Are you planning to move abroad? Then, you have come to the right place at USTAXFiling.in where you will get all the insights related to moving abroad as an American. So, stay tuned to know the Top 12 Countries to Move for expats from the US now!
Americans plan to move abroad at some point in their lives. They want to experience a new life and have some fun in life residing abroad. USTAXFiling.in has gathered in-depth insights for you to know the top destinations for Americans to move to from the United States.
One of the top countries for an American to move to is Canada due to cultural diversity, better quality of life and robust healthcare. Canada is among the top choices for Americans as it offers a richly diverse atmosphere, immigration policies and strong economic stability, catering to Americans looking for a new house overseas. Apart from Canada, here is the list of Top 12 countries to move for expats from the United States that include:
Spain
Spain offers a warm welcome for Americans to reside abroad. Spain is a bit more costly country compared to Portugal. The cost of living in Spain is not as low as that of its smaller western neighbour. You can reside in Barcelona if you wish to reside in Spain, where English is the common language. Mostly, Americans choose the Canary Islands to stay.
Also, Spain provides a Golden Visa Program that is well-designed to make relocating more possible. Americans get a range of investment choices. If they meet a specific eligibility threshold, they may take permanent residency or even citizenship in Spain. Citizenship in Spain offers several benefits that include the ability to travel visa-free to 155 countries across the globe with a Spanish passport.
Portugal
Another country to move for Americans is Portugal. Portugal provides a temperate and warm climate that makes it an ideal choice for a relaxed lifestyle. Also, you may rest easily understanding that you and your loved ones are likely far from any issues. As per the Global Peace Index in 2023 report, Portugal is the seventh most secure country in the world. It includes lower-than-average costs for lodging, food and other daily expenses. Portugal provides a comprehensive healthcare system and offers the lowest cost of living in Europe.
Citizens of the US have no issues and prefer staying in Porto and Lisbon as there are many English speakers. You might have a language barrier if you reside in a rural area. Portugal features many international schools with an American curriculum that makes it easy for kids to relocate.
Portugal Golden Visa Program underwent substantial revisions in 2023 offering more dynamics for investors. Real estate investment was an entry to Golden Visa offering a gateway to establish roots in Portugal. But, this option is being sealed by Portugal officials.
If you acquire property in Portugal, you won’t get entry. The government has phased out real estate avenues from the Golden Visa scheme that impacts people eyeing part-time residency in Portugal.
Countries such as Spain, Malta and Greece will continue to provide residency by investment programs. They offer a unique and special blend of residency perks, financial and lifestyle that caters to diverse financial and personal objectives.
Malta
Americans can move to Malta. This is a small island south of Sicily in the Mediterranean Sea. This island offers delicious cuisine, a rich culture and a breathtaking coast. Malta’s year-round sunshine doesn’t hurt its popularity. Also, the population of Malta speaks English, so there is no language barrier.
The Golden Visa Program of Malta is an affordable option for any European country and it is lower than Greece’s threshold. You may invest 30,000 Euros to get a visa to Malta.
The cost of living in Malta is also affordable. Malta provides a Citizenship by Investment program assisting investors to get citizenship after contributing to Malta’s economy. This Golden Visa Program of Malta offers an attractive option for Americans seeking residency and a Maltese passport that provides the benefits of European citizenship.
Greece
As you are aware the Mediterranean region is a famous destination for Americans moving abroad. Another country on the list of Mediterranean hotspots for Americans to stay in is Greece. As compared with other European countries, the cost of living in Greece is affordable. The main hotspot of Greece is its beautiful beaches stretching along the sapphire-blue sea. The Greek Isles are also popular for their beauty and provide remote places with plenty of privacy. If you like the city bustle, Thessaloniki and Athens are more welcoming to Americans.
Whether you settle on Greece islands or mainland, you will experience mild winters and warm summers. Greece also has international schools for Americans, mostly located in Athens. You go anywhere virtually, and everyone can speak in English for under 40 years across Greece.
If you wish to stay in Greece, the Golden Visa Program in Greece is the best place to begin with. Investment in Greece is low compared to other countries one needs only an investment of 250000 euros to become eligible for a visa.
Thailand
This is the best time to decide the best country to shift to from the United States which is not situated in the Mediterranean region. The true hidden gem of East Asia is Thailand.
Thailand is well-recognized for its pleasant climate and low cost of living. The thriving economy of the economy makes it an ideal choice of operations for business individuals and those with a digital nomad visa. Bangkok is home to a healthy expat population and is the capital of Thailand. Many expats are entrepreneurs involved in international business. If you like to stay near the beach, the cities of Koh Phangan, Phuket and Samui are the ideal choices for Americans to move abroad.
As Thailand is a center for expats and tourists, Americans won’t face any issues while communicating. English is the common knowledge spoken in Thailand. Thailand features a well-established rail network, which makes it simple to travel comfortably and fast throughout the country.
