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Current statistics show that more and more people from Germany and Austria are emigrating. But many who are still about to do so ask themselves the question: Where should I emigrate to?
With over 200 countries in the world, the theoretical choice is huge. However, in practice, it has been shown that the selection of countries that are particularly attractive to expats is relatively small.
This article examines the reasons and factors that determine emigration and the choice of destination country, as well as the best countries for expatriates. Specifically, the pros and cons of the best countries are highlighted and presented objectively.
Reasons
The reasons for emigration are varied and usually very individual. However, here is an overview of the main reasons that prompt people to emigrate from Germany or Austria.
Taxes
The most obvious factor—especially for high earners—is taxation at multiple levels. Austria and Germany have some of the highest taxes in the world on income, corporate profits, and investment income. This is a key consideration for the self-employed, entrepreneurs, and high earners, as they typically pay over 50 % to the government.
That is why many use countries with low or no taxes, so-called Tax havens, to get more of the money earned or worked for back.
Climate
Another point is the quality of life with regard to the climate. Most people feel more comfortable in the summer or in warm climates with plenty of sunshine. If these are also located by the sea, a holiday feeling quickly sets in. Many people want this feeling of sun, beach, and sea every day of their lives and therefore emigrate. The Mediterranean region in particular is very popular for this reason.
Safety
One point that is unfortunately becoming increasingly important in Central Europe is security. Crime and the number of civilian casualties are now rising in numerous major cities across Europe. Despite high taxes and an expensive state apparatus, comprehensive security is not guaranteed by the state. Theft, burglary, or violent crime are unfortunately the order of the day in major cities. For women or families with children, this is often a reason to emigrate to safe countries.
Career
Besides taxes, career advancement is also an important financial factor that motivates many to emigrate. Compared internationally, wages in Germany and Austria are relatively low, especially for specialists. Entrepreneurs also complain about a growth-inhibiting environment caused by excessive bureaucracy, tax burdens, and regulations.
Numerous countries offer attractive opportunities for advancement and an economically friendly environment for entrepreneurs here.
Politics
Political instability is ultimately a major factor that drives many to emigrate. Especially in recent years, many people feel betrayed and deprived of their freedom, and instead see widespread regulation, involvement in war, and uncertainty across the EU. Politically emerging countries have become much more interesting for people looking for a future for themselves and their families.
Where to emigrate? TOP 10 countries
Below is a list of the most popular countries when it comes to emigrating from Germany or Austria. The order is not strictly based on emigration figures, but rather chosen freely, as every emigration must be weighed individually. One should not be misled by the statistics of the masses, but rather find the right setup for oneself and weigh the individual pros and cons.
Switzerland
Statistically speaking, Switzerland is one of the most popular countries when it comes to emigration. Every year, thousands of Germans and Austrians emigrate to the neighboring country, and the trend continues to rise.
The reasons for this vary. Below is an overview of the most important aspects that speak in favor of emigrating to Switzerland.
- Taxes One of the biggest factors is the low Taxes in Switzerland. Compared internationally, but especially when directly compared with Germany and Austria, these rates are significantly lower. Depending on the canton, the top tax rates for corporations and individuals range from about 10 to 20%. This is significantly lower than in neighboring countries.
- Nature Objectively speaking, Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Mountains with glaciers, forests, and a multitude of picturesque lakes characterize the landscape. Accordingly, the quality of air, water, and local food is correspondingly high.
- Infrastructure Switzerland is also extremely well developed in terms of infrastructure. In addition to several international airports, cities are connected by numerous trains and buses. Schools, hospitals, and sports facilities can also be found in every city in Switzerland.
- Career One point that motivates many people to emigrate is the career prospects and professional opportunities available in Switzerland. Above all, the high wage level is an advantage that motivates many to work and also live in Switzerland.
- Culture Culturally and linguistically, Switzerland is very close to Germany and Austria, which also makes emigration easier.
However, the beautiful Alpine country does not only have advantages. The main disadvantage of Switzerland is, above all, the high cost of living. Rent in particular, but also grocery prices, are significantly higher compared to the rest of Europe.
