Best Countries to Move to From USA

Many Americans are increasingly considering a life abroad due to high living costs, healthcare expenses, and retirement insecurity in America today.

Safety concerns, such as gun violence and political instability, are significant factors driving this movement too. Many seek countries with progressive social policies, better work-life balance, and improved quality of life, including more vacation days and higher salaries.

The desire for strong public and healthcare services also plays a role. Additionally, the rise of remote work offers greater flexibility, making it easier for individuals and families to move.

Overall, these practical and socio-political concerns are prompting a notable trend in permanent emigration for American citizens.

Page Contents

• Reasons for Considering Leaving the US
• What to Consider When Moving Abroad From USA?
• Australia
• Canada
• Portugal
• United Kingdom
• Ireland
• Spain
• Mexico
• France
• Germany
• How Can Total Law Help?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Americans relocating to a new country should consider several key factors:

• Safety and Political Stability: Assess crime rates and political environments to ensure personal safety
• Financial Planning: Research the cost of living, local salaries, private insurance considerations, and comply with U.S. tax obligations, seeking professional advice as needed
• Visa Requirements: Understanding visa rules and obtaining necessary visas and work permits before arrival, exploring options like work, retiree, and digital nomad visas
• Healthcare Access: Ensure adequate health insurance and familiarize yourself with local healthcare systems
• Cultural Adaptation: Embrace local customs, learn the language, and seek strong expat communities for a smoother transition. Alternatively, choose a country with strong cultural ties to America

Australia is a top destination for Americans seeking to live or work abroad, frequently appearing in rankings of the best countries for relocation. Known as the 13th-largest economy globally, it attracts expats with its high quality of life, strong healthcare system, and relaxed culture that emphasizes outdoor activities and social connections.

Key advantages include state-funded healthcare, a vibrant food scene, and well-developed infrastructure in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne. The country also boasts a warm climate and an abundance of nature, helping to promote a high quality of life.

Potential challenges exist, such as a high cost of living and lower average salaries compared to the U.S. The immigration process can be lengthy and expensive, primarily utilizing a points-based system for skilled workers.

Various visa options are available to Americans, including: worker, family, and business visas:

• Worker Visas: Includes Skilled Independent Visa, Employer Nomination Scheme, and Temporary Graduate Visa for skilled workers
• Family Visas: such as Partner Visas (temporary and permanent) and Prospective Marriage Visa for family reunification
• Business & Talent Visas: Covers Business Innovation and Investment Visa and Global Talent Visa for business owners and skilled professionals
• Citizenship Options: Available through descent or through gaining permanent residency, requiring residency as a permanent resident for at least 12 months and a total of four years in Australia

Canada consistently ranks as one of the most popular destinations for Americans relocating from the USA. It is celebrated for its high quality of life, ease of movement, and stable socio-economic environment.

Canada’s exceptional quality of life, recognized as the best for five consecutive years, draws American expats with its safety, health, and environmental standards. Cultural similarities and a shared primary language with the US, along with welcoming expat communities and friendly locals, make Canada an easy country to settle into as an American, its stunning landscapes offer abundant travel and outdoor activity opportunities.

From an economic standpoint, Canada boasts a stable economy with abundant job prospects, offering an impressive average expat salary of around $111,000. The country is particularly attractive to digital nomads due to its robust employment opportunities.

A major draw for American expats is Canada’s universal healthcare system, which is well-developed and free at the point of use. The public and higher education system is also one of the best in the world, which appeals to US families looking to migrate to Canada.

While Canada offers many advantages, it’s important to note that the cost of living is high in major cities like Vancouver and Toronto, and there may be restrictions on private healthcare in certain provinces. Estimated fees for an individual moving to Canada are approximately a minimum of $3,207.

There are several immigration pathways available to US citizens in Canada:

• Work and business options: US nationals have relocation options like the Working Holiday Visa, business visas for entrepreneurs, and cross-border employment opportunities through Intra-Company Transfers
• Permanent Residency (PR) via Skilled Employment:
  • Express Entry System: Popular for skilled professionals, often granting entry within six months. Key routes include:
    • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For skilled workers with foreign work experience
    • Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Fast-track PR for those with Canadian work experience
    • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FST): For skilled tradespeople
    • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Requires nomination by a specific province
• Family and Other Pathways: Canadian citizens or permanent residents can sponsor family members for immigration, while Canadian citizenship can be obtained through marriage after living together as permanent residents for three years
• Citizenship Pathways: Automatic citizenship in Canada is granted to those born in the country or with at least one Canadian parent, while others must apply for Permanent Residence through employment, family sponsorship, or business or investment routes

Considering moving to Canada? Connect with one of our advisors today for a personalized conversation about your situation and to strategize your move to Canada. You can get in touch online or call us on +44 (0) 333 305 9375.

