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Top 10 LGBTQ Friendly Countries in 2025

Updated: 28 May 2025

In some countries, life is getting harder for LGBTQ+ people. There are more laws and actions against them due to the rise of homophobia. Even in places like the US, especially after Donald Trump’s reelection, many people do not feel safe anymore. This makes them worried about their future.

However, there is still hope. Some countries are safe and welcoming for LGBTQ+ individuals. This article will show you the top 10 LGBTQ friendly countries.

What to Discover in This Guide?

What Makes Countries Safe for LGBTQ?
Safest Countries for LGBTQ+ People in 2025 Based on Anti-Discrimination Laws
The 10 Most LGBTQ Friendly Countries in 2025
Top 10 Gay-Friendly Countries in 2025

What Makes Countries Safe for LGBTQ?

Being a part LGBTQ+ community is getting harder and harder as the world becomes more conservative. At this point, we can tell you that there are LGBTQ friendly countries too. They accept and respect you as the way you are and protect your rights. But what makes them safe for an LGBTQ+ individual? Here are some things that make them friendly:

It has laws that protect LGBTQ+ people from hate and unfair treatment.
Same-sex marriage or civil partnerships are legal.
Transgender people can change their gender on official documents.
LGBTQ+ people can live without fear of being hurt or bullied.
The police protect everyone.
Hate crimes are punished by the law.
Most people respect and accept your existence.
It is okay to be open about your identity.
There are LGBTQ+ communities, events, and safe spaces.
You can get good medical care.
People can get gender-affirming treatment if they want, considering transgender rights.
There is help for mental health and HIV prevention.
Gay people can live, work, and travel safely.

Safest Countries for LGBTQ+ People in 2025 Based on Anti-Discrimination Laws

Anti-discrimination laws prevent discrimination against certain groups of people in terms of race, gender, religion, disability, and sexual orientation or gender identity. Within the context of the LGBTQ+ community, it protects them from being treated unfairly.

Here, you can see the world map of LGTBQ friendly countries in 2025:

The 10 Most LGBTQ Friendly Countries in 2025

If you’re a part of the gay community, here are the best 10 LGBTQ friendly countries to live in the world.

1. Malta

Malta is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world. This reputation goes back to 1973 when Malta decriminalized same-sex sexual activity. Considering Malta’s LGBTQ history, it is a turning point as it has paved the way for the most progressive rights for the LGBTQ community. Thus, it makes Malta a LGBT friendly country.

Why is Malta so LGBT Friendly?

The LGBTQ Rights and social acceptance:

The wave of improvement in the rights of LGBTQ community people began in 2014 when Marie Louise Coleiro Preca was elected as president. She made her master move by criminalizing conversion therapy.
Malta has legalized same sex marriage since 2017.
It also has granted full adoption rights to same-sex couples.
It criminalized hate crimes and hate speech based on sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics in June 2012.
As per Eurobarometer, 77 percent of people agreed with same-sex marriage in 2024.
The LGBT community of Malta enjoys the total rights that include military, adoption, gay marriage, and more.

Healthcare for the LGBTQ+ Community in Malta

Individuals can legally change their gender through a simple administrative process based on self-determination.
PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) and PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) are available for purchase in Malta. However, they are expensive. Currently, there are proposals to make it available to everyone to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS, among both LGBTQ+ individuals and heterosexuals.
There used to be a ban on blood donations from men who have sex with men. In 2022, the policy was changed, and if gay and bisexual men have no more than one sexual partner in the previous four months, they can donate their blood now.

Attractions for the LGBTQ community in Malta

Maltese society has ranked first in the ILGA-Europe Rainbow Index in 2024, too, which is the 9th time in a row. The reason is that it has overcome a significant shift in its public awareness campaigns, policies, and presence of LGBTQ+ organizations. Events such as Malta Pride are widely supported by both the public and private sectors.

Malta has countless attractions such as bars, hotels, clubs, beaches, etc., specifically for LGBTs. You can stay at Marco Polo Hostel, enjoy The Birdcage Lounge, Lollipop, or sunbathe at Pembroke Beach. You’ve got all the choices.

