The United States has historically been a top destination for international migration, hosting nearly one-fifth of the world's total migrants. These individuals come from every corner of the globe, enriching the nation's cultural and social diversity. But what about Americans who want to move to other countries?
Moving abroad is a prudent choice that people make after careful consideration. Not everyone has the right to move to any dot on the globe, but those who are granted that privilege can leverage it to secure a safer and more stable environment for themselves and their families.
The ones who have come to a decision to open up the doors of a new country for the rest of their lives need to do thorough research, taking into consideration many factors, which include possible ways to move there, quality of life, tax implications, public services, and more.
This article will provide information on factors to consider when moving abroad, a list of the easiest countries for Americans to move to from the USA, and another list of countries where English is widely spoken.
- The number of American expats worldwide continues to increase due to several factors, including new career opportunities, the desire to retire abroad, seeking new adventures, and managing the heavy tax burden.
- Our list of the best and easiest countries to move to from the USA includes diverse options from various regions, catering to different tastes and needs.
- Citizenship through investment programs is often the fastest and most effective option for those who wish to relocate permanently. Mirabello Consultancy can assist with any questions related to investment programs
Why Do Americans Relocate?
Before jumping to our main topic, let’s first understand why Americans don’t stick to the shores of the American dream and set sail in search of a better life. Amanda Klekowski von Koppenfels, a leading authority on the American diaspora, and Helen B. Marrow of Tufts University have conducted research to understand the reason behind American emigration. They’ve found out that the majority of Americans leave the USA for adventure, new work opportunities, and the desire to retire abroad. These motivations are coupled with newer factors such as increased real estate prices and high tax rates. Let’s break down some main reasons that drive Americans to move from the US to other countries.
The desire to leave the U.S. is especially strong in cities on the East and West coasts, with 47% of people in Los Angeles and 35% in New York considering a move overseas. The report also shows that younger Americans, especially those aged 16 to 24, are most likely to want to leave—40% of people in this age group are thinking about moving, compared to just 14% of those 55 and older.
Americans relocate for various reasons, from seeking a better quality of life to exploring new job opportunities or simply chasing adventure. Here are some of the most common reasons:
1. Lower Cost of Living:
Many Americans move to countries where their dollar stretches further, allowing them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
2. Work Opportunities:
Some move for international career opportunities, remote-friendly environments, or better work-life balance.
3. Retirement:
Retirees often look for peaceful destinations with good weather, affordable healthcare, and a laid-back vibe.
4. Adventure and Lifestyle:
Others relocate to experience new cultures, try new foods, or enjoy a slower pace of life in beautiful surroundings.
5. Healthcare:
Access to affordable and quality healthcare can be a big motivator, especially for those tired of high medical costs in the U.S.
6. Family or Personal Connections:
Some Americans relocate to be closer to loved ones or because of marriage or long-term partnerships abroad.
Factors to Consider When Moving Abroad
Once the decision to relocate has been finalized, the next step is researching and gathering data on the pertinent factors that warrant consideration. One really useful resource is the Expat Insider survey, conducted annually by Internations. It’s an expat community of 5,2 million members from 420 cities worldwide. Another resource is Expatica which offers a range of information for expats.
Here is our humble list of key things to consider when moving abroad from the USA.
- Destination research: A thorough research of potential destinations should be conducted considering factors like cost of living, job opportunities, and public services.
- Hassle-free travel: The 2024 Latitude World Passport Index ranks the United States passport as the 8th most powerful globally, allowing U.S. citizens visa-free access to 174 countries. With 195 officially recognized countries worldwide, according to the United Nations, the idea that a U.S. passport opens every door is almost true. You can still travel to and settle in many amazing destinations. Unless your dream destination is one of the 24 countries requiring a visa. Let’s leave this topic to politicians. Countries like Australia, Mexico, New Zealand, Japan, and Brazil, allow US citizens visa-free or visa-on-arrival access. Countries such as China, Turkey, India, and Russia require Americans to obtain a visa before entry. The ease of obtaining a visa depends on factors like having a job offer, sufficient funds, or qualifying for a specific program in a destination country.
