10 best countries for relocation from the United States in 2025
Since the November election, interest in moving abroad has attained new heights among Americans, as more recent research shows that 17 percent of Americans are considering relocating outside the United States within the next five years, and another 5 percent are active in making plans to do so. This escalation reflects a larger trend: it is estimated that around 9 million U.S. citizens currently live abroad and the number seems to continue rising as more people seek a better quality of life, improved work-life balance, and race from the rising costs and political undercurrents.
Americans are weighing more factors than ever before when deciding where to relocate. These include factors such as easy travel access, social and political stability, finding a job within that country, quality of healthcare, and, last but not least, what process to gain residency or work permits.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the best countries to move to from USA, including those with special programs designed to attract foreign residents. Whether you’re looking for English-speaking environments, vibrant European culture, or improved economic prospects, these destinations stand out as excellent options for U.S. expatriates.
5 Main Reasons Why More Americans Are Considering Life Abroad
1. Escaping Expensive Cost of Living
Heavy costs of housing, healthcare, education, and everyday necessities are pushing many Americans towards the consideration of countries where their dollar goes further. If you take a look at Portugal, Spain, or Italy, A reasonable lifestyle with suitable amenities would cost a fraction of what it would in the U.S. This could even serve as a means to help earn one’s way into retirement.
2. Pursuing a Better Quality of Life
Many Americans feel burdened by long working hours, limited vacation, and inadequate work-life balance. In contrast, countries such as Finland, France, and Norway offer shorter workweeks, generous paid leave, and robust social safety nets.
For instance, inside the EU, there’s a guarantee of 4 paid weeks off for vacationing based on an average of 10 days in the U.S. For maternity leave, the EU requires a minimum of 14 paid weeks compared to NO statutory requirements in America! Other reasons driving migration away from the U.S. could include crime and gun violence, resulting in a growing feeling of security and stability among other countries.
3. Seeking Cultural Enrichment
There are strong desires to experience different cultures and learn different languages and lifestyles, prompted mainly by this urge for an experience that brings many young people and others abroad. The opportunities for individual growth that come with living abroad and expanding horizons are different from purely touristic experiences.
4. Responding to Political and Social Climate
In some cases, these same political imbalances, dissatisfaction with the government’s policies, and systemic challenges prompt groups of Americans to seek out those countries that fairly embody their values and that can offer a more stable or inclusive environment.
5. Planning for Retirement
Increasingly, retirees are heading abroad to maximize their savings while finding a higher standard of living. Many are looking for warm weather, health care, and a better lifestyle. Portugal, Spain, France, and some Caribbean islands are particularly attractive to retirees, offering transport, entertainment, and health care discounts.
10 best countries for relocation from United States in 2025
If you’re considering a fresh start abroad, there are plenty of appealing options around the world. From vibrant cities to peaceful coastal towns, these countries offer a mix of lifestyle benefits, career opportunities, and cultural richness. Let’s explore some of the top destinations worth considering for your next big move.
Portugal
Portugal is a top choice for Americans seeking relocation, thanks to its high quality of life, affordable living, safety, and multiple visa options.
Visa-Free Short Stays:
U.S. citizens can visit Portugal for up to 90 days without a visa for tourism, business, or family visits.
Long-Term Residency Options:
- Digital Nomad Visa (D8): For remote workers and freelancers earning at least €3,480/month; allows a one-year stay, access to healthcare, and a pathway to citizenship after five years.
- D7 (Retirement/Passive Income) Visa: For those with passive income (minimum ~€820–€870/month); grants residency, access to public services, and eligibility for permanent residency or citizenship after five years.
- Golden Visa: Requires a minimum investment of €500,000 in an investment fund with additional costs for legal fees and application.
Benefits:
Universal healthcare, access to education, visa-free travel within the Schengen Area, and potential tax advantages.
Portugal’s streamlined immigration system, modern infrastructure, and welcoming culture make it especially attractive for retirees, digital nomads, and investors. Visit here to learn more about the Portugal D7 Visa.
Spain
Spain attracts Americans with its sunny climate, affordable living, excellent healthcare, vibrant culture, and diverse landscapes. Residency options are now more accessible, with several visa pathways:
Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers and freelancers earning at least €2,763 per month. The visa is valid for one year and can be converted to a renewable 3-year residence permit.
Non-Lucrative Visa: For retirees or those with sufficient passive income (about €28,800 annually). Holders cannot work in Spain but can progress to permanent residency and citizenship.
Other Options: Student, employment, and entrepreneur visas are also available for long-term stays.
