11 easiest countries for Americans to move to: an ultimate expat guide

1. Cost of living. Many Americans choose countries where living costs are lower than in the US. In Mexico, Portugal, Spain, or Greece, daily expenses for housing, food, and transport are much lower compared to major US cities.

In the US, monthly living costs range from $2,000 to 5,000, depending on the location. In Greece, Mexico, Spain, and Portugal, living expenses in smaller cities start at $700, while in capitals, they can reach $1,800.

2. Political environment. The US political climate often drives citizens to seek stability elsewhere. Polarization and unpredictability during elections or political upheavals are common concerns. Countries like Canada, Germany, and Australia, known for their political stability, are attractive alternatives.

3. Safety. Safety is a significant factor for Americans moving abroad. Concerns over gun violence and crime rates often lead individuals to countries with lower crime rates and a stronger sense of security.

The Global Peace Index 2024 ranks the US 132nd among 167 countries, while Portugal, New Zealand, and Canada are in the top 15. The US violent crime rate is 400—500 per 100,000 people, while Greece has 200—300 and Malta has 100—200.

4. Taxes. High US taxes, particularly for high-income earners, are another reason for relocation. The US personal income tax rate reaches 37%, while Costa Rica and Panama offer rates up to 25%.

Some countries provide tax incentives for non-EU investors. In Greece, for instance, non-EU residents can pay a flat €100,000 tax on global income. Without this exemption, Greece taxes global income on a progressive scale of up to 45%.

5. Healthcare. While the US boasts cutting-edge medical technology, many Americans feel burdened by the lack of a government-funded system and the high cost of healthcare and insurance.

In the US, private insurance premiums range from $400 to 1,200 per month for an individual, depending on coverage and location. In European countries like Portugal, Spain, and Greece, similar premiums cost between €50 and 150 per month.

Countries with the best healthcare systems include Asian nations, Scandinavian countries, Germany, Italy, and Malta, ranking in the top 20 among 167 countries, according to Statista 2023. American expats report high satisfaction with Spain’s healthcare system, as noted in the Expat Insider Survey 2023.

6. Business opportunities. For entrepreneurs and business professionals, the US can be both a land of opportunity and intense competition. Many look abroad for more favorable conditions to start a business, where taxes are lower, regulations are more relaxed, or the market is less saturated.

Entrepreneurs moving to Europe can expand their business to a unified European Union market, which has approximately 450 million consumers.

Several countries provide residence permits for international entrepreneurs. For instance, the Portugal Startup Visa grants residency for establishing a business. Similarly, Italy and Hungary allow foreign investors to obtain residency through business ventures.

7. Climate and pace of life. Climate and lifestyle significantly impact well-being and satisfaction. Countries like Spain and Greece offer mild, warm weather year-round, unlike the extremes often seen in the US.

Portugal is particularly praised by Americans for its “excellent beaches, beautiful scenery, and fantastic weather, ” according to the Expat Insider Survey.

European and Latin American countries often feature a slower, family-focused pace of life. This contrasts with the US culture, which emphasises long working hours and productivity.

Portugal, Spain, Malta, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Greece, Mexico, Panama, Canada, and Costa Rica are among the easiest destinations for Americans to settle abroad. Several factors make these countries appealing.

1. Countries with accessible residency options are prioritized, offering straightforward legal pathways for individuals seeking to settle abroad.

2. Proximity to the US is also an important consideration, focusing on destinations with short travel times and direct flight options.

3. Countries where English is widely spoken or an official language were highlighted, as this greatly simplifies communication and daily navigation.

4. Rankings from the Expat Insider Survey were used to highlight countries where settling in is made easier due to welcoming cultures, reliable services, and community integration opportunities.

5. US driving licenses exchange is another essential factor, simplifying the transition to everyday life.

6. The presence of American expat communities plays a significant role, as these networks provide a sense of familiarity and support for newcomers.

US expats. Americans comprise 22% of the foreign population in Portugal, with Lisbon hosting an estimated 10,000—15,000 US citizens. According to the Expat Insider Survey, Portugal ranks 13th among the easiest countries to settle in and 8th for its welcoming culture.

