Congratulations – you’ve reached the level where you can choose not only your trading strategy, but also where you want to live. This guide will walk you through regions with low taxation, high quality of life, family-friendly environments, and strong communities for traders. Plus, we’ll explore major financial hubs and a few hidden gems that could be your next home base.
1) Andorra – minimal taxes and peaceful mountain living
- Tax: Andorra is known for its low tax rates. The income tax rate for residents typically starts very low, with flat or progressive low rates. The effective rate is often well below 10% for many types of income. There are also specific benefits for dividends and capital gains. (For general guidelines and details, see Andorra’s profile).
- Pros: Low tax burden; proximity to Spain/France and European markets; high level of safety; everything is nearby due to its compact size; excellent ski and country infrastructure.
- Cons: Limited medical facilities compared to major European capitals (complex cases often require travel to Barcelona or Toulouse); expensive housing in popular areas; adaptation to a “quieter” lifestyle. The residency process has requirements for stay duration and documentation, and while not the easiest, it is realistic for those who can prove income and rent/purchase a property.
- For families: Ideal for those who value safety and nature, with good schools; just be sure to plan for cross-border healthcare when needed.
2) Malta – gateway between Europe and North Africa
- Tax: Malta offers several residency programs, including schemes with “remittance basis” taxation. This means that income is only taxable if it’s remitted to Malta, often with a fixed rate (e.g., 15% with a minimum). These programs were adjusted in 2024–2025, and citizenship/investment schemes have changed, with some options now limited or closed.
- Pros: English is widely spoken; advantageous location in the Mediterranean; good infrastructure; well-developed private healthcare; international schools.
- Cons: A limited island market means real estate and rental prices in popular areas can be high. In recent years, there have been discussions about legal and political risks related to investment programs. Residency documents are usually obtainable, but the conditions depend on the chosen scheme.
- For families: An excellent place if you want a European Mediterranean lifestyle and an English-speaking environment. Healthcare and schools are of a good standard.
3) Portugal (Algarve, Cascais, Madeira) – European comfort and lifestyle
- Tax: Portugal has long been attractive thanks to its NHR (Non-Habitual Resident) program. The NHR program has changed, with the introduction of NHR 2.0 in 2025. Although the conditions are evolving, the country continues to offer flexible residency schemes and various options for “golden visas”/residence permits for investors and those transitioning to permanent residence.
- Pros: Mild climate (Algarve); excellent environment; developed expat infrastructure in Cascais/Lisbon; a good balance of cost of living and quality of services; European healthcare; international schools. For those who love island life, Madeira offers a milder climate, beautiful scenery, and a more laid-back lifestyle, often with lower real estate costs than mainland hotspots.
- Cons: Tax planning is essential due to changing NHR rules and rising real estate prices in popular areas. Madeira’s remoteness can mean longer travel times. There is a limited selection of international schools in Madeira.
- For families: A very good choice–safe, with convenient schools and healthcare.
4) Bali / Indonesia – Freedom and a digital nomad community
- Taxes: Indonesia has a territorial approach: residents are taxed on their worldwide income, while non-residents are only taxed on Indonesian sources. Short-term and new remote-work visas/options (such as the Digital Nomad/Remote Worker Visa) are available for digital nomads. Still, the tax “offshore” benefits are often temporary: a long stay makes you a tax resident.
- Pros: Low living costs compared to Europe; magnificent nature; an active community of traders/“laptop entrepreneurs”; a relaxed lifestyle. Many prefer Ubud or Canggu as hubs.
- Cons: The quality of healthcare is below European standards (in emergencies, evacuation to Singapore or Bangkok is often necessary); infrastructure outside tourist areas can be unstable; visa bureaucracy and taxes require careful planning.
- For families: Suitable for short periods and school-aged children only with serious preparation (private schools, vaccinations, and a medical evacuation plan).
5) Costa Rica – Stability, “green” living, and a favorable tax model
- Taxes: Costa Rica is often mentioned as a “territorial” jurisdiction: income earned within the country is taxed, while foreign income is generally not subject to local tax. This makes the country attractive to those who earn income from trading/investing outside of Costa Rica.
- Pros: High environmental standards, a calm pace of life, affordable cost of living in some regions, residency programs for retirees and investors, and a good expat community.
- Cons: Although public healthcare is considered fair, families often prefer private healthcare. Safety and infrastructure vary greatly by region, and visa procedures require attention.
- For families: A good option for those who value nature, safety, and the desire to raise children in a calm environment.
6) United Arab Emirates (Dubai) – Zero income tax and a high level of service
- Taxes: The UAE offers a 0% personal income tax rate, which is one of the main attractions for traders. However, corporate taxes are in effect for large companies (9% for corporations above a certain threshold).
- Pros: Zero tax rate on personal income; first-class healthcare; developed infrastructure; international schools; straightforward options for obtaining residency through investment or work/freelance visas.
- Cons: The climate (heat in the summer) and a high level of consumption/cost of living in elite areas can be drawbacks. For some families, there may be a cultural barrier. It is extremely difficult to obtain citizenship.
- For families: Excellent schools and healthcare, but it’s important to consider the climate and cost of living.
Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar Offer Similar tax benefits, often quieter than Dubai, with growing economies and financial sectors.
7) Major Financial Hubs – London, New York, Singapore
Some traders prefer to live in major financial centers despite high living costs, due to their proximity to stock exchanges, financial institutions, and networking opportunities.
- London: Access to the LSE, high-level networking, top conferences, and institutions. High taxes and expensive housing, but an unmatched financial ecosystem.
- New York: Wall Street and hedge fund central; career-defining connections. High taxes, but maximum opportunity.
- Singapore: Asian financial powerhouse, political stability, strong legal system, moderate taxes (up to ~22%), excellent healthcare, and safety.
- For whom: Traders aiming to expand their careers, build connections, and be at the center of market action.
8) Other Notable Options
Switzerland (Zurich or Geneva)
- Pros: Stability, excellent services, strong banking sector. Certain cantons have moderate taxes.
- Cons: Very high costs, complex residency rules, and language barriers.
Thailand (Chiang Mai, Phuket)
- Pros: Low cost of living, strong expat presence, decent healthcare in main cities, long-stay visa options.
- Cons: Tax complexity, infrastructure limitations, and healthcare challenges in remote areas.
Practical tips for choosing your next base
Set priorities: Taxes, schools, healthcare, climate, or proximity to financial markets – decide what matters most.
- Plan taxes: Residency depends on days spent in-country, income source, and legal structure – consult an international tax advisor.
- Test before you commit: Use remote work visas or temporary residencies to try living there for 6–12 months.
- Diversify risk by Maintaining multiple bank accounts, holding global health insurance, and keeping documented proof of income sources.
- Network: Especially in financial hubs, your connections can be as valuable as your trades.
Your success gives you freedom of choice. Study, travel, and communicate with other traders who already live in these countries. Choose a place that aligns with your life goals and dreams. Good luck!