All options provide access to Spain’s public healthcare and education, with a path to permanent residency after five years and citizenship after ten years of continuous residency. See in detail here!
Antigua & Barbuda
Antigua & Barbuda is a top choice for Americans seeking a tropical lifestyle, easy access from the US, and a tax-friendly regime.
Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 150 destinations including Hong Kong, Russia, Singapore, the UK, and Europe’s Schengen Area
Antigua & Barbuda offers one of the most affordable and flexible Citizenship by Investment Programs in the Caribbean. U.S. citizens can apply for citizenship through several options:
- $230,000 donation to the National Development Fund
- $260,000 donation to the University of the West Indies
- $300,000 real estate investment (joint option available)
Applicants must be at least 18 years old, successfully pass a due diligence check, and make a qualifying investment in the country. Additionally, eligible dependents can include the applicant’s spouse, children, siblings, and parents over the age of 55.
The program allows dual citizenship, so there’s no need to renounce your current nationality. It also has minimal physical presence requirements-applicants are only required to spend a total of five days in the country over a five-year period. The application process is relatively quick, typically taking around six to seven months to complete.
With 365 beaches and a vibrant expat community, the islands offer an ideal setting for those seeking a laid-back lifestyle. There are no taxes on worldwide income, capital gains, or inheritance, making it especially attractive for global citizens. The cost of living is approximately 20% lower than in the US, and affordable property options are widely available. Combined with a stable political climate and easy access to both North America and Europe, the nation stands out as a highly desirable place to live or own a second home.
Switzerland
Switzerland is among the world’s most expensive countries. For a single person, monthly costs typically range from CHF 3,000 to CHF 5,000, depending on location and lifestyle. For a family of four, estimates range from about CHF 5,300 to CHF 6,700 per month (excluding rent), and total annual costs for a family can reach CHF 100,000–150,000.
Languages: Swiss German is most common; English is widely spoken.
Climate: Continental, with four distinct seasons.
Education: Free public schools, top-ranked universities, and international school options.
Residency: Financially independent individuals can obtain a residence permit by paying a lump-sum tax (minimum CHF 450,000/year), but cannot work in Switzerland.
Housing: Renting is common; buying property is difficult for non-residents and expensive.
Path to Citizenship: Permanent residency is possible after 10 years.
Vanuatu
Vanuatu, a tropical paradise in the South Pacific comprising 80 stunning islands, presents an ideal setting for retirement. Nestled near Australia and New Zealand, it offers a peaceful escape far from the stresses of everyday life.
Citizenship comes with a range of benefits, including favorable tax policies, strong asset protection, and a reliable legal system. There is no personal income tax, wealth tax, or inheritance tax. With political stability and ongoing economic development, Vanuatu also appeals to global investors and entrepreneurs.
Some of the privileges of Vanuatu citizenship include adding a spouse and children under 25 to a single application, passing citizenship on to future generations, no minimum residency requirement, and no age or education requirement.
This country offers citizenship and permanent residency by investment, all with a facilitated and flexible application process.
To qualify for Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment Program, applicants must have a clean criminal record, meet the minimum investment requirement, pass a medical examination, and provide proof of a legitimate source of funds.
Under the Vanuatu Development Support Program (DSP), the required non-refundable government donation is :
- Single applicant: US$130,000
- Applicant with spouse: US$150,000
- Family of 3: US$165,000
- Family of 4: US$180,000
- Each additional qualifying dependent, of any age: US$15,000
Vanuatu passports are valid for 10 years for adult holders, offering long-term convenience and travel flexibility. Citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 90 countries, enhancing global mobility. The program also features a fast-track processing system, with approvals typically completed within just 2 to 3 months. Vanuatu is especially appealing to individuals looking for a peaceful retreat, enhanced travel freedom, and a high-quality tropical lifestyle.
Nauru
Nauru, the world’s smallest island nation, is less conventional but offers a tranquil lifestyle and a close-knit community.
Through its Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program, Nauru grants citizenship to individuals who make a financial contribution toward the country’s sustainable development. This is a citizenship by investment initiative, designed for those seeking an alternative passport with meaningful global mobility.
With a clear focus on sustainability, Nauru is building a resilient future for its citizens, one that balances economic progress with environmental responsibility.
Visa-free or on-arrival access to major business and tourism centers, including the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the UAE, makes travel across borders easier.
To be eligible for the citizenship by investment program, applicants must make a financial contribution to support Nauru’s sustainable development and climate resilience efforts (Contribution to the Treasury Fund of Nauru).