Numerous expat groups cater to Americans, such as Lisbon Expats, American Expats in Portugal, and Meetup.com. The American Club of Portugal offers networking events and support for US citizens.

Location. Portugal is in southwestern Europe, bordered by Spain and the Atlantic Ocean. A direct flight from the US to Lisbon takes 7—9 hours, with seasonal flights to Porto. Ticket prices range from $170—300, rising to $600 during peak seasons.

Visa requirement. US citizens can stay in Portugal for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.

Residency options. What makes Portugal one of the easiest countries for Americans to immigrate to is its residency options for investors, digital nomads, financially independent people, and entrepreneurs.

All residency programs allow Americans to move with their families. Citizenship is available after five years of residency. Children born in Portugal gain citizenship if their parents hold a residence permit for at least one year before the birth.

Foreigners with passive income, such as pensioners, can obtain the Portugal D7 Visa for financially independent people.

Applicants must prove a monthly income of at least €870—minimum wage in Portugal. For additional family members, the income requirement rises by 50% for an adult and 30% for a child. Eligible dependents include a spouse, children under 21, and parents.

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Entrepreneurs can obtain the Portugal Startup Visa to open a company without mandatory investments. Applicants are required to secure housing by purchasing or renting property and confirm savings equal to 12 minimum wages, which amounts to €10,440 in 2025.

Americans working remotely can take advantage of the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa. The DN Visa is tailored for freelancers, employees of foreign companies, self-employed individuals, and entrepreneurs. Family members can also qualify, including a spouse, children under 30, and parents.

Applicants must demonstrate a monthly income and savings which also depend on the minimum wage. In 2025, they amount to €3,480 and €10,440, respectively. Additional savings of 30% per spouse or parent and 25% per child are required. Digital nomads must also secure housing in Portugal.

Portugal ranks among the top 10 countries for digital nomads, according to VisaGuide.World. Lisbon is particularly popular, earning recognition as one of the best cities for remote workers by the International Workplace Group. The city offers modern high-speed internet and reliable Wi-Fi access and numerous coworking spaces, ideal for professionals working remotely.

The Portugal Golden Visa is highly popular among US investors, with 567 approved applications in 2023. Visa holders can work and run businesses in Portugal and enjoy free access to public healthcare and education.

The minimum investment starts at €250,000 for arts and cultural heritage restoration. The most popular option is investing €500,000, in fund units.

Spouses, children under 26, and parents can obtain residency with the investor.

Individual cost calculation for residence by investment in Portugal

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Driving license. Americans can swap their US driving license for a Portuguese one after 60 days of arrival. The process requires proof of residency, a vision test, and minimal paperwork.

Benefits. Portugal is one of the EU’s most affordable countries. A single person needs at least $700 per month for living expenses, with rent ranging from $800 to 1,700 depending on the property size and location.

Portugal is also one of the world’s safest countries, ranking 7th out of 167 in the Global Peace Index. Its low crime rates, political stability, and sense of unity contribute to its peaceful reputation.

US expats. US citizens make up 45% of the foreign population in Mexico. According to the Expat Insider, Mexico ranks 1st for ease of settling in. Foreigners appreciate the friendliness of the locals and often feel at home in Mexico.

Location. Mexico’s proximity to the US, along with direct flights and short travel times, makes it one of the easiest countries for Americans to move to. A flight from Los Angeles to Mexico City takes about four hours, while traveling from Miami to Cancun takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Ticket prices typically range from $100 to 400.

Visa requirement. US citizens can stay in Mexico for up to 180 days without a visa.

Residency options. Americans wishing to move to Mexico can apply for a Temporary Resident Visa. To qualify, applicants must either prove employment or business registration or demonstrate financial solvency—with a monthly income of around $2,000 over the past six months or a bank balance of approximately $35,000.

Under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, USMCA, US citizens with job offers in specific fields, such as technology, healthcare, and engineering, can apply for work visas in Mexico. The USMCA simplifies the process, reducing bureaucratic hurdles and enabling quicker access to the job market.