To gain residency in Thailand is not a simple job. As many international travellers love to make Thailand their home, the immigration rules of Thailand are strict. This does not mean that you cannot move to Thailand. Several Americans apply for the 10-year visa program in Thailand and use it as an entry into Thailand culture.
Montenegro
Mediterranean country beckoning Americans abroad is Montenegro. Montenegro presents an amazing culture of Western along with Eastern influences. For instance, the aesthetics and architecture of Montenegro are inspired by Italy, while the cuisine of Montenegro is noted for its Turkish and Greek elements. Montenegro is a crossroad for European culture that provides the best of all worlds. Montenegro is small in size and has a rich diversity and cultural history of its own.
Compared to the United States, the cost of living is low in Montenegro and also offers better tax benefits. The local population of Montenegro speaks good English and it is less common outside of tourist destinations such as Tivat, Kotor and Budva. As Montenegro is small in size, the immigration regulations are strict. Also, options are available to get residency.
Singapore
The population of Singapore is mainly foreigners with thousands of expats from the United States. There are many reasons for Singapore being popular including light tax burden, low crime rates and a universal healthcare system. The large number of US Americans living in Singapore means English is the common language.
To become a Singapore resident is also much simpler compared to other countries. Getting a residence permit is also easy. Singapore is not at all cheap. The cost of living in Singapore is fair compared to the United States. Also, Singapore offers different social programs so that you can move to Singapore as an American.
South Korea
South Korea is another country that you can move to as an American who wishes to live abroad. South Korea offers K-dramas, K-pop, global cultural hub, K-beauty and much more. South Korea offers a low cost of living, only the housing is expensive in South Korea. South Korea offers the fastest internet speed in the world, though for online censorship, you should invest in a VPN.
Apart from this, South Korea also provides world-class shopping opportunities and promotes vibrant lifestyles. They provide legendary cuisine worldwide. Overall, South Korea is the best place for tech-savvy and young expats who wish to taste the good life abroad.
Mexico
Mexico provides a warm and vibrant culture with an affordable living expense making it an ideal destination for expats. The country is close to the United States and provides a significant benefit, making it easy to travel for Americans.
One of the primary benefits of residing in Mexico is the low cost of living that it provides. Everything right from groceries to housing is cheaper compared to the United States. Also, Mexico has a diverse landscape along with a rich cultural heritage, from mountains to beaches that offers a range of lifestyle options. This affordability extends to top-notch quality medical services available at a fraction of the cost compared to the United States.
Mexico provides a range of facilities that includes shopping centers, international cuisine, and modern infrastructure and makes it smooth for expats to shift to Mexico. English is a common language in expat communities and tourist areas in places such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Mexico City.
Mexico provides the Temporary Resident Visa that helps expats stay for up to four years before applying for permanent residency. Expats can get this visa easily. This is a stepping stone to get citizenship or full residency. Whether you are looking for a beachside retreat or a bustling urban atmosphere, Mexico has something for everyone as per their preference and taste.
New Zealand
New Zealand is well-recognized for its high quality of life, natural beauty and welcoming attitude towards Americans. New Zealand offers a Working Holiday Visa that is gaining popularity among adults to experience their stay in New Zealand while working remotely. New Zealand offers an outdoor-oriented and relaxed lifestyle with ample opportunities such as skiing, outdoor activities and hiking.
New Zealand also provides different types of visa options like skilled migrant visas that make it hassle-free for expats to relocate. English is the primary language of New Zealand that aids expats in integrating smoothly. New Zealand has a diverse landscape that offers endless possibilities for exploration. Right from the geothermal wonders of Rotorua to the fjords of Milford Sound, you will experience everything in New Zealand.
The capital of Wellington is celebrated for its coffee culture, arts and picturesque harbour. New Zealand has rebuilding capability following earthquakes, Christchurch is a gateway of the South Island and a center of Innovation.
Major cities of New Zealand Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch are gaining popularity among Americans providing natural beauty and a blend of urban facilities. The larger city of New Zealand Auckland is well-known for its waterfront living and vibrant cultural scene.
New Zealand offers high living standards and a strong sense of community for Americans. Thus, New Zealand is an ideal choice for Americans to reside.
Australia
Another popular destination for expats to move to is Australia as it provides a beautiful culture, high living standard and English-speaking population. Major cities of Australia such as Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne offer excellent healthcare, vibrant culture and strong economies. Australia offers permanent residency pathways like the General Skilled Migration program making it long-term relocation feasible.
The cost of living is high in major cities of Australia but offers an excellent quality education system and top-notch healthcare. Melbourne is famous for its music, art and coffee culture which makes it a heaven for creatives. With the stunning Harbor of Australia and the Opera House, Sydney is a global cultural center and financial hub.