- Single Applicant: USD 105,000
- Family (Up to 3 Dependents): USD 110,000
- Family (4 or More Dependents): USD 115,000
- Additional Sibling (of Principal Applicant or Spouse): USD 15,000
Additional Government and Due Diligence fees are applicable. This program offers a clear and efficient route to second citizenship, while actively contributing to Nauru’s sustainable development and climate resilience goals.
Eligibility Requirements for the Nauru Citizenship Program
To be eligible for the Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program, applicants must fulfill the following criteria:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Maintain a clean personal and financial record, with no criminal background.
- Demonstrate verifiable proof of legally obtained funds.
As one of the most recent programs available, it has quickly gained attention among high-net-worth individuals seeking a fast and reliable route to a second passport.
With its straightforward process and attractive benefits, this program is in high demand and is becoming a preferred choice for those looking to expand their global mobility. The program’s exclusivity and ease of access make it an appealing option for investors looking for a strategic move in today’s competitive world. See in detail
Canada
Canada is a top destination for Americans due to its strong economy, high quality of life, and welcoming immigration policies. A Canadian passport allows visa-free travel to 180+ countries.
Ease of Access: US citizens can visit for up to 180 days without a visa; longer stays require a visa or residence permit.
Healthcare: Universal, publicly funded healthcare for residents, with coverage details varying by province.
Immigration Pathways: Multiple options, including:
- Express Entry: Fastest route for skilled workers, based on a points system.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): For those with skills in demand in specific provinces.
- Family Sponsorship: For those with close family in Canada.
- Quebec Investor Program: Requires CAD 2 million net worth, CAD 1 million investment, French proficiency, and intent to reside in Quebec; citizenship is possible after three years.
- Other Options: Study permits, work permits, and programs for entrepreneurs and caregivers.
St. Lucia
St. Lucia, an independent isle of the Commonwealth in the Caribbean, has become famous due to its natural beauty, sound economy, and strong tourist industry. It provides an accommodating atmosphere for potential investors and is a member of various global and regional bodies such as the UN, CARICOM, and OECS.
The St. Lucia Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program is among the most efficient and cost-effective worldwide, offering advantages such as visa-free travel to 140 countries, dual citizenship, tax exemption, and no residency requirement.
St. Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment Program offers investors four distinct pathways to obtain citizenship.
- These include a non-refundable contribution to the National Economic Fund starting from USD 240,000 for a single applicant and up to three dependents.
- Another option is purchasing government-approved real estate at a cost of not less than USD 300,000 held for at least five years.
- Thirdly, the applicant can buy a non-interest-bearing government bond of USD 300,000, together with an administrative fee of $50,000 for five years only.
Greece
Greece offers a beautiful Mediterranean climate, rich culture, and one of the lowest costs of living in the EU—about 30% lower than the US.
Cost of Living: Single person: €800–€1,200/month (excluding rent); family of four: €2,700–€3,500/month. Rent for a one-bedroom in central Athens: €700–€1,200/month.
Golden Visa: Greece offers a Golden Visa program for non-EU citizens who invest a minimum of €400,000 to €800,000 in residential property. This investment grants a five-year residence permit, which is renewable indefinitely.
Education: High-quality, with international and bilingual schools, especially in Athens.
Tax Benefits: Expats and investors may receive up to 15 years of tax breaks.
Path to Citizenship: Eligible after 7 years of residency.
Greece’s economy is growing, with inflation projected at 2–2.5% through 2027. Greece is also considered very safe and maintains EU-standard healthcare and infrastructure.
Malta
Malta continues to attract Americans with its stunning Mediterranean climate, English-speaking population, and excellent healthcare and education systems.
Its location within the European Union makes it an appealing hub for individuals who travel frequently across Europe. The island offers a high quality of life, a stable economy, and thriving industries in tech, finance, and tourism.
With a cost of living nearly 30% lower than in the US and a vibrant expat community, Malta is an ideal destination for those seeking a safe, culturally rich environment in Europe.
How UNO Capital Helps
We hope you found this blog insightful. If you have any more questions on the best countries to move to from the USA, we are here to help.
UNO Capital provides excellent guidance and important advice for U.S. citizens and other relocators to help establish new beginnings in another country. Our team offers personalized support with visas, residency, and citizenship programs to ensure a seamless transition and a successful new start abroad.
Whether you’re looking at St. Lucia, Antigua & Barbuda, or another option, we’re here to guide you. For a free consultation, we would appreciate you contacting us. We will check if it is suitable for you and guide you through the process. Contact us today at +971 4 393 0 393 or email info@uno-capital.com.