Portugal is consistently ranked as one of the best countries for Americans to relocate to, often topping lists due to its favorable cost of living, safety record, and welcoming visa policies. Portugal offers an attractive mix of affordability, high quality of life satisfaction, and safety. The cost of living in Portugal is among the lowest in Western Europe, making it an appealing destination for expats.

Safety is another hallmark of Portugal, which provides a peaceful environment and political stability. It is considered one of the safest countries in the world, placing well ahead of the US in terms of crime rates.

Portugal benefits from a warm and sunny climate, complemented by beautiful Mediterranean coastlines. English is commonly spoken in urban areas, and the presence of strong expat communities eases the transition for Americans. Furthermore, Portugal offers quality services and amenities, including well-functioning healthcare and education systems.

Some considerations to keep in mind are that the moving process often involves a significant amount of paperwork, making it advisable to enlist the help of a relocation expert. Although overall crime rates are low, home burglaries can be common, especially targeting tourists and expats. If you’re thinking of moving to Portugal and would like to speak with an expert immigration advisor, we can help – contact Total Law today online, or call us on +1 844 290 6312.

Portugal is one of the easiest places in Europe to obtain long-term residencies and visas, with welcoming policies for foreign retirees, investors, and remote workers. Americans can pursue various visa and residency pathways, some of which include:

• D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa): Designed for foreigners with sufficient passive income, particularly retirees, allowing residency without local employment
• Golden Visa: A route for investors making significant investments, offering residency and citizenship after five years – please note property investment options are being phased out
• Digital Nomad Visa: Available for remote workers, with regions like the islands of Madeira promoting themselves as digital nomad hubs
• Job Seeker Visa: Available for those seeking employment in Portugal
• Tech Visa: Specifically for skilled workers in technology and innovation sectors
• Self-Employment Visa: For entrepreneurs or freelancers, requiring proof of business activities and financial stability
• Citizenship through Naturalization: Available after five years of residency, requiring basic Portuguese proficiency and social integration
• Citizenship by Descent: Possible for those with Portuguese ancestry

The estimated fees for an individual moving to Portugal will likely cost a minimum of $1000. Private health insurance costs around $500 per year per person.

The United Kingdom is a popular choice for Americans looking to relocate abroad – as of 2021, a record 166,000 American nationals were living in the UK.

The appeal of the UK lies in its cultural familiarity, economic strength, and established public services. Sharing a common language and culture with the US, the UK makes for an easy transition for American expats. The UK maintains a highly advanced economy, with many American companies establishing their European headquarters there. Additionally, moving to the UK allows individuals to experience the diverse cultures of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

The UK has world class healthcare, provided through the NHS (National Health Service), known for being one of the world’s first universal healthcare systems. American expats can access state healthcare services, most of which are free of charge, although a healthcare surcharge is required until settled status is obtained. The UK also boasts world-class education, with numerous British universities listed among the top 100 in the world.

Additionally, the UK offers a better sense of safety and security thanks to lower crime rates compared to the US. The work-life balance is favorable, with holiday pay typically exceeding 18 days, often ranging from 26 to 32 days for skilled roles.

While the UK offers a culturally easy transition, US nationals must apply for a visa to work:

• Work and Residency Visas:
  • Skilled Worker Visa: A points-based employment visa for in-demand UK job roles with a salary threshold
  • UK Family Visa: For US nationals reuniting with a British or Irish resident or citizen partner, parent, or child
  • Digital Nomad Visa: for remote workers
  • Youth Mobility Scheme: A potential relocation option for younger individuals
  • Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): the opportunity to achieve permanent residence in the UK after meeting continuous residence requirements over 5 years
• Direct Citizenship and Ancestry Routes:
  • Parental Citizenship: If one parent was a British citizen at the time of the US national’s birth, they qualify for citizenship
  • Birth Before 1983: Individuals born in the UK before 1983 may automatically be British citizens
  • UK Ancestry: Available to those with a UK grandparent born in the UK or a British colony, leading to potential citizenship
  • Permanent Residency: Apply for citizenship after holding permanent residency for five years and achieving Indefinite Leave to Remain (settled status)
  • Marriage: Married individuals to a British citizen may apply for citizenship after three years of residence in the UK

While the cost of living in the UK is slightly lower than in the US, American expats may find themselves receiving lower salaries and paying higher taxes. You will also be required to pay a healthcare surcharge to be able to access the National Health Service. Additionally, Americans should consider the impact of Brexit, which may lead to changing policies regarding foreign nationals living in the UK.

