LGBTQ-friendly, relatively inexpensive, politically stable, with good medical care, and that offered retirement visas? As the only African country to legalize same-sex marriage, the Rainbow Nation is an inspiration. As early as 1981, Norway began to pass anti-discrimination laws protecting the rights of the LGBTQ community. With its good track record on gay rights, Ireland is a welcoming place for LGBT nomads looking to set up a base. The Kirchberg district in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013. The UK came in at number . The results are in and, according to the 12,000 people who took the survey, Portugal ranks top of all European countries when it comes to friendliness. 74% are happy with their work-life . Besides Oslo, cities like Hemsedal, Trondheim, and Bergen are referred to as a few of the most gay-friendly cities in the world. Cities outside of the major ones will have lower cost of living. Overall, the public is extremely supportive of the LGBTQIA+ community. New Zealand. Like Spain, Malta requires a net worth of between $40,000-$45,000 and an annual income of over $27,000. To find out more about what makes Portugal one of the safest LGBTQ countries to live in, read our article: Is Portugal a good place to live for LGBT expats? Oslo, the capital of Norway, has various gay bars and venues and organizes a host of pride events. More than 544,000 expats of 196 different . The small European nation also a great place for wine aficionados, as it is known for its white and sparkling wines. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. The 2015 Eurobarometer found that 77% of Belgians thought same-sex marriage should be allowed throughout Europe, while 20% disagreed. Spain is another of our favorite countries. While we were hoping to avoid winter entirely, Portugal has a Mediterranean climate and has very mild winters. And in 2003, it became the second country to permit same-sex marriages. Belgium is at the heart of the European Union and is a friendly, multilingual country that comes with all the perks of European lifestyle and openness. In addition to all these attractions, Helsinki also hosts the countrys most popular pride parade, which annually sees more than 100,000 visitors. On one hand, yes, countries such as Somalia, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Uganda, or elsewhere in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East can be dangerous. Under the Equal Treatment Act, LGBT people are protected against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The country is frequently noted as having one of the best gay rights records in the world and rights include protections for transgender individuals. Same-sex activity, marriage, and civil unions have been legalized in Malta. According to Numbeo, Croatia's crime score is 17.97 out of 100, and its average safety score is 84.2 out of 100. Additionally, 72% agreed that they should have protection from workplace discrimination. In this article, we take a look at the 25 best countries for expats. There was, however, widespread agreement that those who live together should enjoy legal protections. 15 Best Countries for LGBTQ Expats - NBC News European Countries Among Top Places for Gay People to Live - Gallup.com You only need to show proof of $18,000 annual income which reflects its low cost of living. Canada protects its LGBTQ community from discrimination based on sexual orientation. In 2006, Sitges unveiled the countrys first LGBTQIA+ monument to commemorate a 1996 police crackdown on gay men at the beach at night. While we spent most of the last 25 years based primarily in the United States, we hail from different countries. Its rentista program can be converted into a passport for longer stays. Lesbian couples in the country have the right to opt for IVF treatment. Same-sex marriage in Spain has been legal since 2005. From Madrid to Gran Canaria, the country has a diverse and welcoming scene for all members of the queer community. Buenos Aires, Argentina on September 24, 2016. France was ranked #21 on HSBC's list of best countries for expats, but Paris in particular boasts an incredibly active LGBTQ community, particularly . From strategic citizenship planning to real estate overseas, Nomad Capitalist has helped 1,000+ high-net-worth clients double their personal and financial freedom. What is the best country or countries to be a transgender person Sharing borders with Italy, Croatia, Austria, and Hungary, Slovenia is a beautiful country with many castles and caves. Residents believe more conversations about LGBTQIA+ issues are necessary. The government in Iceland has included sexual orientation in the nations anti-discrimination laws. Rents outside of major cities are even lower. 