Malta Citizenship By Investment

Residency and Citizenship Opportunities for Expats and Retirees in Malta

Among gay friendly places to retire or live as an expat, Malta stands out as a safe and stable

zone. There are several ways to get residency and citizenship in Malta if you are looking for a new home. However, the most popular option includes Malta Citizenship by Investment program. If you make a qualifying contribution to the country’s economic development.

The investment options include real estate, government contribution, and donation. You can apply for citizenship after holding residency for at least 12 months. This process includes a four-tier due diligence process. You need to show your source of funds and criminal background.

2. Portugal

As one of the most affordable gay friendly places to live in Europe, Portugal decriminalized same-sex sexual activity in 1982. Since then, the country has provided many legal rights to LGBTQ+ individuals.

The LGBTQ Rights and Opinion in Portugal

Portugal has been allowing same-sex marriage since 17 May 2010. You can get a marriage visa for two years for Portugal if your spouse is a permanent resident there.
If you’re married to a citizen of Portugal, you’re entitled to citizenship too, but after a residence permit.
In 2007, the Portuguese Penal Code extended strong anti-discrimination laws. With this update, hate crimes and speeches motivated by sexual orientation or gender identity are criminalized.
On 1 March 2011, the Gender Identity Law was passed to allow trans people to change their name and sex.
Portugal ranked at number 12 out of 197 countries.
According to Eurobarometer, 71 percent of people think that LGBTQ+ members should have the same rights as heterosexual people. Therefore, social acceptance is considerably higher compared to other European countries.

Healthcare in Portugal for LGBTQ+ Individuals

Portugal’s public healthcare system, the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), is accessible to LGBTQ+ individuals. It gives them:

Gender affirming healthcare.
Free HIV testing and treatment

Portugal Golden Visa

Residency and Citizenship Opportunities for Expats and Retirees in Portugal

As an LGBTQ+ expat or a retiree, you wish to live safely without being discriminated against just because of your identity. At this point, Portugal can be your new home, considering that it has progressive laws. However, if you are a non-EU citizen, you need to get a residence permit. Here, you can go for:

D7: This visa type is valid for 2 years (renewable) and is mostly preferred by retirees and those with passive income. To be eligible for the Portugal D7 Visa, you need a yearly income of €8,460. If you have a dependent, 50 percent of the specified amount applies to the spouse, and 30 percent applies to each dependent child. You can also apply for citizenship after five years of holding residency.
D8: It is for digital nomads and freelancers. You need a monthly income of €3,280 and a savings threshold of €36,480 to be eligible for the program. Then, you will get a 1-year residency visa (renewable), and you can apply for citizenship after 5 years.
Portugal Golden Visa: It is generally preferred by investors. To qualify for the program, you need to make at least a €500,000 investment or a €250,000 cultural donation. Once the Golden Visa is issued, you will receive 5 years of residency. After keeping your investment for 5 years, you can apply for Portuguese citizenship.

Attractions for the LGBTQ community in Portugal

The capital cities of Lisbon and Porto are ideal for LGBTQ people. Principe Real, Bairro Alto, and Arroios are some of the best spots in Lisbon for gay people. It houses some of the most gay-friendly bars, hotels, houses, etc. The Pride Parade starts in Principe Real too. For further reading, please refer to our Portugal for LGBT expats.

3. Finland

Laws for the LGBT community ìn Finland are one of the most advanced. The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) report suggests that Finnish LGBT legislation is the most developed and extensive in Europe. Thus, this makes Finland one of LGBT-friendly countries in the world.

The LGBTQ Rights and Opinion in Finland

Same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 1971, with a full equal age of consent established in 1999.
The Finnish government approved same-sex marriage and same-sex adoption in 2014. However, the law came into effect in 2017.
IVF has been made accessible to lesbian couples since 2007.
According to Eurobarometer, 74% of Finnish people think that LGBTQ+ people should have the same rights as heterosexuals.

