What Are The Best Countries For Sex Tourism In 2024?

Looking for the countries where the exchange of sex for money is legal? SIXT.VN guides you through the nations with legalized prostitution, considering safety, regulations, and ethical travel. Discover the nuanced legal frameworks of destinations like the Netherlands, Germany, and New Zealand, alongside travel tips and resources for a responsible and informed travel experience. Let’s explore travel destinations, red light districts, and legal sex work.

1. Understanding the Legal Landscape of Prostitution

The legality of prostitution is a complex and varied issue worldwide, with a spectrum of legal frameworks reflecting diverse cultural, social, and political attitudes. Out of 100 countries, 53 countries have legalized prostitution, representing 51% of the world’s population. Conversely, 37% of countries consider prostitution illegal. The approach to prostitution varies significantly, ranging from full legalization to strict prohibition. According to the Global Study on Homicide by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, countries with higher levels of income inequality tend to have higher rates of violence.

2. Countries Where Prostitution Is Legal: A Detailed Overview

Here’s a list of countries where prostitution is legal in 2024:

3. In-Depth Look at Countries with Legal Prostitution

3.1. New Zealand

New Zealand legalized prostitution in 2003 with the Prostitution Reform Act (PRA), decriminalizing sex work and removing most legal restrictions. The PRA established the Prostitution Law Review Committee to monitor the law’s impact. Licensed brothels operate under public health and employment laws, providing sex workers with social benefits. According to the New Zealand Prostitutes Collective (NZPC), there are around 8,000 sex workers in New Zealand.

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New Zealand Prostitution Reform Act legalizing sex work.

3.2. Australia

The legal status of prostitution in Australia varies by state. Prostitution laws are primarily a matter for state and territory governments, leading to diverse legal approaches. South Australia’s decriminalization model focuses on harm reduction and treating sex work as a legitimate form of labor. The market size of the Brothel Keeping and Sex Worker Services industry increased by 19.5% in 2023.

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Prostitution legalization in Australia varies by state and territory.

3.3. Austria

Prostitution was decriminalized in Austria in 1975, recognizing it as a legitimate form of employment. Sex workers must register, undergo health examinations, be at least 18 years old, and pay taxes. The government oversees the industry to maintain standards and ensure the well-being of sex workers. In 2022, there were approximately 5,279 registered prostitutes in Austria.

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Legal prostitution and registered sex workers in Austria.

3.4. Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, male prostitution is illegal, but other forms of prostitution are legal. The Penal Code criminalizes soliciting, operating brothels, and living off the earnings of prostitution. Social stigma adds to the challenges faced by sex workers. There are 20 brothel villages in the country, with Daulatdia being the largest, housing approximately 1,300 sex workers.

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Daulatdia, Bangladesh, one of the world’s largest brothels.

3.5. Belgium

Belgium decriminalized prostitution in 1995. Efforts have been made to remove stigma, violence, and fear associated with prostitution. The regulatory framework includes regular health checks for sex workers. Despite these efforts, human trafficking remains a significant issue. In 2022, the Federal Police registered 303 sexual trafficking cases.

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Decriminalized prostitution in Belgium with concerns over human trafficking.

3.6. Brazil

Prostitution is legal in Brazil, considered a private activity between consenting adults. There is no federal law criminalizing or fully decriminalizing prostitution. Pimping is illegal. A survey by the Minas Gerais Foundation for Education and Culture (Fumec) found approximately 1.5 million people involved in prostitution.

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Prostitution legality and the ban on pimping in Brazil.

3.7. Canada

In 2014, the Supreme Court of Canada amended the Criminal Code, decriminalizing the sale of sexual services. However, purchasing sexual services and operating a brothel remain criminalized. Young people are more critical of prostitution, with only 36% of those aged 18–34 considering it “morally acceptable.”

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Canadian laws on prostitution decriminalizing the selling but not the buying of sex.

3.8. Colombia

In Colombia, working in the sex industry is legal, but pimping is not. Prostitution is widespread in cities like Cartagena and Barranquilla. Regulations maintain public order, with restrictions on soliciting in public spaces. UNAIDS estimates approximately 7,218 prostitutes in the country.

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Legal sex work and regulations in cities like Cartagena, Colombia.

3.9. Denmark

Prostitution is legal in Denmark. The government assists people with disabilities in accessing sexual services by covering extra costs. Regulations govern certain aspects of the industry, including licensing requirements. Trafficking remains a significant issue. Of the 968 persons identified as trafficked, 717 were victims of trafficking into prostitution from 2009-2020.

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Legal prostitution and government assistance for disabled individuals in Denmark.

3.10. Ecuador

Ecuador decriminalized adult consensual sex work in 2011. Quito regulated prostitution in 1921, requiring prostitutes to undergo weekly STI testing. All aspects of sex work are legal, including selling sex, running a brothel, and pimping. Authorities issue permits and licenses. UNAIDS estimates approximately 35,000 prostitutes in the country.