- Cost of living: A comparison of living costs in the destination country versus the USA, including housing, food, utilities, and other expenses, should be made.
- Tax obligations: The US tax system is indeed quite complicated for those citizens who want to move abroad, with various reporting requirements, credits, and obligations that must be navigated. All American citizens living abroad should know they need to pay US taxes on their worldwide income. However, the USA has tax treaties with 66 foreign countries to ease the tax burden. The ones who don’t want dual tax obligations can renounce their US citizenship.
- Employment opportunities: If a US citizen does not have a work invitation from another country, it’s necessary to assess how easy securing employment will be.
- Relocation with family: The best option for US citizens to relocate with their families is to consider citizenship through investment programs. The spouse, children under a certain age, and financially dependent parents can relocate together with the investor. To better prepare their families for a successful relocation, US citizens should consider several factors, such as anticipating potential challenges, maintaining work-life balance, ensuring children's safety, overcoming language barriers, and more.
- Safety: This is paramount, and US citizens should prioritize their and their family's safety in the new destination. The low crime rate, environmental quality, and overall well-being are essential. Iceland, Denmark, and Japan are the safest countries to move to from the USA.
- Language: Language can significantly affect how easily you integrate into a new country and navigate day-to-day life. Those who want a smooth transition without learning a new language can choose English-speaking countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland. Expats who want a balance between convenience and experiencing the local vibe can consider the Netherlands, Germany, Portugal, and Scandinavian countries. Moving to countries like Spain or France may require learning the local language for easier integration. Even in countries where English is spoken widely, locals appreciate when expats try to learn their language. It’s seen as a sign of respect and can open doors socially and professionally.
- Healthcare: Many countries offer excellent and more affordable healthcare compared to the U.S. The quality, cost, and accessibility of healthcare vary greatly between countries. Understanding the healthcare system of your destination is essential for ensuring your medical needs are met. For example, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, and Italy have Universal Healthcare Systems. Healthcare is free or low-cost for residents and has high standards, especially in European countries. However, there may be longer wait times for non-urgent procedures in some countries. Also, public healthcare may require proficiency in the local language to navigate efficiently. Countries like Thailand, Mexico and and Portugal offer affordable private healthcare. It is best for expats who prefer to pay for healthcare services directly or through private insurance. Compared to the U.S, high-quality private care is more affordable in these countries. Other countries like Greece and Portugal (again) require expats to have health insurance, either through their public healthcare system or private providers. This also applies to Golden Visa requirements for Greece and Portugal.
13 Easiest Countries for Americans to Move to from the USA
The US government exercises caution when disclosing the number of its citizens opting to live abroad. However, the results state that in 2018, the Federal Voting Assistance Program estimated a total of 4.8 million American civilians living abroad, including 3.9 million civilians and 1.2 million service members and other government-affiliated Americans. According to the Gallup poll in 2019, 16% of Americans, including 40% of women under 30, would like to leave the United States.
So, let’s now understand where Americans go and what the best countries to move to from the USA are. Our selection is based on expat preferences, investment programs that lead to citizenship, and other factors, including proficiency in English, economic stability, quality of life, and cultural compatibility.
The Caribbean
We’ll open up the list with the countries in close proximity to the USA. The reasons why Americans choose to reside in one of the Caribbean countries are uncountable. From pleasant weather and stunning natural landscapes to a relaxed pace of life and business opportunities. Also, they are not only beautiful but also more affordable than people think. Caribbean islands are more than Instagrammable and touristic shores.
The visa requirements for US citizens moving to Caribbean countries vary depending on the specific country. Generally, US citizens do not need a visa to enter most countries. Additionally, while visas may not be required for short stays in many Caribbean countries, US citizens should ensure they have a valid passport and comply with any entry requirements set by the destination country.
Summing up, there are the main benefits of relocating to the Caribbean.
Tax Benefits: Many Caribbean nations, such as the Cayman Islands and the Bahamas, have no income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, making them highly attractive for high-net-worth individuals.
