10 Most LGBT Friendly Countries in 2025

If you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community, safety, acceptance and equal rights are top priority when choosing a place to live or settle in or just travel to.

The most LGBT-friendly countries worldwide are those that not only protect fundamental rights through law but also foster inclusive societies where diversity is celebrated. These gay friendly countries combine strong legal protections with high levels of social acceptance and visible LGBTQ+ communities.

Nations such as Malta, Canada, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Spain consistently rank among the world’s leaders thanks to progressive policies, vibrant Pride events, and accessible support networks. Not only do these countries offer welcoming environments but also attractive residency options.

• Quick Comparison of the Most LGBT-Friendly Countries (2025)
• 10 Most LGBT Friendly Countries
• What makes a country LGBT friendly?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Comparison of the Most LGBT-Friendly Countries (2025)

10 Most LGBT Friendly Countries

1. Malta

Malta has topped the ILGA-Europe Rainbow Map every year since 2015.

It recognizes same-sex marriage, grants adoption rights, bans conversion therapy, and allows legal gender recognition through self-determination.

Public acceptance is strong, making Malta one of the safest and most inclusive destinations in the world.

Life in Malta means sunshine, historic Valletta, and English as an official language, making integration easier for expats. The island’s LGBTQ community is visible and active, with Pride events gaining traction every year

Residency options include the Malta Permanent Residence Program (also known as Malta’s residency by investment option) through property investment, the Global Residence Program (GRP) with favorable tax rates, and the Nomad Residence Permit (Malta’s Digital Nomad Visa) for remote workers. Entrepreneurs can also apply under Malta’s Startup Residence Programme, which supports innovative businesses establishing themselves locally.

2. Iceland

Iceland ranks near the top of both the ILGA Rainbow Map and the Spartacus Gay Travel Index.

Gay marriage and adoption have been legal since 2010, conversion therapy was banned in 2023, and trans people can change their legal gender without surgery.

Reykjavík Pride is one of Northern Europe’s biggest cultural celebrations.

Iceland offers dramatic natural beauty of glaciers, geysers and waterfalls alongside a strong welfare state and one of the world’s highest living standards.

Residency options include work and family permits for non-EU nationals, while EU/EEA citizens can move freely. Iceland offers a business-friendly environment and is ideal for those looking for an entrepreneur visa. Iceland’s Startup Visa allows foreign founders to develop innovative businesses in the country.

3. Netherlands

The Netherlands was the first country to legalize gay marriage in 2001, with adoption rights and gender recognition reforms following soon after.

Public acceptance is among the highest globally, and Amsterdam is still seen as the gay capital of the world, with Pride canal parades and thriving queer districts.

Known for canals, museums, and progressive culture, the Netherlands offers a cosmopolitan lifestyle with strong healthcare and social support.

Residency options include work permits, family reunification, and the Dutch Startup Visa, which gives entrepreneurs one year to build innovative companies (extendable through the self-employed scheme). Permanent residence is possible after five years.

4. Sweden

Sweden legalized same-sex marriage in 2009, offers adoption rights, and since 2013, allows gender changes without surgery.

Public healthcare covers gender-affirming treatments, and support for LGBTQ rights is nearly universal. Stockholm Pride is Scandinavia’s largest LGBTQ event.

Sweden offers modern, cosmopolitan cities, extensive welfare benefits, and abundant natural beauty, from the Stockholm archipelago to Lapland.

Residency options include work permits for skilled migrants, student visas, and family reunification. Entrepreneurs can apply for Sweden’s Self-Employed Visa, allowing residency for those starting a business. Permanent residence is generally possible after five years.

5. Spain

Spain legalized same-sex marriage and adoption in 2005 and consistently ranks among the top five on ILGA-Europe’s Rainbow Map.

Madrid Pride is the largest in Europe, attracting millions each year, while Barcelona and Sitges are globally known as LGBTQ hotspots. Spain is one of the most gay friendly countries in the world, offering both strong laws and vibrant queer communities.

Life in Spain combines Mediterranean sunshine, world-class culture, and affordable living costs compared to many Western European nations. With a thriving LGBTQ nightlife, progressive politics, and a relaxed lifestyle, it’s a top choice for expats and retirees.

Residency options include the new Spain Digital Nomad Visa, ideal for remote workers with non-Spanish employers, offering residency for up to five years. The Spain Non-Lucrative Visa is another popular option, designed for retirees and financially independent expats. Both pathways provide access to Spain’s high quality of life and, eventually, eligibility for permanent residency and citizenship.