Ireland is a desirable location for Americans, especially those with Irish ancestry, thanks to favorable immigration pathways and a high quality of life.

It has previously been ranked as one of the best countries for Americans to move to.

Ireland offers significant advantages, including strong historical ties to America, an abundant job market, and ease of settlement.

The presence of major US companies like Amazon, Apple, and Pfizer creates a high demand for skilled workers in sectors such as healthcare, technology, and engineering.

Additionally, English is an official language, which simplifies the transition for newcomers. The overall cost of immigration is relatively low, with estimates around $3000.

Ireland has a public healthcare system with minimal fees, and also offers a pathway to citizenship through permanent residency and citizenship by descent.

Below are some of the immigration options available for those who have US citizenship and are looking to emigrate to Ireland:

• Work Permits:
  • Critical Skills Employment Permit: For highly skilled workers, leads to fast-track residency after two years
  • Intra-Company Transfer Permit: For US nationals relocating within their current company
  • General Employment Permit: For various in-demand occupations requiring a job offer
  • Join Family Visa: For joining family members who are Irish citizens or legal residents
  • Special Residency Visas: Ireland’s various ‘Stamp’ options offer residency through several different routes, including options for financially self-sufficient retirees, residency through running a business in Ireland, and long-term study permits
  • Entrepreneurship Visa: The Start-Up Entrepreneur Program (STEP) is available for individuals planning to establish an innovative business
• Irish Citizenship routes: If you have a parent or grandparent born in Ireland, as an American citizen you can automatically qualify for Irish citizenship by registering on the Foreign Births Register via the citizenship by descent route, or you can apply for citizenship through naturalisation after living in Ireland for five years

Spain has ranked highly for decades as one of the best countries for Americans to move to, making it a popular destination, especially among retirees. It offers a compelling combination of high quality of life, affordability, and extensive visa options for non-workers and investors.

Spain is highly praised for its standard of living, excellent public services, and overall affordability compared to the US and much of Europe. With one of the highest standards of living, Spain attracts expats with its excellent weather, world-famous gastronomy, and rich culture. The country features diverse lifestyles, from the cosmopolitan hub of Madrid to charming villages along the Mediterranean coast and the northern Basque region. Spanish cities consistently rank high among expats, with Valencia, Malaga, and Alicante being favorites, while Madrid and Barcelona also rank favorably.

Spain has a relatively low cost of living, with the possibility of residing in Madrid for as little as $2,000 a month, and even cheaper options outside major cities. Spain is also known for its excellent healthcare system, which provides high-quality care at affordable prices.

While Spain is highly desirable, there are a few challenges to consider. The language barrier can be significant, as English language proficiency is lower outside major cities, making it beneficial for expats to learn Castilian Spanish. Additionally, spending more than 183 days per year in Spain makes one a tax resident, so anyone seeking to only spend time in Spain rather than officially relocate may want to consider their options before spending more than 6 months in the country.

Spain offers various pathways for American citizens looking to travel, work and relocate to the country:

• General Visa Categories:
  • Study Visas
  • Work Visas
  • Residency & Citizenship
  • Family Visas
• Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV): The Non-Lucrative Visa (NLV) is designed for retirees and individuals with sufficient passive income, requiring applicants to demonstrate a minimum income of approximately $2,600 per month for a single applicant, with additional funds necessary for family members
• Investment and Business Visas: Spain offers several types of investment and business visas that help to provide long-term residency and often a path to citizenship
• Digital Nomad Visa: Spain’s digital nomad visa attracts remote workers looking to live in Spain

Proof of health insurance in Spain is required for obtaining a visa; travel insurance is not accepted.

Mexico is an increasingly popular destination for Americans thinking of living abroad, hosting around 800,000 US expats. Many are drawn by the country’s proximity to the USA, climate, and vibrant culture. The cost of living is significantly lower than in the US, with single individuals or retirees able to live comfortably for under $1,000 monthly, especially outside major tourist areas, making Mexico a great option for those looking to find more of a work-life balance and a slower pace of life.

While average wages are lower, Mexico presents emerging job opportunities, particularly in tech hubs like Guadalajara, which is home to international companies such as Oracle and IBM.

Culturally, Mexico boasts a friendly, laid-back atmosphere enriched by festivals and a renowned cuisine. The vibrant English-speaking expat community eases the transition for newcomers from the US, while those who speak Spanish will likely find the adjustment even easier. Although healthcare is affordable and of good quality, safety remains a concern, with issues largely related to petty crimes rather than cartel violence. Some regions, like Querétaro and Sayulita, are considered safer.

Mexico’s immigration system is favorable, allowing US citizens to stay for up to 180 days as tourists and offering several long-term residency options, including temporary and permanent visas.