Digital Nomad Visas: Some countries, like Barbados (with its Welcome Stamp program) and Antigua and Barbuda, have introduced digital nomad visas, enabling remote workers to live and work there for up to a year or more.
Growing Expat Communities: Popular islands such as Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico have established expat communities, offering a supportive environment for new arrivals.
However, many Americans with sufficient funds prefer to move to one of the Caribbean countries that offer citizenship through investment programs. Why? Because it’s the easiest and quickest way to obtain citizenship. Let’s dive deep into each island’s life and investment opportunities.
Citizenship by investment program is offered in five Caribbean countries, including:
1. St. Lucia
A lovely small country which is known for its pristine waters and sun-kissed beaches. So, it’s a small heaven on earth attracting more and more expats from the USA. The country especially draws the attention of retirees and investors who can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with access to diverse activities, including hiking and golfing. You can also enjoy music, festivals, and Creole cuisine. An affordable cost of living, favorable tax policies, and a private healthcare system are other advantages.
There are three main investment opportunities in St. Lucia and those are:
Real Estate: The island has a growing real estate market, with options ranging from beachfront properties to luxury villas. These are particularly attractive to retirees and second-home buyers.
Tourism: Tourism is a major industry in St. Lucia, with opportunities to invest in hotels, eco-tourism ventures, and related services.
Agriculture: St. Lucia's fertile soil supports agriculture, especially in banana and cocoa production, offering potential for investment in agribusiness.
St. Lucia launched its citizenship through an investment program in 2015 to attract more expats and is one of the most sought-after programs in the Caribbean. It continues to establish its Citizenship by Investment Program as a global industry leader, recognized for its thorough due diligence processes. Strengthened by partnerships with other CBI programs within the OECS and collaboration with international entities such as governments, the European Union, the U.S. State Department, and other regulatory authorities, the program has earned recognition for its dedication to transparency and good governance.
A minimum of USD 240,000 should be donated to the National Economic Fund. The process of applying for citizenship through an investment program is very straightforward, providing benefits such as enhanced global mobility and favorable tax conditions.
Key Benefits of the St. Lucia CBI Program:
- Visa-Free Travel:some text
- Citizenship grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 countries, including the Schengen Area, the UK, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
- Tax Advantages:some text
- No income tax on worldwide income, no inheritance tax, no wealth tax, and no capital gains tax for residents and citizens.
- No Residency Requirements:some text
- Applicants are not required to reside in St. Lucia before or after obtaining citizenship.
- Fast Processing Time:some text
- Citizenship can typically be obtained within 3–6 months, making it one of the fastest programs globally.
- Dual Citizenship Allowed:some text
- St. Lucia permits dual citizenship, allowing applicants to retain their original nationality.
- Dependents Included:some text
- The program allows the inclusion of dependents, such as spouses, children under 25, and parents over 65, making it family-friendly.
St. Lucia’s program is competitive due to its affordability, streamlined process, and diverse investment options. It is particularly appealing for high-net-worth individuals seeking global mobility, business expansion, or a second home in a tropical paradise. For more detailed information, you can check our St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment Program service.
Schedule your free consultation today and secure your future!
2. Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda stands out as a perfect destination with a warm climate and outstanding landscapes. Like most Caribbean countries, Antigua and Barbuda offers a high standard of living, affordable living costs, and favorable tax policies. These key features make Antigua and Barbuda even more attractive for expats.
- Beaches and Natural Beauty:some text
- 365 Beaches: Antigua is famously known as the "Land of 365 Beaches," offering a beach for every day of the year. Popular spots include Dickenson Bay, Half Moon Bay, and Darkwood Beach.
- Barbuda’s Pink Sand Beaches: Barbuda is home to rare pink sand beaches, providing a unique and serene escape.
- Natural Wonders: The islands feature lush rainforests, coral reefs, and marine sanctuaries, making them ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and hiking.
