How to Move Out of the US: Your Practical Guide to Your Next Adventure

More than 5.1 million Americans now live outside the USA, seeking a change in lifestyle. And perhaps you’re considering the same – to kickstart a new life abroad. Perhaps you’re looking for a new adventure, on the hunt to score a better quality of life, want to enjoy your retirement to the max, or to unlock investment potential outside the USA. Well, you’re pretty spoilt for choice by the array of attractive countries to choose from.

In this handy guide, we’ll give you a rundown of the top countries to consider relocating to and answering the big one – just how to move out of the US. We have you covered.

Eight Reasons American Expats are Moving Abroad

So, before we get to the HOW, let’s kick things off with the WHY. Just why are more Americans than ever before seeking to relocate abroad?

Key reasons why Americans are taking the plunge include the high cost of living in the USA, expensive healthcare, dissatisfaction with work and work-life imbalance, political and social unrest, limited economic opportunities, and pull factors, including greater tax efficiency and more affordable education overseas. In the section below, we unravel this a bit more.

1. Lower cost of living

Many Americans seek a lower cost of living as prices have been increasing significantly in America in recent years. When you compare the cost of living in America with Portugal or Spain, for example, then you can see that the cost of living in America is more than 63 percent higher than Portugal and 60 percent higher than Spain. Many Americans are seeking out countries where they can access affordable and high-quality healthcare and housing and keep daily life costs down.

2. Better healthcare

Healthcare in America is notoriously expensive and is considered one of the key factors why US nationals are seeking alternatives overseas, where they can have access to excellent public healthcare services and affordable private healthcare insurance options.

3. Career opportunities

While the USA is known as being a melting pot of various industries, such as tech, finance, and creative arts, many US nationals are increasingly dissatisfied with the work-life balance or face job dissatisfaction, leading many to look for prospects abroad. According to a recent study by the Pew Research Center, most workers feel satisfied with their relationship with their co-workers and manager, but much less so when it comes to pay and opportunities for promotion.

4. Retirement

Several Americans seek out countries with better weather, a more relaxed pace of life, and lower living costs to enjoy their golden years to the fullest. Many also look to take up activities such as water sports or golfing that they may not have time to commit to while they are working full-time.

5. Tax benefits

Moving to a country that has more favorable tax exemptions and policies can help individuals plan better and manage their wealth, with some countries offering no taxes on foreign-earned income, reduced corporate taxes, and lower income taxes.

6. Higher quality of life

Americans often relocate abroad to be able to enjoy a better work-life balance, greater safety and security, and a more relaxed pace of life. The Google search for “how to escape America” and “how to get out of America” has been at a high in recent months, for whatever reason, but many of these are surely searching to see if it is possible to secure a better quality of life overseas, with more affordable healthcare, education opportunities, and a more relaxed pace of life.

7. Cultural exploration and adventure

The thrill of living abroad and kicking off a new adventure is as exciting as it comes. Many people relocate abroad to get to know another culture and plunge headfirst into immersing themselves in the customs, language, and way of life aboard. Most countries across the world take a little while to get used to, but this is part of the magic of relocating abroad. Whether you are a retiree, a young professional, or are moving with family, you won’t fail to be in wonder by seeing firsthand the vibes of a new foreign country.

8. Education

While the USA has excellent education, other countries also have top education systems that are often more affordable. This is a major draw factor for families looking to relocate overseas and goes hand in hand with expats relocating to enjoy a better quality of life, where they will have more time to enjoy with their families.

9. Escape from high crime rates

The USA has a relatively high crime rate compared to many other countries. As such, many seek a safer country to relocate to or bring up a family. Scandinavian countries, Ireland, Austria, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland, and Portugal, are considered to be amongst the safest countries in the world, each ranking highly in the 2024 Global Peace Index.

Best Citizenship by Investment Options for American Expats

One of the key advantages of moving abroad is the possibility of securing citizenship in another country. Particularly against the current geopolitical backdrop of having a second passport, or a Plan B passport, can provide you with increased security, greater mobility, and better investment opportunities.

Below, in this section of our How to Move Out of the US article, we outline some countries, from Europe to the Caribbean, that offer the best citizenship by investment or residency options.