Healthcare in Finland for LGBTQ+ Individuals

With the change in the Trans Law in 2023, transgender individuals in Finland can now change their legal gender based on self-determination. This means that they do not need to pass medical procedures or psychiatric evaluations to change their gender. However, this law only covers the binary framework. It has not recognized non-binary gender identities yet.

HIV testing and treatment are also available and covered under public health programs.

Residency and Citizenship Opportunities for Expats and Retirees in Finland

If you plan to move to Finland as an LGBTQ+ individual and a non-EU citizen, you will need a residence visa. Although there is no specific retirement visa, you can apply for a temporary residence permit. During the application process, you must provide:

Your valid passport
Your proof of residence
Your source of income
Health insurance

Note that you can only apply for permanent residence after 4 years.

Attractions for the LGBTQ community in Finland

Finland appeals to many LGBTQ individuals with its safe environment and inclusivity. The Capital, Helsinki, holds Helsinki Pride each year in the last week of June. This event welcomes every individual with its vibrant parade, celebrations, and sporting events. Apart from Helsinki, Tampere and Turku also host regional pride festivals.

The country also has vibrant LGBTQ+ communities and organizations such as SETA. Therefore, it creates a sphere in which people are accepted and respected regardless of their gender or identity.

4. Spain

Being one of the most culturally liberal and LGBTQ+ safe countries in the world, Spain has seen a tremendous amount of changes in the last few years. The country allowed same-sex activity way back in 1822, but it was forbidden in 1954. However, the law of prohibition was reversed in 1979.

The LGBTQ Rights and Opinion in Spain

Same-sex marriage and adoption were made legal in Spain in the year 2005. Around 84 percent of people support same-sex marriage in Spain
In 2023, the Spanish Government passed a landmark Ley Trans Law. It allows individuals aged 16 and above to legally change their gender without medical or psychological evaluations. Minors aged 14 to 16 may do so with parental consent.
The LGBT visibility has increased in many areas of society, such as the judicial system, the army, the clergy, etc.
The area of sports does not offer the required visibility to the LGBT community. However, efforts are made to make it happen.
According to the 2023 Eurobarometer opinion survey, 89% of Spanish people stated that same sex people can have a sexual relationship and there is nothing wrong with it.

Healthcare in Spain for LGBTQ+ Individuals

Discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals in healthcare and education has been banned since 2013.
Gender-affirming healthcare is available in the public healthcare system. However, it can change from region to region.
HIV prevention and treatment are accessible to individuals at higher risk, including gay and bisexual men.

Non-Lucrative Visa

Residency and Citizenship Opportunities for Expats and Retirees in Spain

Seeing the opportunities and safety measures in Spain for LGBTQ+ individuals, you might be wondering about residency and citizenship opportunities. Well, there are several ways to obtain residency:

Spain Digital Nomad Visa: It is mostly preferred by digital nomads and freelancers. To be eligible for the program, you need to provide a minimum €2,400/month (€28,800/year) income. Once you provide all the necessary documentation, your visa will be issued for 1 year with an opportunity to renew for 5 years, which gives you a way to citizenship.
Non-Lucrative Visa: It is popular among passive income earners like retirees. You can apply for this by showing a minimum €2,400 monthly income and €28,800 yearly income. Once issued, Non Lucrative Visa will be valid for one year, and you can renew it if you stay at least 183 days in the country. After 5 years, you can also be eligible to apply for permanent citizenship.

Attractions for the LGBTQ community in Spain

Barcelona and Madrid are the major LGBT-friendly cities in Spain. Both are blessed with gay bars, clubs, hotels, etc. You can also participate in festivals like Pride Festival, We Party, LesGaiCineMad, and The Circuit Festival.

5. Norway

Norway is a safe place for the LGBTQ community. It is one of the first countries which include sexual orientation in 1981. It legalized same-sex marriage in 2009, and the country also allows military enrollment for members of the LGBT community.

Later on, it became the fourth country in Europe who allow sex change for trans people. Therefore, we can say that Norway is one of the most LGBT friendly countries in the world.