3.11. France

Prostitution is legal in France, though soliciting in public is outlawed. Pimping is illegal, and brothels were outlawed in 1946. In 2016, France criminalized the purchase of sex while decriminalizing the sale of sex. Certain aspects of sex work are regulated, such as restrictions on where sex work can take place. In 2023, it was estimated that over 30,000 people were involved in prostitution.

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French laws criminalizing the purchase but not the selling of sex.

3.12. Germany

Prostitution was decriminalized in Germany in 2002, accompanied by a regulatory framework that includes health and safety standards, taxation, and licensing. According to the Federal Statistics Agency, the number of registered sex workers in Germany at the end of 2022 was 28,280, a 19.1% increase compared to the previous year.

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Decriminalization and regulation of sex work in Germany.

3.13. Greece

Prostitution was decriminalized in Greece in 2016. Sex workers have equal rights and undergo frequent health checkups. Sex workers may be required to register with authorities, and establishments must comply with health and safety standards. Fewer than 1,000 women are legally employed as prostitutes, while approximately 20,000 are engaged in illegal prostitution.

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Legal rights for sex workers in Greece with health and safety standards.

3.14. Indonesia

Prostitution itself is not explicitly addressed in Indonesian law, making the sex trade legal. This lack of legal clarity creates dangers for forced workers and minors. It is estimated that 40,000 to 70,000 Indonesian children are engaged in prostitution.

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Lack of explicit laws on prostitution in Indonesia increases risks.

3.15. Netherlands

The Netherlands decriminalized and regulated prostitution in 2000, famous for its red-window sex workers. The legal age for engaging in sex work is 21 years. Amsterdam is known for sex tourism, attracting visitors to legal and regulated sex work establishments. Approximately 25,000 prostitutes work in the Netherlands, with around 1,000 working daily in Amsterdam’s Red Light District.

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Amsterdam’s Red Light District and legal sex work in the Netherlands.

3.16. Switzerland

Switzerland has decriminalized and regulated prostitution for several decades. Both selling and buying sex are legal for consenting adults. Regulated sex work attracts visitors, contributing to sex tourism in specific areas. One estimate puts the number of street sex workers in Zurich at 5,000.

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Legal and regulated prostitution in Switzerland.

3.17. India

In India, prostitution is legal, but soliciting and public prostitution are illegal. Owning a brothel is against the law, though rarely enforced. It is illegal to buy, sell, or import minors for prostitution. UNAIDS estimated there were 657,829 prostitutes in the country as of 2016.

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Legal prostitution in India, with restrictions on brothels and solicitation.

3.18. United States

Prostitution laws in the United States vary by region. Nevada allows regulated and legal prostitution in licensed brothels in certain counties. A 2012 report by Fondation Scelles indicated that there were an estimated 1 million prostitutes in the U.S.

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Legal prostitution in licensed brothels in certain Nevada counties.

3.19. Mexico

The legal status of prostitution in Mexico varies among the states. Mexico City decriminalized sex work in 2010, allowing adults to engage in sex work without criminal penalties. Laws address human trafficking, including sex trafficking. UNAIDS estimated the number of prostitutes in the country at 236,930 in 2016.

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Decriminalized sex work in Mexico City with laws against human trafficking.

3.20. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic decriminalized prostitution in 1990, following the end of communist rule. Sex workers must register, and health and safety standards are enforced. The legal age for engaging in sex work is 18 years.

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Decriminalized prostitution and health standards in the Czech Republic.

3.21. Luxembourg

Luxembourg decriminalized prostitution and implemented a regulatory framework. Both selling and buying sex are legal for consenting adults. The legal age for engaging in sex work is 18 years. Brothels must comply with health and safety standards.

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Legal sex work and regulatory framework in Luxembourg.

3.22. Spain

Spain decriminalized prostitution in 1995. Cities like Barcelona and Madrid attract tourists interested in the legal and regulated sex industry. Selling and buying sex are legal for consenting adults.

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Decriminalized prostitution attracting tourists to Barcelona and Madrid.

3.23. Mozambique

It is legal and widely accepted in Mozambique. However, police often target sex workers due to loopholes in the law. Encouraging, promoting, or facilitating prostitution is criminalized.

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Legal but often targeted sex work in Mozambique.

3.24. Venezuela

Prostitution is legal in Venezuela, with regulations governing the sex industry. Brothels must comply with health and safety standards. Major issues like human trafficking persist.

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Legal prostitution and human trafficking issues in Venezuela.

3.25. Sierra Leone

Prostitution is legal and commonplace, and third-party involvement is prohibited by the Sexual Offences Act 2012. However, it is a source and destination country for sex trafficking. UNAIDS estimates there are 240,000 prostitutes in the country.

