Out of America

At a glance

Cost of living: 52; US = 100
Safety: 80; 0–100
Healthcare: 70; 0–100
English: Very High

Official languages

Malay, English

Climate

Brunei has a tropical rainforest climate — hot and humid year-round with heavy rainfall distributed throughout the year. The tiny sultanate on Borneo island is surrounded by Malaysian Sarawak and offers pristine rainforest and wildlife. Bandar Seri Begawan has excellent infrastructure and no income tax for residents, though the country operates under Islamic law.

Entry paths

Visa types available to foreign nationals. Not all will fit every profile — log in for a personalised shortlist.

Temporary Employment Pass

Brunei's Temporary Employment Pass requires sponsorship from an approved Bruneian employer and is the standard work permit for professionals in the energy, finance, and government sectors. Brunei is a small, wealthy Islamic sultanate with one of the world's highest GDP per capita due to its oil and gas industry. English is widely spoken alongside Malay, and crime is virtually nonexistent.

Initial: 24 mo

Path to citizenship

Permanent residency: 5 years; earliest after legal residency
Citizenship: 20 years; earliest after legal residency

Americans abroad here

Estimated US population: ~1,500
Overall expat scene: Moderate

International schools

Adequate

Getting there

From NYC: ~22.0h
From LAX: ~17.0h

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