Malta

For American expats seeking out a high quality of life, sublime weather, and an easy pathway to residency and citizenship through property investments, then Malta is a safe bet. Plus, English is an official language here, making transition to local life that bit easier.

The Malta Citizenship with Naturalization for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment program provides applicants with a route to secure citizenship in as little as 12 or 26 months. This will depend on the chosen pathway, provided you make a significant property investment, government contribution, and philanthropic donation.

The Malta Residency by Investment Program program also offers a fast-track route to permanent residency in exchange for a real estate investment, a non-refundable government contribution, and a donation.

Benefits of living in Malta

• You’ll be able to enjoy a high quality of life with excellent healthcare and education systems.
• English is widely spoken, with no language barriers, making integration easy.
• You’ll have access to the entire EU and Schengen Zone with visa-free travel.
• Enjoy a Mediterranean climate, unique historical sites, and delicious gastronomy.
• Malta is one of the safest countries in Europe and has a low crime rate.

Antigua and Barbuda

Americans are no strangers to the Caribbean, with millions of US nationals visiting each year. Antigua and Barbuda, well known for its pristine beaches, high-end resorts, and vibrant rainforests, is a top choice for US expats looking for a better quality of life amidst a dreamy island backdrop.

The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment program is highly attractive to US nationals, providing a route for them and their families to secure citizenship in return for an investment of $230,000 (€223,187). This investment is usually made through making a donation to the National Development Fund or through an investment of $300,000 (€291,114) as a property investment or a business.

Benefits of living in Antigua and Barbuda

• The entire immigration process takes as little as four to six months, and the only residency requirement is a short five-day stay within the first five years.
• You’ll be able to tap into visa-free access to 148 countries.
• Enjoy tax benefits, which include no wealth tax, gift tax, inheritance tax, and capital gains tax.
• Experience gorgeous beaches in an invariably safe country, where you can embrace the vibrant beat of the Caribbean lifestyle.

Vanuatu

The Vanuatu Citizenship by Investment program is a top choice for US nationals looking to optimize their taxes. Vanuatu is a tax-free haven in many ways, with no income tax, inheritance tax, or capital gains taxes. Located in the South Pacific, there are also no corporate taxes, making it a top choice for US-based businesses interested in relocating overseas.

Americans can secure citizenship with a $130,000 (€126870) contribution to the National Development Fund, with the process noted for being fast – you’ll be granted a passport within 60 days. You’ll just have to pay the annual registration fee and make a small pension fund contribution and you’re good to go.

Benefits of living in Vanuatu

• Vanuatu has no personal income, inheritance, or capital gains taxes.
• The island nation offers a relaxed lifestyle and affordable local goods and services.
• Residency options are available for retirees.
• The country is safe, with low crime rates.

Dominica

Dominica is one of the most stunning islands in the Caribbean, home to beautiful natural landscapes and where nature is firmly at the forefront of island life. As such, there is a key focus on eco-tourism and sustainability. Dominica has championed a regeneration project of its forests, under an initiative that was supported by the Dominican government, enabling the natural ecosystem to flourish once again.

For those seeking out citizenship in a country that promotes sustainability, the Dominica Citizenship by Investment scheme allows you to do just that, requiring just a $200,000 (€194,075) contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund or a real estate purchase also with at least $200,000 (€194,075). The short processing time and short residency requirements add to its appeal.

Benefits of living in Dominica

• Dominica’s processing time is short, taking just six to nine months to complete.
• Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment program has no residency requirements.
• Dominica is an English-speaking country with a relaxed, easy-going vibe.
• The island is one of the safest countries in the Caribbean, with a low crime rate.

Grenada

An idyllic island in the Caribbean that is sure to capture your heart as soon as you touch down. Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment program is a top choice for Americans seeking a safe country to relocate to. The visa-free travel to over 140 countries, including the UK and the Schengen Area, are further bows in its quiver. To apply, you will need to make a donation of $235,000 (€240,355) to the National Transformation Fund (NTF) or make an investment of $270,000 (€259,584) in shares of a government-approved real estate project or $350,000 (€336,498) in a single unit of an approved Grenada real estate project.

