Which is the best Southeast Asian country for its expat lifestyle

The 21st century has seen the most mobility since the late 19th/early 20th century rush to emigrate to America, but where’s the best place nowadays for adventurous would-be expatriates?

More people than ever before are considering leaving the countries of their birth and setting up home in unfamiliar lands. There are so many destinations to choose from, giving today’s would-be expats alternatives that weren’t even considered a few decades ago. Southeast Asia is one example, with Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia and even sleepy Laos attracting a wide variety of expatriates ranging from retirees through digital nomads and entrepreneurs.

Making a choice without having hands-on experience of the country can result in unpleasant shocks as well as the anticipated joy of a new way of life. One of the main attractions of two favourite Southeast Asian destinations is the inexpensive cost of living and the comparative ease of staying long-term, but visa regulations are tightening up across the region, especially for those of relatively slender means. Thailand is a genuinely unique land, popular with retirees for several decades, but is now making it increasingly difficult for potential long-stayers and expat arrivals with dreams of either volunteering or starting a small business.

Until recently, Cambodia had the region’s most practical and convenient visa system involving the purchase of a visa at immigration on entry to the country. The visa could be converted to a work visa simply by applying to an agent, thus giving new arrivals the options of retirement, volunteering, working legally online or starting a small business in their locality. The new work visa is far less generous, as work permits can only be had through a Cambodian employer, leaving out volunteers, small investors and those wishing to work online. In spite of this, Cambodia is attracting many who would have previously chosen Thailand, plus a good few who did and decided they’d had enough but were still in love with Southeast Asia.

It’s slightly sad but unfortunately true that two favourite expat choices are now singing from similar hymn sheets as regards their feelings towards expats. Those still tempted should realise it’s only the two governments who’ve made them feel less than welcome unless they’re seriously wealthy – the local people in both countries are as friendly as they ever were, and happy to share their pride in their lands with those from different cultures.