Thanks to the 2012 Gender Identity Law, people may change their gender without facing medical interventions. As is the case elsewhere, LGBTQIA+ life tends to be concentrated around the major cities, particularly Toronto, Vancouver (often rated among the worlds best cities for expats), and Montreal. A 2017 poll found that 67% of South Africans agreed that gay, lesbian, and bisexual people should have equal rights; 17% disagreed. The Most Liberal Countries You Should Move to in 2023 In 2018, 27-year old LGBTQIA+ activist Angela Ponce became the firsttransgenderwoman tocompete in the Miss Universe contest, where she received a standing ovation. Former Prime Minister Lars Lkke Rasmussen also participated in the pride events held in the country. Dubai: a glamorous train station. The most LGBTQIA+ friendly countries for expats, the first country to legalize same-sex marriage, spousal or life partner permit for South Africa. Best countries to live for expats. The region is very easily reached from the U.S. Hurricane season was one drawback in this area. Argentina has sought to position itself as one of the most gay-friendly countries in Latin America. With the transition toward democracy after the death of Spanish dictator Francisco Franco in 1975 came the first political generation of activists who believed in the rights and liberation of people in Spanish colonies as well as marginalized communities in Spain. Oslo Pride is the largest pride festival in the country and runs over nine days during June and July. Since same-sex marriage in Canada was legalised in 2005, Quebec moved one step ahead in this regard. Sue -- a native New Yorker -- and Regina -- a native Singaporean -- share their experiences at Travel for Life Now. Spain was also one of the first countries to legalize same-sex marriage back in 2005. Denmark was the first country in the world to recognize same-sex partnerships back in 1989, and the Scandinavian country officially legalized same-sex marriage in 2012. In 2001, the Netherlands became one of the first countries in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. Its also possible for non-EU/EEA nationals who are authorized to stay in Belgium to sponsor their partners on a Belgian family reunification visa. The country decriminalized homosexuality between men in 1986; lesbian activity was never a crime in New Zealand. LGBT History & Rights in Portugal. Lisbon is without a doubt the best city for an LGBTQ+ person to live in. We must put our adopted country on top of the list. The dollar goes a long way with prices being at least 20 percent lower than in the U.S. Cape Town has a reputation for the best gay scene in Africa; it hosts plenty of summer events, including Mother City Queer Project and Cape Town Pride. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Moreover, the attractive tax policy of Malta adds to the impact that Malta can offer for LGBT Nomad Capitalists. Furthermore, in 2021, an executive order was passed in the country, providing access to free IVF treatment procedures to single women and women in same-sex relationships across the entire nation. Ireland. Sometimes, all you need Have options so that no one government controls you or your wealth. Now for Madridthe beating heart of gay Spain and arguably one of the world's most gay-friendly cities. Nonetheless, a majority of nightlife venues and beaches are LGBTQIA+ friendly and welcome the community. Its capital, Montevideo, is the countrys most gay-friendly city and is listed as one of the top gay destinations in the Spartacus International Gay Guide. New Zealand. Civil servants may refuse to solemnize civil unions if they object on grounds of conscience, religion, or belief. It is one of the least welcoming parts of Europe for LGBTQ+ people; by 2020, around 100 Polish towns and regions had declared themselves free from "LGBT ideology.". While healthcare is ranked amongst the best in Asia, it does not come cheap to ex-pats. Often voted one of the best places to be an expat, progressive New Zealand also has a great record on LGBTQIA+ rights. This country is no stranger to conflict in the region both on a religious and political basis and its society general seeks to uphold the rights of LGBT individuals even despite some tensions that might be felt with more orthodox/conservative religious influences. Travelers experiences will vary heavily. Paris. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013. Panama, for example, made same-sex adoption illegal in March 2021. France does not have a retirement visa, so this knocked it off the list. The visa requirements that we list are current as of now but could change in the future. It has also been a leader in enacting laws expanding transgender rights, including one passed in 2009 that allows trans people to change official documents to match their gender identity. Over 75% of New Zealanders accept homosexuality. Reggie could have entered the country alone. Adoption by same-sex couples has been legalized in the country. It is ranked first in Europe and allows not only same-sex marriage (as of 2017) but open military service and protection against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. # Countries : WCIL RANK: Cost of Living vs USA: Cost of Living vs . LGBT people have access to a variety of rights such as gay marriage and adoption. Nonetheless, cohabiting same-sex couples enjoy some protections under local domestic violence laws. While the gay scene in this country may be more concentrated in the main cities of Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa has done work to change the narrative on LGBT protections on the continent and travelers who are doing business in this region or seek to invest in frontier markets might choose to be in South Africa as a base. Canada has stated that conversion therapy is a criminal act. Residents believe more conversations about LGBTQIA+ issues are necessary. Whether it is ensuring equal access to adoption and IVF treatment for same-sex couples, legalizing same-sex marriage, or voting in power an openly gay head of a government in 2009, the country has shown the world what it means to give legal and comprehensive recognition to the LGBTQ locals. Here, Brits can enjoy warm weather, a strong economy with plenty of job opportunities and an active outdoor lifestyle when it's not too hot. 8 of the Best Countries in the World for LGBTQ People European Countries Among Top Places for Gay People to Live - Gallup.com These include adoption, automatic parenthood recognition on birth certificates, inheritance tax, rights to survivor pensions, recognition for immigration purposes, equal treatment for tax purposes including inheritance tax and protection from domestic violence. It's a small city of 272,000 people, but, with easy access to both beaches and ski resorts, it offers the best of all worlds in terms of lifestyle . Its rentista program can be converted into a passport for longer stays. Theyll also enjoy equal social and tax benefits, including those relating to pensions, old age security, and bankruptcy protection. Expats can sponsor their partners. Even with the new president, the country has huge marches against homosexuality. Gay-friendly areas in Lisbon. Argentina had the most positive attitudes of all Latin American countries in Pew Research Centers 2013 Global Attitudes Survey, with 74%of those surveyed saying homosexuality should be accepted. With progressive anti-discrimination legislation for the LGBTQ community, Belgium has been hailed as one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in 2023. Homosexuals also serve openly in the military. One person may face social harassment in a country with no anti-gay laws on the books, while another person may face unexpected welcome in a country whose customs are traditionally anti-gay but rarely or never enforced. There are 24 LGBT Friendly Places in Germany like Berlin, Dresden and Munich with an average cost of living of $3,921/month, internet speeds up to 80 Mbps and temperatures ranging from -1C to 5C. While Buenos Aires tops the list of gay-friendly cities, Uruguay has been ranked as the most gay-friendly country in South America several years in a row by Americas Quarterly. Transgender rights in Argentina are among the most advanced worldwide. Portugal for LGBT Expats: LGBT Countries | Get Golden Visa There are many expat cities out there, so we can't list them all here - but we will give you a good starting point: these are the 15 best expat cities out there and countries for single guys. As a result, their sexual orientation or gender identity might open them up to harassment or persecution. Ireland. Brimming with gay bars and clubs, Belgium has a solid gay community. Buenos Aires is Argentinas gay capital. Charming, Old World capital-city Ljubljana is the heart of the country, both literally and figuratively. Brooke Sopelsa is the editorial director of NBC Out, NBC News' LGBTQ digital destination. No. In numbers, the survey shows that 74% of expatriates answered are generally satisfied with their jobs and 71% of them are content about their work-life balance in Vietnam. It has also given full rights to adopt children, earning a reputation among the most advanced in the world for gay rights. The 1996 constitution banned discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation; LGBTQIA+ people have been able to marry since 2007. Same-sex couples can adopt or use surrogacy services. Since 1982, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms has guaranteed fundamental human rights to the LGBTQIA+ community. The Safest Countries For Black LGBTQIA+ Travelers Portugal. The Other Foundation reported that 51% of respondents in a survey on attitudes and gender non-conformity felt gay people should have the same human rights; 72% thought same-sex activity was morally wrong. What countries are the most LGBT friendly? - Quora Owing to all these interventions, Canada is often called the most gay-friendly country in the world. Friendliest Countries In The World For Expats | William Russell Slovenia is part of the European Union and has decent healthcare. The 10 Best Countries for LGBT Rights - WorldAtlas Even the most pro-gay countries can have the off person with the off remark or look, and even the most anti-gay countries may be filled with people who would totally surprise you. The Belgian military allows individuals from the LGBTQ community to serve openly in the armed forces. Same-sex couples enjoy equal tax and inheritance rights. 