When considering the most LGBT-friendly countries, it’s essential to consider what makes a nation welcoming to the LGBTQI+ community.
Progressive laws, inclusive policies, and proactive interventions, paired with a liberal public and political outlook, ensure the rights and freedoms of LGBTQI+ individuals.
10 Most LGBT Friendly Countries
1. Portugal
– Gay Travel Index ranking: 1
– Best LGBT-friendly cities: Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Coimbra
Portugal is one of the most LGBT-friendly countries in the world. It takes the first spot on the Gay Travel Index ranking.
The beautiful city has some of the most attractive, fun, and gay-friendly neighborhoods for LGBT people, from Principe Real and Bairro Alto to Arroios and Cascais.
Portugal LGBTQ+ expats can explore gay-friendly bars, hotels, cultural centers in cities such as Porto, Faro, and Coimbra.
Legal Rights and Protections: Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2010, and in 2016, Portugal granted same-sex couples full adoption rights. Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited in areas such as employment and housing. Since 2018, individuals can change their legal gender without mandatory medical procedures, emphasizing self-determination.
Social Acceptance: Portuguese society has become increasingly accepting of LGBTQ+ individuals. A 2019 study by the UCLA Williams Institute indicated a positive trend in social acceptance, placing Portugal among the more accepting nations globally.
Political Representation: Portugal has seen openly LGBTQ+ individuals in various political roles. Notably, Graça Fonseca served as Minister of Culture from 2018 to 2022, becoming the first openly gay government minister in the country.
Community: Portugal has big yearly pride events to look out for, such as Lisbon Pride (Marcha do Orgulho LGBT+). This event is held every June and features a vibrant parade, parties, and cultural activities celebrating LGBTQ+ rights and diversity.
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2. Spain
– Gay Travel Index ranking: 1
– Best LGBT-friendly cities: Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Granada
From literature, cinema, and television to politics and sports, you will come across LGBTQI+ references in all of them. If you travel to Spain, visit Barcelona, Madrid, and Granada.
Culture: Gay pride in Spain is unparalleled by any other country in Europe. Madrid has seen the third-highest attendance for a Pride Festival after New York and São Paulo, with 3,500,000 visitors attending in 2017. Barcelona also hosts a vibrant Pride event and has an established LGBTQ+ communities.
Legal Rights and Protections: Spain has comprehensive anti-discrimination laws protecting individuals based on sexual orientation and gender identity. In 2005, Spain legalized same-sex marriage and same-sex adoption in 2005, becoming the third country globally to do so. The 2023 “Ley Trans” law allows individuals aged 16 and over to change their legal gender through self-identification without medical or psychological evaluations.
Social Acceptance: Spanish society exhibits high levels of acceptance toward LGBTQ+ individuals. A 2019 Eurobarometer survey indicated that 91% of Spaniards believe gay and bisexual people should enjoy the same rights as heterosexual people, and 82% support same-sex marriage. Public opinion surveys consistently show strong support for LGBTQ+ rights.
Healthcare: Spain provides healthcare services to LGBTQ+ individuals, including coverage for gender-affirming procedures.
Political Representation: Spain has seen openly LGBTQ+ individuals in various political roles. Notably, politicians like Carla Antonelli have served in prominent positions. The Spanish government has also implemented action plans to advance rights and improve outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals.
3. Malta
– Gay Travel Index ranking: 1
– Best LGBT-friendly cities: Valletta, Sliema, St. Julian’s, Birkirkara
Be it UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Ġgantija Temples, picturesque coastlines, architectural marvels, or the incredible night scene, Malta is for the LGBTQ+ community and offers a range of places for LGBTQ people to travel to, explore, and enjoy.
There is also Malta Pride, typically held in September, which features a colorful Pride march through the streets of Valletta, Malta’s capital.
Malta has consistently ranked number one on the ILGA-Europe listing of countries promoting LGBT rights legislation since 2015.
Legal Rights and Protections: Malta was the first European country to ban conversion therapy, imposing fines and potential imprisonment. Same-sex marriage and adoption has been legal since 2017. Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited in various sectors. The Gender Identity, Gender Expression and Sex Characteristics Act of 2015 allows individuals to change their legal gender through self-determination without requiring medical procedures.
Social Acceptance: Maltese society has shown increasing acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals. A 2019 Eurobarometer survey indicated that 67% of Maltese people support same-sex marriage, reflecting a significant shift in public opinion over recent years.
Healthcare: Malta provides healthcare services to LGBTQ+ individuals, including coverage for gender-affirming procedures. However, specific details about the availability and accessibility of these services are not extensively documented.
