The Best English-Speaking Countries for Expats
As Featured on
Contents
- #1: The United Kingdom
- #2: Belize
- #3: New Zealand
- #4: Australia
- #5: The Bahamas
- #6: Dominica
- #7: St. Kitts and Nevis
- #8: Ireland
- #9: Malta
- #10: British Overseas Territories
- Cayman Islands
- Turks and Caicos
- Jersey
- Guernsey
- Isle of Man
- Gibraltar
- Best English-Speaking Expat Communities
- Which English Speaking Country is Best for You?
I grew up in a small town full of dairy and crop farmers. I was a farm boy. So when I first told my parents I wanted to start traveling, they didn’t get it. Neither did my friends.
After a while, I decided to travel by myself. My shortlist included the UK, Russia, Germany, and Australia.
I didn’t want language to be an issue, so Russia and Germany were out.
It was cheaper for me to get to London than Australia, so off to London it was!
More than two decades later, helping clients internationalize is my day-to-day. There’s a heavy focus on international wealth protection planning, of course. But ever more people are looking to move out of the US and live somewhere else.
Having a common language makes that a lot easier. So let’s take a look at the best English-speaking countries for expats…
How Language can Make or Break an Expat Experience
I’ve experienced first-hand how hard it can be not to speak the local language plenty of times. And if you’re someone who finds it tough to learn a new language, it’s much easier to go to a place where you already speak the native tongue.
Should You Move for Tax Reasons?
Taxes can be a big draw for moving abroad. But it’s important to realize that US citizens don’t escape American taxes just by relocating.
Uncle Sam taxes citizens on worldwide income, regardless of where they live.
That said, moving abroad can open up significant tax-saving opportunities.
The Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE) is perhaps the best known – it allows you to exclude a portion of your income from US taxes. But there are other opportunities too.
This isn’t a DIY project, though. International tax is very complex by definition. It’s easy to make costly mistakes. And if you’re thinking about a move, feel free to get in touch with us for a free consultation with one of our Associates. You can tell us your ideas and get feedback on whether your plans are possible.
#1: The United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is still quite popular for Americans looking to live abroad in an English-speaking place.
It boasts a rich cultural history, vibrant cities like London and Manchester, and comprehensive healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS).
However, living costs and taxes can be high, especially in urban areas.
Taxes
The United Kingdom is perhaps best known as a destination for wealthy expats thanks to its generous “non-dom” status—at least, until recently.
In brief, residents whose permanent home, or “domicile,” was outside the UK could limit their tax liability significantly. Non-doms were only taxed on their UK income and gains. Foreign income and gains were taxed only if “remitted” to the UK.
This allowed people to keep tax residency in their “home” country—ideally a zero-tax jurisdiction like the Bahamas—while living in Britain and paying income tax only on money they brought into the country to pay their local bills.
However, beginning on April 6, 2025, the UK is moving towards a more traditional residence-based tax system. Until then, the current rules remain in effect. Here’s a summary of the planned changes:
No More Non-Dom Status: Domicile will no longer be a factor; taxes will be based on residence.
Four-Year Foreign Income and Gains (FIG) Relief: New residents who were non-UK residents for the previous 10 years can enjoy a four-year tax exemption on foreign income and gains, even if those funds are remitted to the UK.
Inheritance Tax (IHT): Moving to a residence-based IHT system, taxing worldwide assets for residents of 10 years or more.
This, of course, has made the country a lot less attractive to the types of people who previously made huge contributions to the UK economy, even if they paid minimal tax. It will be interesting to see how things shake out.
#2: Belize
Belize is attractive for Americans who want an English-speaking country with a relaxed lifestyle, a tropical climate, and to still be close to the US.
Tax Advantages
The country uses a territorial tax system that does not tax foreign-sourced income at all. This makes it attractive for retirees and digital nomads, as well as an easier planning process for Americans who have to keep paying US taxes no matter where they live.
There is also no capital gains tax, and the income tax rate is a flat 25% on income earned within Belize. This primarily applies to employment income, though self-employed individuals may face additional complexities. Property taxes are also very low compared to US rates.
