Switzerland, best place for millennials to start their careers abroad

Switzerland remains the best all-round destination for pursuing a career abroad while Hong Kong ranks number one for those looking to fast-track their career; this, according to new data released from HSBC's latest global Expat Explorer survey of 26,871 expats from over 100 countries.

For the second year in a row, Switzerland is ranked the best all-round destination for a career abroad. In addition to being a top spot for earnings, 69% of expats in Switzerland see an improvement in their work-life balance and 61% say the work culture is better than in their home country. 

Part of the world`s largest and longest-running research series on expat life, the Expat Explorer Careers Table ranking is based on eight criteria: the chance to acquire new skills, career progression, job security, earnings, benefits packages, work-life balance, work culture and fulfilment at work. 

Nearly a quarter (22%) of expat millennials (aged 18-34) say they moved abroad to build a career.
Expat millennials are also more likely to achieve greater job satisfaction, with nearly half (49%) saying they find their work more fulfilling in their host country than it was at home, compared with 14% who find it less so.

Larry Tomei, Executive Vice President and Head of Retail Banking and Wealth Management, HSBC Bank Canada said: "The start of the new year is a very good time for current and prospective expats alike to reflect on what they have achieved and plan the next steps in their international careers. What's clear from the survey, is that working abroad offers a wealth of opportunities to suit many different career needs and personal priorities."

The Expat Explorer survey is commissioned by HSBC Expat and conducted by YouGov. It is the largest and one of the longest running global surveys of expats, with respondents sharing their views on different aspects of life abroad, including careers, economics, experience and family. An expatriate is defined as anyone over 18 years old, currently living away from their country of origin/home country. The 2016 Expat Explorer survey was completed by 26,871 expats from over 100 countries through an online questionnaire in March, April and May 2016.