Australia offers multiculturalism that makes it a welcoming atmosphere for Americans from all backgrounds making a smooth transition for Americans and offering a sense of community. Outdoor enthusiasts like expats love the Great Barrier Reef, national parks, opportunities for discovering the Outback, hiking and surfing. Brisbane offers a friendly environment and is well-recognized for its sunny weather laid-back lifestyle and growing economy. Australia has diverse wildlife, beautiful beaches, a desirable lifestyle for Americans who wish to reside in Australia and a warm climate.
Germany
Germany is an ideal destination for expats because of its high quality of life, public services along robust economy. Germany has many pathways for freelancers and entrepreneurs through the self-employment visa program. The country provides different options of visa for skilled people such as the EU Blue Card which makes it simple for Americans to move to Germany and find employment.
Munich boasts a high standard of living and beautiful architecture and is home to some major global companies. Germany’s healthcare system is one of the best in the world, and the cost of living is reasonable, especially outside major urban centers where the quality of life remains high.
English is spoken in cities such as Munich, Berlin and Frankfurt. Berlin is the capital of Germany and is well-known for its dynamic tech industry, diverse culture along vibrant arts scene. Frankfurt is a financial hub that provides an excellent infrastructure and a cosmopolitan lifestyle.
Germany has a rich cultural heritage along with its history and central location in Europe making it a base for discovering the continent. From the bustling market of Hamburg to the medieval castles of Bavaria, there are different cultural experiences to enjoy. Germany offers an efficient public transportation network that makes travel to neighbouring countries and within Germany affordable and hassle-free for Americans.
Whether you wish to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Berlin or the scenic Rhine Valley, Germany provides an enriching living experience and diverse environment for Americans.
Things to Consider When Moving to Another Country As An Expat
Here are the different things to consider when you are moving to another country as an Expat:
Laws and Customs
When you move to another country as an Expat, you agree to follow their rules and regulations. Things that are always normal to you might be illegal or rude. You may find out what policies, worldviews and laws you may expect while you are still outside the system.
Job Market
When you move abroad, finding a job is the most important aspect. Is your skill set valuable in that particular country? How tough will it be to get a job? You have to consider these factors while moving overseas as an American.
Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance is another factor that impacts overall well-being and happiness. You must research the work culture in a new home. Few countries offer generous vacation policies, emphasising shorter workweeks and a strong separation between personal and professional life. Understanding this will aid you in finding a good place to enjoy your time at work and maintain a healthy balance.
For instance, Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands are famous for their emphasis on work-life balance and are excellent choices among people based on their priorities.
Accessibility
Before you begin to make plans to move to a new country as an Expat, you must understand how simple it will be to live there long term. You should ask yourself:
- Can foreigners buy or rent property?
- What are the qualifications to get a visa?
- Does this country permit dual citizenship?
- What are the healthcare options?
- Do I need health insurance?
- What will you have to do to establish permanent residence?
Getting these answers will aid you in listing down your choices to move abroad.
Climate
Long summers and Sunny beaches make the a country popular choice among expats and tourists. People prefer to move to another country to enjoy a warm climate. This is the reason why people don’t prefer places like Finland or Russia to move to from the United States.
Culture
To experience different cultures is travelling. And, where you move, you have to adapt the cultural differences. These bizarre and fun aspects of a foreign country might not seem fun later on. This will make you feel at a new home in another country more easily. You may choose a country with a culture similar to what you are used to. It is the best choice to choose a place where language is not at all a barrier.
Ease of Travel
Putting down roots in disconnected and remote parts of the world might look ideal to a few individuals. The reality is different. Moving your possessions to a remote and new location may add more stress. Also, if you don’t wish to live in the United States, doesn’t mean that you won’t visit again. Preferring a country that makes your international travel difficult would be a headache. You should choose a country to move abroad that offers ease of travel.
Cost of Living
The low cost of living is another reason for expats moving overseas. You might miss this benefit completely if you prefer a costly country to the United States. So, before you make your final choice, you must take some time to consider how expensive your life will be in your chosen country.
Safety
Travellers assume incorrectly that a country is safe to reside. They might check one corner of the city is safe and may assume that the whole country is safe without even realizing that the city they are moving to has a high crime rate. You should consider how safe the country is for foreigners like you. It would be worth doing some research to know whether you are going to expose yourself as an Expat to unnecessary risks.
Are You Planning to Move Overseas?
If you are planning to reside abroad, we hope that you have explored the list of top 12 countries to move for expats from the United States. If you have any doubts, we would be glad to answer them.
At Ustaxfiling.in, we assist Expats residing overseas to file their expat taxes on time and accurately. You may connect with USTAXFiling.in any time and we will help you in any way we can. USTAXFiling prepare and file your expat income taxes for years to come. If you are looking for tax consultations before moving overseas? Book a consultation with USTAXFiling.in tax specialist right away!