Ten Safest Countries in the World: Key Takeaways
Ten Safest Countries in the World in 2026
1. Iceland
- Safety Score: 1.095
- Capital City: Reykjavík
- Global Passport Index ranking: 18
Since 2008, Iceland has held the highest position in the Global Peace Index. It is recognized as one of the world’s happiest, safest countries and where citizens feel the most content. Iceland sets itself apart as the sole member of NATO without a standing army, navy, or air force. The nation’s low crime rates and minimal corruption showcase its strong economic and political stability.
Iceland, which ranked third on the latest Women, Peace, and Security Index, is also one of the safest countries for women to travel alone. Iceland is frequently cited as not just a peaceful country but also among the world’s safest countries, thanks to its resilience against both internal and external conflicts.
Community bonds run deep in Iceland, with an impressive 98 percent of Icelanders reporting that they have a dependable support system in times of need. Petty crime rates and registered criminal offenses are low because, in such closely-knit communities, the bonds between individuals are strong, allowing for collective action during challenging times.
This nation showcases a high level of development and holds a prestigious position as the third-ranked country on the UN’s Human Development Index. Additionally, it holds the impressive title of being the third-happiest nation in the world, as per the World Happiness Report. Considering metrics such as human development, happiness, healthcare, education, and law and order, Iceland emerges as a valid choice for the safest country in Europe and the world.
2. Ireland
- Safety Score: 1.26
- Capital City: Dublin
- Global Passport Index ranking: 7
Year after year, Ireland draws millions of entrepreneurs, investors, international students, and tourists with its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, hospitable citizens, business-savvy atmosphere, quality education, and workforce known for its expertise. It also has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe.
Ireland epitomizes a global standard of excellence as it holds the second rank in the Global Peace Index, affirming its status as one of the most peaceful countries on Earth. Furthermore, the country is eighth on the UN’s Human Development Index.
The nation is also one of the safest countries in Europe to visit in 2026, ranking among the top twenty on the Women’s Peace and Security Index. And many praise it for being the safest country in Europe for international students.
Ireland has always been safe and friendly for visitors and foreign residents. Due to its exceptional safety standards, Ireland is highlighted as a favored destination for foreigners. Moreover, its historical connection to the United States makes it one of the best European countries for American tourists.
3. New Zealand
- Safety Score: 1.282
- Capital City: Wellington
- Global Passport Index ranking: 22
New Zealand ranks 3rd on the 2025 Global Peace Index, making it one of the safest countries in the world. It is also a leading choice for nature lovers, retirees, and remote workers seeking peace of mind. Additionally, the New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa can allow high-net-worth individuals residency in the country.
Known for its stunning landscapes and welcoming culture, New Zealand also has a consistently low crime rate, with a violent crime rate of just 0.7 incidents per 100,000 people. This is reinforced by a high level of public trust in institutions. Its stable political environment, transparent governance, and strict rule of law contribute to both internal peace and global reputation.
Additionally, New Zealand excels in natural disaster preparedness, a key factor in long-term safety, boasting some of the world’s most developed earthquake response systems and building codes.
The country ranks 7th on the Global Passport Index, thanks to its excellent education system, healthcare infrastructure, and progressive social policies. It’s also frequently ranked as one of the safest countries for solo female travelers, with high levels of gender equality and strong social support systems.
4. Austria
- Safety Score: 1.294
- Capital City: Vienna
- Global Passport Index ranking: 16
The landlocked country of Austria has a very profound reason for why it’s among the safest countries in Europe. The 1955 Austrian State Treaty, also known as the Austrian Independence Treaty, was crucial in establishing Austria as a safe country.
This treaty marked the end of the Allied occupation of Austria and its transition to full sovereignty. It ensured that Austria remained a permanently neutral country, meaning it would not partake in military alliances or join upcoming or ongoing international conflict.
This neutrality clause from the treaty has had profound implications for Austria’s safety. By not aligning with any military blocs or engaging in military conflicts, Austria avoids the security risks associated with involvement in international disputes. This has contributed significantly to Austria’s reputation as a country that is secure and peaceful, and one of the safest in Europe.
5. Switzerland
- Safety Score: 1,294
- Capital City: Bern
- Global Passport Index ranking: 2
As the fifth safest country in the world, Switzerland is famous worldwide for many reasons. It is one of the world’s oldest, politically stable, and economically prosperous nations. With its stellar banking and privacy laws, it is the favored choice for investors, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals. It is also rated as the country with the lowest crime rate in Europe.
As one of the safest countries for banking, Switzerland has several entries in the safest banks in Europe. The policy of neutrality has played a critical role in maintaining Switzerland’s safety, political stability, and distance from turmoil. The Swiss have long experienced a peaceful environment, free from the threat of war or violence.
On the Global Passport Index, Switzerland ranks fourth because of its high investment category scores, making it a top destination for global entrepreneurs. The Swiss Residence Permit allows high-net-worth individuals to acquire residency in the country.
