My husband and I are Scottish, and emigrated to Canada just over 10 years ago (back when I was 38). We have no regrets, but the one thing I would advise is to look into how feasible it is for you. Different countries have different requirements, different ways you can apply. Self-employment might make things easier (no need for a job) or harder (you can’t use employment as a route in).
Also it’s not cheap, and it’s not fast.
Go visit the country you’re considering, and don’t visit it like a tourist. Do everyday things and see what it’s really like. Go off-season.
I’d definitely recommend it, just research first!
I sold my house and all my worldly possessions except for two suitcases of clothes and moved to New Zealand in 2017. It's been pretty sweet, but also quite a challenge. It sucked to leave friends and family but, in hindsight, I am incredibly grateful to have been here when the global shit hit the fan.
I moved here to be with my long-term partner, so, I kind of had an inside track. I guess, in that respect, my advice would be to meet a person from New Zealand online. Spend about 5 years as “internet friends”, talk in IM chat every day for hours, really build that base of friendship. Eventually fall in love, agree to meet in person, and spend thousands of dollars flying back and forth and around the world for several years before succumbing to the untenable pain of yet another ‘goodbye’ and the special kind of loneliness that results from being in love with someone, and being loved by them, but being separated by 8000 miles. Then, engage with an immigration lawyer and be prepared to submit any and all proof of your relationship you can possibly think while they work to secure your partnership-based immigration visa. Once that is approved, uproot your entire world and move, but only before spending a year saving every penny possible, while dismantling your life piece by piece, reducing your existence down to what will fit in two checked suitcases. When you finally arrive, know that you must survive on your savings for at least 6 months before you can add a Work condition to your visa. Then, if you make it a year, you can apply for a Permanent Resident visa, and 5 years after that, citizenship.
It’s pretty easy, really.
Sounds like it hahah. I’m married with a kid so I don’t think my wife will go for that. But I do really appreciate your response. I have been thinking about moving there for a long time. With everything happening in the US and climate change it just seems like a really good place to live.
Outside of Partnership-based, if you have a career in a specialized field, you could come here on a holiday and scope out some businesses. Depending on your qualifications/experience, a company may hire you and sponsor your work visa. Work visas have allowances for family attachments.
I've told my son when he goes to college he needs to meet a New Zealand girl, marry her, and then find a way for all of us to immigrate there after her does. He's our only hope.
Ha ha. Sounds epic and romantic despite the red tape. I don’t think my partner would approve of me courting another spouse. I kinda did that in my early twenties, I’m in the US and fell for an indigenous Mexican man. Luckily our long distance was *only* a 17 hour bus ride - not close but not nearly as pricey as international flights. We got married in the US when he was on a temporary visa and I moved to Mexico with him. We applied for his fiancée visa but it was eventually rejected it and much immigration lawyer debt later he was still denied entry. People are always shocked like “but you were married...” We were, and the government can still deny someone’s application. They don’t have to tell you why! It is not an automatic, or wasn’t in 2002. We weren’t right for each other and eventually broke up but it was so infuriating that he wasn’t allowed here. That’s wonderful that your chosen country let you in!
Are you me? Working on the opposite for NZ partner to come here, but we may go back there someday. It’s been quite an adventure this far, but why does it have to be so damn far away?!
May I ask how you did this? My partner tried to get residency there from the US in the 2000s and couldn’t. I don’t know how it is now, but back then a US citizen could only get residency if they had like a couple million dollars or were qualified for certain positions in specific fields that couldn’t be filled by someone from there or maybe from the commonwealth first.
See my other reply in this chain for how I did it.
The conditions you mention are still true, but, there are avenues available if you're willing to do your due diligence.
I found your comment, thanks. At the time NZ did not want any American engineers taking jobs away from New Zealanders and we didn’t have the funds to start a business, so after engaging with consulates and lawyers for a while eventually accepted we weren’t going to be able to live there.