VAE
A Emigrating to Dubai or rather, the UAE has become very popular in recent years. The city, or rather the state on the Arabian Gulf, is not only a tourism stronghold, but has also developed into a new adopted home for many Germans, Austrians, and also Swiss.
The UAE has consciously developed into an attractive country for expats. The government continues to work on programs, initiatives, and legislative changes that make the country particularly appealing to foreign high achievers.
- Taxes One of the biggest advantages of the UAE is its tax system. The country is incredibly attractive from a tax perspective, and hardly any other country can compete with the UAE in this area (with the exception of a few exotic island nations). At the individual level, there are no taxes (0%), and at the corporate level, the tax rate ranges from 0 to 9%, depending on revenue. In general, there are also no taxes on investments, rental income, or similar sources, which makes it particularly conducive to building wealth.
- Safety The UAE is among the global leaders when it comes to safety. Among the 10 safest cities in the world, 5 are from the UAE, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Women and families with children in particular greatly appreciate the safety in everyday life.
- Infrastructure Also when it comes to infrastructure, hardly any other country is as well developed as the UAE. Schools, kindergartens, universities, hospitals, airports and much more are at the highest international level.
One of the biggest disadvantages of the UAE, just like in Switzerland, is the increased cost of living. Education, rent, and groceries in particular are expensive in the UAE, especially in Dubai. Only cars, transportation, and numerous services are very cheap due to guest workers.
Cyprus
Besides the UAE, also Cyprus is popular with many expats from the DACH region. The main reasons for this are the proximity to their home country, low taxes, and the relaxed lifestyle.
- Taxes Cyprus offers attractive tax conditions, particularly for entrepreneurs and investors. The island nation taxes corporate profits at 15%. Dividend distributions and passive investment income are generally tax-exempt. Income from licenses and intellectual property is also subject to favorable tax treatment, with corporate tax rates in the single-digit range. Cryptocurrency is currently taxed at around 8%.
- Nature Anyone who likes the Mediterranean will get their money's worth in Cyprus. Because the country offers a Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, and crystal-clear water.
- Quiet Cyprus is a very relaxed country and ideal for anyone who prefers things a bit quieter. It is relatively easy to find a house by the sea or with a sea view in a quiet community. Apart from Limassol and Larnaca, there are no major cities like the ones you know from Germany.
One of the biggest disadvantages of Cyprus is the infrastructure. Amazon delivers only to a limited extent, Uber does not exist, and having a car is an absolute necessity.
Spain
Along with Switzerland, Spain is one of the most popular countries for Germans, as well as Austrians and Swiss, to emigrate to. Mallorca, the popular island, is at the very top of the list. While Spain does not offer tax advantages, it convinces with a high quality of life in many other areas.
- Weather / Climate Depending on where you live in Spain, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures all year round. Especially in the south, such as in Mallorca or Marbella, the temperature rarely drops below 10 degrees even in winter. The number of hours of sunshine is also impressive, as the sun shines almost all year round.
- Culture Spaniards are known for a relaxed lifestyle with a focus on family, leisure, and good food. This laid-back way of life partly contributes to Spain being the country with the highest life expectancy. Generally, Spaniards are also very friendly and jovial.
- Prices Depending on where you live in Spain, you can still live very affordably. Especially groceries, fuel, but also rent (apart from certain hotspots) are low in an international comparison.
- Language Spanish is a relatively easy language to learn, as it also originates from the Romance language family. Within a few weeks and months, you can learn the most important phrases.
- Nature Spain offers everything a nature lover could want. Starting from the mountains in the Sierra Nevada region, to lush forests in the north, to stunning beaches in the Balearic Islands.
One of the main disadvantages is presumably the high tax burden. In this regard, there are no advantages compared to Austria or Germany, and certainly not to Switzerland.
Monaco
Monaco, the playground of the rich, is a country for relocation that is only of interest to a certain target group. After all, only those who are wealthy are allowed to apply for a residence permit in the country. A clean criminal record and assets of at least €500,000 in a bank account are basic requirements. Nevertheless, it offers many advantages.
- Taxes An obvious advantage here as well is the taxes. Monaco does not levy any taxes on a private level. This means that income from labor, capital gains, dividends, and much more is tax-free. Thus, it is ideal for wealthy individuals who live primarily off their investments.