In Mexico, citizenship can be obtained after five years of living in the country as a permanent resident. Foreigners under the USMCA typically start with temporary residency and become eligible for permanent residency after four years.

Driving license. US citizens can use their US driving license for the first 90 days as residents. After that, they must convert it to a Mexican license without taking a driving test.

Benefits. Mexico is much more affordable than the US. One person needs around $600 per month, with apartment rent costing around $400 to 1,100 per month depending on the size and location.

Americans are allowed to purchase property in Mexico. They cannot directly own land within 50 kilometres of the coast or 100 kilometres of the border. However, they can hold property through a trust with a Mexican bank acting as a trustee. This arrangement grants foreigners full rights to the property, including selling, renting, or transferring ownership.

The process of buying property typically takes 30 to 60 days.

US expats. Malta hosts a small but active community of US expats. Social groups like the Facebook community “Americans in Malta” provide a platform for expats to share information, advice, and experiences about living in the country.

Location. Malta is a small island nation situated in the central Mediterranean Sea, south of Italy, east of Tunisia, and north of Libya.

Flights from major US cities to Malta take 9 to 12 hours, with no direct options. Most flights include at least one stopover, typically in Europe. Ticket prices for one-way flights range from $400 to 1,000, depending on the departure city, airline, and booking time. Prices are higher during peak travel seasons.

Visa requirement. Under Schengen Area rules, US citizens can stay in Malta for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. For longer stays, a residence permit is required.

Residency option. The Malta Permanent Residence Programme allows foreign investors to obtain lifelong residency without first applying for temporary residency. Applicants must meet several investment requirements, including real estate investment, payment of government fees, and donations.

In case of renting real estate, investors need to sign a lease agreement for at least 5 years. Minimum rental cost is €14,000 per annum. The government fee for this option is €60,000.

If applicants choose to purchase a property, it must cost at least €375,000. The government fee is €30,000.

Other fees for both options include:

• administrative fee — €50,000;

• charitable donation — €2,000.

Investors must confirm assets of at least €500,000, including €150,000 in liquid financial assets. Alternatively, they can confirm €650,000 in total assets, with €75,000 in liquid financial assets.

Family members, including a spouse, children under 29, parents, and grandparents, can also qualify for permanent residency. For each dependent, an additional fee of €5,000 is required.

Individual cost calculation for permanent residence in Malta

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Driving license. Americans can drive in Malta with their US license for up to 12 months after arrival. After this period, they must exchange their US license for a Maltese one. The process does not require a driving test.

Benefits. English being one of the official languages simplifies life for US expats. It makes navigating bureaucracy, understanding legal and governmental processes, and communicating with locals much easier.

Malta is also known for its safety, ranking 12th out of 180 countries according to Insurly. The country is politically stable, has low crime rates, and is free from natural disasters due to its geographical location.

Tyler,

Retiree from the USA

How an American retiree moved to Malta

Tyler, a shareholder in a US real estate development company, wanted to enjoy a slower pace of life upon retirement. Additionally, due to health concerns, he was looking for a country with affordable healthcare.

He approached Immigrant Invest to help him find the ideal option, where he could purchase real estate and secure residency. Within 10 months, Tyler became a permanent resident of Malta.

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US expats. Americans make up 13% of Spain’s foreign population. Spain ranks 12th among the easiest countries to settle in. Foreigners particularly appreciate the leisure, recreational activities, travel options, and affordable healthcare. A US expat shared, "What I like about Spain? Among other things, great healthcare and an accepting culture."

Location. Spain is in southwestern Europe, occupying most of the Iberian Peninsula. It is bordered by Portugal to the west, France and Andorra to the northeast, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south and east.

Flight times from the US vary, with New York to Madrid taking about 7 hours and Los Angeles to Madrid around 10 hours. One-way tickets range from $400 to 1,000, depending on booking time and season.

Visa requirement. Under the Schengen Area rules, US citizens can stay in Spain for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.

Residency option. US expats working remotely for foreign companies, as sole proprietors, or as self-employed professionals can apply for the Digital Nomad Visa.

The main requirement is earning at least €2,646 per month while working remotely. Applicants must also rent or buy real estate in Spain.