Benefits of living in Grenada

• No tax on foreign income, inheritance, or capital gains.
• Visa-free travel to more than 140 countries.
• You’ll find beautiful beaches galore, with welcoming locals and a low crime rate.

St. Kitts and Nevis

The last Caribbean country in this rundown of the best citizenship-by-investment programs. Home to a captivating shoreline, unreal mountains, and a lush rainforest, St Kitts and Nevis is a firm favorite when it comes to Americans seeking an easy route to move out of the US. Life abroad in St Kitts and Nevis is a good one.

This island nation offers one of the easiest citizenship-by-investment programs and has a short processing time of just four to six months. The minimum investment is $250,000 (€242,751), and you will need to invest in the Sustainable Growth Fund. Another option under the program is a property investment of $325,000 (€376,933)

Benefits of living in St. Kitts and Nevis

• Enjoy visa-free travel to 160 countries, including the UK and the EU.
• Make use of tax benefits, including no personal income tax, inheritance taxes, or capital gains.
• St Kitts and Nevis is a politically stable country with a stunning climate and welcoming locals, making moving abroad here a breeze.

The Best Visas for Americans

So, the question comes to your mind “I want to move out of the US”. But how to leave the United States? And what are the best countries for American expats? Well, the countries below offer some of the easiest routes to secure residency.

Spain Non-lucrative Visa

Many countries are on the hitlist of Americans seeking to relocate abroad, but as European countries go, Spain is a top contender. With a vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and welcoming locals that will make you feel right at home, Spain has much to offer.

The Spain Non-lucrative Visa is an easy pathway to secure residency in Spain. To apply, you will need to have a monthly income of around ($2,496) (€2,400) per month or around $29,956 (€28,800) in annual wages and will need to be working remotely. This visa is valid for a one-year period but can then be renewed twice for two additional years each time, a total of five years of residency. After this, you can apply for permanent residency in Spain. You will need to spend at least 183 days each year in Spain and continually demonstrate that you have sufficient income to support yourself when you renew the visa.

Note that there is also a Spain Golden Visa program, whereby you can secure residency in Spain in return for an investment into the country, although this highly popular program end on 3 April 2025.

Benefits of Spain Non-lucrative Visa

• The Spain Non-lucrative Visa allows you to relocate to the country without first needing a job offer in the country.
• You’ll be able to tap into the excellent healthcare in the country.
• Enjoy one of the world’s most vibrant cultures, with welcoming locals and glorious weather to boot.
• You’ll be able to bring dependents (spouse and children) with you.
• The ability to apply for permanent residency after five years and citizenship after ten years.
• You’ll be able to travel to other Schengen European countries for up to three months (90 days).

Portugal D7 Visa

Moving to Portugal has proved to be immensely popular amongst American expats in recent years, with Lisbon, the Algarve (particularly Lagos), Porto, and the Silver Coast highly sought-after locations.

Portugal’s D7 Visa, also known as the retirement visa or passive income visa, allows retirees and expats to relocate to Portugal provided they have a passive income of €870 per month, which comes to around $811. This visa option has become one of the most popular amongst Americans seeking to relocate to Portugal, alongside the country’s residency-by-investment Golden Visa program and Digital Nomad Visa.

Portugal is one of the most sought-after countries for Americans, with US nationals among the top nationalities securing a residency permit in Portugal. Factor in marvellous weather throughout the year, an affordable – yet high- cost of living, an excellent education and healthcare system, and a welcoming population, and Portugal may very well be the best country for Americans to relocate to right now. The affordable cost of living in Portugal vs. the USA is a key element to many Americans’ decision to relocate to Portugal. The fact that English is widely spoken and that Portugal ranks in seventh position in the Global Passport Index adds to its appeal.

Benefits of the D7 Visa

• Possibility to relocate to Portugal with a passive income, which can come from investments, pension funds, real estate, intellectual property, etc.
• Access to Portugal’s excellent healthcare system for a minimal cost with private healthcare very affordable when compared with the USA.
• 51 highly regarded international schools, with a range of curricula, learning styles, and competitive fees compared to the USA.
• Portugal has a low cost of living compared with the USA, with the cost of living around 36-39 percent lower in Portugal compared with the USA.
• Dependents can be included in the application for an additional fee (50 percent more for a spouse, 30 percent for each child).
• You’ll be able to travel to other Schengen European countries for up to three months (90 days) without needing to get a tourist visa.