- Climate The climate in Monaco is pleasantly Mediterranean and it is rarely cold. Even in winter, you can enjoy mild temperatures and snow is never seen.
- Safety Monaco is among the safest countries and cities in the world. The microstate offers affluent people everyday protection, and crime is extremely low.
- Infrastructure Monaco offers good provisions in the areas of education, hospitals, and much more. You get everything you need and benefit from a modern infrastructure.
One of the main drawbacks of Monaco is the high cost of living. The country is extremely expensive. Rents, in particular, can start as high as €4,000–5,000 per month for studio apartments. Only those who can afford it and are willing to do so should consider moving to Monaco.
USA
The Land of Opportunity has been a perennial favorite among immigrants for many years. The United States is an extremely diverse country, offering many opportunities for hardworking people.
- Job / Career The birthplace of capitalism offers many opportunities, especially for hardworking people, both as employees and as entrepreneurs. The world’s wealthiest people are always Americans, and American companies also pay the highest salaries. Anyone who is willing to work and has a good education or a viable business model will be rewarded in the U.S.
- Nature Since the U.S. is the largest country in the world, nature lovers can find everything they could want there. National parks with forests, ski resorts, and canyons, as well as beautiful beaches in California and Florida.
The biggest disadvantage in the USA is the healthcare system. Compared internationally, it is excessively expensive. You should definitely get private insurance (this is also expensive) so as not to be surprised by potential doctor or hospital bills.
Another issue is safety, which can be very poor depending on the region, city, or neighborhood. Crime is prevalent in many places, and it’s important to be aware of this.
New Zealand
If you're looking to get away from it all and enjoy some peace and quiet, you'll feel right at home in New Zealand. The country is far away and offers a unique and diverse landscape with a low population density.
- Nature The country features several climate zones and a natural landscape that is unique in the world. In addition to snow-capped mountains and forests, there are also beautiful beaches where you can swim. Depending on where you live, you’ll experience different climate zones and, accordingly, different temperatures.
- Safety New Zealand is extremely safe, not only in terms of domestic policy but also in terms of foreign policy. Crime rates are low, and life there is generally safe. Furthermore, the country is hardly affected by global crises and wars.
- Infrastructure Even though the country is very far away, you can get everything you need to live there. Schools, universities, hospitals, and airports are very good by international standards.
The main disadvantage—which can also be an advantage during global crises—is the remote location. You are very far away from all other countries and often have to travel for several days just to get to Europe, for example.
Bonus: No Fixed Residence (Perpetual Traveling)
Another model that has become increasingly popular in recent years is Perpetual Travel. More and more people are becoming digital nomads and do not settle permanently in any country, constantly traveling onwards. This results in a multitude of advantages.
- Taxes By traveling constantly—and with careful planning—you can avoid personal income tax liability. If you do not take up residence in any country in the world, you are not subject to income tax anywhere. Especially when combined with Formation of a US LLC, this can also be very beneficial from a business perspective.
- Geoarbitrage Another major advantage is the geo-arbitrage you can achieve. Specifically, this means combining a Western (high) income with a low cost of living—such as by spending several months in Asia. For example, those who work for German or American companies enjoy high salaries but also have relatively low living expenses if they spend most of their time in the Philippines, Thailand, or Bali.
- Freedom of travel People who work remotely and don't have a permanent place of residence get to see a lot of the world. In just a few months or years, you'll see far more countries than if you only went on vacation once or twice a year.
- Flexibility You can combine the advantages of all countries. For example, winter in Thailand, spring / summer in Spain, autumn in Miami, etc. Thus, you can choose and take advantage of the best seasons of the respective countries.
Where can you move to with little money?
If one wants to emigrate with little money, the most attractive countries are those where the cost of living is low and where you can either work legally or make ends meet on a small income. The decision also depends on whether you have certain language skills, how much disposable income you have each month, and what kind of lifestyle you’re looking for. Here are a few options that are often chosen by people on a tight budget.
- Mexico
- Thailand
- Philippines
- Montenegro
- Bulgaria
- Paraguay
- Cyprus
The most important points to emigrate successfully and free yourself from the system.
Optimize taxes, gain freedom and increase quality of life.