The LGBTQ Rights and Opinion in Norway

Norway legalized same-sex activity in 1972. It’s also one of the countries to include sexual orientation in anti-discrimination legislation.
Around 754 LGBT partnerships have been converted to marriages since 2009, with full equality in adoption and assisted reproduction rights.
Committed same-gender people have been allowed to adopt children since 2009, and artificial insemination is also available for lesbian couples.
The Norwegian Penal Code explicitly criminalizes hate speech, discrimination, and violence based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression.
In terms of social acceptance, Norwegian people welcome LGBTQ+ individuals. Cities like Oslo have the biggest Pride events and LGBTQ+ communities that embrace each person with a warm welcome.

Healthcare in Norway for LGBTQ+ Individuals

Legal gender change is based on self-determination. Individuals aged between 6 and 16 can only change their gender with their parents’ consent.
Individuals can get HIV prevention and treatment for free.
If you have a residence permit, you can also have free access to preventive dental care and psychological therapy.

Residency or Citizenship Opportunities in Norway for LGBTQ+ Expats and Retirees

Being accepted as the way you are is actually what matters to live in the world. However, the rise of homophobia in some countries makes it hard to exist without being concerned about your identity. As one of the LGBTQ+ friendly countries, Norway is here to embrace you.

You can get citizenship through marriage, descent, and naturalization.
You can also go for a residence permit in Norway, such as for work or study.

Attractions for the LGBTQ community in Norway

If you’re looking for some LGBT-friendly bars, hotels, and other events, go to cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim. Here are some events to attend:

Oslo Pride
Skeive ski
Oslo Fagottkor

6. Iceland

In the Equaldex’ sexuality index, Iceland ranks 1st as it has been very progressive in terms of LGBT rights, as adoption and IVF have been accessible to same-sex partners since 2006. Thus, this makes Iceland one of the most LGBTQ friendly countries.

The LGBTQ Rights and Opinion in Iceland

Iceland saw the legality of registered partnerships for same-sex couples in 1996.
Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir was the first openly gay head of government in 2009.
It was the first country that have a gay head of government, and it amended some laws to make same-sex marriage legal in 2010. The law also lets the adoption and IVF rights for same-sex couples.
The Church of Iceland permitted same sex marriage in 2015, as a progressive step.
Employment and housing discrimination are not based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
It allows legal gender recognition. People can register their gender as non-binary, marked with an “X” in addition to F and M.

Healthcare in Iceland for LGBTQ Individuals

Healthcare in Iceland is accessible to all residents, including LGBTQ+ individuals.

Gender affirming care is available for people, and they no longer need to undergo medical checks. Self-determination has been enough since 2019.
HIV testing and treatment are free through public healthcare.

Residency or Citizenship Opportunities in Iceland for LGBTQ+ Expats and Retirees

LGBTQ+ expats and retirees are looking for a new home to reside safely without the fear of being discriminated against. At this point, Iceland stands out as one of the LGBTQ+ friendly countries.

You can obtain it through birth, descent, or marriage by meeting certain criteria.
You can receive a residence permit for work or study in the country.

Note that you can be eligible for citizenship in Iceland after 7 years of residency through naturalization.

Attractions for the LGBTQ community in Iceland

Iceland has a plethora of attractions for the LGBT community, such as:

Kiki Bar
Rainbow Reykjavik
Lady Brewery

7. Belgium

European countries are some of the safest for LGBT people, and Belgium is one of them. In 2025, ILGA-Europe ranked Belgium number two on the list of LGBT rights protection. Therefore, Belgium is counted as an LGBT friendly country.

The LGBTQ Rights and Opinion in Belgium

Belgium allows for gender change, and you don’t have to go through any surgery.
84 percent of the public in Belgium supports same-sex marriage and other legal recognition.
Domestic partnership benefits were granted to same-sex couples in 2000, and same-sex marriage was legalized in 2003.
According to the 2023 Eurobarometer, 89% of Belgians support same-sex marriage across the EU, and 88% believe same-sex relationships should be accepted by society.

Healthcare in Belgium For LGBTQ+ Individuals

LGBTQ+ individuals in Belgium do not have to undergo medical checks to change their sex. They only need to file a form that indicates their sex does not correspond to their gender identity.
People aged between 16-17 have the right to change their sex through parental consent.
Belgium offers people free HIV treatment. PrEP is also available for those high-risk groups.