9 Most Gay-Friendly Countries In Europe | TravelAwaits CareersPartner With UsBecome A VendorBook Us For SpeakingRequest An InterviewSocial Responsibility, ExpatFinanceOffshoreGlobal CitizenEntrepreneurCryptocurrency, ABOUT CONTACT +1 (979) 966-6623. You will need to pay taxes if you live in Buenos Aires full-time, but you can also come and go as you please. In this article, we take a look at the 10 best countries for expats. Eventually, the country progressed to decriminalizing homosexuality in the year 1982. The world's best countries for LGBT expats Belgium was also the second country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage after the Netherlands. The 1996 constitution banned discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation; LGBTQIA+ people have been able to marry since 2007. Arnaldur Halldorsson / Bloomberg via Getty Images. Valletta, the capital city, is a must if you are looking to witness the gay scene in the country. Paris. Founder of Nomad Capitalist and the worlds most sought-after expert on global citizenship. Burn says that it is among their most popular destinations at the agency. You'll pay about 3 for a bottle of beer. These countries are less subject to the machismo ideals found in the Americas and even parts of Europe. In a 2013 poll by the University of Hong Kong, 33.3% of respondents supported same-sex marriage, with 43% opposed. Brazil has been a bastion of gay life for decades as its well-known party-loving traditions of celebration and beach life in cities like Rio de Janeiro have attracted millions of LGBT nomads and travelers. However, most nomads do not find themselves in these countries anyway for reasons unrelated to this issue, and most (particularly Western expat) nomads would not be subject to those conditions anyway. Fortunately for the aspiring expat, there's a wealth of countries where it's safe to work and live out, as you'll see from Expatiation's list of the to. The Nordic island nation was also the first country in the world with an openly gay head of government -- Jhanna Sigurardttir, who served as prime minister from 2009-2013. Countries like Russia have had their share of publicized issues around crime or blackmailing of LGBT individuals. Tied for #2 - Sweden. Malta Digital Nomad Visa [sc name="year" ][/sc] Everything You Need to Know, ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA Citizenship by Investment, ST KITTS AND NEVIS Citizenship by Investment. Trumps is the best-known LGBT club in Portugal. A view of the skyline in the Northern part of Dublin, Ireland, on April 19, 2015. Andrew Henderson wrote the #1 best-selling book that redefines life as a diversified, global citizen in the 21st century and how you can join the movement. Its capital, Montevideo, is the countrys most gay-friendly city and is listed as one of the top gay destinations in the Spartacus International Gay Guide. Bangkok, Thailand (Photo: Krunja) Being known as one of the most welcoming countries in Asia, Thailand has long been a favorite destination for LGBTQ travelers, and lately, has been a popular place for expats as well. LGBTQIA+ rights in Belgium are among the most progressive in the world; the country ranks second on the 2019 edition of ILGAs Rainbow Europe Index. The Netherlands has legalized same-sex activity, same-sex marriage, and adoption in the country. You can find more videos, talks, and other content related to Expat on our YouTube channel. Malta is a small island nation that is also part of the European Union and is still off the map for most nomads but has an increasingly vibrant expat community, including a gay scene. Belgium has a large and well-developed LGBTQIA+ scene that caters to a diverse range of orientations and preferences. Over 75% of New Zealanders accept homosexuality. They love Street Art, LGBTQ+ travel, Asia (especially Singapore), local food, and the search for local travel experiences around the world. By criminalizing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in the workplace, educational institutions, and healthcare services, the Government of Finland does its utmost to protect its LGBTQ+ communities. The Coronado beaches area. To make the decision easier, Expatica shortlisted the top LGBTQIA+ friendly countries for expats. Denmark is one of the most LGBTQ-Friendly Study - Study In Denmark Expats in Vietnam can earn $78,000 annually on average. The LGBT community living in Afghanistan face both social and legal challenges. 2. Singapore, Singapore. Why Ljubljana, Slovenia Is A Secret Retirement Paradise What do you think makes a nation truly LGBTQI+-friendly? Antwerp (Antwerpen) had the edgier and more forward-thinking community, but Brussels has shed its bourgeois image in recent years. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. You are eligible for Portuguese citizenship after three years of marriage to a Portuguese permanent resident. Copyright 2012-2023, Nomad Capitalist Limited. For such a small nation that is still relatively unvisited by the traditional tourist track, Malta has advanced LGBT rights. Sweden comes in at #8 on both Gallup's list of "Top Places for Gay People to Live" and HSBC's list of best countries for expats. Transgender people enjoy similar protections. The city is home to an annual pride parade. These include adoption, automatic parenthood recognition on birth certificates, inheritance tax, rights to survivor pensions, recognition for immigration purposes, equal treatment for tax purposes including inheritance tax and protection from domestic violence. In 2005, under the leadership of Prime Minister Jos Luis Rodrguez Zapatero, Spain legalized same-sex marriage and ensured adoption rights. The 10 Best Places To Live In Panama For Expats | Expatra Its important to vacation in places where locals are welcoming and friendly: Sue Davies and Regina Ang live in both the New York area and Singapore. Owing to its liberal culture and acceptance of the LGBTQ community, Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is often called one of the most gay-friendly cities in the world. 