2. As one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries to live in, Canada has multiple bars, venues, and events for the LGBTQ community to explore. Canada. In 2010, it became the first country in Latin America and the tenth in the world to legalize same-sex marriage, a milestone for a Catholic country anywhere. Speaking of safety, you can tag Croatia as the best European country to live in because of its low crime rate. Buenos Aires, Argentina. Even foreigners can get married in Argentina. Why Ljubljana, Slovenia Is A Secret Retirement Paradise We chose Costa Rica for five reasons: One of our favorite destinations in Europe, France is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Europe if not the world. Is Portugal a gay-friendly country? The LGBTQ+ expat experience Same-sex marriage isnt possible in Aruba, Curaao, and Sint Maarten, however. Between them they've traveled to all seven continents (including Sue's dream trip to Antarctica) and more than 50 countries. Anti-discrimination laws are also fairly weak. We have curated a list of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in the world for you. These countries are less subject to the machismo ideals found in the Americas and even parts of Europe. 3. Since we were interested in being somewhere between Singapore and the East Coast of the U.S., we first began looking at European locations. 3. New Zealand also recognizes married or de facto relationships for expat couples, whether heterosexual or homosexual. All have significant Expat populations, and many rank on lists of the best places to live for Expats. Malta has been called the gold standard of LGBT reform by the United Nations, which is highly promising even compared to European neighbors. Taiwan was the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019. Is it worth trying to push and test them in the wrong situation or with the wrong person? Later in 1999, the capital city of Lisbon witnessed the countrys very first pride parade. Lisbon, Portugal. The country has many cities that champion the cause of LGBT people. France: the good life, for families and retirees. But the eventual winner was Costa Rica. As a gay traveler myself, I have enjoyed many experiences meeting either fellow gay individuals or simply loving, accepting straight people who could care less about issues of sexual orientation or even wholeheartedly understand you and would advocate for you. Dutch LGBTQIA+ support groups have a countrywide network; there are also specific organizations that support refugees. While most of the African culture is associated with more traditional anti-gay sentiments in regards to family or lack of legal protections, South Africa has stood out as a leader in recent years. Furthermore, Mar del Plata, Rosario and Mendoza are also recommended gay friendly destinations. 10. Canada protects its LGBTQ community from discrimination based on sexual orientation. Like most Nordic countries, Norway has a liberal and tolerant population, which makes it easier for LGBTQ expats to adapt regardless of their origin and sexual orientation. And the countries that have successfully managed to do both are today considered LGBTQ-friendly countries. As the first country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2001, the Netherlands has an emotional connection with LGBTQIA+ people. Johannesburg, its largest city, is also the country's gay epicenter: It's home to the annual Jo'Burg Pride event, the Out in Africa International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival and most of the annual Mr. Taiwan. LGBT Friendly Countries | Get Golden Visa Malta beats out 48 other countries with a score of 90% when ranked on LGBTQIA+ friendly policies and lifestyle acceptance. United Arab Emirates . Same-sex marriage has been legal in the Scandinavian country since 2009, and anti-LGBTQ discrimination has been banned since the 80s. The city is home to an annual pride parade. Americas northern neighbor legalized same-sex marriage back in 2005, and the countrys new prime minister is openly LGBTQ-friendly. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Attitudes and laws pertaining to LGBTQ+ lives may also evolve. Partners of expats may apply for either a spousal or life partner permit for South Africa. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. After upholding the countrys first transgender marriage in 2013 albeit of a couple who had both had gender-reaffirming surgery the country appointed its first transgender minister, Audrey Tang, in 2016. Unfortunately, many countries in Asia have anti-LGBTQ+ laws or other political issues that knocked them out of consideration. This expat guide is all about pros and cons of living in Belize. 10 Best Countries for Expats - Travel + Leisure The country is largely Roman Catholic. Canada was also listed as number three of the top 10 most gay-friendly countries worldwide in a 2014 Gallup survey. In 1981, the country was the first to introduce anti-discrimination protections based on sexual orientation. Answer (1 of 25): In many nations, homosexuality remains a criminal act, and there are a number of locations where LGBT+ rights are being eroded. Please note that you have to apply for residency before this procedure. The most LGBTQIA+ friendly countries for expats | Expatica These are the 10 best countries for expats, according to a - Fortune People from the LGBTQ+ community are allowed to serve openly in the Danish armed forces. The Netherlands has legalized same-sex activity, same-sex marriage, and adoption in the country. Amsterdam, its capital, is a popular destination for LGBTQ tourists and was ranked among the best cities in the world for expats. These are Europe's least friendly countries for expats LGBTQ activism ramped up in the 1990s with the Spanish Gay Rights Movement, which helped modernize world-famous cities like Barcelona. Population: 25.7 million Number of expats: 7.5 million Quality of life index: 178.41 Friendliest city: Melbourne With enviable weather, endless beaches and that famous laid-back Aussie lifestyle, it's no wonder the land down under takes the top spot for friendliest country.. For gay nomads visiting Argentina, the capital city of Buenos Aires has a bustling gay scene with plenty of friendly bars and hotels. Like neighboring Spain, there is a thriving gay life in this Western European nation (as well as being known for particularly beautiful and fun-loving people). A picturesque landscape coupled with progressive LGBTQI+ rights makes Finland one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries. LGBT people from across the country assemble in Copenhagen yearly to participate in the Copenhagen Pride Parade and more pride festivals. In addition, we address the best LGBT-friendly destinations featured in our brand-new, just-released 2015 Retire Overseas Index. While we spent most of the last 25 years based primarily in the United States, we hail from different countries. Here are the top 10 countries where expats are happiest with their work and personal lives in 2021. Unfortunately, not all news was good news for LGBTQ+ rights in the past year. Same-sex marriages account for 2.5% of all weddings in Belgium. Discrimination of sexual orientation in employment and housing is illegal. Jeff Overs / BBC News & Current Affairs via Getty Images. A 2016 Eurobarometer reported that 65% of Maltese were in favor of same-sex marriage; this was a significant jump from just 18% in 2006. Berlin, Germany. Back in 2001, The Netherlands became the first country to legalize gay marriage, as well as adoption rights. Fortunately for the aspiring expat, there's a wealth of countries where it's safe to work and live out, as you'll see from Expatiation's list of the to. In addition, abortion is extremely restricted in Poland. The skyline of central Brussels, Belgium. The Most LGBTQ-Friendly Places to Retire Overseas - US News & World Report Other possibilities in South America include Mexico, Chile, and Peru. In 2005, Canada also legalized same-sex marriage. Very recently, the ILGA-Europe listed Belgium as the number two leading country for the protection of LGBT rights in the European Union, right after Malta. A third gender on legal documents has yet to be introduced. 18 STEPS TO IMPLEMENTING YOUR PLAN B. We have written before on cities to check out and not ignore if doing business here and gay and straight travelers alike may choose to take advantage of the opportunities in these growing Brazilian urban centers. The Netherlands. The Best Democratic Countries for Americans to Move to - Business Insider Photo: Milan Gonda /Shutterstock. Subsequent polls show most Canadians agree that same-sex couples should have the equal parental rights. The 10 Most Gay-Friendly Countries for Gay and LGBT Nomads One that as an LGBT expat, you will be welcomed into with open arms. Madrugada Verde/Shutterstock. Yet, not everyone here is LGBTQIA+ friendly. Top 10 most LGBT-friendly places to retire in America - CNBC Argentina legalized same-sex marriage back in 2010, becoming the first country in Latin America to do so. In 2006, South Africa became the first country in Africa to legalize same-sex marriage -- and there has yet to be a second. The Best And Worst Countries To Move To For LGBT+ Expats The country legalized same-sex marriage in 2013. