Socorro, Brazil

The population of 38,051 may seem modest, but the bureaucratic hassles in Socorro are anything but small. Located 36 km from the state capital of Aracaju, this municipality in Sergipe state offers little to attract most foreigners beyond an unremarkable suburban existence. With an area of just 155 square kilometers, the city's sprawl and infrastructure struggles to keep up with its population.

Safety is a persistent concern, as with much of Brazil. Residents must navigate a tangled web of local agencies and regulations, a headache that will dissuade all but the most dedicated expats. Unless you have a strong personal or professional tie to the region, there are far more appealing destinations in Brazil that can provide a better quality of life.