- Cultural and Historical Heritage:some text
- Nelson’s Dockyard: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic naval dockyard is a window into the colonial past and a hub for sailing enthusiasts.
- Carnival Celebrations: Antigua’s annual Carnival is a lively event featuring music, dance, and vibrant costumes, reflecting the islands’ rich cultural traditions.
- Tourism Hub:some text
- Tourism is the backbone of Antigua and Barbuda’s economy, with luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and yacht charters catering to high-end travelers.
- The country is a popular destination for cruise ships, drawing visitors from around the world.
The country’s diverse economy, wealth, variable public services, and safety play a key role in attracting American expats. The country offers very favorable citizenship through an investment program. Let’s jot down some details about it here.
The program offers various investment options, including a minimum non-refundable contribution to the National Development Fund (NDF) of at least $230,000 It provides visa-free travel to 150 countries, including the Schengen area, Japan, and Hong Kong, making it the best choice for those seeking global mobility. Other benefits include No residency requirement (except for a 5-day stay within five years of citizenship) and tax advantages, including no income tax on worldwide income. Let’s take a closer look at the investment options below.
- A donation of $230,000 to the National Development Fund (NDF).
- A $300,000 investment in approved real estate projects.
- A $260,000contribution to the University of the West Indies Fund (for families of six or more).
- Business investment in an approved enterprise (minimum $1.5 million).
Other economic opportunities include real estate market and tourism development.
Antigua’s real estate market offers opportunities for investment in luxury villas, beachfront properties, and boutique developments. Many properties are eligible for the CBI program, making real estate a popular choice for investors.
With the government’s focus on sustainable tourism, there are opportunities to invest in eco-tourism ventures, resorts, and hospitality services. Barbuda, in particular, has untapped potential for development, offering a quieter alternative to Antigua.
3. Grenada
Caribbean countries were among those that first introduced citizenship through investment programs after noticing the increase in global mobility. And Grenada is not an exception. Grenada, is often called the "Spice Isle" for its production of nutmeg and other spices. It’s a beautiful country that boasted one of the top healthcare systems among Caribbean countries before 2020. However, according to the World Health Organization, since 2020 it is losing its position as one of the top healthcare systems in the Caribbean. Still, Grenada’s healthcare infrastructure is improving.
Grenada has become an appealing destination for investors and retirees with its laid-back lifestyle, low crime rates, and safe environment.
The Citizenship through investment program in Grenada allows the applicants to obtain citizenship by contributing $235,000 to the country. If we go into more detail, investment options are:
- National Transformation Fund (NTF): A minimum contribution of $235,000 for a single applicant or $200,000 for a family of four.
- Real Estate Investment: A minimum of $270,000 in a government-approved real estate project, which must be held for at least five years
The successful applicants and their families are granted ample opportunities, such as visa-free travel to approximately 150 countries including destinations like China, the Schengen Area, the UK, and Russia.
Grenada’s CBI program is particularly appealing due to its unique benefits and strategic advantages including:
- Visa-Free Travel: Grenadian citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries, including China, the Schengen Area, the UK, Singapore, and Russia.
- E-2 Visa to the United States: Grenada is one of the few countries whose citizens are eligible for the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa, allowing them to live and work in the United States by investing in a U.S.-based business.
- No Residency Requirements: There is no need to reside in Grenada before or after obtaining citizenship.
- Dual Citizenship Allowed: Applicants can maintain their original nationality while holding Grenadian citizenship.
Grenadian citizens are eligible to apply for the E-2 Investor Visa to the United States, which is a significant draw for business-oriented applicants. This is Grenada's unique advantage for investors.
4. Dominica
It’s meaningless to talk about Dominica's natural beauty and mild climate. It is often called as the "Nature Isle" of the Caribbean. Nature generously granted the Caribbean countries all the necessary resources and natural wonders that make them perfect places to reside. Dominica has also introduced its citizenship through an investment program to attract more expats.
The program is very affordable, with a minimum investment of around $200,000 for a single applicant. The program offers dual citizenship and visa-free access to over 140 countries. There is no residency requirement, so the entire application process, which takes 3 to 4 months (which is among the quickest in the Caribbean), can be completed remotely.
