Meet David De’ Ath, founder, editor, and writer at Wonderful World English. With his extensive background as an English teacher, David provides valuable insights and practical tips on ESL for students and teachers alike.
In today’s globalized world, English proficiency is considered a huge asset and is the most studied language.
Having a good grasp of the English language can open doors to new opportunities in many walks of life, from business and tourism to art and academia.
Many countries around the world understand that there is a correlation between English proficiency and economic growth, and native English-speaking countries tend to be some of the most developed nations on Earth.
Whether you’re a native speaker who is looking at options to where they can move to next without having to study a second language, or English is not your native tongue, but you want to move to an English-speaking land, this guide is for you.
There are several great reasons why English-speaking countries hold great appeal, and there are some great options for anyone wanting to move and explore one of these incredible places.
According to the Quality of Life Index, the twelve best English-speaking countries to live (starting with the best for prospects and general satisfaction) are the Netherlands, Denmark, the United States, New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, Ireland, Singapore, South Africa, Malaysia, and Malta.
I am an experienced English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher, and I have seen many students with dreams and aspirations to one day work or study in an English-speaking country.
When considering a move somewhere else, several key factors must be considered, such as safety, healthcare, and quality of life.
This guide will explore the twelve best English-speaking countries to live in according to the Quality of Life Index by Country.
We will also detail the options available to anyone wanting a fresh start in one of these countries and what will be required to move there.
Passports at the ready, let’s dive in!
Best English Speaking Countries to Live
When it comes to choosing a new place to live, it is essential to do proper research and make your decision based on your individual wants and needs.
Someone looking to study abroad for a year will have different desires than someone who is looking to move away with their family.
Think about what you really want before making any big decisions.
The list below is based on the most up-to-date Quality of Life Index, but you may find certain countries more desirable than others as each one has its own unique history, culture, and geography.
Now let’s look at the twelve most desirable English-speaking countries to live in:
1. Netherlands
Coming in at the top spot is the small Northwestern European nation of the Netherlands!
The Netherlands has an incredible score of 201.1 on the Quality of Life Index and boasts a high safety score and an excellent healthcare system.
Despite the national language of the Netherlands being Dutch, it has an incredibly high level of English proficiency at a whopping 95%!
The population of the Netherlands currently sits at around 18 million people.
On top of its high-quality living, the Netherlands also has picturesque canals, historic areas, and innovative industries, which makes it an attractive option for many.
Nearly anyone who has a valid reason (e.g. work, studies, etc), can move to the Netherlands.
Visaguide.world
Moving to the Netherlands is much easier for EU, EAA, and Swiss citizens as they can stay visa-free.
Non-EU, EAA, and Swiss citizens will need to have a strong reason to move to the Netherlands and will first have to obtain a temporary residence permit.
Click here to see how Americans can move to the Netherlands.
The Netherlands could be an excellent option for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in a European culture while speaking English.
2. Denmark
The number two spot is taken by the beautiful Scandinavian country of Denmark!
Denmark has a Quality of Life Index score of 190.6 and is considered one of the happiest countries to live in.
English is not the national language of Denmark, but around 86% of Danes speak English.
Denmark has a relatively small population of around 6 million people, making it ideal for anyone who is looking for a slower-paced English-speaking country.
Denmark is famed for its safety and cleanliness and boasts a strong healthcare system, economy, and a wonderful sense of community.
Anyone who is an EU, EEA, Swiss, or Nordic citizen can freely enter Denmark but will require an EU residence document if they plan to stay there for more than three months.
For non-EU, EEA, Swiss, and Nordic citizens, you will need to apply for a Denmark Long Stay Visa to work, stay, and live in Denmark.
Both Denmark and the Netherlands are members of the European Union.
Click the link below to find out the top 10 most English-proficient countries within the EU!
Related Article: EU Countries: English Speaking and Most Proficient – Top 10
3. United States
Next up is one of the most sought-after countries to move to in the world, the United States of America!
The US ranks 16th in the world on the Quality of Living Index with a score of 173 and is the first native-English-speaking country on this list.
This large North American country offers a diverse cultural tapestry and is the world’s largest economy.
Often considered the land of opportunity, the US has something for everyone.
With over 333 million people, the US offers a spectrum of bustling city life, serene landscapes, and natural beauty.
The United States can be an excellent option for both students and professionals.
To move to the US, applicants must obtain an immigrant visa.
To apply for an immigrant visa, a foreign citizen seeking to immigrate generally must be sponsored by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident immediate relative(s), or prospective U.S. employer, and have an approved petition before applying for an immigrant visa.