Residency is typically issued within four months, and family members—including spouses, children, siblings, parents, and grandparents—can also qualify.

Driving license. US citizens residing in Spain can use their US driving license for the first six months after establishing residency. After this period, they must exchange it for a Spanish driving license without needing to pass a test.

Benefits. Spain offers a low cost of living, with a single person needing about $750 per month, excluding rent. Apartment rentals range from $770 to 1,600 per month, depending on size and location.

Spain also provides excellent living conditions, ranking 11th out of 167 countries on the Legatum Prosperity Index. With reliable infrastructure, accessible basic services, and diverse housing options, Spain ensures a comfortable and secure lifestyle for its residents.

Newborns in Spain become citizens after one year of living in the country. Other family members can apply for citizenship after 10 years. However, Spain does not allow dual citizenship, requiring applicants to renounce their American citizenship.

Digital nomads benefit from a fixed income tax rate of 24% for annual incomes up to €600,000. Income above this amount is taxed at 45%.

US expats. Panama, with a population of over 4.4 million, is home to an estimated 20,000—30,000 US expats. Most Americans reside in Panama City, coastal areas like Coronado and Gorgona, and the mountain town of Boquete. According to the Expat Insider Survey, Panama ranks 4th as one of the easiest countries to settle in and 1st for finding friends.

Location. Panama is geographically close to the US, with direct flights connecting cities like Miami, New York, and Los Angeles to Panama City. Flight times range from 3.5 to 5 hours, with ticket prices between $75 and 350, depending on the departure and arrival cities.

Visa requirement. US citizens can stay in Panama as tourists for up to 180 days without a visa.

Residency option. Pensionado Visa is a residency program designed for retirees, allowing them to live in Panama indefinitely. Applicants must provide proof of a monthly income of at least $1,000 from a government program or private corporation.

The Pensionado program provides with discounts on services like medical care, transport, and entertainment, such as:

• 50% discount on entrance to movie theaters, cultural and sporting events, at hotels during Monday to Thursday;

• 25% discounts on utility bills, on airline tickets;

• 15% off dental and eye exams.

Citizenship is available after five years of living in Panama.

Driving license. US citizens can use their US driving license for up to 90 days as tourists. After this period, they must exchange it for a Panamanian license without needing to pass any driving tests.

Benefits. Panama’s use of the US dollar as its official currency eliminates the need for currency exchange, simplifying financial management for Americans.

The country’s territorial tax system ensures that income earned outside Panama is not taxed. Personal income tax rates range from 0 to 25%, making Panama an attractive destination for those seeking to reduce their global tax burden.

By comparison, US federal income tax rates range from 10 to 37%. Additionally, some US states impose their own tax rates, which range from 0% to about 13%. On top of that, certain cities levy local taxes of up to 5%.

US expats. Approximately 24,000 Americans reside in Greece. The country is ranked 8th among the easiest places to settle and 5th for its welcoming atmosphere, making it an attractive destination for US citizens seeking to relocate.

Location. Greece is in southeastern Europe, bordered by Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey. Direct flights from the US to Greece take between 9 and 11 hours, depending on the departure city and flight path. One-way ticket prices start at approximately $162.

Visa requirement. US citizens can stay in Greece for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa for tourism or business purposes. This is permitted under the Schengen Area agreement, to which Greece belongs.

Residency option. The Golden Visa is a residency option for investors contributing at least €250,000 to the country’s economy. Residence permits are issued within 4 months.

The Greece Golden Visa offers investors nine investment options, with four related to the purchase or rental of real estate.

Family members, including a spouse, children under 24, and parents, can also qualify for residence permits under the Golden Visa program.

Greek citizenship is available after seven years of living in the country.

Driving license. Americans can drive in Greece using their US driving license for up to 185 days. After this period, a Greek driver’s license is required.

To convert a US license to a Greek one, the process must begin in the US at the Greek Consulate corresponding to the applicant’s last US residence. The applicant must obtain a statement from their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles verifying that their license has not been suspended or revoked.

Depending on the state of issuance and existing agreements, some US license holders may need to pass a driving test in Greece.

