We might not be as friendly to ex-pat families as we’d like to think.
The global landscape for forging meaningful friendships as an expatriate can vary dramatically from one country to the next. While some nations offer a welcoming embrace that encourages new arrivals to integrate swiftly into local communities, others present a more challenging environment, sometimes leaving foreign residents feeling isolated or misunderstood. According to the Expat Insider 2016 index published by InterNations—a comprehensive survey incorporating feedback from over 14,000 respondents in 67 countries—the capacity for newcomers to form enduring social bonds can depend heavily on cultural norms, the openness of local networks, and even subtle aspects of day-to-day life.
One of the most striking findings of the survey was the United Kingdom’s relatively low placement in the realm of “Ease of Settling In.” Despite its international reputation and robust economy, the UK ranked 42nd out of 67 in the subcategory of “Friendliness,” and slipped even further down to 43rd when it came to “Finding Friends.” In other words, while Britain may excel in countless other areas—such as global business influence, cultural exports, and higher education—it appears to present nontrivial obstacles for expatriates seeking to develop close, personal connections.
This discrepancy between global standing and the intimate dynamics of social assimilation is particularly illuminating. The UK’s overall position on the index—33rd out of an expanded set of 191 nations—suggests it isn’t among the worst places in the world for foreigners to settle. However, the relatively tepid reception that newcomers reportedly experience raises questions about the nuances of community integration, the complexity of local social circles, and the implicit codes of conduct that might deter casual conviviality. Factors like a culturally reserved demeanor, an emphasis on personal privacy, and entrenched social hierarchies might all contribute to the difficulties expats face when trying to break into existing friend groups.
By contrast, many countries that achieve top positions in “Ease of Settling In” and related indices—such as Mexico, which often ranks near the pinnacle for expat-friendliness—demonstrate a more community-oriented ethos. In these societies, warmth, curiosity about newcomers, and an eagerness to include outsiders in family gatherings or neighborhood festivities can facilitate a smoother path to genuine companionship. This culturally ingrained hospitality frequently translates into stronger informal support networks, more immediate introductions to friends-of-friends, and a greater likelihood of stumbling into serendipitous social encounters at local markets, cafés, and public events.
The InterNations index, in its breadth and detail, provides a window into the psychosocial mechanics of building a life abroad. Beyond mere pleasantries, “Friendliness” and “Finding Friends” serve as proxies for the deeper processes of cultural assimilation, host-country engagement, and the forging of meaningful interpersonal linkages. A positive climate in these categories doesn’t just make an expat’s life more pleasant—it can significantly influence long-term retention, professional success, and overall quality of life in the adopted homeland.
In short, while global mobility and international career opportunities have never been more accessible, the soft factors of establishing a social foothold remain critical components of the expatriate experience. Whether you’re eyeing a posting in a buzzing metropolis or a quieter stay in a provincial town, understanding a country’s standing in terms of local openness, neighborly warmth, and inclusiveness can prove just as valuable as researching its cost of living or visa requirements. After all, thriving abroad hinges not only on one’s professional prospects and lifestyle amenities, but on the capacity to form heartfelt friendships that transcend borders, languages, and preconceived notions of belonging.
The Map of the Friendliest Countries in the World to Expats
Source: indy100.com