Dominica’s CBI program is highly regarded for its rigorous due diligence process, ensuring that applicants meet the necessary criteria for security and integrity. While the program is affordable, it’s essential to consider additional government fees and due diligence costs for dependents.
5. St. Kitts and Nevis
St Kitts and Nevis was the first country in the world to introduce citizenship through an investment program (launched in 1984), allowing migration for many potential investors who can contribute to the country’s economy. The program has long been a popular choice for investors seeking a second passport and the benefits of living in a peaceful, tax-friendly environment. So, the program significantly attracted American expats to continue their lives in a picturesque country with more to offer.
The St. Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment program offers at least a $250,000 contribution to the Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC) fund. Alternatively, applicants can choose to invest in real estate, with a minimum investment of $400,000 in government-approved real estate projects (which must be held for at least 7 years).
Benefits of Citizenship include:
- Visa-Free Travel: St. Kitts and Nevis citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 countries, including the UK, the Schengen Area, and many others.
- Dual Citizenship: St. Kitts and Nevis allows dual citizenship, which means applicants do not need to renounce their original nationality.
- No Residency Requirement: There is no requirement to reside in St. Kitts and Nevis before or after obtaining citizenship.
- Tax Benefits: The country offers a tax-friendly environment with no income, capital gains, or inheritance taxes, making it a popular destination for investors.
The processing time for the St. Kitts and Nevis CBI program typically takes between 3 to 4 months, which is one of the fastest in the Caribbean along with Dominica.
Europe
6. Greece
Settled in the heart of Europe, Greece is a beautiful country with a mild climate, healthy cuisine, picturesque cities and landscapes, not talking about cultural and historical marvels. However, the laid-back lifestyle, low crime rates, excellent healthcare, and favorable living conditions attract American expats the most. It appears in the top rankings globally for tourism, healthcare, physicians, environmental performance, and more. So, Greece has all the potential to become Europe’s number-one destination for American expats.
To learn more about how it is to live in Greece, check our article, Living in Greece.
Greece launched its Golden Visa through an investment program in 2013 to attract more high-net-worth individuals. With a minimum investment amount of €250,000, Americans can earn such benefits as a pathway to Greek citizenship, a family reunification option, profitable rental prospects to earn passive income and more. While the minimum investment for real estate remains €250,000, the Greek government has periodically updated regulations surrounding the visa program. So, there may be changes and updates.
Also, it is important to know that applicants are required to reside in Greece for a specific period before being eligible for citizenship (usually 7 years), although the Golden Visa itself does not require continuous residence.
7. Spain
Spain is home to a large community of Americans. Approximately 70,000 American expats live in Spain. It’s a popular destination among digital nomads and retirees seeking high-quality life, new job opportunities, and a favorable living environment.
There are many reasons to love Spain: its education, healthcare, and other public services are at the European level; the climate is mild and pleasant; and the people are warm and friendly, just to name a few. It topped the annual index by Live and Invest Overseas for 2024 and is generally known for its high living standards.
Several options exist for American expats planning to relocate to Spain. Student and work visas are widespread, and many people can afford them. Those with sufficient funds can take into consideration the Golden Visa through Investment program, which is a magnífico pathway to Spanish citizenship. There are several investment options. The most favorable is purchasing real estate worth no less than €500,000. While €500,000 is the most common real estate investment for the Golden Visa, there are additional options, including business or government bonds, which may appeal to some investors. The citizenship is granted after 10 years of residing in the country. However, it’s important to note that there are specific residency requirements for citizenship (e.g., continuous residency for at least 10 years). Golden Visa holders can apply for citizenship after this time, but they must demonstrate physical residence in Spain for a portion of that time.
8. Portugal
Portugal is one of the easiest countries for Americans to move to from the USA. Its popularity among expats has significantly increased after the country launched its Golden Visa program in 2012. It was very successful and became an inspiration for other countries to introduce programs of the same kind. Though Portugal made major changes in its program in 2023. The country now has restrictions on certain areas (like Lisbon and Porto) where real estate investments qualify for the Golden Visa, which may impact prospective investors. It’s still an alluring option for potential investors.
