Inside Asia’s Best Countries for Expats
Affordable living, vibrant cultures, and promising career opportunities are drawing expats to Asia – and many say they’ve never been happier. The best countries for expats in Asia continue to dominate global rankings, offering a mix of adventure and stability that few regions can match.
In the 2025 International Expat Insider Survey, which gathered insights from more than 10,000 expats representing 172 nationalities, personal finance was a key factor influencing happiness. This focus helped Asia shine — with five of the world’s top 10 expat destinations located in the region: Thailand, Vietnam, China, Indonesia, and Malaysia.
China showed remarkable improvement, leaping from 19th place in 2024 to sixth overall thanks to high scores for career satisfaction and quality of life. Malaysia entered the top 10 for the first time, while Vietnam ranked fifth with outstanding results in personal finance and cost of living.
We spoke to expats across these high-ranking destinations to understand what makes life there so rewarding — and what newcomers should know before moving.
China: Career Growth and Convenience in One of Asia’s Best Expat Destinations
China’s sixth-place ranking reflects strong results in personal finance, happiness, and job satisfaction. Expats consistently cite career prospects, competitive salaries, and modern infrastructure among their top reasons for moving.
“Shanghai is an amazing spot for expats,” said Dutch travel blogger Chris Oberman. “There are plenty of international communities, bars, and businesses where expats easily connect. Beijing offers more cultural charm, but the community there is smaller.”
Belgian expat Wouter Mayeur, who has lived in both Hong Kong and Shenzhen, emphasized how each city offers a unique lifestyle. “Hong Kong is vibrant and full of opportunities, while Shenzhen stands out as China’s fast-growing ‘tech capital’ with modern design, clean streets, and an efficient transport system,” he said. best countries for expats in Asia.
Everyday life in China is remarkably convenient — from lightning-fast deliveries to efficient digital payment systems. “If you buy something you want to return, just leave it outside your door, and someone picks it up,” said Oberman. “These small efficiencies save huge amounts of time.”
However, flexibility is key to thriving in China. “Things move fast here,” Oberman explained. “Schedules can change suddenly, and businesses evolve quickly, so you have to adapt.”
Learning Mandarin is another game-changer. “If you can say simple things like ‘good job’ or ‘it tastes good’ in Chinese, people open up much more easily,” he said. “I started after eight months, but I wish I had begun sooner.”
Malaysia: A Cultural Mosaic and a Top Choice for Expats in Asia
Ranked number 10 globally, Malaysia stands out for its affordability, housing options, and ease of communication. English is widely spoken, making it one of the best countries in Asia for first-time expats.
“Moving there and fitting in is relatively easy,” said Australian expat Christine Reynolds, who works as a relocation consultant. “You’ll find communities in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and even in Sarawak on Borneo Island.”
For many, Malaysia’s diversity is its biggest attraction. American expat Kirsten Raccuia, who runs the blog Sand in My Curls, described it beautifully: “You could be standing in a Hindu temple, smelling incense from a nearby Buddhist temple, and hearing the call to prayer from a mosque — all within minutes. It’s magical.”
Affordability enhances everyday life. “Housing costs are low, and beautiful apartments with gyms and pools are common,” said Reynolds. “You can visit beaches, jungles, or even fly to Thailand for just $60.”
Work-life balance also earns praise. “Malaysia takes business seriously but also values leisure and personal time,” said Farah Jaber, a general manager at a coastal resort. “It’s a place where you can grow your career while living close to nature and culture.”
For digital nomads, Malaysia offers one of Asia’s easiest long-stay visas, reliable internet, and abundant co-working spaces. Long-term residents can also apply for the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, which provides significant tax advantages for those earning abroad.
Vietnam: Affordability and Warm Community Spirit
Sliding into the global top five, Vietnam continues to impress with its unbeatable affordability and strong sense of community. The country ranked first in the personal finance index, proving that happiness and financial stability often go hand in hand.
“It’s $360 a month for a studio apartment three blocks from the ocean,” said American expat Norman Bour, who lived in Da Nang. “Food, transport, and entertainment are all budget-friendly — it’s one of the cheapest places we’ve lived.”
Beyond the savings, expats often mention how easy it is to form close connections with locals. “Neighbours, shopkeepers, and even street vendors become part of your daily life,” said Ayushi Tandon, a former Ho Chi Minh City resident. “It’s a kind of community support that surprises many newcomers.”
However, patience is vital. “Setting up phone plans or extending visas often involves multiple steps and stamps,” Tandon noted. “Once you accept that pace, life feels easier.”
The tropical climate can be a challenge, especially with humidity affecting books, electronics, and clothes — but many find the outdoor lifestyle worth it.
Vietnam’s coffee culture is another major draw. “Wandering through small streets filled with hidden cafes and local food stalls gave me an authentic connection to the city,” said Tandon.
In Hoi An, South African expat Michelle Ford starts her mornings in the Tra Que vegetable village with cold brews and baked goods. “It’s the perfect blend of simplicity and creativity,” she said. “Vietnam reminds you to slow down and appreciate the little moments.”
Why Asia Continues to Lead for Expats
From China’s professional energy to Malaysia’s cultural fusion and Vietnam’s low-cost lifestyle, Asia’s best countries for expats in 2025 demonstrate how diverse experiences can all deliver happiness.
Expats across the region celebrate not just financial comfort, but also the balance between modern living and rich cultural traditions. Whether you’re chasing career growth, community spirit, or a fresh start, Asia offers opportunities that go far beyond expectations.