Affordable Living
The cost of living in Belize is generally lower than in the United States. Housing, food, and transportation are more budget friendly. Residency programs like the Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) program grant tax exemptions on foreign-earned income.
However, there are exceptions. The cost of living in the most popular expat spot – Ambergris Caye – has risen almost to US levels.
Residency
Belize offers temporary and permanent residency with one usually leading to the other. The country also has the Qualified Retired Persons (QRP) program, designed to attract wealthy foreigners with stable income who will spend some of that income within Belize.
Challenges
Unfortunately, Belize isn’t the best option for everyone. Its healthcare system has limited capacity to handle complex medical issues and, particularly outside urban areas, care can be scarce or non-existent.
Some years ago, a client of ours decided to retire to Belize, attracted by the lower cost of living, pleasant climate and easy tax system. A few years in, she had a stroke that wasn’t properly treated.
Unable to get the help she needed in-country, she went back to the US for treatment. But unfortunately, the damage was done. She did partially recover but never back to how she was before.
Afraid something like that would happen again, she moved back to the US permanently.
Banking is a big problem too. The sector is very small and often difficult to navigate. Belize has historically been a black sheep when it comes to money laundering and has spent years on OECD and EU blacklists. If you choose to base too much of your financial life there, you may be judged guilty by association.
And crime outside of expat areas can be a problem too.
Our View
For certain clients in good health who want to spend some time in a nice place especially on the coast, Belize is worth a look.
#3: New Zealand
New Zealand is a popular destination for Americans seeking a high quality of life in an English-speaking country. Known for its stunning scenery, outdoor lifestyle, and welcoming communities, New Zealand also has a strong healthcare system and an emphasis on work-life balance.
Tax Considerations
New Zealand is not what you would call a tax haven. In fact, the top income tax rate is 39% for earnings over NZD 180,000 (about USD 105,000). A 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST) applies to most purchases.
However, there’s something to like for wealthy expats who don’t need a job—there’s no capital gains tax or inheritance tax.
Dividends and interest income are taxed at the high ordinary income tax rate (39%), but new residents benefit from a Temporary Tax Exemption on foreign income for up to four years. This is particularly helpful if your income continues to come from the US (or elsewhere) after you make the move. However, be aware that after the exemption period, global income will be taxed at New Zealand rates.
Lifestyle and Cost of Living
The cost of living can be high, particularly in Auckland and Wellington, with expensive housing being a key factor.
However, the lifestyle is relaxed, with a strong sense of community and a national emphasis on sustainability—both major draws for expatriates.
Residency
Like many Western nations, New Zealand is generally open to immigration. The authorities prefer migrants that bring needed skills or contribute to the economy through investments.
Challenges
When I first started in this business 15 years ago, New Zealand was happy to accept wealthy expats of any age with enough money. Things have changed and age can be a barrier for clients—the older you are, the harder it will be to qualify.
And just having wealth is no longer enough (or even wanted on some level). All that money moving into the country has pushed up housing prices, sparking backlash against “rich foreigners.”
Instead, the trend in New Zealand is toward highly skilled immigrants who will be able to contribute longer to the workforce.
Our View
As a bug out location, New Zealand is hard to beat. It’s out of the way, quite self-sufficient, and a stunningly beautiful place. However, tax planning can be a challenge, and securing a residency permit can be difficult unless you work in a qualifying occupation.
#4: Australia
Australia is known for its vibrant cities like Sydney and Melbourne, beautiful beaches, and diverse landscapes. It also boasts a robust healthcare system that provides free or subsidized services for residents.
Taxes
Australia has a progressive tax system, with the highest income tax rate at 45% for income over AUD 180,000 (about USD 118,000), plus a 2% healthcare service levy. In other words, it’s not a tax haven.
Lifestyle and Cost of Living
The cost of living varies, with Sydney and Melbourne being expensive, especially for housing and dining. More affordable options exist in smaller cities and rural areas.
That said, Australia’s culture is more focused on work-life balance. The weather makes outdoor activities a possibility year-round.