Italy Digital Nomad Visa

Italy is world-renowned for housing arguably the best cuisine in the world.

This, alongside its sparkling climate, stunning landscapes, and bustling cities, such as Rome and Milan, makes it one of the stand-out countries in Europe for American expats.

The Italy Digital Nomad Visa is a top choice for remote workers for foreign (non-Italian) companies who earn €2,066 (around $2,128) per month.

they will also need to show that they have sufficient funds to support themselves and continued proof of employment. Alongside the Digital Nomad Visa, the Italy Golden Visa is another popular option.

Benefits of the Italy Digital Nomad Visa

• Remote workers have a relatively easy route to Italian residency.
• You’ll be able to access Italy’s public healthcare system.
• There is a potential pathway to permanent residency or citizenship.
• You’ll be able to travel to other Schengen European countries for up to three months (90 days).
• Dependents can be included in the same visa.
• You can enjoy life in one of the most captivating and exciting countries in the world, rich in history and culture.

Mexico (Temporary Resident Visa and Permanent Resident Visa)

Mexico’s proximity is a big plus for Americans – as is the relatively affordable cost of living here.

The Temporary Resident Visa allows stays from six months to four years with relatively low-income requirements, making it ideal for retirees, remote workers, and entrepreneurs.

For those seeking to relocate to Mexico over a longer time period the Permanent Resident Visa is the better option, affording you with similar rights to a Mexican citizen, albeit without the right to vote.

Benefits of living in Mexico

• Affordable living compared with the USA, with the cost of living in Mexico around half that of the USA
• Beautiful climate and diverse landscapes, from tropical beaches to unique highlands, and bustling cities such as Mexico City, Puebla, and Oaxaca.
• A culture unlike any other, with vibrant traditions and one of the most flavorsome cuisines in the world
• Conveniently located close to America with strong expat communities (depending on where you choose to live in Mexico)

Costa Rica (Pensioner Visa)

The list of stunning countries offering beautiful landscapes and incredible weather continues. And this time we are in Costa Rica, well known for its long life expectancy, relaxed pace of life, and friendly locals. Perfect for Americans seeking out a top retirement spot, the Penionado program is tailored towards retirees who have a stable pension income.

Benefits of living in Costa Rica

• No significant financial investment is required
• You will just need to maintain residency in Costa Rica by staying in the country for just one day per year
• Access to the public healthcare system
• Be able to enjoy life to the fullest in a country with a relaxed vibe and with low living costs
• The opportunity to bring dependents with you,, alongside being able to apply for permanent residency after three years.

Belize (Qualified Retirement Program)

Another firm favorite with American retirees is the Belize Qualified Retirement Program, providing a pathway to residency for retirees from the USA, Commonwealth countries, and EU member countries.

The official language in Belize is English, making it easy for US nationals to integrate into the community. The program has no residency requirement, but applicants will need to show they have about $2,000 per month or $24,000 annually.

Benefits of living in Belize

• An exemption from Belizean income tax on global income.
• There is no minimum stay requirement to maintain residency in the country.
• You will have the opportunity to include dependents under the program.
• English is the official language of Belize, making integration easier.

Steps to Moving Out of the United States

So, now you have some key info on which countries offer the best options to get a visa or residency permit – whether you’re a retiree, remote worker, or seeking to relocate with your family to secure a better quality of life.

In this section of our article, How to Move Out of the US, we present you with an easy-to-digest step-by-step guide so you can have a clear plan of action on how to relocate abroad.

Step one: Choose a destination country

There are some countries that are typically considered to be the easiest countries to immigrate to in 2025. Moving out of the US is a massive choice and one that you should not make in a hurry. Do you want to live in Central America, in Europe, or elsewhere? Choosing which country is right for you takes time and you may well want to visit the countries you are considering a few times before deciding for sure.

An important aspect of choosing a destination country is to think about your reasons for relocating and your goals for moving out of the USA.