10. The region is very easily reached from the U.S. Hurricane season was one drawback in this area. Another LGBTQ+-friendly country, Israel also doesnt have a retirement visa. Costa Rica is an excellent place for LGBTQ+ retirees. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Canada was also listed as number three of the top 10 most gay-friendly countries worldwide in a 2014 Gallup survey. People from the LGBTQ+ community are allowed to serve openly in the Danish armed forces. With more than 90 percent of the Dutch population supporting same-sex marriage, the Netherlands has emerged as one of the gayest countries in the world in 2023. Hong Kong Pride is held each November and attracts an estimated 10,000 people. Like neighboring Spain, there is a thriving gay life in this Western European nation (as well as being known for particularly beautiful and fun-loving people). Expatica helps make your expat journey the experience you've always wanted. Same-sex expat couples living in Spain have a number of legal rights when they register their partnership. Same-sex couples cannot apply for public housing or enjoy their partners pension benefits. So if you are from the LGBTQ community and are planning to relocate to Norway, these cities should definitely be on your short-list. 1. 25 Best Countries for Expats - Yahoo Finance Besides bars, clubs, and cafs, Taiwan hosts a gay beach, two popular gay hot springs, and even a cruisy gay bookshop. Top 10 most LGBT-friendly places to retire in America - CNBC Bahrain: laidback lifestyle, best for wage growth. Taiwan was placed first out of 59 countries for the third year in a row and has consistently ranked in the top five over the years. By 2017, the survey found that 50.4% of respondents supported same-sex marriage. Despite having a tiny population, Iceland is culturally liberal and has one of the liveliest gay scenes. Gay Friendly Places in Eastern Europe and How To Travel Safely Owing to all these interventions, Canada is often called the most gay-friendly country in the world. You can apply for a residence permit of at least two years if your spouse holds a permanent residential address. In 2014, the Government of Finland legalized same-sex marriage. Most gay travel blogs will warn travelers and nomads to steer clear of certain regions as the worst countries in the world for gay people. The 10 Best Countries for LGBT Rights - WorldAtlas Subsequent polls show most Canadians agree that same-sex couples should have the equal parental rights. Working overseas brings many rewards, from the chance to experience new cultures to career advances. The pride parade in Valletta every September is a major tourist draw, often with local politicians in attendance. Here are the top 10 cities for LGBT people to retire. The Netherlands also ranks in the top five countries in terms of same-sex couples as parents (number five . Nonetheless, a majority of nightlife venues and beaches are LGBTQIA+ friendly and welcome the community. New Zealand. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Ireland. Denmark, Belgium, Norway and Luxembourg completed the top five most LGBT-friendly countries, with Sweden, France, Montenegro, Iceland and Portugal rounding out the top 10. We create and implement bespoke, holistic strategies for successful investors and entrepreneurs to legally reduce their tax bills, diversify and protect their assets, become global citizens and maximize their freedom. A third gender on legal documents has yet to be introduced. first countries in the world to legalize gay marriage. However, ILGA recommends that more work be done in terms of intersex people; Belgium has yet to ban unnecessary medical interventions such as carrying out sexual determination surgeries on babies. What was once a small village on Mexico's Pacific Coast is now a major international resort, with an urban area that runs for nearly 30 miles along the shore of Banderas Bay. If you belong to the LGBT community and are interested in relocating to an LGBTQ-friendly nation, the above list will help you to decide. Individuals from the transgender community have been given legal permission to change their gender on official documents without undergoing sex reassignment surgery. In numbers, the survey shows that 74% of expatriates answered are generally satisfied with their jobs and 71% of them are content about their work-life balance in Vietnam. Public health care is ranked fifth in the world by WHO, and if desired, private health insurance is very economical. As an expat or digital nomad, there are certainly many places in Europe that stand out. In Croatia, an 18-point jump took place in those who feel their area is a good place for gay people to live in 2014. Skip to table start. Are these laws always enforced? Thats the main reason we didnt go in 2020. There is also a wide variety of bars, clubs, and gay saunas; this is possibly because of social pressures to conform to traditional heteronormative models. Top Choices For Gay Retirement Overseas - Live And Invest Overseas Taipei has one of Asias most dynamic LGBTQIA+ scenes, with a wide range of options for lesbians and gay men. Same-sex marriages account for 2.5% of all weddings in Belgium. According to the Eurobarometer (2019), 91 percent of Spanish citizens were of the opinion that gay and bisexual people should have all rights and freedoms as that of their heterosexual counterparts. Being a Muslim country, homosexuality is widely considered a taboo and often linked with prostitution. French Polynesia. Also no. Sweden is