Introduction
In the wake of the 2024 U.S. presidential election, an unprecedented number of Americans began searching online for information on how to move abroad. While there is typically an uptick in these types of searches after any major election, the sheer volume this time around points to deeper shifts in the American psyche and a genuine desire among many Americans are moving internationally.
In this article, we’ll explore the best countries for American expats, the top countries for Americans to move to right now, the motivations driving this trend of Americans leaving the US, and the various visa options for Americans moving abroad to each destination. Whether you’re considering moving out of the US yourself or simply curious about this fascinating phenomenon, read on to learn more.
Best Countries for American Expats
1. New Zealand – Americans Moving to New Zealand
Topping the list of easiest countries for Americans to move to with a staggering 7,600% increase in search volume is New Zealand. This English-speaking nation appeals to Americans moving overseas for its stunning natural beauty, low population density, high quality of life, and consistently top rankings on the Global Peace Index. Popular visa options for Americans moving abroad include the Working Holiday Visa for those aged 18-30.
2. Germany – Americans Moving to Germany
Germany saw a 4,200% jump in searches from US citizens moving abroad, likely due to its stable economy, strong social safety net, and variety of accessible immigrant visas for US citizens. The German Opportunity Card allows job seekers to live in the country for up to a year, while the German Freelancer Visa is well-suited for remote workers and the self-employed.
3. The Netherlands – US Citizens Moving to the Netherlands
Despite its famously chilly and rainy weather, the Netherlands drew a 3,000%+ increase in interest from Americans moving out of the US, with many citing its progressive social policies, well-developed infrastructure, and thriving American expat communities overseas as key draws. The Dutch American Friendship Treaty (DAFT) offers a straightforward path to US expat residency permits for freelancers and entrepreneurs.
4. Ireland – Americans Getting Citizenship in Ireland
Ireland experienced a 2,400% surge in Americans looking to move abroad, driven in large part by the sizable Irish diaspora eager to reconnect with their roots. For those with a parent, grandparent, or even great-grandparent born in Ireland, citizenship by descent for Americans is a possibility. The Emerald Isle also appeals as an English-speaking gateway to Europe.
5. Japan – Americans Moving to Japan
In a surprise showing, Japan landed in fifth place for where Americans are moving after the 2024 election, with a 1,500% boost. While not an English-speaking country, Japan’s rich culture, high standard of living, and new digital nomad visa for US citizens (offering stays up to 6 months) make it an attractive option. Americans teaching English overseas is another common pathway.
6. Portugal – Portugal Expat Americans
Portugal, one of the best places for American retirees abroad, saw a 1,000%+ jump. With its sunny weather, low cost of living abroad for Americans, and sizable American community (upwards of 10-15,000), Portugal offers an appealing Mediterranean lifestyle. The D7 Visa and Portugal’s digital nomad visa provide achievable routes to residency.
7. Norway – Norway Immigration from USA
Searches related to Americans moving to Norway leapt by nearly 500%, with many drawn to its natural beauty, strong social welfare system, and reputation as a safe, peaceful nation with a high quality of life for American expats. While immigration options are more limited compared to some other countries on this list, Norway does offer a job seeker visa and startup visa for Americans moving overseas.
8. Canada – Moving from US to Canada
America’s northern neighbor saw a 400% increase in US citizens moving abroad, unsurprising given the strong cultural ties and geographic proximity between the two nations. Key immigration pathways include study permits (which can lead to post-graduation work permits), skilled worker visas, and even visas for top athletes for Americans moving to Canada.
9. United Kingdom – UK Visas for Americans
The UK, with its shared history and language, experienced a nearly 400% rise in interest from Americans moving out of the US. While the cost of living can be high, especially in London, the UK offers diverse lifestyle options from urbane cities to quaint villages. Study visas that can transition to work permits are one potential immigration path.
10. Costa Rica – Costa Rica Expat Life from US
Costa Rica rounded out the list of best places to move out of the US, with a 300% increase. This tropical Central American nation is already home to more than 120,000 American expats who appreciate its laid-back lifestyle, natural beauty, and relative affordability. Retirement, investor, and digital nomad visas for Americans are all available.
Honorable Mention: Mexico
While it just missed the top 10 countries Americans are moving to, Mexico remains a highly popular destination for US citizens moving abroad. Its proximity, rich culture, and relatively straightforward temporary and permanent residency options make Mexico an attractive choice for many American expats.
Key Takeaways
The surge in Americans leaving the US post-election reflects a complex set of factors, from political and economic concerns to a desire for new cultural experiences and improved quality of life.
The best countries for American expats offer a mix of familiarity (e.g., English-speaking nations), accessibility (e.g., countries with digital nomad visas for US citizens), and aspirational qualities (e.g., safety, natural beauty, work-life balance).
If you’re considering moving overseas, carefully research your destination’s immigration policies, cost of living abroad, healthcare system, tax implications, and other key factors. Consult with seasoned expats and consider working with a relocation specialist to help navigate the process.
Conclusion
The post-election exodus of 2024 represents a fascinating moment in American history, one that reflects the evolving priorities and aspirations of US citizens in an increasingly globalized world. As remote work continues to gain traction and more countries open their doors to digital nomads and other mobile professionals, the trend of Americans moving abroad shows no signs of slowing down.
Whether you’re drawn to the stunning fjords of Norway, the rich history of Japan, the laid-back beaches of Costa Rica, or somewhere in between, there’s never been a more exciting time to explore the possibilities of life abroad. By doing your due diligence, carefully weighing your options, and taking the leap with an open mind and sense of adventure, you just might discover that the world is your oyster.