10 Safest Countries in Europe (2025) – Global Peace Index
In a world where safety is paramount, Europe stands out as one of the safest regions for travelers, expatriates, and investors. Known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and political stability, Europe is home to some of the safest countries globally.
Discover the safest European countries in 2025 based on the Global Peace Index (GPI). Learn what makes these nations ideal for travelers, expats, and investors
How Safety Influences Residency and Citizenship Decisions
For global citizens considering second residency or citizenship by investment (CBI), safety is a top priority. Countries with high Global Peace Index (GPI) scores not only offer peace of mind but also tend to have stable economies, reliable governance, and high quality of life — all critical factors when selecting a long-term base.
Why Investors Prioritize Safety:
Stability of Investment: Political and social stability reduces investment risk.
Family Security: Safer environments are more attractive for relocating families.
Healthcare & Education: Safe countries often rank higher in health and education indexes.
CBI Compatibility: Several countries on the GPI list also offer residence or citizenship pathways — including Portugal, Malta, and Ireland.
🔎 Looking for a second passport? Consider countries that rank high on peace and offer citizenship or residency by investment programs.
What is the Global Peace Index (GPI)?
The Global Peace Index (GPI), developed by the Institute for Economics & Peace, is the leading measure of national peace and safety. It evaluates 163 independent states and territories, representing 99.7% of the world’s population.
How is the GPI Calculated?
The GPI measures peace across three domains:
- Societal Safety and Security
- Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict
- Degree of Militarization
💡 A lower GPI score indicates higher safety and peacefulness.
Additional Metrics That Signal a Safe Country (Beyond GPI)
While the Global Peace Index is a comprehensive tool, other global metrics also help paint a clearer picture of safety and livability:
| Metric | Why It Matters | Notable Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Rule of Law Index | Measures legal stability and corruption levels | Denmark, Finland |
| OECD Better Life Index | Evaluates wellbeing, education, income, and safety | Switzerland, Iceland |
| Expat Insider Safety Scores | Based on real expat feedback on personal safety | Portugal, Austria |
| Healthcare Quality Rankings | Indicates accessibility and trust in healthcare | France, Germany |
These indicators, when combined with the GPI, help travelers and expats make smarter, long-term relocation choices.
Top 10 Safest European Countries (2025 GPI Rankings)
These nations consistently demonstrate low crime rates, political stability, and strong social systems, securing their places at the top of the GPI rankings.
1. Iceland – GPI Score: 1.107
Iceland continues to hold the title of the safest country in the world, a distinction it has maintained since 2008.
Why Iceland is the Safest:
- Exceptionally low crime rates
- Strong social cohesion and trust in law enforcement
- Minimal military presence and neutral foreign policies
2. Ireland – GPI Score: 1.288
Ireland has made remarkable progress, rising to the second position on the GPI.
Key Safety Factors:
- Political stability and low violent crime
- Positive diplomatic relations globally
- Safe for both tourists and expatriates
3. Austria – GPI Score: 1.300
Austria’s long-standing policy of neutrality plays a significant role in its high safety ranking.
Reasons for Austria’s Safety:
- Low crime rates and effective law enforcement
- Strong governance and social policies
- Peaceful political environment
4. Portugal – GPI Score: 1.301
Portugal consistently ranks among the safest countries in Europe due to its peaceful society and welcoming atmosphere.
What Makes Portugal Safe:
- Low crime rates and minimal violence
- Popular destination for tourists and digital nomads
- High expat satisfaction levels
5. Slovenia – GPI Score: 1.316
Slovenia’s low crime rates and scenic beauty make it an ideal destination for safety-conscious travelers.
Key Contributing Factors:
- Political stability and effective governance
- Beautiful landscapes with minimal urban crime
- Strong community engagement and social welfare
6. Czech Republic – GPI Score: 1.318
The Czech Republic is known for its cultural heritage and safe urban environments.
Safety Highlights:
- Low levels of crime and civil unrest
- Stable government and legal systems
- High quality of life and public safety measures
7. Switzerland – GPI Score: 1.357
Switzerland’s reputation as a neutral nation contributes to its status as one of the safest places to live.
Why Switzerland Stands Out:
- Low crime rates and robust economy
- Renowned for political neutrality
- High standard of living and excellent healthcare
8. Hungary – GPI Score: 1.411
Hungary places emphasis on social welfare and public safety.
Factors Contributing to Hungary’s Safety:
- Low violent crime rates
- Community welfare programs
- Safe for both tourists and long-term residents
9. Finland – GPI Score: 1.439
Finland’s trust in law enforcement and strong social systems place it among the safest countries.
Why Finland Ranks High:
- High levels of public trust in police
- Low corruption and effective governance
- Comprehensive social safety nets
10. Denmark – GPI Score: 1.296
Denmark’s commitment to social welfare and community development enhances its reputation for safety.
Key Safety Indicators:
- Low crime rates and high quality of life
- Strong community ties and sense of belonging
- Minimal social unrest and effective public services
Why Safety in Europe Matters
1. Quality of Life – High safety rankings correlate with better public services, healthcare, and education.
2. Investment Opportunities – Safer countries attract foreign investors, boosting economic growth.
3. Ideal for Families – Low crime rates make these destinations attractive for raising families and relocating.
4. Tourism and Expatriation – Travelers and expats prioritize safety when choosing destinations, contributing to Europe’s popularity.
Tips for Safe Travel and Relocation in Europe
- Stay Informed: Regularly check GPI reports and government travel advisories.
- Consider Local Laws: Understand the legal framework of each country to ensure compliance and personal safety.
- Engage with Local Communities: Building relationships and integrating into the community enhances personal security.
Europe’s Safest Destinations in 2025
Europe continues to set a global standard for peace and security. From Iceland’s unwavering leadership to Austria’s neutrality and Switzerland’s stability, these nations exemplify low crime rates, strong governance, and community resilience.
For travelers, expatriates, and investors, choosing destinations from this list ensures not only safety but also quality of life.
Safest Countries in Europe -FAQs
Which country is the safest in Europe in 2025?
According to the Global Peace Index 2024, Iceland remains the safest country in Europe and the world, thanks to its low crime rates, political stability, and strong community trust.
Are these safe countries also good for expatriates and digital nomads?
Yes. Countries like Portugal, Ireland, and Austria rank highly not only for safety but also for quality of life, healthcare, internet access, and expat integration — making them top choices for remote workers and expats.
Can I get residency or citizenship in these safe countries?
Yes. Several of the safest countries, including Portugal, Malta, and Ireland, offer residency or citizenship by investment programs. These options allow qualified individuals to live, invest, and eventually become citizens in these nations.
What makes a country “safe” for investors and families?
Safety is measured by multiple factors: crime rates, political stability, social services, healthcare quality, and personal freedoms. Investors often prioritize countries with reliable legal systems and economic predictability.
Do safer countries have better healthcare and education systems?
Generally, yes. Countries with higher peace and safety scores tend to offer universal healthcare, well-funded education systems, and strong public services — key indicators of livability.
Is it expensive to live in the safest countries in Europe?
Cost of living varies. While Switzerland and Norway are more expensive, countries like Portugal, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic offer both safety and affordability, especially for long-term residents or retirees.
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Last Updated on 22 April 2025