Usembassy.gov
Click here to see the US immigrant visa process.
4. New Zealand
Another excellent English-speaking country is the wonderful nation of New Zealand!
New Zealand has a score of 170.9 on the Quality of Life Index and is the first country on this list to be a member of the Commonwealth.
This nation is made up of two main islands and sits in the southwestern Pacific Ocean to the east of Australia.
With a population of over 5 million people, New Zealand is one of the smaller nations on this list.
It boasts outstanding landscapes and a laid-back culture and can be an excellent option for anyone wanting to be closer to nature while living in an English-speaking land.
Known for its friendly locals, New Zealand is famed for providing a great work-life balance and a tranquil environment.
Anyone wanting to move to New Zealand will require a visa, and there are different options depending on the applicant’s criteria.
Click here to explore the visas available to move to New Zealand and how to apply.
5. Australia
Fifth on the list of best English-speaking countries is the largest nation in Oceania, Australia!
Australia has a score of 165.7 on the Quality of Life Index and ranks 21st in the world.
Australia is the sixth-largest country in the world but has a population of only around 28 million people and is the second member of the Commonwealth.
Most of Australia’s multicultural population lives along its incredible coastline.
Australia is an amazing country with unique wildlife like kangaroos and koalas and many places to explore.
Anyone wanting to move to Australia will need to obtain a visa.
First, you must choose a long-stay visa and obtain a residence permit. Australia issues a number of visas for everyone who wishes to move into the country.
Visaguide.world
Click here to find out about work visas for Australia.
Australia’s thriving job market and outdoor-oriented lifestyle make it a top destination for expats.
6. United Kingdom
Taking the sixth spot, we have the country where the English language originated, the United Kingdom!
The UK is culturally rich, boasts a long and fascinating history, and has a rating of 164.2 on the Quality of Life Index.
The UK comprises four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
With some of the best universities on the planet, a vibrant cultural scene, and friendly people, the UK can be a great option for anyone wanting to live in an English-speaking country.
The UK has a population of around 67 million people, making it one of the largest populations on this list.
From the bustling capital of London to the picturesque countryside, the UK offers diverse opportunities and experiences.
As a result of economic growth, work opportunities, and social benefits, Great Britain has become a top destination country for most people worldwide.
Visaguide.world
Applicants will require a visa to move to the United Kingdom legally.
Click here to find out how to obtain a UK visa.
7. Canada
Next, we have the largest country on this list, the stunning nation of Canada!
Canada is famed for being a welcoming and inclusive country that is one of the easiest on this list to migrate to.
Canada is a popular option for many, with a Quality of Life Index score of 156.4.
Canada has a strong economy, an excellent healthcare system, and incredible natural beauty.
Canada has a population of around 40 million people and is the second largest country in the world, behind Russia.
Anyone moving to Canada will likely find themselves living in a city in close proximity to the United States, making it an ideal option for anyone wanting to explore more than just one land.
More than 80% of Canadians live in cities and more than two-thirds of the population live within 100 kilometers of the southern border.
Canadim.com
Canada aims to welcome over 1.3 million permanent residents from 2023-2025 and could be an excellent option for anyone wanting a good quality of life in an English-speaking country.
Click here to find out more about your eligibility to move to Canada.
Canada is a widely sought after destination among expats, with many setting their sights on Toronto.
For a complete guide on the most popular English-speaking cities in the world for expats, check out the link below!
Related: Best English Speaking Cities to Live: Top Choices for Expats
8. Ireland
Taking the eighth spot is the small, charming Northwest European nation of Ireland!
Ireland is a welcoming country that is rich in history and has a rating of 153.2 on the Quality of Life Index.
The land of leprechauns and Guinness, Ireland is famed for its rolling green hills and unique culture, making it a popular destination.
With a population of around 7 million people, Ireland is a member of the EU and is booming in industry due to its very low tax rates for companies.
Ireland’s countryside offers a fine mix of tradition and modernity and can be an excellent option for anyone wanting to immerse themselves in a unique culture while speaking English.
Requiring a visa to move to Ireland will depend on your nationality.
EU, EAA, Swiss & UK citizens do not require a visa to move to Ireland.
If you are not a citizen of one of the above, click here to find out more about how you can get an Irish visa.
9. Singapore
Next, and the first Asian country on this list, is the bustling island of Singapore!
Singapore is a global financial hub with incredible modern infrastructure and economic stability.