Benefits. Living in Greece is relatively affordable. Monthly living expenses are around $850. Apartment rents start at $520 and go up to $880 for a three-bedroom flat in city centers.

Investors who become tax residents in Greece can benefit from a flat tax of €100,000 on their global income. Without this exemption, the standard income tax rate of up to 45% applies.

US expats. US citizens make up around 10% of the foreign population in Canada. Social groups like American Citizens Abroad focus on expatriate issues, including taxes and voting rights. The American Women’s Club of Toronto connects American women through events, social activities, and philanthropic efforts.

Location. Canada’s close proximity to the US ensures shorter travel times, making it easier to visit family and friends or maintain business ties. The cultural, linguistic, and time zone similarities between the two countries further ease the transition, minimizing the challenges of adjusting to a new environment.

Visa requirement. Americans can stay in Canada for up to six months without a visa for tourism, business, or leisure purposes. For longer stays, various residency options are available.

Residency options. Canada’s Express Entry is a streamlined immigration program designed for skilled workers, offering permanent residency through a point-based system. US citizens with expertise in fields like technology, healthcare, engineering, and trades often qualify more easily due to their in-demand skills and familiarity with the Canadian job market.

Eligibility is determined by factors such as age, education, work experience, and job offers from Canadian employers.

The Family Class Sponsorship program is another option that allows US expats to obtain permanent residency in Canada if they have close relatives who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents willing to act as sponsors.

Under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, USMCA, US citizens with job offers in sectors like technology, healthcare, and engineering can more easily apply for work visas in Canada. The agreement simplifies the application process, reducing bureaucratic delays and enabling faster access to the Canadian workforce.

Canada offers business immigration programs for entrepreneurs, including the Startup Visa. This program provides permanent residency to innovative entrepreneurs who secure support from a designated Canadian venture capital fund, angel investor group, or business incubator.

All these residency options, except for the USMCA work permit, provide permanent residency. To apply for citizenship, an individual must have lived in Canada for at least three out of the last five years as a permanent resident.

Under the USMCA, foreigners receive a temporary work permit that does not directly lead to permanent residency. However, this permit can be converted to another residency type, such as Express Entry, to access a pathway to permanent residency.

Driving license. Canada has reciprocal agreements with certain US states, enabling US citizens to exchange their driver’s license for a Canadian one without the need for written or road tests. However, some provinces, such as Quebec and Nova Scotia, may require applicants to pass a written or road test to complete the exchange process.

Benefits. One major advantage for US expats is that English is one of Canada’s official languages. This facilitates easy communication, seamless work integration, and smoother daily interactions without the need to learn a new language.

Canada also offers a safe environment, ranking 11th out of 163 countries in the Global Peace Index. Additionally, three Canadian cities—Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto—are listed among the top 15 best cities to live in worldwide, according to the Global Liveability Index.

US expats. US citizens make up about 10% of the foreign population in New Zealand. In Auckland, the country’s largest city, neighbourhoods such as Ponsonby, Grey Lynn, and Herne Bay are popular among expats, including Americans. Social groups like the American Club of Auckland provide opportunities for networking and community engagement.

Location. New Zealand is an island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, southeast of Australia. It comprises two main islands and numerous smaller ones.

Flights from the US to New Zealand take 12 to 16 hours, depending on the departure city. One-way economy tickets range from $600 to 1,200, with prices varying by season and booking time.

Visa requirement. Americans can stay in New Zealand for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes without a visa.

Residency options. For stays exceeding 90 days, foreigners can explore several pathways to residency. The Skilled Migrant Visa is one of the most common options. Applicants must meet a points-based system that considers factors such as age, work experience, and qualifications. A job offer in New Zealand is required to earn points.

The Entrepreneur Visa is designed for those intending to start or invest in a business in New Zealand. Applicants must demonstrate their ability to create jobs and contribute to the economy.

The Work to Residence Visa allows individuals with job offers in skill shortage occupations, such as registered nurses, construction project managers, or software developers, to live and work in New Zealand temporarily. This visa provides the option to apply for permanent residency later.

Family Sponsorship is another pathway, allowing US applicants with family members who are New Zealand citizens or residents to apply for permanent residency.