Residency or Citizenship Opportunities in Belgium for LGBTQ+ Expats and Retirees

Belgium does not discriminate based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression in its immigration or residency procedures. Therefore, LGBTQ+ individuals look for ways to obtain residency or citizenship. Here are the most popular ways:

You can receive citizenship by birth, descent, or naturalization.
You can get a residence permit through family reunification, work, or study.
After five years of continuous legal residence, you can go for naturalization and get your citizenship status.

Attractions for the LGBTQ community in Belgium

If you plan to go to Belgium, there are many things for you to do, such as:

Dolores and La Demence bars
Bruit qui court restaurant
Floris Arlequin hotel for staying
Brussels, Antwerp, and Liege are the best LGBT cities

8. Denmark

Denmark has something unique in its quiver, and it is that the country was the first to recognize LGBT partnerships. It did it back in 1989. That makes Denmark a LGBT friendly country.

The LGBTQ Rights and Opinion in Denmark

The same-sex marriage law came into effect in June 2012.
The LGBT community in Denmark is allowed to serve in the Danish military.
Around 66 percent of people in Denmark believe homosexual parents are as good as other couples.

Healthcare in Denmark for LGBTQ+ Individuals

The country has a universal healthcare system, and LGBTQ+ individuals can have full and equal rights to it.
Gender-affirming healthcare is available. The public system covers hormone therapy, mental health support, and surgeries. However, wait times can be long. That’s why many people go abroad for treatment.
PrEP and PEP are accessible. The country’s healthcare system also provides free HIV care to all of its residents.

Residency or Citizenship Opportunities in Denmark for LGBTQ+ Expats and Retirees

To reside in Denmark as an LGBTQ+ expat or retiree, you need to receive a residence permit or have citizenship.

To acquire citizenship, you can apply through birth, marriage, descent, or naturalization.
To obtain a residence, you can apply for a work, study, student, start-up, or family visa.

Attractions for the LGBTQ community in Denmark

Denmark has some great locations and events for the LGBT community. Stay at Anderson Boutique Hotel, attend the Aarhus Pride 2021, or visit G-Bar, Oscar, and other bars in the country. Copenhagen is the ideal location for the LGBT community.

9. Canada

Just like its large area, Canada also has a big heart for the LGBT community. It is one of the ideal countries for LGBT people to live in as it allows same-sex marriage and the ability to change gender without gender reassignment surgery. Canada is one of the best countries for LGBT people to live in, and Canada is one of the gayest countries in the world.

The LGBTQ Rights and Opinion in Canada

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) rights are protected under the Canadian Law.
Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2005, and couples enjoy full parental rights, including joint and stepchild adoption.
People can legally change their gender on official documents in every province and territory.
Non-binary gender markers (such as “X”) have been available on passports and other federal IDs since 2017.
Canada chose to ban conversion therapy in January 2022 and considered it a criminal offence.

Healthcare in Canada for LGBTQ+ Individuals

Canada offers a publicly funded universal healthcare system, accessible to all residents, including LGBTQ+ individuals.

The healthcare system is open to all residents regardless of their gender identities.
Gender-affirming care is available in public healthcare in most cities.
PrEP and PEP are accessible for individuals who are at risk.
Free HIV/AIDS medicines, including ARVs, are provided to eligible patients.

Residency or Citizenship Opportunities in Canada for LGBTQ+ Expats and Retirees

Looking for an LGBTQ+ friendly country in the world? Well, Canada stands out as the 9th country according to the Equaldex index. Here, you must decide which path to take for residency and citizenship:

You can opt for the Express Entry Program, Provincial Nominee Program, Family Sponsorship, work, and study.
You can get citizenship through birth, descent, and naturalization.

Attractions for the LGBTQ community in Canada

Canada has a lot of attractions specifically for the LGBT community. You, as a member of the community, can go to various queer communities and festivals like Whistler Pride & Ski Festival, Vancouver Pride, Tremblant Gay Ski Week, and more.