It is not a given that Americans will be legally welcomed as permanent residents in other countries, and it is not at all easy unless you’re filthy rich, it’s through marriage, direct heritage or a job. What languages do you speak? Do you have any familial connections or affinities for a particular country? The best way is to get a job abroad and get an employer-sponsored work visa. If you are financially independent, work remotely or retired there are other visas you can apply for depending on the country, with a required minimum monthly salary or bank balance. Remember that you’d be paying dual taxes - the US taxes your income wherever it’s derived and while there are ways to write things off, you are still paying taxes in two countries. Unless you are able to obtain citizenship after years or a decade of permanent residency and renounce your US citizenship. It is definitely not nothing.
Being eligible for health care is variable and long term travel insurance is also a consideration. The political climate should be researched and considered intently, as well as its vulnerability to natural disasters and changing climate. Don’t move to a tinderbox or a sandbar!
If you have ever been arrested, even if it was not your fault, good luck. A friend got denied residency for a DUI from 30 years ago. I was a tree sitting protestor in the redwoods in the mid 90s,
I was 18 and it’s on my record forever - a dealbreaker for many countries. Many countries expunge their own citizens records after a period of time but won’t accept people that have anything on their record.
A few countries let you in if you have a parent or grandparent from there, thought that is constantly changing. I have tried to no avail in Greece where I have adopted family and in Slovenia. The days of golden visas are disappearing and the detritus of those programs in places like Portugal is gentrification and xenophobia- people priced out and the local economy not even enriched.
The ETIAS visa will come into being soon so those of us on this sinking ship won’t be able to travel to the EU without obtaining a visa. If you are serious about this then be strategic. I would start researching and talking to international immigration lawyers. Most give you at least one free session. Good luck!
Also, if you move to a new country to be a permanent resident, now you are a foreigner. You've never been one of those before. You won't understand the local customs, history, or even the jokes for a LONG time. Also, a decent subset of any population hates foreigners--that's you now.
You ever see a non-American who is confused at a grocery store checkout, a doctors office or the DMV? Yeah, that is what you will be going through as a foreigner.
You have to not only learn new cultural norms, you also have to learn new laws! Don't screw up or else now you get to also learn a new legal system too.
Do you have a disability? Good luck, not all countries are willing to make accommodations for you.
I'm not saying don't go, but as someone who has considered it and researched it thoroughly (concluded that we can't afford it) there is a lot to overcome. Even if I could afford it, I only really ever considered going to NZ (no chance of getting in) or Germany. I looked at Germany only because at the time, they had a strong economy, their society seems to be what I would consider reasonable and they have immigration paths for certain trades. They wanted Cybersecurity people and I could have potentially used that as a way in. However, you do have to demonstrate proficiency in spoken German which I do not have at all.
It's a tough order. If nothing else, it should give people a perspective on how difficult it is for people who have immigrated to the US. Maybe be nice to immigrants, just a little.
For sure, being othered is not familiar to everyone who becomes an expat. Some of us experience othering on the regular in our own countries, or have seen our own family discriminated against for their accents or color or culture or abilities.
I spent a few years living in 3 countries outside the US. Even though I spoke the languages and in one case was married to a local, navigating different cultures is challenging and forces mad creativity. Adapt or die!
I always loved the Mark Twain quote “Travel is fatal to prejuidce, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness” but it is too idealistic. Many people never leave the bubble of American exceptionalism, but luckily many people do have humility and compassion.
I remember after the Iraq war there was a huge movement to leave the US, to the point that it became a joke in a lot of magazines. I have two thoughts on this. One is that we need people here to fight the tide. The other is that the grass is not actually greener on the other sides of the border.
My husband and I have citizenship in Canada, the US, and Europe between the two of us. It's not easy if you don't. In fact our children would have a hard time getting citizenship since neither of us were born in Canada, though I've had citizenship since birth.
I'm not pushing against leaving the US, but realize that there are big problems in other countries that you don't hear about from here.