To obtain New Zealand citizenship, applicants must hold permanent residency for at least five years. During this period, they must spend a minimum of 240 days per year in the country. US expats entering under the Skilled Migrant Visa, Entrepreneur Visa, or Work to Residence Visa are initially granted temporary status for two to three years. After this period, they can apply for permanent residency.

Driving licence. Americans can drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months without exchanging their US license. After this period, they must apply for a New Zealand driver’s license. Depending on their age and experience, applicants may need to take a theory test and, in some cases, a practical driving test.

Benefits. English, one of New Zealand’s official languages alongside Māori and New Zealand Sign Language, is the primary language used in government, business, and education. It is widely spoken across the country, making daily life easier for US expats.

New Zealand is celebrated for its high quality of life, ranking 10th out of 167 countries in the Legatum Prosperity Index. The country offers low corruption levels, a clean environment, strong social norms, and a favorable investment climate. Auckland, consistently listed among the top 10 best cities worldwide, is noted for its stunning natural surroundings, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant cultural scene.

US expats. Approximately 120,000 US citizens live in Costa Rica. The country ranks 7th as one of the easiest places to settle and make friends.

Location. Costa Rica is a Central American country bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the south, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east.

Flights from major US cities to Costa Rica take approximately 3.5 to 5 hours. One-way ticket prices range from $100 to 350.

Visa requirement. US citizens can stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa.

Residency options. For stays longer than 90 days, Costa Rica provides residency programs like the Pensionado Program for retirees and the Rentista Program for those with stable incomes.

Under the Pensionado Program, applicants must show a minimum monthly income of $1,000 from government-approved sources such as pensions or social security. This permit allows retirees to live indefinitely in Costa Rica and import household goods and one vehicle tax-free.

The Rentista Program requires proof of a stable monthly income of $2,500 from sources like self-employment or business income. Alternatively, applicants can deposit $60,000 into a Costa Rican bank as evidence of financial stability. Participants can also import household goods and a car tax-free.

After holding residency for at least seven years under either program, expats are eligible to apply for Costa Rican citizenship.

Driving license. US citizens can drive in Costa Rica with their US license for up to 90 days. Beyond that, they must exchange it for a Costa Rican license without needing to pass a driving test.

Benefits. Costa Rica values personal freedom, ranking among the top 20 countries in the Legatum Prosperity Index. It is known for its strong commitment to democracy, equality, and individual rights. The country’s political stability and decision to abolish its military further emphasise its focus on freedom of expression and movement.

The low cost of living is another advantage. A single person requires about $870 per month, while apartment rents range from $500 to 1,400, depending on location and size.

US expats. Americans comprise 6% of Australia’s foreign population. Social groups like Americans in Sydney and the American Club of Melbourne provide regular meet-ups, cultural events, and networking opportunities for US expats.

Location. Australia is a vast island nation and continent located in the Southern Hemisphere, bordered by the Indian Ocean to the west, the Pacific Ocean to the east, and situated southeast of Asia.

Direct flights connect major US cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York to Australian cities such as Sydney and Melbourne. Flight times range from 14 to 16 hours, with ticket prices varying from $300 to 750, depending on the season.

Visa requirement. US citizens can stay in Australia for up to 90 days without a visa.

Residency options. Australia provides several residency pathways. The Skilled Migration Visa is tailored for workers in high-demand sectors such as software engineering, nursing, construction project management, and electrical work. Applicants must be under 45 years old and meet a points-based threshold, which considers age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.

Employer-Sponsored Visas are another option for US citizens with job offers from Australian employers in fields facing skill shortages, such as healthcare, finance, or engineering. Employers must demonstrate that no local worker can fill the position.

Both visa options allow expats to gain temporary or permanent residency. Australian citizenship is available after four years of living in the country with a permanent residence permit.

Driving license. US citizens can drive in Australia on their US license for up to three months. After this period, they must apply for a local license, a process that typically does not require retaking driving tests, although a vision test may be needed.

Benefits. As English is Australia’s official language, US expats can easily integrate into daily life without the need to learn a new language. This simplifies communication when dealing with bureaucracy, healthcare, and employment.