Political Representation: The government has established consultative councils, such as the LGBTIQ Consultative Council, to advise on policies affecting the community.
Safety: The country currently ranks fourth as the safest country to travel to for members of the LGBT community, according to the Asher and Lyric 2023 Danger Index.
4. Canada
– Gay Travel Index ranking: 1
– Best LGBT-friendly cities: Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa, Calgary and Halifax
As one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries, living in Canada will expose you to multiple bars, venues, and events for the LGBTQ community to explore.
If you are planning to visit Canada and want to witness the vibe of its gay scene, be part of exciting events like the Whistler Pride & Ski Festival, Vancouver Pride, and Tremblant Gay Ski Week.
You can also tour the LGBTQI+-friendly gay village neighborhood of Montreal along with other welcoming cities such as Ottawa, Calgary, and Halifax, which offer many pride celebrations.
Legal Rights and Protections: When it comes to LGBT legal rights and protections, Canada is one of the most progressive. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2005 already and same-sex couples have full adoption rights. The Canadian Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Individuals can change their legal gender without mandatory medical procedures, emphasizing self-determination. Conversion therapy is banned nationwide.
Healthcare: Canada provides healthcare services to LGBTQ+ individuals, including coverage for gender-affirming procedures.
Safety: The country ranks highly in global safety indexes for LGBTQ+ travelers. With a score of 383 on the Asher and Lyric Danger Index, which evaluates the safety of the LGBT community, it takes the top spot and has done so since 2018.
5. Iceland
– Gay Travel Index ranking: 1
– Best LGBT-friendly cities: Reykjavík, Akureyri, Hafnarfjörður, Ísafjörður
Despite its tiny population, Iceland is culturally liberal and has one of the liveliest gay scenes.
The capital city of Reykjavík hosts Reykjavík Pride, one of the biggest pride events in the country. It is held every August and features a colorful parade, concerts, cultural events, and educational programs.
Smaller cities like Akureyri and Hafnarfjörður provide welcoming atmospheres and host growing LGBTQ+ celebrations, while even more remote areas like Ísafjörður reflect Iceland’s inclusive culture.
Legal Rights and Protections: Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2010, and same-sex couples have full adoption rights. Discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited. Since 2019, individuals can change their legal gender through self-determination without the requirement of medical procedures. Conversion therapy is banned nationwide.
Social Acceptance: Icelandic society exhibits high levels of acceptance toward LGBTQ+ individuals. A 2015 survey ranked Iceland first in the Gay Happiness Index, reflecting strong societal support. Public opinion surveys consistently show strong support for LGBTQ+ rights.
Healthcare: Iceland provides healthcare services to LGBTQ+ individuals, including coverage for gender-affirming procedures. In 2019, a bill was passed to allow transgender individuals to access such healthcare by informed consent, eliminating previous requirements for psychiatric evaluations.
Political Representation: Iceland has seen openly LGBTQ+ individuals in various political roles. Notably, Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir served as Prime Minister from 2009 to 2013, becoming the world’s first openly gay head of government.
Safety: Iceland is generally safe for LGBTQ+ individuals, with laws protecting against hate crimes and discrimination. The country ranks highly in global safety indexes for LGBTQ+ travelers.
6. Germany
– Gay Travel Index ranking: 6
– Best LGBT-friendly cities: Berlin, Hamburg, and Cologne
Germany is LGBT-friendly because it combines strong legal equality, cultural visibility, social acceptance, and state-backed protections.
It is a country where LGBTQ+ people are free to live openly, supported by a legal processes that defend their rights and a society that increasingly values diversity and inclusion.
Legal Rights and Protections: Same-sex marriage is legal, granting equal rights in adoption and marital benefits. Anti-discrimination laws protect against bias under the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG). Legal gender recognition is possible, and reforms are ongoing to simplify the process toward self-identification. There is also a ban on conversion therapy for minors and there’s ongoing discussions to expand this further.
Social Acceptance: Germany consistently scores highly in surveys on public support for LGBTQ+ rights. For example, the 2019 Eurobarometer found that 87% of Germans support equal rights for LGBTQ+ people. Pride events, like Christopher Street Day (CSD) parades in Berlin, Cologne, and Hamburg, draw hundreds of thousands of supporters.
Healthcare: Transgender healthcare, including hormone therapy and surgeries, is covered under the public health system, although the process involves psychiatric evaluation. There are dedicated LGBTQ+ health centers and mental health support services, particularly in larger cities. HIV prevention and treatment programs are robust and accessible, supported by both public health authorities and NGOs.