10. The Netherlands

When it comes to same-sex marriage, the Netherlands stands proud at the top. The country was the first to legalize same-sex marriage in 2000, making it one of the best places for LGBT people to live. Also, we can say that the Netherlands is a member of the most LGBTQ friendly countries.

The LGBTQ Rights and Opinion in the Netherlands

Homosexuality, gay marriage, adoption, and gay marriage are legal in the Netherlands.
The Netherlands ranks at the top in terms of same-sex marriage (more than 90 percent in favor) and the right to adopt (83 percent agree).
The Netherlands also ranks in the top five countries in terms of same-sex couples as parents (number five), the justifiability of homosexuality (number three), acceptance of same-sex relationships (number two), and more.

Healthcare in the Netherlands for LGBTQ+ Individuals

The Netherlands has a high-quality and accessible healthcare system with equal access to LGBTQ+ individuals:

You can get gender-affirming care, which includes hormone treatment and surgeries. This is covered under the basic health insurance for all residents.
The government helps pay for PrEP, a medicine that helps prevent HIV. You can get it through public health services.
PEP, another medicine used after possible contact with HIV, is also available in emergencies.
Monogamous gay men have had the right to donate blood since September 2021.

Residency or Citizenship Opportunities in the Netherlands for LGBTQ+ Expats and Retirees

Searching for a welcoming and LGBTQ+ inclusive country to settle in? Known for its strong legal protections, the Netherlands is a top choice. When it comes to residency and citizenship, here are your main options:

You can apply through work permits, the highly skilled migrant program, family reunification (including same-sex partners), or study routes.
Citizenship is possible through birth, adoption, acknowledgement of parentage, or naturalization.

Attractions for the LGBTQ community in the Netherlands

Amsterdam, Reguliersdwarsstraat, Utrecht, Amstel, Kerkstraat, and Rotterdam are the gay friendly areas. You can visit Westerkerk church, attend the annual Gay Pride Amsterdam, and go to over 100 LGBTQ bars, shops, clubs, saunas, and hotels.

Top 10 Gay-Friendly Countries in 2025

Considering the strict gender norms along with homophobia, finding the most gay-friendly country becomes a matter of question. According to Equaldex, here is the top 10 gay-friendly countries in 2025:

Country	Equality Index	Legal Index	Public Opinion Index
Iceland	94	98	90
Norway	87	87	87
Spain	83	100	66
Uruguay	83	93	73
Chile	81	100	61
Germany	81	100	61
Andorra	80	86	74
Denmark	80	93	67
Canada	78	95	61
Netherlands	78	90	65

FAQs on LGBTQ+ Friendly Countries

What are the affordable gay-friendly places to live?

In the United States, the affordable places to live for LGBTQ+ individuals include Rochester, Portland, Sacramento, Baltimore, and Hartford. These cities stand out with their affordable housing options. On the other hand, Nepal stands out as the most affordable gay-friendly place to live in the world, with a monthly living cost starting from $392.

What are the LGBTQ+ friendly African countries?

South Africa, Botswana, Rwanda, Mozambique, Seychelles, and Namibia are among the most LGBTQ+ friendly travel destinations in Africa.

What are the safest places for trans people?

Considering the legal protection and social acceptance, some of the safest countries for trans people include Canada, Malta, New Zealand, Iceland, Belgium, Denmark, Portugal, Spain, and the Netherlands.

What are the LGBT+ friendly countries in Asia?

Nepal, Thailand, Israel, Taiwan, and India stand out as the most LGBT+ friendly countries in Asia, considering the Equaldex index in 2025.

What are the least LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Europe?

By taking social acceptance and legal protections into account, Bulgaria, Latvia, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, and Lithuania can be said to be the least friendly countries for LGBTQ+ individuals.

What are the gay-friendly places to retire?

In the US, the states to retire in include Fort Lauderdale, Austin, Portland, Atlanta, and Cleveland, according to the gay travel index. Considering the world, Portugal, Canada, Spain, and Argentina stand out with their high quality of retirement life and gay scene.

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