Residency
Like New Zealand, Australia has made it a lot harder to get a residency permit if you don’t work in a highly skilled occupation. Qualifying through an investment doesn’t work anymore unless you’re willing to use it to start a new business in Australia.
Challenges
Navigating Australia’s tax system and US obligations can be hard. Visa and residency requirements can also be a big challenge.
Our View
For certain clients, Australia can be a wonderful place to spend your time. However, to our readers at least, the combination of high taxes and complicated residency makes it unattractive.
#5: The Bahamas
The Bahamas offers a mix of mostly beautiful weather, relatively easy (though pricey) residency qualifications, proximity to the US, and low taxes.
Taxes
There’s no income, capital gains, or inheritance tax, making it ideal for high earners and those with substantial assets. Revenue is generated through a 10% VAT and property taxes.
However, there are stamp duties on property transactions and other indirect taxes, which can add to the cost of living for homeowners and businesses.
Lifestyle and Cost of Living
The Bahamas provides an idyllic lifestyle with warm weather year-round and lots of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and diving.
Because it has attracted so many wealthy expats and is an island nation, the cost of living is high, especially for imported goods and real estate in prime locations.
However, it’s a small and laid-back place. City lifestyle this is not.
Residency Requirements
Residency requirements often involve real estate investment. In general, the more you invest, the longer your residency permit will be valid.
Challenges
Healthcare can be a challenge compared to the US, especially on smaller islands. It’s not uncommon for residents to fly back to the US for serious medical issues.
Our View
Once upon a time, the Bahamas was one of the most popular offshore destinations for American expats. Times have changed and there are other alternatives that are easier and cheaper to qualify for.
Still, for the right client, the Bahamas could be the perfect place to retire.
#6: Dominica
Long-time readers will know that The Nestmann Group has represented Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment program since 2007.
Known for lush tropical rainforests, hot springs, and eco-tourism, it’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
Tax Considerations
Dominica has no capital gains, wealth, or inheritance taxes. Non-residents aren’t taxed on foreign income, though your worldwide earnings are subject to income tax, with a top rate of 35% for income over XCD 80,000 (about USD 30,000). However, there’s no capital gains tax.
Individuals who receive retirement income from outside Dominica are exempt from tax on that income so long as they were not Dominica-resident prior to retirement. Property taxes are also low.
Lifestyle and Cost of Living
The cost of living is moderate compared to other Caribbean islands, with affordable housing and local produce. However, imported goods are costly.
The island’s laid-back atmosphere and strong sense of community offer many outdoor activities, including hiking and diving.
Residency Requirements
Dominica residency can be challenging to get outside the Citizenship by Investment program. You will need to move there, get temporary residency for a number of years, then apply for permanent residency. The easiest way to do this is to marry a local (opposite-sex only) and have them sponsor your residency application.
The reason it’s harder to go through traditional residency channels (short of marrying a local) is because the authorities want foreigners to go through their CBI program. If you do, you will have citizenship and automatically, the right to live and work on the island permanently.
Dominica citizenship also grants you the right to live and work in any country that’s a full member of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
Challenges
Dominica is not a wealthy country. Getting advanced medical care for serious issues can be a challenge. Infrastructure is a work in progress.
Our View
We love the country’s beauty and its laid-back lifestyle. We also like that Dominica citizenship gives us the right to live in any other OECS.
However, living on a small island is an adjustment for people used to more people and larger centers. As a retirement destination, it could make sense. But we’re not aware of any client under 50 who has chosen to make Dominica their full-time home.
#7: St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Kitts and Nevis is a twin-island nation in the Caribbean that is mostly known to Americans for low taxes, some of the strongest asset protection laws in the world, and their Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program.
Taxes
St. Kitts and Nevis has no income, capital gains, inheritance, or wealth taxes. Rather, they mainly generate revenue through a 17% Value Added Tax (VAT), property taxes (which are relatively low anyway), and their CBI program.
Lifestyle and Cost of Living
Life is relaxed, with abundant outdoor activities like sailing and hiking. The cost of living varies across the islands but generally, imported goods are expensive. Locally grown food is relatively cheap.