Safety and Freedom: LGBTQ+ individuals in Germany are protected under hate crime laws, and crimes motivated by sexual orientation or gender identity are prosecuted more severely. Germany is consistently ranked highly in global LGBTQ+ travel and safety indexes.
7. New Zealand
– Gay Travel Index ranking: 6
– Best LGBT-friendly cities: Wellington, Auckland
In summary, New Zealand has put in place strict legal processes to support LGBTQ+ rights and individuals can enjoy a relatively high level of social acceptance in this country.
There are ongoing efforts that aim to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all LGBTQ+ people. Here’s why it’s safe:
Legal Rights and Protections: Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013, and same-sex couples have full adoption rights. The Human Rights Act 1993 prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, and protections have been interpreted to include gender identity and expression. Since 2023, individuals can change their legal gender through self-identification without the requirement of medical procedures. Conversion therapy is also banned nationwide.
Social Acceptance: New Zealand society exhibits high levels of acceptance toward LGBTQ+ individuals. A 2023 Ipsos survey indicated that 81% of New Zealanders support same-sex marriage or some form of legal recognition. Major cities like Auckland and Wellington host vibrant Pride events and have established LGBTQ+ communities. Public opinion surveys consistently show strong support for LGBTQ+ rights.
Healthcare: New Zealand provides healthcare services to LGBTQ+ individuals, including coverage for gender-affirming procedures. Organizations like RainbowYouth and OUTLine offer dedicated support services tailored to LGBTQ+ individuals.
Political Representation: New Zealand has seen openly LGBTQ+ individuals in various political roles. Notably, Georgina Beyer became the world’s first openly transgender Member of Parliament in 1999.
Safety: New Zealand is generally safe for LGBTQ+ individuals, with laws protecting against hate crimes and discrimination. The country ranks highly in global safety indexes for LGBTQ+ travelers, tying for 10th on the 2020 Spartacus Gay Travel Index.
8. Norway
– Gay Travel Index ranking: 8
– Best LGBT-friendly cities: Oslo, Hemsedal, Trondheim, Bergen, Stavanger and Tromsø
Norway is said to be among the most trans-accepting countries and has one of the best gay scenes in the world.
Oslo, the capital of Norway, has various gay bars and venues and hosts many pride events. Oslo Pride is the largest Pride Festival in the country and runs over nine days during June and July.
Legal Rights and Protections: Norway was among the first countries to enact anti-discrimination laws explicitly including sexual orientation in 1981. These protections have since expanded to cover gender identity and expression. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2009, and same-sex couples have full adoption rights. Since 2016, individuals can change their legal gender based on self-determination without mandatory medical procedures. As of January 1, 2024, conversion therapy is banned nationwide.
Societal Acceptance: Norwegian society exhibits high levels of acceptance toward LGBTQ+ individuals. Major cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim host vibrant Pride events and have established LGBTQ+ communities. Public opinion surveys consistently show strong support for LGBTQ+ rights.
Safety: Norway is generally safe for LGBTQ+ individuals, with laws protecting against hate crimes and discrimination. While incidents can occur, the country ranks highly in global safety indexes for LGBTQ+ travelers.
9. Australia
– Gay Travel Index ranking: 8
– Best LGBT-friendly cities: Sydney, Melbourne
Australia is quite well-known for its celebration of LGBTQ individuals. There are strong communities across most of the urban areas and a wide range of venues and events.
Sydney, particularly Darlinghurst, is the epicenter of Australia’s gay community, known for its annual Mardi Gras festival and numerous LGBTQIA+ bars and clubs.
Melbourne was even named the fourth most LGBTQ-friendly city in the world! Here’s why Australia is welcoming:
Legal Rights and Protections: Same-sex marriage has been legal nationwide since 2017, following a national survey where 61.6% voted in favor. Full adoption rights exist for same-sex couples across all states and territories. Anti-discrimination laws at both federal and state levels protect individuals on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, and intersex status. Gender recognition is allowed without the need for surgery in several states, and reforms continue to improve transgender rights. Australia is one of the few countries that has enacted legislation to protect the rights of intersex people.
Social Acceptance: Australians generally show strong support for LGBTQ+ rights, reflected in the outcome of the 2017 marriage equality survey and in regular opinion polls. Major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are known for vibrant LGBTQ+ communities and host large events like the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, which attracts global participation.
Healthcare: Public healthcare (Medicare) and private insurance providers offer coverage for gender-affirming procedures, HIV treatment, and mental health services. Several states have specialized clinics and mental health resources tailored to LGBTQ+ individuals. Youth-focused organizations like Minus18 and Twenty10 provide peer support, education, and advocacy.