Spain remains one of the most LGBT friendly countries in Europe, balancing inclusivity with an enviable lifestyle.

6. Portugal

Portugal ranks high on the Spartacus Gay Travel Index 2025 and remains one of the top queer and gay friendly countries in Europe and the world.

Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2010, adoption rights since 2016, and legal gender recognition without surgery was introduced in 2018.

Lisbon and Porto both host vibrant Pride events and thriving queer neighborhoods, while public support for LGBTQ rights continues to grow.

Portugal offers an appealing lifestyle for expats, combining 300+ days of sunshine in the Algarve, cosmopolitan cities like Lisbon, and a relatively low cost of living compared to other Western European nations. Healthcare is universal, and the country is consistently ranked among the safest countries for LGBTQ travelers.

Residency options include the flexible Portugal Digital Nomad Visa (also known as the D8 Visa), allowing remote workers with sufficient income to live in Portugal for up to five years, and the Portugal D2 Entrepreneur Visa, designed for business owners or freelancers setting up a company locally. The investment-based Portugal Golden Visa program is a popular option where eligible routes for application include investment in government funds, job creation, or cultural contributions.

With its inclusive laws, attractive residency pathways, and high quality of life, Portugal stands out as one of the best countries for LGBT expats and retirees in 2025.

7. Belgium

Belgium ranks #2 on the ILGA-Europe Rainbow Map. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2003, adoption since 2006, and a conversion therapy ban was introduced in 2023.Cities like Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp all feature thriving queer districts and active LGBTQ organizations.

Belgium combines historic charm and cosmopolitan living with easy access to the rest of Europe. It’s also home to key EU institutions, reinforcing its international appeal.

Residency options include work permits, family visas, and EU free movement rights. Entrepreneurs can apply for Belgium’s Professional Card, which doubles as an EU residence permit for self-employed individuals establishing businesses in the country.

8. Norway

Norway recognizes same-sex marriage, adoption, and offers comprehensive, strong anti-discrimination laws.

It consistently scores among the highest countries on the Williams Institute Global Acceptance Index and has very low hate crime rates. Oslo Pride has become one of Scandinavia’s largest festivals.

Expats benefit from Norway’s high salaries, generous welfare state, and stunning natural landscapes including fjords and the Northern Lights.

Residency options include skilled worker permits, family reunification, and long-term visas. Entrepreneurs can apply for a Self-Employed Residence Permit, available to those running independent businesses. Permanent residency is often possible after three years.

9. Canada

Canada legalized same-sex marriage in 2005, banned conversion therapy in 2022, and provides access to gender-affirming healthcare.

It regularly ranks in the global top five on the Spartacus Gay Travel Index. Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver are cultural hubs with some of the largest Pride festivals in North America.

Canada offers multiculturalism, high salaries, universal healthcare, and natural beauty from coast to coast.

Residency options include the Express Entry system for skilled workers, provincial nominee programs, and family sponsorship.

Entrepreneurs can apply for the Canada Start-up Visa, which grants residency to founders of innovative businesses supported by designated Canadian investors. Permanent residency can often be obtained in under a year, with citizenship possible after three.

10. New Zealand

New Zealand ranks in the global top ten on the Spartacus Gay Travel Index.

Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013, adoption rights are recognized, and discrimination protections extend to both sexual orientation and gender identity.

Auckland and Wellington Pride events highlight the country’s inclusive spirit.

Expats enjoy New Zealand’s breathtaking natural landscapes and relaxed lifestyle, supported by good healthcare and education systems.

Residency options include skilled migration visas, work permits, and a retirement visa for pensioners. Entrepreneurs may apply for the New Zealand Entrepreneur Work Visa, which allows business owners to settle with a path to residency after two years of successful operation.

What makes a country LGBTQ-friendly?