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Since 2009, the country has recognized and legalized same-sex marriage and ensured adoption rights for LGBT people. New Zealand is currently considered the second best country in the world for expats, according to HSBC, and same-sex marriage and adoption by same-sex parents were both legalized in 2013. The 2015 Eurobarometer found that 77% of Belgians thought same-sex marriage should be allowed throughout Europe, while 20% disagreed. The entire world is not downtown Amsterdam or a gay bar in Madrid or Tel Aviv. Uruguay legalized gay marriage in 2013 and has also focused on transgender rights. 6/27/2018 09:48 EST. It is important to be oneself but also to remember to stay aware of all the goings-on in whatever country your nomadic lifestyle brings you to, and aim to look for the positive wherever one goes. Dutch nationals may apply for gender-neutral passports. The New York Times called Buenos Aires South Americas gay capital, with the city being ranked the worlds fifth in the world for gay tourism, or perhaps expats looking to settle in. Are these laws always enforced? Canada has the most progressive and comprehensive rights for the LGBTQ community in North America. Civil marriage officiants cannot refuse same-sex couples. Here are eight of the safest countries for Black LGBTQIA+ travelers. Most of the world still has a long way to go regarding acceptance for all kinds of differences, not limited only to LGBT people. Sweden comes in at #8 on both Gallup's list of "Top Places for Gay People to Live" and HSBC's list of best countries for expats. So if you are from the LGBTQ community and are planning to relocate to Norway, these cities should definitely be on your short-list. If work-life balance is top priority, Italy is a superb choice. Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland tend to top any poll of LGBT-friendly nations, occasionally swapping places but rarely giving way to any other nation. You'll pay about 3 for a bottle of beer. All of this got us thinking. 12 Best Countries To Live In For Expats (2023 Update) In 2001, the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. Buenos Aires, Argentina on September 24, 2016. France. Retirees can apply for a one-year temporary residence permit renewable annually for 5 years, after which you can apply for permanent residence. 2. Sharing borders with Italy, Croatia, Austria, and Hungary, Slovenia is a beautiful country with many castles and caves. Spain ranked 11th in Europe for same-sex rights in 2019, with full equality at about 60%. LGBTQ culture is also very visible in the Scandinavian country -- Pride in Oslo is one of Norway's largest events, and the city is also home to one of the world's best gay choirs. Portugal 5. Gay Madrid. If you are looking for a beach community, the Coronado beaches area is one of the most popular in Panama. Also, cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Liege are a few places that you shouldnt miss. You only need to show proof of $18,000 annual income which reflects its low cost of living. Homosexuality itself has been legal since 1991; however, local law doesnt recognize same-sex marriage or civil partnerships. Dublin is one of the top cities for social life in the region with an English-speaking populace known for its sense of humor and hospitality. Homosexuality is still a criminal act in many countries, and there are a number of places where LGBTQIA+ rights are eroding. There are NO gay communities. The country also has some of the strongest protections for trans people anywhere. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2005 (although the worlds first gay marriages took place in Toronto in 2001). Income requirements are a little higher with higher assets ($40,000) and proof of minimum monthly income of roughly $3,467, health insurance, and sometimes, an executed lease for accommodation. The Fitting-in category of IL's 2022 Annual Global Retirement Index considers the character of the expat community, how easy it is for a single or LGBT person to adapt, how welcoming the locals . Lesbians have access to in vitro fertilization treatments. Progressive laws, policies, and interventions coupled with a liberal public and political outlook guarantee the rights and freedom of the LGBTQI+ community. It is also important to understand that laws for foreigners, especially those who look foreign or are differentiated by class, are often different than those applied to local people, particularly in the case of countries with Islamic law. 11 Best European Countries for Expats to Live, Work and Socialize Filled with LGBTQ spaces, cafes, restaurants, and more, the capital city of Helsinki has an incredible gay scene.