6. Singapore
- Safety Score: 1.357
- Capital City: Singapore City
- Global Passport Index ranking: 9
Singapore consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, combining exceptionally low crime rates with world-class infrastructure and strict law enforcement. It placed 6th globally on the 2025 Global Peace Index, thanks to its near-total absence of violent crime, political unrest, and domestic conflict.
The city-state enforces some of the toughest laws on corruption and drug trafficking, contributing to its exceptional public order. In fact, Singapore reports one of the lowest intentional homicide rates globally—just 0.2 per 100,000 people.
Public safety is further enhanced by its state-of-the-art surveillance systems, efficient police force, and effective criminal justice systems, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers, expats, and families. Singapore also ranks ninth on the Global Passport Index, reflecting its combination of mobility rights, investment potential, and quality of life.
A high-tech, economically stable country with excellent healthcare and education systems, Singapore offers not just safety but also long-term personal security and opportunity.
7. Portugal
- Safety Score: 1.371
- Capital City: Lisbon
- Global Passport Index ranking: 28
The country ranks seventh among all countries on the Global Peace Index. Portugal’s safety is largely attributed to its very low crime rate and political neutrality. As a great tourist destination and one of the safest and cheapest places, the country attracts many tourists worldwide.
In addition to being one of Europe’s safest countries, it’s one of the friendliest in the world toward foreign nationals. This makes it one of the safest EU countries to study in for foreigners. The Portuguese government has welcomed thousands of foreign nationals through the Portugal Golden Visa program.
As per the Global Passport Index, the country is worth highlighting because it has shown improvements in investment prospects, which reflect a global shift in economic policies and mobility trends. In addition to this, Portugal is a safe country for LGBTQIA+ individuals and is one of the most progressive nations in Europe.
Discover your options for relocating to one of the safest countries in Europe with our guide to Portugal immigration.
8. Denmark
- Safety Score: 1.393
- Capital City: Copenhagen
- Global Passport Index ranking: 5
Scandinavian nations have consistently led rankings as some of the safest countries in Europe. They consistently secure the top ten positions across various metrics like quality of life, education, healthcare, safety, and overall happiness. The Global Peace Index ranks Denmark the eight safest country in the world, and the Women Peace and Security Index ranks it fourth due to its low crime rates, highly satisfied population, and extremely low danger rating.
It also ranks within the top twenty in the Safety Perception Index, which indicates that citizens and residents feel secure in five key domains: health, violence, workplace, personal security, and environment. Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is famous for its medieval castles, the iconic Little Mermaid Statue, and its overall charm. It is known for being one of the safest cities in Europe, and a global culinary capital.
9. Slovenia
- Safety Score: 1.409
- Capital City: Ljubljana
- Global Passport Index ranking: 36
Slovenia asserts itself as one of the safest countries in Europe and globally, excelling in all three critical aspects – security, medical safety, and road security.
Hidden in a diverse EU region, Slovenia stands out for its scenic beauty and charm, which often go unnoticed. Despite its rugged terrain, the country is a safe and welcoming destination for all visitors. The capital city, Ljubljana, was named the Green Capital of Europe in 2016, thanks to its car-free city center, abundant green spaces, and eco-friendly initiatives promoting sustainability.
10. Finland
- Safety Score: 1.42
- Capital City: Helsinki
- Global Passport Index ranking: 3
Nordic countries have an overall strong reputation for being safe, with some of the lowest crime rates in Europe and strong social welfare systems. However, even among Nordic countries, Finland stands out. The country’s education system is among the world’s best and is free at all levels.
The exceptional social welfare system, close-knit communities, and high living standards have consistently propelled it to achieve the highest happiness levels worldwide, year after year.
Additionally, Finland offers a secure environment as one of the safest countries for women, claiming the fourth position (out of 177 total) on the latest Women Peace and Security Index. For women who have always wanted to see the northern lights, this provides significant comfort and peace of mind regarding their personal safety.
The nation ranks within the top twenty countries in the Global Peace Index, Human Development Index, and Safety Perception Index, further showing its commitment to safety and well-being. The country has also proven to have one of the most powerful passports, with its third-place ranking on the Global Passport Index.
Finland has one of the most powerful passports, and its high level of societal safety and minimal political instability further reinforce its global reputation as one of the world’s safest countries.
How the Safest Countries in the World Are Ranked in 2026
The safest countries in the world are ranked using safety indicators such as the Global Peace Index (GPI) and national safety scores. The GPI, published by the Institute for Economics and Peace, measures global peacefulness across 163 countries based on crime rates, political instability, conflict, and access to weapons. It considers both internal conflicts, like domestic unrest or violence, and external conflicts, including involvement in international wars or military aggression.
Safety scores further reflect public perceptions of societal safety, derived from crime statistics, political risk assessments, and resident experiences. These tools help identify where the safest place to live in the world is or which country has the lowest crime rate. For a broader perspective, the Global Intelligence Unit’s Passport Index evaluates countries based on mobility, lifestyle, and investment appeal, especially useful for expats and long-term travelers. Many of the world’s safest countries also rank highly in passport strength and quality of life.