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Legal prostitution and sex trafficking in Sierra Leone.

3.26. Bolivia

Bolivia has taken steps to decriminalize and regulate prostitution. The legal framework acknowledges sex work as a legitimate occupation. The legal age for engaging in sex work is 18 years.

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Decriminalized and regulated sex work in Bolivia.

3.27. Peru

Peru has decriminalized adult consensual sex work. The vast majority of prostitutes work in the informal sector, lacking health protection. Individual police officers tolerate unlicensed brothels. Peru is a source, transit point, and destination for trafficked persons.

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Decriminalized sex work and trafficking concerns in Peru.

3.28. Lebanon

Lebanon does not have clear-cut laws specifically addressing prostitution. Aspects of sex work may be subject to interpretation under existing legal provisions related to morality and public order.

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Vague laws regarding prostitution in Lebanon.

3.29. Panama

Prostitution is legal in Panama, with regulations governing the sex industry. Unregistered prostitutes can access health services at clinics.

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Legal prostitution and health services in Panama.

3.30. Uruguay

Uruguay has legalized and regulated prostitution. Both selling and buying sex are legal. Article 31 of the law provides penalties for selling sex without a health card.

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Legalized and regulated sex work in Uruguay.

4. Countries Where Prostitution Is Illegal

5. Ethical Considerations and Responsible Travel

When considering travel to countries where prostitution is legal, it’s essential to prioritize ethical considerations and responsible travel practices. This includes:

• Respecting Local Laws and Customs: Be aware of and adhere to the specific regulations and cultural norms of the destination.
• Avoiding Exploitation: Ensure that your actions do not contribute to human trafficking, forced prostitution, or the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
• Supporting Safe and Regulated Establishments: If engaging in sex work, opt for establishments that are licensed, regulated, and committed to protecting the rights and well-being of sex workers.
• Promoting Informed Consent: Ensure that all interactions are based on mutual consent and respect.
• Educating Yourself: Stay informed about the issues surrounding sex work in the destination and support organizations that work to combat human trafficking and promote safe labor practices.
• Avoiding Underage Prostitution: Engage and report any suspected cases of underage prostitution to the authorities.

6. SIXT.VN: Your Trusted Travel Partner

Planning a trip to any destination requires careful consideration, and SIXT.VN is here to assist you every step of the way. While we do not endorse or encourage any illegal activities, we aim to provide you with the necessary information to make informed decisions and travel responsibly.

• Customized Travel Itineraries: We can help you create travel itineraries that focus on cultural experiences, historical sites, and natural attractions.
• Airport Transfer Services: Ensure a smooth and safe arrival and departure with our reliable airport transfer services.
• Hotel Booking: Find accommodations that suit your budget and preferences, with a focus on safety and comfort.
• Tours: Discover the best of your destination with our guided tours, offering insights into local culture and history.

SIXT.VN is committed to providing you with a seamless and responsible travel experience. Contact us today to plan your next adventure!

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7. Understanding User Search Intent

When users search for “Best Countries For Sex Tourism,” they may have several intentions:

1. Identifying Legal Destinations: Users want to find countries where prostitution is legal to ensure they are not breaking any laws.
2. Seeking Safety and Regulation: They look for destinations with regulated sex industries to ensure the safety and well-being of sex workers and clients.
3. Exploring Red Light Districts: Users want to know about famous red light districts that attract tourists.
4. Ethical Considerations: Some users are interested in the ethical aspects of sex tourism and want to travel responsibly.
5. Travel Planning Assistance: They seek travel agencies or resources that can help them plan a trip that includes information on local laws, customs, and safe establishments.

8. FAQ’s

8.1. Which country has the highest number of prostitutes?

China, India, and the United States are estimated to have the highest numbers of prostitutes. These figures can vary depending on the source and the methodology used for estimation. The Economic and Social Council reports that poverty, lack of education, and gender inequality are significant factors contributing to prostitution.

8.2. In which country is prostitution most famous?

The Netherlands, particularly Amsterdam, is well-known for its legal and regulated prostitution industry. According to a report by the European Parliament, the Netherlands has one of the most liberal approaches to prostitution in Europe.

8.3. In which state of India is prostitution most prevalent?

Mumbai and Kolkata have the largest brothel-based sex industries in India. UNICEF reports that trafficking for sexual exploitation is a significant concern in these areas.

8.4. Is prostitution allowed in Dubai?

Prostitution is illegal in Dubai, but it is still prevalent. Penalties for engaging in or facilitating prostitution can be severe. The U.S. Department of State reports that human trafficking for sexual exploitation remains a significant issue in the UAE.

By providing detailed, accurate, and ethically conscious information, SIXT.VN aims to guide travelers in making informed and responsible decisions, ensuring a safe and respectful travel experience.