The 10 Most Desired Countries to Move To – And why the Nordics Didn’t Make the List

When people dream of relocating to a new country, they look for a combination of quality of life, economic stability, career opportunities, safety, and culture. Experts at 1st Move International have analyzed Google search data to examine which countries people are looking at for immigration, revealing interesting trends in people’s preferences.

The 10 Most Popular Countries to Move To

Every year, millions of people worldwide consider where they want to settle – but which countries are the most popular to move to? 1st Move International’s analysis of Google searches reveals the destinations that most often make people dream of life abroad.

Below are the ten countries that stand out as the most sought-after and most frequently appear in relocation searches – and what they offer.

1. Canada: With nearly 1.53 million searches, Canada is clearly at the top. The country attracts with its beautiful nature, public healthcare system, and economic stability. Canada’s friendly immigration policy and multicultural society make it easier for new citizens to feel welcome.
2. Australia: The relaxed lifestyle, warm climate, and good job opportunities draw many to Australia. The country also scores high in education opportunities and pathways to citizenship.
3. New Zealand: New Zealand is known for its outdoor lifestyle and unmatched natural beauty. Low stress levels and a strong work-life balance are major attractions for newcomers.
4. Spain: Spain attracts with its sunny climate, delicious food, and rich culture. Relatively low living costs and a strong sense of community are also important factors.
5. United Kingdom: The UK offers a rich cultural heritage, good educational opportunities, and a multicultural society. Many choose the country to work, study, or be closer to family.
6. Portugal: With 300 sunny days a year, Portugal is a haven for those seeking relaxation. Low crime rates, a welcoming community, and stunning landscapes make it popular.
7. Japan: As the highest-ranking Asian country, Japan offers a unique blend of technology and tradition. Opportunities in IT and education, as well as a world-class healthcare sector, make it attractive.
8. Germany: Germany is an economic powerhouse with a high standard of living. The country’s social welfare system, low crime rates, and excellent public transportation attract many.
9. France: A lot of people dream of the French lifestyle with its focus on food, culture, and art. The combination of history, education, and a well-developed infrastructure makes France popular.
10. Switzerland: Despite high living costs, Switzerland attracts with its economic strength, safety, and access to nature. The country also offers a fantastic work-life balance.

What Are People Searching for When They Want to Move?

Many dream of starting a new chapter in another country. People seek a new life – from vibrant cities to relaxing coastal communities. The prospect of better job opportunities, a higher quality of life, or a milder climate draws them.

People are looking for a range of specific factors when considering moving to a new country:

• Economic stability and high wages: Many seek better career opportunities and financial security.
• Healthcare systems: Access to affordable and reliable healthcare plays a significant role.
• Quality of life: A good work-life balance and safety are essential.
• Climate and nature: Sunny destinations or countries with beautiful landscapes attract many.
• Cultural diversity: People seek countries where they feel welcome as part of a global community.

Countries Missing from the List – And Why They Deserve More Attention

Although the list of the ten most popular countries to move to is dominated by destinations like Canada, Australia, and Spain, there are several other countries that could also be obvious choices for immigrants but do not appear on the list.

Countries like Italy, Belgium, and Austria have much to offer. They are known for their rich culture, high standard of living, and excellent infrastructure. However, their absence may be due to several factors:

• Lack of global visibility: Some countries do not market themselves enough as attractive immigration destinations. Italy, Belgium, and Austria may be known in Europe, but they don’t necessarily appeal as much to a global audience.
• Economic challenges: While these countries have strong economies, they may be perceived as less stable or flexible compared to economically dynamic countries like Germany or Canada.
• Demographic factors: Countries with an aging population may seem less dynamic and appealing to younger immigrants seeking excitement, growth, and innovation.

Additionally, notable economic power countries like the US and China are also missing from the list, raising the question: why do people choose other destinations over these two giants?

The United States: An Attractive, Yet Challenging Choice

Although the US has long been known as the "land of opportunities," it is not without challenges that discourage many from considering the country as their next home.

1. Complex immigration rules: The US’s restrictive immigration system makes it difficult and expensive for people to obtain residency and work permits. Long waiting times and uncertainty in the process are deterrents for many.
2. High healthcare costs: The country’s private healthcare system can be a significant barrier. While wages in the US are often higher, high healthcare expenses make it difficult for many to manage their finances.
3. Social challenges: High economic inequality, crime in certain areas, and differences in the quality of the school system make people seek countries with more consistent quality of life.
4. Political instability: The US’s political climate and shifting immigration policies in recent years have affected the country’s image as a stable and welcoming destination.