Visa applications in Mexico require proof of financial stability, typically shown through bank statements or income records. Many expats use the 6-Month Holiday Permit to explore the country before deciding on a permanent location.

• 6 Month Holiday Permit: Allows US citizens to stay in Mexico for up to 180 days, offering a straightforward application process for those wishing to explore the country without committing permanently, with the option to renew or extend
• Temporary Working Permit: Valid for one year and renewable for up to four years, this permit is designed for individuals seeking employment in Mexico, requiring a job offer from a Mexican employer and proof of financial stability, with the possibility of applying for permanent residency after four years
• Permanent Visa: The Permanent Visa allows for indefinite residency in Mexico and is ideal for retirees or long-term residents, requiring proof of financial stability and typically a temporary visa held for at least four years. The Permanent Visa offers benefits such as social security access and the ability to live and work in Mexico without restrictions

France is a popular destination for Americans seeking to move abroad, particularly retirees, thanks to its strong economy and rich culture.

France attracts American expats with its world-renowned culture, robust economy, and top-tier public services. Known for its exceptional cuisine and art, life in France offers a chic lifestyle with bustling cities and stunning landscapes. While often perceived as expensive, parts of France outside Paris are quite affordable; rents for family apartments can be as low as $1,100, with significantly lower costs for groceries and public transportation. France also boasts one of the highest average life expectancies globally.

As the world’s 7th-largest economy, France has a diverse economy that is expected to grow significantly in the coming decade. It spans various industries, from world-class wines and cheeses to automobiles and professional services, making it an appealing option for digital nomads.

Healthcare in France is of high quality, providing services that are largely subsidized by the government. The country is also renowned for its education system, ranking among the best globally, with strong state schools and several top universities.

Applying for a visa to live in France is relatively straightforward, and US citizens can travel to France visa-free for 90 days, allowing time to settle in before starting the application process.

• Long-stay visa for visitors (Visa de Long Séjour Visiteur): this is the same as a Schengen visa, and allows US citizens to travel to France for 90 days as a tourist
• Self-Employed work visas: allows you to travel to France for business to fulfill commercial obligations and start or participate in a self-employed or liberal activity
• Employee visas: allows Americans to participate in intra-group mobility within businesses and work or train on fixed or long-term contracts for French employers. Please note that certain professions, such as doctors and teachers, must meet specific conditions to work in France
• Long-Stay Visa for Retirement (Visa de Long Séjour pour Retraité): is a renewable, one-year residence visa that US citizens can apply for at the nearest French consulate by demonstrating sufficient financial resources and proof of health insurance

Living in France offers tax advantages for U.S. retirees, thanks to a tax treaty that allows retirement accounts to be taxed at U.S. rates. However, newcomers may face challenges such as language barriers, complex bureaucracy, cultural differences, and strict inheritance and health insurance regulations. Learning French and understanding local legal and healthcare systems are essential for a smooth transition.

Germany is a popular and stable destination for Americans moving abroad, often considered the working capital of Europe, frequently chosen for its high standard of living and robust economic opportunities. With the fourth-largest economy in the world, Germany offers competitive salaries, particularly in sectors such as engineering, automotive, IT, and healthcare.

The country provides a high standard of living, excellent education—ranked the best by UNESCO in 2018—and an outstanding healthcare system. Germany also offers strong social services, including unemployment benefits and a comprehensive public transportation system, making it easy for American expats to settle in, especially with a large US expat community and a high level of English fluency among Germans.

Despite its advantages, it is important to note that Germany can be an expensive country to move to – with high taxes, top earners can expect to pay over 42%, and housing prices and cost of living are high. For Americans aspiring to obtain German citizenship, it’s important to note that Germany doesn’t allow dual citizenship and applicants are required to renounce their previous citizenship. Additionally, the pathway to citizenship is lengthy, typically taking around 8 years through standard routes.

• EU Blue Card: designed for highly skilled workers in fields such as IT, engineering, and healthcare. Applicants must have a job offer with a competitive salary that meets specific thresholds, and they can apply for permanent residency after a set period
• General Employment Visa: intended for non-EU nationals who have a valid job offer from a German company. Applicants must provide proof of their qualifications and a salary that meets the minimum wage requirements. After a few years, there is the potential to apply for permanent residency
• Self-Employment Visa / Freelance Visa: aimed at individuals looking to establish a business or work as freelancers. Applicants need to present a viable business plan and demonstrate sufficient financial resources and can eventually apply for permanent residency
• Job Seeker Visa: allows professionals to search for jobs while residing in Germany
• Citizenship Pathways: Individuals may be eligible for German citizenship if they have German ancestry through a parent or grandparent, or if they are married to a German citizen and have resided in Germany for three years