Residency and Citizenship Options
St. Kitts and Nevis has long enjoyed the title of the longest continuous running Citizenship by Investment Program (40 years and counting). For Americans wanting to move there, that’s the default path.
It is possible to get residency there without going through the CBI program. However, it’s not terribly easy and operates similarly to Dominica – temporary residency for a few years followed by permanent residency.
St. Kitts and Nevis is also part of the OECS. A passport from one member nation gives the right to live and work in any other nation that’s a full member of this organization.
Challenges
As with many Caribbean nations, access to advanced healthcare can be a problem. It’s not uncommon for serious cases to be referred out of country. Infrastructure is generally okay in the cities but can be lacking in other parts of the islands.
Our View
We have had many clients go through the St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment program. However, not many actually end up living there. It’s a pleasant place but rarely a “forever home.”
#8: Ireland
Ireland is a beautiful and friendly country with a good mix of rich cultural heritage and modern amenities.
Taxes
Ireland has a progressive tax system on worldwide income, with rates from 20% to 40%, the latter applying to income over €40,000 (about USD 43,000). The tax burden is increased by the Universal Social Charge (USC) and Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI), which fund healthcare and public services.
Taxes are also high on dividends, capital gains, and your estate beyond certain thresholds. There is no wealth tax.
However, Ireland does have a non-domiciled (non-dom) program that can benefit high net worth families. Under this program, you can become a tax resident in Ireland but only actually pay taxes on income either earned in the country or brought into the country from outside sources.
Lifestyle and Cost of Living
The country offers a high standard of living but at a significant cost, especially in Dublin.
Housing, utilities, and transportation are pricey, while rural areas are more affordable. The public healthcare system is generally of good quality, but most wealthy clients opt for private insurance.
If you’ve ever spent time there, you’ll have noticed that the Irish lifestyle emphasizes community, arts, and a healthy work-life balance.
Residency and Citizenship Options
Ireland is generally quite welcoming to foreigners. There are many different ways to enter from work visas for skilled professionals to the Stamp 0 visa for retirees. If you’re married to an EU citizen, you can apply for permanent residency under their family program.
Ireland also has a very generous Citizenship by Descent program that’s worth exploring if you have Irish roots.
Challenges
Frankly, the weather leaves much to be desired unless you like the rain. Taxes are quite high on the personal side unless you qualify for the non-dom program. (Ireland’s much vaunted 12.5% tax rate on corporate profits only applies if you have an active trading business and you leave the profit in the company.)
Our View
We do have a number of clients who have chosen to set up a business in Ireland for the purposes of qualifying for Irish citizenship and, by extension, access to the EU.
However, unless you can qualify for non-dom status, it’s rarely the best fit for high-net-worth families. If you can, however, it’s well worth a look.
#9: Malta
For wealthy individuals and families, Malta has become a popular destination in the expat world because of its Citizenship by Investment program that gives applicants a genuine EU passport.
What many people don’t know, though, is that English is widely spoken thanks to more than 150 years of British rule in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Taxes
Income earned in Malta is taxed up to 35%. However, unique in the EU, the country operates as a territorial tax system, meaning that only income generated in the country, or brought into the country from abroad, is subject to tax.
There are no inheritance, wealth, or property taxes either.
However, stamp duties apply to real estate transactions and other property-related activities.
In addition, visas are available that allow you to reduce the tax you pay on income brought into Malta to 15% – and 10% for the country’s digital nomad visa. There’s even a visa for highly qualified employees in which you pay only 15% tax on your local income.
Lifestyle and Cost of Living
Malta offers a high quality of life with a relatively low cost of living compared to many European countries. Housing in areas like Valletta can be expensive, but more budget-friendly options are available.
The country also has a generally strong healthcare system with public and private services available.
While the weather is warm and pleasant, summers can be extremely hot and crowded due to the influx of tourists.
Residency Options
Malta offers a pretty typical immigration system with different options depending on your means. Investment options, retirement qualifications, or a job offer.
The country also offers what it calls a Citizenship by Investment Program but is, for all intents and purposes, a dressed up Golden Visa program. It’s called the Maltese Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment and requires:
Investment in Government Bonds or Stocks: A minimum contribution of €600,000 for citizenship after 36 months of residency or €750,000 for citizenship after 12 months.