Let’s talk about the key benefits of the country as an expat destination.
- Portugal boasts of being one of the most affordable European countries.
- The cost of living is approximately 40% lower than in the USA, with rent, groceries, dining out, and other expenses.
- Another advantage is the favorable tax policies. Programs like the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) tax regime offer tax incentives. The NHR tax regime offers a flat 20% tax rate for certain professionals (not just retirees), and it is highly attractive for foreigners, particularly those with passive income or income from abroad.
- Most importantly, Portugal is the 7th most secure country in the world.
- More? Portugal has various visa and residency programs, such as the D7 visa, making obtaining Portuguese residency and citizenship relatively straightforward. Applicants must prove a passive income of €820 a month outside of Portugal. For digital nomads, there is a separate visa type. This option requires applicants to earn at least €3,480 per month working for a foreign company.
9. Malta
Why is Malta considered a better country to reside in than the USA? Let’s figure out.
Malta offers a significantly cheaper cost of living than the USA. There is no property tax, which is a huge financial advantage. However, it is important to note that while Malta doesn’t have a property tax per se, there are stamp duties and capital gains taxes on property sales. The healthcare system ranks high as Malta provides universal health insurance, which is seen as a cost-saving benefit for residents.
Instead of investing through a citizenship program, Malta has introduced a naturalization program, which includes investment. There are different types of residence programs catering to different needs and circumstances. The most well-known one is Maltese Citizenship by Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment, which grants a certificate of naturalization as a citizen of Malta to any individual eager to contribute to Malta's economic development fund. The investment amount ranges from €600,000 to €750,000.
Americas
10. Mexico
Mexico is considered one of the easiest countries to move to from the USA. It has been a longtime retirement destination for many Americans. Mexico hosts the largest American expat community in the world, with over 1.6 million Americans living there. This is why it continues to be the most desired destination for Americans seeking to live abroad. Also, with short flights and a variety of transportation options, it's easy to visit family and friends back in the States, making it less challenging for people considering a long-term move. Mexico's location also offers access to both Pacific and Caribbean coasts, adding a variety of experiences to the expat lifestyle. The country’s diverse attractions range from rich culture and natural beauty to affordability and ease of living.
Mexico offers a variety of visa options, making it easier for Americans to establish long-term residence. Some of the most popular visa types include:
- Temporary Resident Visa: For those who plan to stay for more than six months but less than four years. Applicants must show proof of income or savings.
- Permanent Resident Visa: For those who plan to live in Mexico indefinitely. After holding a temporary resident visa for a few years or meeting other financial requirements, expats can apply for permanent residency.
- Visitor Visa: For those who wish to stay for shorter periods (up to 180 days), often used for tourism or business.
Expats often find that they are welcomed by friendly locals and can quickly integrate into the community. Many cities have thriving expat communities, particularly in places like Lake Chapala, San Miguel de Allende, and Playa del Carmen, where there are a significant number of Americans and English-speaking residents.
Last but nit least, the Mexican real estate market is popular among Americans, particularly for those seeking vacation homes or investment properties.
11. Canada
Canada is a highly appealing expat destination for Americans. Let’s enumerate several key factors that make Canada an alluring country. First of all, Canada is considered one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates, trusted police forces, and a quick response to emergencies. It ranks high on all safety standards and is known for its strong social safety net. The universal healthcare system is worth mentioning, too. Expats in Canada have access to quality medical services without the financial burden.
The Canadian passport is considered one of the most powerful passports in the world, offering visa-free access to a large number of countries.
One of the easiest paths to citizenship is through The Quebec Immigrant Investor Program (QIIP). The program was launched on January 1st, 2024. The requirements for the program are the following:
- A minimum net worth of CAD 2,000,000
- A non-refundable investment of CAD 1,200,000
- Management experience and French language proficiency are also required.
