Estonia has been ranked the world's most attractive relocation destination in the 2026 Global Relocation Index, released by Singapore‑based advisory firm RUMAVI. Singapore came a close second while Hong Kong placed 7th.
Estonia, Photo source: reference image
The index assessed 192 countries and territories across 24 indicators, grouped into four pillars: financial and tax, livability and health, safety and stability, and settling and opportunity. Each indicator is scored out of 100, with higher scores reflecting more favourable conditions for relocators. The index draws on multiple authoritative sources, including the World Bank’s International Comparison Program, Mercer Cost of Living Survey, and United Nations Crime Statistics.
Estonia topped the rankings with a score of 72.8, narrowly edging out Singapore (72.6) by just 0.2 points. The small Baltic country performed strongly in currency and banking (99), business opportunities (96), and property rights for non-citizens (90), bolstered by its advanced digital public services and political stability.
Singapore, Photo source: reference image
Singapore placed second, held back primarily by its high cost of living.
Hong Kong secured seventh place with an overall score of 71.0, tied with sixth‑placed Lithuania but ranked behind on a tie‑break. It ranked second globally for tax friendliness, and scored highly on its status as an international financial hub, digital infrastructure, and foreign income tax. However, high housing prices and climate risks weighed on its overall rating.
Hong Kong, Photo source: reference image
Rounding out the top ten: Malaysia (3rd, 72.0), Portugal (4th, 71.6), Taiwan (5th, 71.4), Lithuania (6th, 71.0), St. Kitts and Nevis (8th, 70.3), Czechia (9th, 69.9), and Malta (10th, 69.8).