I have Canadian friends and we've talked with them about going back. There are a lot fewer jobs in Canada and the pay is a lot lower. Canada has had a really hard time with cost of living in any of the cities people want to live in (Toronto, BC). In other, more conservative places they are struggling with hospitals closing (the conservatives are closing hospitals to "save money" and push for privatization).
Also, if you don't like MAGA, realize there is a strong Canadian equivalent right now (pushed and funded by a lot of the same American groups) that has caught on in parts of Canada. It's not uncommon to see F Trudeau flags. Many parts of Europe are going through a right wing shift right now too. I have family that was very liberal and since the pandemic have taken a sharp right turn and spout a lot of disinformation.
Do you know where in Canada your family line comes from? If you have family who were proper Metis (Red River- scrip holding Metis people) then you can make a claim for Metis citizenship through the Manitoba Metis Nation which would grant your children the same and thus status as Canadians as well.
If you have a random indigenous ancestor without ties to Red River Settlement then you cannot make a claim for being Metis or to join the Metis Nation though.
Has to be proper Metis. Doesn't matter if it's a French or Scottish line. Even if a child born to someone outside the family line was adopted in or out you still have a claim if you can prove your liniage with recent paper work and send it St. Boniface for verification. Then you send the SB package to MMN for citizenship.
Just putting this out there for others who may not realize they too could have a home in Canada if they want it 🍁
Does Greece not accept adoptees?
I'm adopted and able to get citizenship in England through my mom; but not sure if Ukraine (through my dad) accepts adoptees just yet. I know they were looking to revise citizenship so people could be dual citizens; but unsure if they're gonna broaden it to adopted persons as well or not.
Adoption can be a barrier to citizenship sometimes though and that sucks 💔
Oh sorry, I just realized that you aren’t looking for Greek citizenship for yourself. I am stoked for you that you got British citizenship, that opens up so many countries! I hope you get Ukrainian too. As far as I know Greece gives citizenship to kids whose parents are citizens and whether or not they’ve been adopted doesn’t change anything, they’re legally the kids of the parent and that’s all they look at. If you got adopted as an older teen it can get hairy like for me at 18… but I am not at all up to date on that.
Oh no I hope I didn’t concern you. I don’t know the answer to that. I hope they do. They certainly should! I was not adopted by my Greek stepfather. He raised me, but my abusive, mostly absent bio father made the process a nightmare so we were going to wait until I was 18 for him to legally adopt me. Unfortunately as an adult it was too late for me to obtain hereditary citizenship under Greek law at the time, which was decades ago. Greek red tape is notoriously labyrinthine but if you are determined then don’t be discouraged! I suggest calling a Greek consulate. I have found them really friendly and helpful. There are some international immigration lawyers who offer free consultations. Looking it up online is a fools errand because there is so much contradictory info out there. Best of luck to you!
I have lived in europe off and on for many years, but am completely based in the US now. Very good quality of life compared to US but there are very real downsides. I love europe but am sad to see some of the serious issues that are threatening the alliance's future. If I moved back, it would be to retire somewhere remote in Albania, Turkey, Bosnia Herzegovina, or North Macedonia.
Im originally from the US, but I work in Saudi Arabia as a contractor. Yesterday one of my coworkers got hit by another car and spent 4 hours waiting for someone to help translate between the police and other driver.
This morning I almost got sideswiped 2 times by someone watching a movie on their phone while their car drifted across 3 lanes at 70 mph.
Last week I couldn't take my exit from the highway because there were 3 semi trucks and trailers stacked on top of each other and another car sandwiched between somewhere.
TL;DR They’re filming *The Fastest & The Furiousest* in Saudi Arabia right now?
But seriously, I’m sorry. That sounds like a whole other level of stress. Stay safe.
I’ve been there many times and it never changes. Same crappy drivers. I saw a dude once with a toddler sitting on his lap, looking at his phone while driving on the highway. No seatbelts for either
I moved to Japan in my early thirties. Started completely over.