This ensures the investor will be eligible for Canadian citizenship in three years. Alternative Routes: If you're interested in Canadian residency or citizenship, other investment or business immigration programs are available, such as the Start-Up Visa Program, which supports entrepreneurs, or the Express Entry System, which selects skilled workers for permanent residence.
Asia
12. Thailand
An enchanting country situated in Southeast Asia, it has become a famous expat destination. Its capital, Bangkok, was ranked the 2nd best place in the world for digital nomads in 2023. It’s also a very popular tourist destination hosting visitors from all over the world.
The Thailand Elite Visa program, also known as the Thailand Privilege Visa, is a long-term one. It aims to attract investors and rich expats to stay in Thailand and have access to exclusive benefits. The program offers different membership packages from 5 to 15 years. The minimum investment for 5 years is $25,000, while the one for 15 years is $71,000. There is also membership package available for 20 years, but it is available by invitation only.
The Thailand Elite Visa provides exclusive benefits, including access to VIP services at airports, discounts at luxury hotels, and medical facilities. Applicants can also enjoy easy entry and exit from Thailand without the need for frequent visa renewals.
13. United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates has a favorable geolocation connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa, thus making it a hub for international trade and travel. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer abundant job opportunities across various fields. Many international companies have set up headquarters there. Also, the UAE provides a high standard of living. In particular, major cities are equipped with excellent infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Plus, it is known for its low crime rate and well-respected law enforcement, providing a safe environment for its residents. So, the number of American expats seeking to live in the UAE is growing daily.
The most well-known residency option in the UAE is the Golden Visa through investment. The program is not old, being launched in 2019. It offers a minimum investment of AED 2 million (approximately USD 545,000). While the UAE's Golden Visa program offers long-term residency benefits, it does not automatically lead to citizenship. However, the recent amendments to the nationality laws provide a pathway for certain expatriates to acquire Emirati citizenship under specific conditions.
6 Best Countries to Move to from the USA that Speak English
The best English-speaking countries for Americans to move to from the USA are:
- Canada - Canada is ranked high in the easiest countries to move to from the USA because of proximity and cultural similarities. English and French are the official languages, so 98.1% of Canadians know English.
- The Caribbean countries - Many Caribbean countries have English as their official language, making them an appealing destination for American expats.
- United Kingdom - It’s a popular choice among Americans due to the shared language and cultural ties.
- Singapore - A very developed country known for its business-friendly environment and widespread use of English.
- Australia - As English is an official language in Australia, the vast majority of its population speaks English.
- United Arab Emirates - Though Arabic is the international language, English is widely spoken in urban areas and in the business sector.
The decision to move abroad is a significant one, often made after careful consideration. While many people don’t have the freedom to move freely, those who do can find a safer and more stable life for themselves and their families. Researching and understanding the key factors before moving to another country is essential. This article has explored some of those factors and provided a list of the easiest countries for Americans to move to from the USA based on factors such as expat preferences, investment options, and proficiency in English.
From the scenic Caribbean islands to diverse European countries, American expats choose their destinations based on their individual needs and preferences. Whether it is the warmth of the locals, affordability, or the prospect of new job opportunities. So, after careful planning and consideration, many Americans decide to continue their lives in one of the easiest countries to move to from the USA.
FAQ
Although the US government doesn’t share specific details or numbers, most Americans tend to move to Mexico, Canada, and Portugal. The reasons are the proximity, favorable environment for retirement, and affordability.
US citizens can visit 169 countries without a visa. If they need to stay longer than the designated days, they should follow the requirements of the country they are staying in. Due to a Compact of Free Association with the Marshall Islands, Palau, and Micronesia, US citizens can reside there for an indefinite period of time without a visa.
The easiest countries for US citizens to move to from the USA are the Caribbean countries, Malta, Spain, Portugal, Mexico, and Canada.
Malta ranks high in many factors compared to the USA, including healthcare. Spain and Portugal are considered popular expat destinations thanks to their high standards of life and affordability.