When moving abroad, safety is one of the most important considerations. From crime rates and personal safety to access to healthcare, various factors determine how safe a country is for expats.
According to a new study by British insurance company William Russell, the Czech Republic is one of the safest countries in the world to move to as an expatriate. In an index covering more than 160 countries, the country was ranked 12th globally.
The analysis is based on the Global Peace Index 2024 and the World Risk Report, which assess factors such as crime rates, political stability, terrorism risk, and resilience to natural disasters. Access to and quality of healthcare were also taken into account, as well as digital security, which is becoming increasingly important in a world with growing cyber threats.
Iceland tops the list of the safest countries, followed by Ireland in second place and Austria in third, while the Czech Republic ranks 12th, outperforming countries such as Germany (20th), Belgium (16th), and the Netherlands (18th).
The safest countries in the world have a number of things in common, including a high level of prosperity, social well-being, and good education. They also often have an efficient criminal justice system, and their governments maintain stable relationships with their citizens and fulfil their needs.
The majority of the top 10, and more than half of the top 20, are EU or EEA member states.
The 10 Safest Countries in the World for Expats in 2025
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Austria
- New Zealand
- Singapore
- Switzerland
- Portugal
- Denmark
- Slovenia
- Malaysia