This may be:

• Seeking better career opportunities: Choose a country with a strong and stable job market, or that has a business-friendly environment.
• Living costs and taxes: Look out for countries that have attractive tax regimes where you will pay fewer taxes at the end of the day, and countries that offer a more affordable lifestyle.
• Quality of life: Climate and lifestyle are two massive things when it comes to relocating – decide if you’re looking for a warmer climate or cooler weather, alongside if you would prefer to live in the city, by the coast, or in the countryside.
• Political stability: Choose a country that has a stable government and where there is low risks of political unrest. A stable political system generally leads to a stable socio-economic climate.
• Healthcare and education: Choosing a country that has accessible, affordable, and good quality healthcare is a big one, so check out the country’s healthcare system. Alongside, this, should you be relocating with children, take a look at the schools and education opportunities on offer.

Step two: choose the right visa

Depending on your current situation and preference, apply for the appropriate visa. Many countries will have work visas, student visas, retirement visas, and residency-by-investment (Golden Visas) or citizenship-by-investment visas. Increasingly, many countries, such as Italy and Portugal, also have visas specifically tailored for remote workers seeking to relocate but work for a foreign employer.

Step three: Residency or citizenship

When relocating overseas, you’ll need to decide whether residency or citizenship is your priority. This will depend on how long you plan to stay, whether getting a Plan B passport is a priority for you, and how deeply you want to integrate into your new country.

Residency

Getting a second residency allows you to live abroad while keeping ties to the USA. Temporary residency is for short stays, while permanent residency allows you to live indefinitely in the country. As a permanent resident, you will remain a US citizen, and you will need to manage taxes and banks in both countries.

Citizenship

Should you choose to get citizenship in another country, while many countries allow dual citizenship, some may require you to relinquish US citizenship. Bear this in mind when choosing a country to relocate to. However, many countries, such as Portugal, allow dual citizenship, and, after five years of living in the country, you’ll be able to apply for Portuguese citizenship – EU citizenship – and be able to enjoy all the benefits that come with it, such as the ability to live, work, and study in any EU member country.

Step four: Understand the visa and legal requirements

American expats relocating outside the US will need to take into account the visa and legal requirements. While each country’s visa options and residency and citizenship by investment programs will vary, commonalities in requirements include:

• Be over 18
• Hold a clean criminal record
• Be in good health
• Not be from a restricted country
• Fulfill the requirements of the specified program you are applying for

Other requirements can include:

• Paying a government fee
• Holding the investment for a set period of time or renewing the residency visa as required
• Having a certain amount of savings or a good employment history
• Not having been denied entry to certain countries

Step five: Manage finances and organize assets

While you should have taken into account your financial situation before deciding on if you want to move abroad, now is the time to really take stock of your finances and assets.

Efficiently managing your assets is key to success when it comes to relocating abroad. Think about what assets you have, where they are, and then consider what you want to do with them.

Assets can include real estate, precious metals, and individual retirement accounts (IRAs), and it’s crucial that you assess their value before making any hasty decisions.

• Real estate: Sell your US property and invest offshore if you are looking to cut ties completely. Keeping them may mean that you will need to continue paying property taxes.
• Precious metals: Instead of transporting precious metals from the USA to your new home country, consider using a logistics company to move them to secure vaults or non-bank deposits in locations such as the Cayman Islands or Singapore.
• IRAs: You can cash out, stop contributing, or move your IRA to an offshore account to ensure you have more control and fewer regulations.

Step six: Finalize your business

If you own a business and are moving abroad, the business could be an asset or a liability. If the business is not location-dependent, you can transfer it offshore. This way, you’ll be able to reduce taxes and lower costs while cutting ties with the USA.

If the business in question is tied to a specific location and you are not planning on selling it, you will still need to pay US taxes.

Step seven: Notify relevant US agencies

Key to answer the question how to leave America smoothly? is to make sure you notify the relevant US agencies. When moving out of the country, you should notify the relevant US agencies, including:

• Social Security Administration: If you receive benefits, update your address with the Social Security Administration to avoid disruptions.
• USPS: Forward your mail to a trusted address to avoid missing important letters.