Political Representation: Australia has openly LGBTQ+ politicians at federal, state, and local levels. Prominent figures like Penny Wong (Senator and Foreign Minister) have broken barriers for visibility and representation. The federal government has supported LGBTQ+ rights through funding for community organizations and anti-discrimination policies.
Safety: Australia is considered one of the safest countries for LGBTQ+ individuals, with hate crimes taken seriously under federal and state laws. LGBTQ+ travelers and residents generally experience freedom of expression and association.
10. Switzerland
– Gay Travel Index ranking: 8
– Best LGBT-friendly cities: Zurich, Basel, and Geneva
Switzerland is quite a progressive country when it comes to the LGBTQ lifestyle, with it being one of the first to legalize homosexual acts in 1942. This means that Swiss society saw it as being equal to heterosexuals’ right to live as they please.
This country is not only a haven for LGBTQ because of the reasons we’ll be mentioning below but also due to its stable economy and excellent quality of living:
Legal Rights and Protections: In a national referendum 64.1% of Swiss voters supported the legalization of same-sex marriage and it was thus enacted in 2022. Same-sex couples were also given full adoption rights and access to joint tax filing and citizenship pathways as a result. Discrimination based on sexual orientation is prohibited under the Swiss Criminal Code. Individuals can change their legal gender and name through a simplified administrative process.
Social Acceptance: Swiss society has grown increasingly inclusive, especially in urban areas like Zurich, Geneva, Lausanne, and Bern. Annual events like Zurich Pride and Geneva Pride draw significant public support. Surveys show strong public backing for LGBTQ+ rights—majorities favor equal marriage, anti-discrimination laws, and legal recognition of transgender people.
Healthcare: Switzerland offers universal healthcare, which includes support for transgender individuals seeking hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgeries. The country has dedicated LGBTQ+ health centers and support organizations. Mental health and HIV-related services are easily accessible and often include targeted programs for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Safety: In general, Switzerland is one of the safest countries in the world, and LGBTQ+ individuals can live openly and securely. Hate crimes and violence towards the community are rarely encountered. LGBTQ+ asylum seekers are given special consideration if fleeing persecution in their home countries.
Top 10 Gay-Friendly Countries Based on Anti-Discrimination Legislation
The top 10 gay-friendly countries are ranked based on anti-discrimination legislation and take factors such as same-sex marriage, protections for sexual orientation. gender identity, and same-sex adoption rights into consideration. The anti-discrimination legislation scores range from 1 to 3, where:
- 1: Basic anti-discrimination laws exist but are not comprehensive or enforced.
- 2: More comprehensive protections, including employment, housing, and public services.
- 3: Full legal protection
Rank | Country | Anti-Discrimination Legislation |
1 | Portugal | 3 |
1 | Spain | 3 |
3 | Canada | 3 |
4 | Netherlands | 3 |
5 | Sweden | 3 |
6 | New Zealand | 3 |
7 | Belgium | 3 |
8 | Norway | 3 |
9 | Australia | 2 |
10 | Switzerland | 2 |
To learn more about the Best European countries to live in for expats
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Most LGBT-Friendly Countries
What are the most LGBT-friendly countries in the world?
What criteria are used to determine LGBTQ-friendliness in a country?
What are the safest countries in the world for LGBTQ people?
The safest countries in the world for LGBTQ are Portugal, Finland, Spain, Norway, Iceland, Belgium, Denmark, Canada, the Netherlands, and Malta.
Which countries have the most vibrant LGBTQ communities and events?
In which countries can LGBTQ individuals adopt children?
Which South American countries are considered the most LGBTQ-friendly?
Which countries recognize same-sex marriage?
There are currently 38 countries where same-sex marriage is legal.
These countries include: Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Denmark, Ecuador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, the UK, the USA and Uruguay.
What is the most LGBT-friendly countries in Europe?
How do I choose a gay-friendly country for relocation?
To choose one of the gay-friendly countries for relocation, consider legal protections for LGBTQ+ rights, societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals, and the presence of a supportive LGBTQ+ community. Research the local LGBTQ+ scene, including events and resources, and ensure there are anti-discrimination laws in place.
What are the most LGBT-friendly countries for expats?
When considering LGBTQ+ friendliness for expats, various factors include legal protections, societal attitudes, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ community. Here are some of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries for expats:
- Canada
- Netherlands
- Spain
- Germany
- Portugal
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Iceland
- United Kingdom
- Belgium
What are the most gay-friendly countries?
Which countries offer the best legal protections for LGBT people?
Which countries allow gender marker changes on IDs?
You can legally change your gender in 59 countries, including Denmark, France, Germany, South Africa, Namibia and so forth, but 29 currently require surgery.