Singapore has a Quality of Life Index rating of 153.2.
Despite being a small area, Singapore is densely populated and has over 5.5 million people living there, and English is one of the national languages.
Singapore boasts a diverse, multicultural landscape and is in a fine location in the heart of Asia, making it an ideal spot for anyone wanting to live on this vibrant continent while being able to speak English.
With a unique blend of traditions and cuisines, Singapore is an exciting place to live.
You can move to Singapore for various reasons; however, for stays longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for and obtain a long-stay visa. Singapore issues different long-stay visas that you must choose depending on why you want to move there.
Visaguide.world
Anyone wanting to work in Singapore will require a work visa.
Click here to find out how to apply for a Singaporean work visa.
Singapore has an incredibly high level of English proficiency compared to other countries in Asia.
If you’re wondering what the most English-proficient countries are in this vast continent, check out the guide below!
Related Article: What Asian Countries Speak English? – Full Guide
10. South Africa
In tenth spot and the only African country on the list, we have the lush nation of South Africa!
South Africa is a superb option for adventure seekers, with a Quality of Life Index of 136.9.
South Africa boasts diverse landscapes with stunning coastlines and wild-life-rich savannas, making it a destination that caters to a variety of interests.
With a population of around 58 million people, South Africa is also one of the cheapest English-speaking countries to live in.
For anyone looking for a more laid-back lifestyle, South Africa may not be the best destination on this list, but for anyone wanting excitement and adventure, it could very well be the perfect spot!
It’s important to note, however, that South Africa has a considerably high crime rate, so anyone looking to move there should consider this and make sure to seek out a safer area to relocate to.
To move to South Africa, you must hold a long-term visa to enter the country. You can choose which visa to apply for depending on the reason you want to move there.
Visaguide.world
Check out the link above to see how you can get a visa to live in South Africa.
As mentioned above, South Africa is among the cheapest English-speaking countries on Earth.
To discover the six cheapest English-speaking countries, check out the article below!
Related Article: Cheapest English-Speaking Countries to Live in (Top 6)
11. Malaysia
The eleventh best English-speaking country to live in, and the second Asian country on this list is beautiful Malaysia!
Malaysia is a tropical country in Southeast Asia with a Quality of Life index of 123.4.
Due to its tropical climate, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living, Malaysia has become a very popular destination for expats.
Malaysia has over 33 million people living there and it is home to outstanding natural beauty and many modern cities, offering so much to anyone wanting to live in and explore this wonderful place.
English is one of the four official languages of Malaysia and was first introduced to Malaysia in the 18th century after the British settled and used the language in public administration, law courts, and business.
Malaysia ranks above its neighboring countries in many life fields, including life quality making it one of the best countries to move to in Southeast Asia.
Visaguide.world
Click here to find out what you need to do to obtain a Malaysian work visa.
12. Malta
The final country on the list is the small island nestled in the Mediterranean Sea, Malta!
Malta is a laid-back nation that is rich in history, has a score of 121.8 on the Quality of Life Index, and is ranked 50th of all countries in the world.
Malta is by far the smallest nation on this list, is the smallest nation in the EU, and has English as one of its two official languages (alongside Maltese).
The population of Malta is just over half a million people, and it could suit anyone wanting to live on a beautiful island with a slow-paced lifestyle in a superb location in the south of Europe.
All those who move to Malta fall in love with its natural beauty, architectural gems and the Mediterranean joie de vivre that permeates life on the island. Many are also attracted by the various successful industries.
Gov.mt
EU, EAA, and Swiss citizens can move to Malta visa-free.
Anyone from a non-EU country will require a national visa (D Visa).
Click here to find out more on how to get a Maltese visa.
Conclusion
English is the most widely spoken language around the world, and many countries hold it as an official language.
From the giant skyscraping cities of the United States to the outback, there is something for everyone in the English-speaking world.
The interest in moving to these countries continues to grow, whether for personal development opportunities or to explore culturally and historically rich lands.
English-speaking countries tend to boast large economies and general stability.
If you want to move to one, do thorough research and fully determine what you want to gain from the move.
Each country on this list presents a unique blend of opportunities and experiences and caters to different aspirations and lifestyle goals.
Whether you’re drawn to the vibrancy of a bustling city, the splendor of nature, or the prospects of an exciting new career, there’s a perfect English-speaking destination waiting for you somewhere.
We hope this article has given you some insights and helps you on your journey.
Have a wonderful day!
Image Attribution: All images licensed via canva.com