tied with the Netherlands because of their long history of sexual toleration and current openness for LGBTQ rights. Setting an example to the world, former Prime Minister Jhanna Sigurardttir married novelist and playwright Jnna Lesdttir on the same day the law came into effect. Same-sex couples are eligible to apply for joint adoption. High quality of life and healthcare services are a bonus. Friendliest Countries In The World For Expats | William Russell The gay scene extends well beyond Amsterdam, however, with bars, saunas, and cinemas in several Dutch cities, including Rotterdam, The Hague (Den Haag), Amersfoort, Enschede, and Groningen. Spanish literature, music, and cinema frequently explore LGBTQIA+ themes. Bhutan decriminalized homosexual activity in January 2021. The country also has some of the strongest protections for trans people anywhere. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. The country legalized same-sex sexual activity in 1969. It has also enacted laws that specifically protect the rights of intersex people. LGBTQ culture is also very visible in the Scandinavian country -- Pride in Oslo is one of Norway's largest events, and the city is also home to one of the world's best gay choirs. Lisbon and Porto, as they are areas with the greatest diversity, are the ones where you will feel most comfortable expressing yourself. Expat-friendly neighborhoods such as Palermo Viejo and San Telmo boast several gay-friendly establishments. Since 2006, the Spanish government has ensured transgender rights by allowing people from the community to enter their preferred sex in government documents without undergoing surgical transformation. Get The Big To-Do While the rest of the country is a bit more conservative, few incidents have been reported, and the warmth of the countrys Latin culture makes public affection widely acceptable. Unfortunately, not all news was good news for LGBTQ+ rights in the past year. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. A 2017 poll found that 67% of South Africans agreed that gay, lesbian, and bisexual people should have equal rights; 17% disagreed. Charming, Old World capital-city Ljubljana is the heart of the country, both literally and figuratively. Lisbon, Portugal. France: the good life, for families and retirees. Is Portugal a gay-friendly country? The LGBTQ+ expat experience But Paris' Le Marais boasts the biggest LGBTQ community. Since 2009, the country has recognized and legalized same-sex marriage and ensured adoption rights for LGBT people. 1. Make sure to consult immigration lawyers and tax accountants before making any moves to retire internationally. As a result, their sexual orientation or gender identity might open them up to harassment or persecution. LGBTQ+ Travel Safety - 203 Best & Worst Countries Ranked (2022) Learn from our R&D playbook and meet like-minded people at our annual event. Here are the top 10 countries where expats are happiest with their work and personal lives in 2021. Gay men are, however, banned from donating blood. We recommend consulting with your tax accountants about the implications before making any plans. However, 24% of South Africans believe that people in same-sex relationships are criminals. They wear all white and march in a gigantic parade. Local films and television productions regularly explore queer themes; several entertainers have even come out in recent years, usually to a largely positive reception. Canada has the most progressive and comprehensive rights for the LGBTQ community in North America. Nearly 90 percent of Spain's citizens believe lesbian and gay people should be accepted, according to Pew Research Center, and Gallup has Spain tied with the Netherlands as the number one country for gay people. The U.S. currency is widely accepted, and the cost of living is low. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Australian citizens or permanent residents may be able to sponsor a partners visa. 6/27/2018 09:48 EST. Even with the new president, the country has huge marches against homosexuality. Ecuador offers many seniors perks, including subsidized public transport. New Zealand's constitution is LGBTQIA+ friendly, offering several protections based on sexual orientation. 10 Fascinating Spots In New York City For History Lovers, 11 Best Things To Do In Enchanting San Miguel De Allende, 8 Things To Know Before Visiting Michigans Beautiful South Manitou Island, 16 Top Countries To Retire Abroad In 2023, 6 Key Steps To Take If You Want To Retire Abroad In Panama, Retire In Costa Rica: An Expert Breaks Down Each Residency Status, Top 8 Questions To Ask Before Moving To Costa Rica, For details on Quillt's privacy and cookie policies, please visit our, Guide To Pride Parades And Other Events In Americas Most Gay-Friendly Cities. Best and worst countries for expats. The country legalized same-sex marriage in 2013. Photo by Diego Gennaro on Unsplash. Even foreigners can get married in Argentina. Often voted one of the best places to be an expat, progressive New Zealand also has a great record on LGBTQIA+ rights. Homosexuality is still a criminal act in many countries, and there are a number of places where LGBTQIA+ rights are eroding. Netherlands. Well send our best articles, videos, and exclusive content right to your inbox. Gay travelers will find extensive gay clubs, bars, hotels, and other institutions around gay culture in Ireland and can also enjoy the numerous tax benefits