Australia offers an exceptional quality of life, with several cities consistently ranked among the best in the Global Liveability Index 2024. Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Perth, and Brisbane feature in the top 20, recognized for their excellent healthcare, education, infrastructure, and stability. These cities also offer rich cultural experiences and outdoor recreational opportunities, making Australia an attractive destination for US expats.

US expats. US citizens account for around 10% of Germany’s foreign population. Many American expats participate in local social groups such as the American Women’s Club of Berlin and the American Chamber of Commerce in Germany, fostering community and networking opportunities.

Location. Germany is located in central Europe, bordered by Denmark to the north, Poland and the Czech Republic to the east, Austria and Switzerland to the south, and France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands to the west.

Direct flights from the US to Germany take 7 to 9 hours, with flights from the West Coast taking around 10 to 11 hours. One-way ticket prices range from $400 to 800.

Visa requirement. US nationals can stay in Germany for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or short-term visits.

Residency option. For long-term stays, US expats can apply for a Freelance Visa. This visa is available to self-employed individuals and freelancers in sectors such as tech and creative industries. Applicants must provide proof of income, typically around $2,000—2,500 per month, along with evidence of work contracts or client demand.

Citizenship in Germany is granted after eight years of legal residence. The period can be shortened to seven years with the completion of an integration course or to six years for exceptional integration efforts, such as fluency in German and active community involvement.

Driving license. To exchange a US driving license for a German one, applicants need to submit their US license, proof of residency, and complete a vision test. Depending on the federal state, additional theoretical and practical driving exams may be required.

Benefits. Germany ranks 9th out of 167 countries in the Legatum Prosperity Index, offering excellent living conditions, a high level of personal freedom, and easy access to goods and services. The country also provides a favourable environment for running a business.

Frankfurt is listed among the top 20 best cities to live in worldwide. Germany is one of Europe’s safest countries, with Munich ranked 11th out of 352 cities globally for safety.

Residency options. Countries like Portugal, Malta, and Greece are among the easiest for Americans to immigrate to, thanks to residency options for investors and digital nomads.

Immigrant Invest assists US citizens in applying for Portuguese, Maltese, and Greek residence permits. The team guides applicants through all requirements and procedures, from gathering the necessary documents to issuing residency cards.

Ease of settling. Factors such as local culture, friendliness, opportunities to make friends, and the welcoming attitude of the host country play a crucial role in how easily one can settle in a new location.

Pathway to citizenship. All the listed countries allow residents to apply for citizenship after holding residency for a specific period. The waiting times vary, with Portugal and Mexico offering some of the fastest pathways, enabling residents to obtain passports in five years.

English proficiency. English is widely spoken in all the listed countries, facilitating adaptation for Americans. In Portugal and Spain, English is commonly used in daily life and business. In Malta, Canada, and New Zealand, English is an official language, which simplifies communication and bureaucratic processes.

Currency. Understanding local currencies and exchange rates is essential for financial planning. Countries with stable currencies, such as EU nations using the Euro or Panama with the US Dollar, provide more predictability for long-term financial management.

The Australian Dollar and New Zealand Dollar are relatively stable but may fluctuate due to commodity exports and global trade dynamics. In contrast, the Mexican Peso tends to be more volatile, influenced by inflation and political factors.

Costa Rica’s currency, while less prominent in global trade, remains stable within the local economy, making it reliable for domestic transactions. However, international dealings may experience occasional exchange rate variations.

1. Portugal, Greece, and Malta are among the easiest EU countries for Americans to immigrate to. In Portugal, Malta, and Greece, investors can obtain residency by investment.

2. Malta, Portugal, and Spain offer residency options for digital nomads.

3. Mexico is considered the easiest country to settle in.

4. Panama and Costa Rica attract US retirees through their Pensionado Programmes.

5. Australia and New Zealand host a significant number of American expats, offering various residency visas for skilled workers.

6. When choosing a destination, Americans should evaluate factors such as residency options, English proficiency, currency stability, ease of settling, cost of living, family relocation possibilities, and future pathways to citizenship.