Freedom. That’s the word we value the most here at Nomad Capitalist. Freedom to live a life as you want and especially where you want.
Looking for a better and brighter future is in our DNA. Go where you’re treated best. That’s what we always tell our clients.
So, if you’re living in the US, Canada, or Australia and dreaming of a new life in Europe, we get it.
But when Europe has such an abundance of wonderful countries, how can you make the right choice?
Where should you settle down? In northern Europe? western Europe? Or should you opt for the south or east instead?
To make your life slightly easier, the Nomad Capitalist team has compiled a list of the top 5 European countries with a high quality of life. These are the countries where you’ll feel safest and best able to live a glamorous life to the max, just like we love it.
There are various indicators to analyse when it comes to quality of life. But to create a holistic and comprehensive ranking that will be useful for you, we decided to focus on factors like economic stability, safety, political stability, tax policies and life index.
So, if you’re asking yourself which European country you should move to, the answer is here. Take a sip of your cup of coffee, and let’s dive in!
Which Are the Best Quality-of-Life Countries in Europe?
Europe has always been a highly coveted destination for people all around the world. And for good reason.
Rich in history and culture, it’s also incredibly modern and developed. The stunning scenery, numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, visa-free travelling, and a high standard of living all combine to make this region one of the most appealing in the world.
But we know that for you, as a high-net-worth individual, there are other factors that impact your decision to move, such as:
- Is this country safe?
- Can your nomad family feel secure?
- Can you be sure that your business keeps growing?
- Can you feel free?
So, taking into consideration all of your concerns, here is the Nomad Capitalist list of thebest countries to livein Europe.
1. Switzerland
Let’s start with Switzerland, a peaceful country with favourable business opportunities. It’s one of the top countries, and you’ll notice it’s not the first time we have mentioned it.
Lifestyle
Switzerland is an excellent destination if you’re looking for apeaceful countrywhere you can calmly enjoy life. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Better Life Index, Switzerland performs well in many areas compared to other countries. People enjoy high life satisfaction here –residents are happy about their quality of life, the health care system, and the job market –and this results in higher life expectancy.
Business
Switzerland has a three-tier tax system: federal, canton, and municipal. The federal level uses a progressive tax system, meaning that the more you earn, the higher your tax rate.
Switzerland’s highest income tax rate is around 40%, but it’s possible to pay much less, depending on the location or canton. Under the lump-sum tax regime, foreigners living but not working in Switzerland are taxed on the basis of their living expenses and standard of living rather than their global income and assets.
Swiss banksare safe, and the corruption level in the country is low.
Politically and economically, Switzerland is renowned for its stability. And, since Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world, you can be sure that you and your family’s welfare are safe, too. There’s an added bonus that Switzerland is also one of the mostcrypto-friendly countriesin the world.
Citizenship
Securing Swiss citizenship can be challenging and may take up to twelve years unless you qualify forcitizenship by marriage.
Having Swiss citizenship comes with the perk of obtaining a Swiss passport, which allows you to travel visa-free to 174 countries.
If you plan to make Switzerland your long-term residence, various residency permits are available, each with its own requirements and advantages. These include the Swiss Investor Visa, Swiss Company formation, as well as the option of lump-sum taxation. Whether you intend to start a business, make investments, or join family members in Switzerland, there are numerous pathways to establishing a permanent home in the country.
2. Sweden
Sweden is one of the best European countries to live in, and according to theWorld Happiness Reportby the Sustainable Development Solutions Network, it is one of the happiest as well.
Lifestyle
Sweden is a perfect destination for you if you’re keen on Nordic minimalism, sustainability and connection to nature.
The country is politically stable, has one of the best health systems in Europe and strives to reach income equality. Also, its public education system has a superb international reputation.
Business
As a Nordic country, Sweden does have high taxes but consider those the country’s trade-off for quality services, safe streets and overall peace of mind. From a political standpoint, Sweden is transparent and doesn’t tolerate corruption, which makes it one of theleast corrupt countriesin the world – a crucial factor for businesses.
Citizenship
If you’re a wealthy individual, moving to Sweden will secure multiple opportunities for you, both in terms of family and business life.
Swedish citizenship would allow you to greatly benefit from international taxation laws, visa-free travel and personal freedom. The Swedish passport, meanwhile, is ranked in the top 10 passports in the world, according to theNomad Passport Index.
3. Germany
Politically, financially and economically – Germans are known for their pragmatic approach to life and a society that values hard work and punctuality. It’s worth remembering, though, that Germans aren’t all work and no play. As anyone who’s ever been to Oktoberfest can tell you, they also know how to let loose and enjoy life. As a leading European power and one of the world’s biggest economies, Germany boasts one of thehighest standards of livingin the world, making it an obvious choice for this list.
Lifestyle
The EU’s powerhouse economy has a reputation for being extremely bureaucratic. But despite all the paperwork, the country functions efficiently, giving its citizens confidence in their institutions. The public health system is free, as is education.
