Harrison, AndrewHartmann, Alina2026-06-172026-06-172025-01-102024-12-15http://hdl.handle.net/10362/203822Southeast Asia has become an attractive destination for expatriates around the world due to its dynamic economies and strategic importance. This study identifies key factors influencing expatriates’ decisions to relocate to Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, focusing on economic, social, and governance factors. The analysis highlights the importance of Malaysia’s cost of living, Singapore’s career opportunities, Thailand’s cultural diversity, and Vietnam’s emerging job market. Using a mixed-method approach, this research offers insights for businesses and governments seeking to attract expatriates and enhance the countries’ attractiveness. Above all, it contributes to a deeper understanding of the decision-making process of expatriates.engAsiaAssigned expatsDecision factorsDigital nomadsEconomicExpat communitiesExpat entrepreneursExpat growthExpat decision factorsExpatriatesExpatsGovernanceInternational retirement migrantsLocationMalaysiaQualitativeQuantitativeSelf-initiated expatSingaporeSocialSoutheast AsiaThailandVietnamVisamaster thesis203960416