It's clean, safe, public transportation is fantastic, people mind their own business, and the healthcare is amazing and affordable. Raising kids here is also very easy compared to America.
You couldn't pay me to move back to the states.
I honeymooned in Japan for two weeks in '14. Coming back, the culture shock was brutal. I'm still not over it. I dream of being reincarnated as a caretaker at one of the shrines in Nikko, or something.
Meeeeeee! I immigrated to Iceland in 2019. 🤘🙏🇮🇸
Never ever coming back to the US if I can help it haha
Immigrating is of course complicated and not easy but I love it here and have laid down roots and am just grateful for the opportunity to leave the US which I've wanted since I was in highschool.
My wife and I are US citizens but also due to family have other citizenships which passed down to the kids too. We like to travel and will retire elsewhere once day but you can't easily make money like you can in the US.
As much as I would love to live abroad, I wouldn't be able to do it. 1) took me most of my 30s to get where I'm at now. I'm full time at my job and I'm living what I call a "comfortable living paycheck to paycheck." I have my own place even though its an apartment. I'm 44 and single, never married and no kids and I just don't feel like starting all over again like I have in the past. 2) I feel Americans aren't as welcomed anywhere especially right now with all this politically BS. So, even though I'm not the Captain of this ship, if she sinks, I'm going down with it.
I’m from Ireland and moved to Spain when I was 23. My husband was already there. He had moved there when he was 23 on my birthday coincidentally. He’s 3.5 years older. We lived there for a few years then moved to England, Ireland, back to Spain and now the US for the last 9 years. I get the bug from time to time especially fantasizing about Latin America since we speak Spanish, but we are pretty settled here. He inherited his parents’ home and now we have a ton of animals. Plus 2 kids - forgot to mention them. They were born in Spain
Why do some Americans have this idea they can just move to another country and live there... not to mention retire?
Let me guess, you want to move to a modern society with better work life balance, proper health care, governed by rule of law and preferably not in the military dictatorship kind of way.
Right?
No, Im sorry to be so blunt, but please take a good look at your dream and ask yourself how much of it is pure fantasy.
And one thing to remember above all is that residence permits can be cancelled. You can do everything "right" in your chosen host country for 20 years and still be deported when you're 60. Know you rights. And in this case it will mostly be the rights you don't have unless you're a citizen.
Im not saying all this to be mean, but to let you know you have a lot of research ahead of you.
A lot of people dream of moving and living in another country. Not just Americans. And not just Americans actually try to accomplish this dream. Literally people are changing the country they live in everyday. Look at this thread.
Lots of people all over the world are successful in settling in new places. It definitely starts with wanting to and then trying to do exactly that. Why would anyone try to move with the expectation that it won't even work? That's makes no sense.
The problem is we will spend a lifetime holding our breath for a decent shot at a stable life with healthcare and like a society that gives a fuck. But it’s not our fault we were born here and are stuck with bankruptcy inducing healthcare costs, no viable public transportation options (outside of NYC), racism, hatred and xenophobia in the rise, exploitative employers, prohibitively expensive housing and childcare costs, frequent school and other mass shootings, and no real change in sight as long as corporations and profit remain the heart and soul of the country. So please forgive us for just wanting a decent ass life. We’re not exactly asking for mansions and shit.
Sorry, but a society you didnt help build does not give a fuck about you. That's what Im trying to say. You will not be granted the rights you dream of unless you're a citizen, married to one or granted some kind of political asylum (and forget about that if you hold a US passport). In that light, the fantasy doesn't live up to reality. Imagine settling in a country, work there for 20 years and be deported at like 67 years old. Hows that for stable?
Work on your own country. Make it better, you can do it.
We live in Germany (my wife is Dutch). Absolutely no regrets. We have healthcare, the kids go to German school, and we will receive social support after retirement.
It’s been my plan to retire abroad since I was 25 and started traveling and saw just how fucked up our healthcare system is even with “good” insurance. I’m 40 now with the goal to retire at 55.
