HSBC International expat study key findings

The HSBC Bank International has today announced the results of the largest world survey of expats – Expat Explorer.

The second instalment of Expat Explorer, labelled Expat Experience, found that Canada gave expats the best quality of life and easiest integration into the local community. The top three was rounded out by Australia and Thailand where expats felt life was more favourable than in their home country. Out of favour among expats were emerging nations such as India and Russia.

The survey has revealed several fascinating insights into the priorities in life according to expats, most interestingly when money is not taken into consideration. There is a distinct contrast in the trade-off between quality of life and income, with higher paying regions proving less popular in terms of lifestyle and emotional comfort. Australia, Canada and Thailand may not be the highest paying countries in terms of salaries but enjoyment amongst expats remains consistently high.

Britain again performed badly in the rankings, despite being the most popular entertainment destination. Like last year, the UK ranked near the bottom of expats lifestyle with 58 percent of expats claiming quality of life was declining as opposed to a mere 16 percent who felt it was on the improve.

UK expats are drawn to Britain because of employment prospects and the range of entertainment. The drawbacks were poor accommodation standards, declining health and frustration with public transport.