China: A Global Power with Limitations

China has a rapidly growing economy and plenty of opportunities for businesspeople and specialists, but the country also has notable challenges that can deter people from choosing it as a new home.

1. Language barriers and cultural differences: Chinese is a complex language, and the large cultural differences can make it difficult for many immigrants to feel at home, especially those who don’t speak the language.
2. Restrictions on personal freedoms: China’s strict control over freedom of speech, internet access, and political rights can be off-putting, especially to people from Western democracies.
3. Immigration policy: China is not known for attracting permanent immigrants. Most foreigners who move to China do so temporarily as businesspeople, teachers, or specialists.
4. Work culture: Long working hours and a high stress level in many industries can discourage people from viewing China as a country with a good work-life balance.

Are They Still Attractive?

Despite their challenges, both the US and China attract specific groups:

• US: Still a favorite for highly educated professionals in technology and research, as well as international students looking to access world-class universities and innovative environments.
• China: Appeals to entrepreneurs and specialists who want to tap into the rapidly growing economy and large market potential.

While countries like Italy, Belgium, Austria, the US, and China have much to offer, there are challenges that make many seek other destinations with simpler immigration processes, higher quality of life, and better opportunities to feel at home. To become more popular as immigration destinations, they must overcome barriers such as restrictive rules, high living costs, or social challenges that can deter potential newcomers.

Why the Nordic Countries Didn’t Make the List

The Nordic countries – Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden – possess many qualities that should make them attractive: strong welfare systems, high quality of life, and safety. Still, they do not appear on the list of the most popular countries to move to, and this can be attributed to several factors:

1. High living costs: While the Nordic countries offer high wages and economic security, high living costs – especially for housing and daily goods – discourage many potential newcomers. For those seeking a more affordable life, other countries like Spain or Portugal may seem more attractive.
2. Climate: The cold and dark winters can be a significant barrier for people who prioritize warm and sunny environments. Mediterranean or tropical climates often have broader global appeal.
3. Language barriers: While many Nordic people speak excellent English, the requirement to learn Danish, Swedish, Norwegian, or Finnish to integrate into the labor market or society can be off-putting.
4. Limited marketing: The Nordic countries do not always effectively promote themselves as attractive destinations for foreigners. They mainly market themselves as tourist destinations and focus less on attracting immigrants compared to countries like Canada and Australia, which actively promote their immigration programs.

However, the Nordic countries are popular among specific groups, such as highly educated professionals seeking stability and a progressive work environment, or those who value strong social safety nets and equality. But for the broader global audience, the challenges mentioned above explain their absence from the list.

Why the Nordic Countries Should Be More Popular – and on the List

The Nordic countries have unique qualities that should make them preferred destinations for those seeking a new life abroad. In fact, the Nordic countries already rank highly in international measures of quality of life, happiness, health, and education. So why are they not on the list? And why should they be?

First and foremost, the Nordics offer a level of social security that few other countries can match. Free education at all levels, including world-leading universities, makes it an attractive destination for young students. Additionally, universal and high-quality healthcare, available to all, provides reassurance for both individuals and families. This combination of education and healthcare attracts highly educated professionals looking for a solid foundation for their careers and families.

The Nordic countries also excel in work-life balance. Work culture is centered around flexibility, reasonable working hours, and generous vacation time. This means many experience a high level of well-being and have time for both their career and personal life. At the same time, wage levels are among the highest in the world, meaning that even the relatively high cost of living can be balanced with a solid income.

Beyond the economic and social benefits, the Nordic countries are also known for their natural beauty and environmental awareness. The countries are rich in stunning landscapes – from Norway's fjords to Iceland's volcanoes and Finland's thousands of lakes. At the same time, sustainability and green innovation are core values in the region, appealing to those who want to live in a country with a focus on environmental protection and climate action.

Nordic societies are also characterized by high trust and social cohesion. Low crime rates, strong democratic institutions, and a high level of equality make many feel that the Nordics are safe and stable places to live. Additionally, inclusion and equality are central, making the region an attractive choice for women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those from minority backgrounds.

In conclusion, the Nordic countries are among the best places to live globally and should rank higher as destinations for those considering moving abroad. With their focus on sustainability, quality of life, and social equality, the Nordics offer the perfect mix of work, personal fulfillment, and community living.