Famous worldwide for its engineering, machinery and chemical industries, the German economy remains one of the strongest in the world.
Add to this the country’s art and culture, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, forests and more than a few stunning castles perched on mountains, and it’s easy to see this country’s appeal.
Business
Germany is a crucial business magnet for foreign investors and entrepreneurs. Yes, the bureaucracy can be a nightmare, but the stable legal environment compensates for all the paperwork. As a high-net-worth individual, it’s reassuring to know that the people you rely on have a meticulous and professional work ethic.
Even high taxes don’t stop entrepreneurs from investing here, especially in cryptocurrency. In recent years, Germany has invested a lot of effort in creating a solid environment for this industry and has become one of the mostcrypto-friendly countriesin the world.
Citizenship
If you have already visited Germany and decided that this is the place for you, we may have good news, depending on your personal circ*mstances. It’s possible to obtain Germancitizenship by descent, with the added benefit of allowing successful applicants to hold dual citizenship.
Before 2000, Germany generally did not allow its citizens to hold dual citizenship, except in very limited circ*mstances. However, under current law, individuals born to at least one German parent or through descent are permitted to hold dual citizenship.
Additionally, individuals applying for German citizenship through naturalisation may be able to retain their original citizenship, depending on the laws of their home country. However, it’s important to note that some countries do not recognise dual citizenship.
Alternatively, you can apply for afreelance visa, a popular form of temporary residence permit which also allows holders to travel freely within Europe’s Schengen Area.
4. Denmark
Are you looking for a country with a high quality of life that perfectly combines a buzzing lifestyle with a peaceful outlook? Denmark might be a good fit.
Lifestyle
In Denmark, everything is about ‘hygge’. This word translates as ‘cosiness’ and is a heartfelt cry encouraging people to cherish the little things in life. ‘Hygee’ goes a long way to explaining why life in Denmark is so relaxed and its people are the mostsatisfiedon earth.
Even though Danish citizens are obliged to pay high taxes, they also benefit greatly from a variety of efficient public services like the free public education system and the universal health system, which affords its citizens free health care. On a global scale, Denmark is also one of the safest and cleanest countries.
Business
Denmark can be pricey and has high taxes, but it also scores high on innovation, and there are plenty of business opportunities with full access to all EU markets.
Additionally, you can network seamlessly without worrying about the language barrier. Denmark is among the topEnglish-speaking countriesin the world, so don’t worry about being misunderstood. As in many other Nordic countries, Denmark is also famous for its low level of corruption,in fact, according to thecorruption index, it tops the chart.
Citizenship
Securing citizenship in Denmark is not easy, but if your heart is set on settling down in Denmark, you can try applying fordual citizenship.
5. The Netherlands
Fields of vibrant-coloured tulips, scenery lifted straight from a Van Gough painting and peaceful bike rides along the canals of old Amsterdam: If you imagine this when you think of the Netherlands, then we’ve good news for you. The Netherlands is full of all those attractions, but there’s so much more to this country than mere sightseeing.
Lifestyle
According to theOECDWorld Report, the Netherlands has a high quality of life and is a wonderful place to live in Europe. A very tolerant country, the Netherlands actively promotes human rights, meaning people can freely express themselves. Unity and inclusion are something that Dutch people greatly value, and in this welcoming culture, you won’t feel alone.
Dutch art and craftsmanship are recognised worldwide, with Dutch Masters ranking among the most respected in history. But while these cultural masterpieces along with Holland’s national iconic symbols, such as wooden shoes, lace caps, tulips, and windmills, are famous worldwide, they only represent a small part of Dutch life.
Business
The Netherlands enjoys an exceptional business climate with a reputation for providing stability in an increasingly chaotic world.
Its excellent location and access to western Europe are especially appealing to investors who are interested in expanding their business connections. Yes, the taxes are high, but the Dutch tax system has many benefits for entrepreneurs.
Citizenship
If you feel that the Netherlands is the place you’ve been looking for, you can apply for aresidency permit. There are several routes to becoming a Dutch citizen, including citizenship by birth, by descent, or by marriage.
The Netherlands has some of the strictest laws on dual citizenship in Europe, permitting it only in very specific circ*mstances, such as if your country does not allow renunciation of citizenship. The Netherlands wants to limit dual citizenship as much as possible.
How Can I Move to Europe?
Becoming aEuropean citizenis like opening the door to an entirely new world that can make your life more comfortable and diverse.
Life in Europe can be calm and peaceful, but if you prefer a more dynamic environment, there are also plenty of places where you can enjoy a more vibrant lifestyle.
How can I get European residency without losing my mind? Can my family live happily there? Sounds familiar? Well, if you’re planning to settle in Europe and these questions keep rolling in your head, let us help you.
Moving to another country is never easy. But when you are a high-net-worth individual, making the right decision gets even more complicated. That is where Nomad Capitalist comes in.Apply to become a client, and we’ll find the best solutions for you.
