For anyone planning to move overseas, safety is usually one of the first concerns. A strong salary or sunny weather can lose importance quickly if daily life feels uncertain.
Expats often prioritise countries where they feel secure walking outside, trusting institutions, raising children, and building a long-term future.
That is why the Safety & Security category in the InterNations Expat Insider rankings matters so much. It reflects how expatriates rate their host country for personal safety, political stability, and the freedom to openly express their opinions.
Top 10 Countries for Safety & Security for Expats
It is based on lived experience rather than crime figures alone, which gives useful insight for people considering relocation. Here are the top 10 countries in the world for safety & security for expats in 2026.
1. Luxembourg
Luxembourg takes first place among this group thanks to its political calm, strong institutions, and very high quality of life. Expats often describe it as peaceful, orderly, and highly family-friendly.
Its small size helps with efficient governance, while excellent infrastructure and social stability make day-to-day life comfortable. Professionals working in finance or EU institutions particularly value the predictable environment.
2. Switzerland
Switzerland ranks second with a long-standing reputation for neutrality, security, and social trust. Cities such as Zurich, Geneva, Basel, and Lausanne are widely seen as extremely safe places to live.
Expats appreciate reliable public services, clean surroundings, and confidence in institutions. While living costs are high, many feel the stability and peace of mind justify the premium.
3. Denmark
Denmark places third due to low crime, social trust, and strong democratic systems. Copenhagen and other Danish cities are known for safe neighbourhoods, excellent urban planning, and relaxed daily living.
Families and professionals often rate Denmark highly because of work-life balance combined with a secure social environment.
4. United Arab Emirates
The UAE ranks fourth here and remains one of the standout destinations for personal safety. InterNations noted that personal safety is a huge highlight, while 87% of respondents rated political stability positively.
Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates are popular with expats who value secure urban life, low street crime, and highly organised systems.
5. Panama
Panama ranks fifth and has risen strongly in wider InterNations quality-of-life rankings. It appeals to expats through a stable environment, a welcoming atmosphere, and a manageable lifestyle.
Many retirees and remote workers choose Panama because it combines relative peace of mind with a warm climate and strong international connectivity.
6. Qatar
Qatar places sixth, supported by low crime levels, strong governance, and modern infrastructure. Doha is considered one of the safer major cities in the region.
InterNations noted Qatar performs strongly in the Safety & Security subcategory while also scoring well for healthcare and transit.
7. Oman
Oman ranks seventh and is often praised for its calm atmosphere, hospitality, and relatively low-key lifestyle compared with some regional neighbours.
Muscat is popular among expats seeking a slower pace of life with security, coastal scenery, and stable conditions. Oman often appeals strongly to families and long-term residents.
8. Czechia
Czechia comes eighth thanks to Prague’s reputation as a safe, efficient European capital. Public transport is dependable, streets are walkable, and daily routines feel practical and manageable.
Its central European location also gives expats convenient travel access while maintaining a comfortable sense of security.
9. Portugal
Portugal ranks ninth and remains one of Europe’s favourite relocation choices. Expats are drawn by the friendly culture, calmer lifestyle, and general sense of safety.
Lisbon, Porto, Cascais, and the Algarve are especially popular among retirees, remote workers, and families looking for peace of mind.
10. Singapore
Singapore completes the top ten and is globally recognised for order, efficiency, and exceptionally low crime. Strict law enforcement and strong infrastructure create a very secure daily environment.
Many expats say Singapore is one of the easiest countries in the world for newcomers to settle into, particularly families with children.
Why These Countries Rank Highly
Several common themes explain their popularity:
- Low everyday crime
- Political stability
- Trustworthy institutions
- Safe public transport
- Family-friendly cities
- Clean and organised urban spaces
- Efficient emergency services
- Strong confidence among residents
For most expats, safety is the basis on which everything else depends.
Bottom Line
The best countries for safety and security in 2026 show that expats value stability just as much as opportunity. Luxembourg, Switzerland, and Denmark lead through trust and institutional strength, while the UAE, Qatar, and Oman stand out in the Gulf for secure modern living.
Meanwhile, Panama, Czechia, Portugal, and Singapore prove that a safe expat life can be found across multiple regions.
If peace of mind is your top priority when moving abroad, these ten countries deserve serious consideration.
Top Countries in the World FAQs
Among the countries listed here, Luxembourg ranks highest for safety and security for expats.
The UAE ranks highest among Gulf nations in this list, followed by Qatar and Oman.
No. InterNations measures expat views on personal safety, political stability, and freedom of expression, not just official crime figures.
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