and EU residency that Ireland and the Irish passport confer if one chooses to seek that route. Panama, for example, made same-sex adoption illegal in March 2021. United Arab Emirates . Gay-friendly areas in Lisbon. Around 86 percent of Spaniards were also in favor of recognizing same-sex marriage. The government banned discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in educational institutions in 2004; further legislation covering the rest of society in 2017. The U.S. and Singapore. Portugal is known as one of the most LGBT-friendly countries in the world. Whats more, travelers whose identities do not match with the mainstream often face extra challenges when adjusting to the social, legal, and political frameworks in different countries across the globe. Its also possible for non-EU/EEA nationals who are authorized to stay in Belgium to sponsor their partners on a Belgian family reunification visa. Transgender and intersex rights are amongst the strongest in the world. Foreigners may also marry in South Africa. Best Places to Live in Europe for LGBTQ Expats - She Hit Refresh Hungary. These are the 10 best countries for expats, according to a - Fortune 13 Best Gay Friendly Countries to Move toInternationalLiving.com - PRWeb A reasonably priced private health care insurance is required to access the top-notch health care system. The rise of anti-LGBTQIA+ political parties notwithstanding, Spain is one of the most culturally liberal places for gay people. They must prove an exclusive relationship, sufficient income, and pass the integration exam. Cape Town has a reputation for the best gay scene in Africa; it hosts plenty of summer events, including Mother City Queer Project and Cape Town Pride. Five of the best . According to the ILGA report, the countrys anti-LGBT laws are considered some of the most forward-looking legal interventions in Europe. Even with all the struggle the community put in, homosexuality wasn't decriminalized until eight years later. Oftentimes, countries in Southeast Asia have an interesting relationship with the issue of homosexuality: While certain aspects of the culture are quite traditional and familial, there is often more room for differences of sexuality as well as gender, which have always been seen as sort of matter of fact. Theyll also enjoy equal social and tax benefits, including those relating to pensions, old age security, and bankruptcy protection. As per a survey in 2021 by Ipsos, 84 percent of Belgian citizens were in support of same-sex marriage. Since 2010, the government in Iceland has allowed same-sex marriage. The country that invented K-Pop, K-barbeque, K-beauty, and 24-hour jjimjilbangs (Korean bathhouses) draws expats wanting to take part in this living and breathing epicenter of popular culture. In practice, attitudes to queer communities are shaped by a complex history influenced by morals, colonialism, lingering effects of apartheid, and the human rights movement that contributed to its abolition. Jeff Overs / BBC News & Current Affairs via Getty Images. Transgender people may not change legal documents to reflect their identities without gender-confirmation surgery, according to a February 2019 ruling. Art, culture, food, history France has everything. A picturesque landscape coupled with progressive LGBTQI+ rights makes Finland one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries. Norway legalized same-sex marriage in 2009, became the first country to enact anti-discrimination protections based on sexual orientation in 1981 and is ranked #6 on HSBC's best countries for expats. The reception of gay travelers and expats varies according to the region of Portugal. The 15 Best Countries for Expats in 2022 - Appjobs Blog This country is no stranger to conflict in the region both on a religious and political basis and its society general seeks to uphold the rights of LGBT individuals even despite some tensions that might be felt with more orthodox/conservative religious influences. 13 Best Gay Friendly Countries to Move to - Benzinga You can skip our detailed analysis of the expat community and go directly to the 10 Best Countries for Expats. There are many expat cities out there, so we can't list them all here - but we will give you a good starting point: these are the 15 best expat cities out there and countries for single guys. It has also given full rights to adopt children, earning a reputation among the most advanced in the world for gay rights. Hopefully, for the better, and we will be able to add more countries to this list. The law allows same-sex couples to adopt, and lesbian couples have equal access to in vitro fertilization treatment. With Taiwan becoming the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage in early 2019, LGBTQIA+ interest in the island has skyrocketed. Expat-heavy Hong Kong has a confident and thriving LGBTQIA+ subculture. The flatlands ranked 12th in Europe for same-sex rights in 2019. 10 Best Countries for Expats. One that as an LGBT expat, you will be welcomed into with open arms. Brooke Sopelsa is the editorial director of NBC Out, NBC News' LGBTQ digital destination. The Most Dangerous (And Safest) Countries For LGBTQ Tourists There are many possibilities in Latin and South America. The nation has prohibited discrimination against the LGBTQ community based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. In 2015, Bettel became the first European Union leader to wed a same-sex partner.