Real Estate Investment: Buy property worth at least €700,000 or rent property for at least €16,000 per year, with a 5-year holding requirement.
Donation: A donation of €10,000 to an approved non-profit organization.
Malta and Cyprus did previously have pure Citizenship by Investment options where, in exchange for a large investment, people could qualify for citizenship immediately. The EU was not a fan and applied substantial pressure to both countries.
In the case of Cyprus, the program ultimately closed under suspicious circumstances. Malta kept adjusting its program to try and satisfy EU bureaucrats without giving up this important source of foreign investment. That’s why the program ended up the way it is today.
Challenges
Malta is a small island and can be quite crowded during the tourist season. Summers can be very hot and uncomfortable. Infrastructure is better than in many places in the world but not quite up to standards common in other EU countries.
Our View
Over the years, we’ve had a number of clients go through the Maltese CBI program. To my knowledge, no one has made it a base of operations, although it can be a very nice place to spend a few weeks a year to get away, especially in the winter months.
#10: British Overseas Territories
Britain also has a number of territories that are nominally independent but still part of Britain and, ultimately, governed by it.
That said, many powers—including local immigration and tax policy—have been devolved to these places. For the right type of client, they are well worth considering.
Here are the most popular options:
Cayman Islands
A major international financial center, the Cayman Islands are also a popular expat residence haven. Indeed, we have several clients who now live there more or less permanently. The country offers a high standard of living with no income, capital gains, or inheritance taxes.
But it’s not cheap. You’ll need to spend at least $1.2 million to get a visa—that’s not even for permanent residency. You also have to comply with strict renewal criteria. And to get permanent residency, you’ll need to spend at least $2.4 million.
Turks and Caicos
Known for their pristine beaches and luxury resorts, Turks and Caicos offer a high standard of living, again with no income, capital gains, or inheritance taxes. The islands are a favored destination for retirees and high-net-worth individuals, but the cost of living can be quite high, especially for imported goods, and especially on the main island of Providenciales.
Jersey
Sitting in the English Channel, Jersey is a leading offshore financial center known for low taxes. Residents benefit from low personal income tax rates capped at 20%, with no capital gains or inheritance tax. The goods and services tax (GST) is set at 5% on consumer purchases.
Guernsey
Another English Channel island, Guernsey might be best known for its picturesque scenery and safe, community-focused lifestyle. Residents enjoy a flat income tax rate of 20% and no capital gains, inheritance, or wealth taxes. However, living expenses can be high.
Isle of Man
The Isle of Man off the British mainland offers a unique blend of natural beauty and a pro-business environment. It has a maximum income tax rate of 20%, capped at £200,000 per year for high earners, and no capital gains or inheritance tax.
The island is known for its high quality of life. However, it’s remote and can be hard to get to.
Gibraltar
Gibraltar is a strategic location at the southern tip of Spain known for its Mediterranean climate, its financial services industry, and as the guardian of the entrance to the Atlantic Ocean from the Mediterranean Sea.
However, it is very small, which greatly limits space and housing options.
Best English-Speaking Expat Communities
English is the current lingua franca and many countries incorporate it into their school systems. This is especially true in Europe, where many students start learning it at the age of 10 or younger.
For that reason, you’ll find plenty of people who speak the language, especially in the cities. Many times have I tried to speak a few words in the local language only to have the native speaker switch to English to put me out of my misery!
There are also many English-speaking expat communities. You’ll find them all over the place, especially in countries close to the US. Panama, Costa Rica, and Mexico are especially popular at the moment.
Which English Speaking Country is Best for You?
That depends on what you’re hoping to achieve and what needs to be planned around. We’re here to help, of course. And with decades of experience working with seven and eight-figure individuals and families, we can help you do it right the first time.
To learn more about how we could work together, please request a free call with one of our Associates. You can do so here.
About The Author
Need Help?
We have 40+ years experience helping Americans move, live and invest internationally…
Need Help?
We have 40+ years experience helping Americans move, live and invest internationally…
As Featured on
