English proficiency is a highly sought-after skill in today’s global economy. As the world becomes more interconnected, the ability to communicate effectively in English has become a valuable asset, especially for those who seek to work, study, or travel internationally. With this in mind, it’s no wonder that the English Proficiency Index (EPI) is highly anticipated each year. The EPI is a ranking of countries and regions by English proficiency, based on the test results of 2 million adults in 112 non-native English-speaking countries and regions.
According to the latest EPI, the Netherlands is once again the top-ranking country in terms of English proficiency. However, for those looking to relocate, the cost of living and tax-friendly policies of this country can play a significant role in the decision-making process.
Singapore and Portugal also stand out. Singapore, known for its “Singlish“, offers low tax policies but is expensive to immigrate to. Meanwhile, Portugal offers the NHR (non-habitual resident) tax regime, which can reduce taxes to single digits for some. Sweden, Finland, and Croatia also rank highly in this category but are considered high-tax countries.
In the next category, Serbia ranks the highest in terms of English proficiency. Romania, Poland, and the Philippines are also worth considering, with the latter offering low tax policies but having a limited number of open slots for foreign workers.
Finally, in the moderate proficiency category, countries like Italy, Albania, and Costa Rica stand out. While they may not have the highest English proficiency, they offer a variety of tax incentives and exemptions for individuals and businesses. Other notable countries in this category include Hong Kong, Spain, Chile, and Russia.
It’s worth noting that the EPI is just one aspect to consider when choosing a country to relocate to. There are several other factors to consider, such as cost of living, job prospects, safety, and quality of life. However, for those who want to prioritize their ability to communicate effectively in English, the EPI provides valuable information about the countries where this is possible.
In conclusion, the English Proficiency Index is an essential resource for those who want to relocate to a new country, where English proficiency is crucial. While the Netherlands remains at the top of the list, other countries like Singapore, Portugal, and Serbia also offer high English proficiency and a variety of tax and immigration-friendly policies. With the global economy becoming increasingly interconnected, it’s important to have the ability to communicate in English effectively. The EPI is an excellent tool to help individuals make informed decisions about where to relocate based on this crucial factor.