An LGBT-friendly country is more than a destination where same-sex marriage is legal. It’s a place where laws, culture, and society come together to support equality and protect individuals regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

• Legal protections: Inclusive nations have strong laws in place. From same-sex marriage and joint adoption rights to anti-discrimination laws that cover employment, housing, and healthcare. Many also allow legal gender recognition based on self-identification and have abolished harmful practices such as conversion therapy bans. Platforms like Equaldex track these laws in detail, making it easier to see how countries compare and where progress is still needed.
• Social acceptance: Public opinion plays a critical role. High levels of acceptance are reflected in national surveys, widespread Pride celebrations, and visible queer communities in cities and towns.
• Safety: A truly LGBTQ-friendly country ensures low rates of hate crimes (helped along by the laws mentioned earlier) and provides clear recourse when discrimination occurs. Indexes such as the LGBTQ+ Travel Safety Index (Asher & Lyric) highlight nations where queer people can live and travel without fear.
• Healthcare access: Access to gender-affirming healthcare and comprehensive HIV prevention services are key indicators of inclusivity. Countries that integrate these into public healthcare show a deeper commitment to supporting diverse gender expression and identities.

Together, these factors create environments where LGBTQ+ individuals and families can thrive with dignity and equal rights.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Most LGBT-Friendly Countries

What are the most LGBT-friendly countries in the world in 2025?

Countries like Canada, Malta, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Iceland are consistently ranked among the most LGBT-friendly in 2025.

They combine strong legal protections, social acceptance, and visible LGBTQ+ communities, making them some of the safest countries for LGBTQ travelers and expats.

Which countries have the best legal protections for LGBTQ rights?

Malta, Spain, Portugal, and Canada stand out with comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, marriage equality, adoption rights, and gender recognition policies.

These countries also ban controversial conversion therapy and provide equal healthcare access for LGBTQ+ individuals.

What are the top countries for same-sex marriage recognition in 2025?

The Netherlands, Spain, Canada, New Zealand, and Uruguay were early adopters of marriage equality and remain leaders today.

Over 35 countries now recognize same-sex marriage globally, with Europe offering the most gay friendly countries with full gay marriage rights.

Which countries are the safest for LGBTQ travelers in 2025?

According to the Spartacus Gay Travel Index and Asher & Lyric LGBTQ+ Safety Index, the safest countries for LGBTQ travelers are Portugal, Sweden, Canada, Iceland, and New Zealand, where hate crime rates are low and social acceptance is high.

What are the best countries for LGBT individuals to move to?

For expats, the best countries include Portugal (welcoming Golden Visa options), Canada (inclusive immigration), and Spain (citizenship pathway through residency).

These countries combine safety, affordability, and strong LGBTQ+ rights, making them top destinations to live in.

Which countries have adoption rights for same-sex couples?

In around 39 countries, LGBTQ individuals and same-sex couples are explicitly permitted to jointly adopt children. Some countries include Austria, Belgium, Finland, Sweden, Australia, Argentina and Canada.

Which countries offer healthcare equality for LGBTQ people?

Canada, Sweden, and the Netherlands lead in providing equal healthcare, including gender-affirming treatments, HIV prevention services like PrEP, and inclusive mental health support.

Universal healthcare systems in these nations are considered models for LGBTQ inclusion.

Which countries provide asylum for persecuted LGBTQ individuals?

Canada, Germany, and the Netherlands allow LGBTQ individuals fleeing persecution to apply for asylum under humanitarian protection laws.

Malta also stands out in the EU for granting refuge to LGBTQ asylum seekers.

What are the most gay-friendly cities in the world in 2025?

Madrid, Amsterdam, Berlin, New York, and Sydney are often ranked as the most gay friendly cities, thanks to vibrant Pride parades, thriving queer nightlife, and strong community visibility.

Madrid and Amsterdam are particularly recognized as cultural gay capitals.

Which country is considered the gay capital of the world in 2025?

Madrid is often cited as the gay capital of the world in 2025 due to hosting Europe’s largest Pride festival, a vibrant LGBTQ nightlife, and strong community acceptance. Amsterdam and New York remain iconic contenders.

Which countries are most welcoming to transgender people?

Malta, Argentina, and Portugal are leaders in transgender rights, allowing legal gender change without surgery and offering broad protections against discrimination based on gender identity.

Sweden and Canada also provide comprehensive trans healthcare services.

Which countries have the biggest Pride parades globally?

The largest Pride events are found in São Paulo (Brazil), Madrid (Spain), New York (USA), and Sydney (Australia), each drawing millions of participants.

These festivals are not only celebrations but also powerful demonstrations of LGBTQ+ visibility and activism.

Which European countries are best for LGBT expats in 2025?

Portugal, Spain, and the Netherlands are considered the best European countries for LGBT expats, offering inclusive laws, high safety, affordable living, and thriving queer communities.

Each ranks highly on the ILGA-Europe Rainbow Map.