Moving abroad can be a real challenge for people with disabilities. Fortunately, some cities take care of them by offering accessible buildings, public transport and even legal protection. Find out more about countries that offer a favourable relocation environment for expats with disabilities

For people with disabilities, one of the most important considerations when looking for a new place to live is accessibility. There are many steps being taken around the world to make countries more accessible, including public transport (e.g. accessible subways and buses), legal rights, accessible sports, etc.

Braille is being introduced for visually impaired people, and there are also attempts to create more autism-friendly design, places with muted colours and simple, clear layouts. Unfortunately, much of the world is still lagging behind in implementing these things. Nevertheless, work is underway in this direction. 

We're going to show you some of the countries around the world that have made significant strides towards accessibility so that you can plan your future with the information you need.

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Planning a trip or move abroad? An important part of a successful trip is a travel insurance policy, as it guarantees high-quality medical care anywhere in the world and can protect you from unnecessary expenses while travelling.  You can buy insurance from trusted agents on the Visit World portal. 

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Canada

In recent years, Canada has adopted a number of important pieces of legislation aimed at making life easier for people with disabilities. All public buildings in Canada must be wheelchair accessible and have accessible toilets. However, Access Now conducted a study in 2023 that showed that despite these measures, many buildings remain only partially accessible to people with disabilities.

The cities of Montreal (Quebec), Winnipeg (Manitoba), and Edmonton (Alberta) are often considered to be among the most accessible Canadian cities. Indeed, Winnipeg and Edmonton have even received the Rick Hansen Foundation's Accessibility Cities Award.

Canada also offers many opportunities for expats with disabilities who love the outdoors. The Rick Hansen Foundation, as well as various local websites such as Destination Vancouver, Travel Alberta, BC Disability and others, provide a wealth of information on activities available in each region.

However, it is worth noting that one of the disadvantages of Canada is a certain level of discrimination against people with disabilities in immigration procedures. Some immigration applications may be rejected if the applicant has a disability that is assessed to place an undue burden on the healthcare system. The current threshold for rejection is more than C$26,220 in healthcare costs per year.

Spain

Spain is known for the availability of public infrastructure, even in historic areas. The country has an extensive network of trains and ferries for domestic travel, which are designed with the needs of people with disabilities in mind.

Of particular note is the city of Barcelona, which is a cosmopolitan centre and a favourite holiday destination for expats. Barcelona stands out as one of the most accessible cities in Spain. Most metro stations have wide entrances, ramps and lifts, making them accessible to everyone. Despite the large number of attractions, all of them are adapted for people with disabilities and even offer discounts.

Barcelona is also known for its sunny beaches, which are equipped with special wooden ramps for wheelchair users. In addition, many other attractions in the city, even those with ancient architecture, are also accessible to people with disabilities and offer special conditions.

In addition to Barcelona, other Spanish cities such as Madrid, Valencia, Málaga and Granada also have high standards of accessibility to public places for people with disabilities. This allows all residents and visitors to enjoy the culture and beauty of Spain without any restrictions.

Brazil

Brazil is known for its friendliness to people with disabilities, especially the metropolis of Rio de Janeiro. Here, the public transport system is equipped with lifts and tactile floors for the visually impaired, and all metro stations are accessible. In addition, there is a special taxi service called Especial Coop, which is designed specifically for people with special needs. Their taxis are wheelchair accessible and can be booked in advance.

In Rio de Janeiro, people with disabilities can enjoy outdoor activities. Parks such as Tijuca National Park have hiking trails with wheelchair ramps and signs for the visually impaired. The panoramic viewpoints at the top of Sugarloaf Mountain, accessible by cable car, are also accessible to all.

Even the city's famous beaches, such as Ipanema and Leblon, are equipped with accessible entrances with ramps. The organisation Adaptsurf has developed mobile mats that can be used on the beach to create paths. The Beach for All initiative has also made various sports, from surfing to volleyball, accessible to people with disabilities. Brazil, and Rio de Janeiro in particular, is an example of a country that has made significant efforts to create an environment accessible to all its citizens.

United Arab Emirates

In recent years, the UAE has become an example of a friendly attitude towards people with disabilities. Thanks to the country's new and modern infrastructure, most facilities are fully adapted for residents with special needs.

The Dubai metro is a prime example of this. Almost all stations and trains have lifts, ramps, tactile paths, Braille signs and audible warnings. These facilities were introduced during the reconstruction of public infrastructure as part of the Abu Dhabi Integrated Strategy for Purposeful People 2020-2024. Many level car parks have also been renovated to make them accessible to people with disabilities. Disabled-friendly desks, including special smartphones, have been installed to provide advice or special equipment.

The term "People of Determination", adopted by the UAE government in 2016, reflects a positive and proactive attitude towards people with disabilities. The government has been actively developing social strategies, including increasing public investment in educational and therapeutic centres for people with disabilities. Two of these centres, the Rashid Centre for Determined People and Dubai NorthStart, promote the employment and integration of employees with disabilities into companies.

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Daria Rogova, Head of Insurance at Visit World

To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need travel insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.

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Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Travel guide for 200 countries;

Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;

Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);

Medical insurance all over the world.

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