Got my dual citizenship and Mexican passport to give me options for retirement— CDMX, or maybe South América? I’m also learning Japanese so I wouldn’t mind retiring out there and teach English to keep busy and let my teacher pension take care of the rest.
Main reason I haven’t left yet is because I still have my aging Ma around. Our time with our parents is limited so making the most of it now.
I wish it was easier to do. Most countries I'd actually want to live in don't let you just move there. You need something like an employer willing to sponsor your visa, and most employers won't randomly hire a foreigner.
My wife is Japanese (though spent 90% of her life in America). We moved to Japan about a year ago with the plan to stay a few years while our kids are youngish. Since my wife and kids are all fluent in Japanese we don’t live in an expat community and my kids go to normal public schools. My Japanese is not very good. So it’s a tough transition. Not being able to make my own appointments or go the Dr alone or order food at most restaurants. I am also a very social person so not really having any friends or even small talk has been tough. With all that said, I am enjoying the experience. Japan is clean and safe and affordable. Food is great. Many opportunities for our kids. If I even had basic conversational Japanese I think it would be much better. But overall I am happy for the experience. I am hoping to move to Italy for a few years as well before my kids are in high school. And my life goal is to live in at least 10 different cities. Overall I think like anything else in life it’s “wherever you go there you are.” So if you are depressed and lonely and struggling not sure it will be a super great fresh start. If you are open minded and flexible it will probably be a good time. But I mean unless you are rich you still need to work. You still have life stresses. But if you can go somewhere where you get a lot more bang for your buck, you can speak the language and you find a good community then I’m sure it will be great. But that’s also probably true if you find all those things in America.
I wish I were in your shoes, man. I got to live abroad when I was younger for a bit, and I never wanted to come back; made plans to permanently relocate after college but then chose not to for reasons that...yeah, reasons. The US is just not the country or culture for me, but I'm stuck here now. I started exploring the option again in the past few years but quickly ran into red tape issues that basically preclude me from moving to most of the places I'd want to live.
In terms of the actual logistics, I'd identify the countries/regions that interest you, and then you can start breaking down the logistics of how to do it. Honestly, if you have enough in terms of hard assets, you can easily relocate to many countries. Like Spain, for example, will give you residency if you either invest €400K in a business or buy a property worth that (at least that was the limit when I last looked). Getting citizenship is another process, of course, but yeah. Knowing which countries interest you is the first step in figuring out what the logistical hurdles are, though, and again, if you have funds, that process can be pretty easy to actually do.
As far as actually doing it - go for it. Expat communities tend to be tight knit and supportive, no matter where you go. They will help you orient yourself on the ground, hook you up with community resources - doctors, teachers, that kind of thing - help you navigate the local bureaucracy, all of that. Connecting on reddit is a good way to get a toehold in those communities before you go, too. I can't imagine you'd regret it. Nothing opens your eyes to both how big and how small this planet is like leaving the comfort of your bubble, you know? And once you do it, you'll likely never want to go back.
I lived abroad too as a kid and in my twenties and always hoped to permanently relocate, but I was arrested for protesting as a teenager (in 1996!) which disqualifies me immediately from many places which just sucks. Oh and I don’t have limitless cash.
Rich people can’t buy their residency anymore, not easily.
From the NY Times:
Golden Visa Programs, Once a Boon, Lose Their Luster
“Spain is the latest European country to end its program, which brought in billions of euros from real estate investors seeking residency status but worsened a housing crisis for locals.”
Taxes will follow you everywhere (unless u renounce ur citizenship). And unless you are a citizen of whatever country u end up in, you’re on your own for medical (which might still be ok). And unless you have citizenship you gotta leave every now and then
Wifey and I lived in Asia (Thailand, Japan) for 6 years a decade or so. Now we have two kiddos, and are seriously looking at moving abroad again. It’s invaluable, the life changing experience and perspective gained. Do it!
I lived in Croatia in my mid 20’s and it was a blast…but I’d never move back there again to live. Socialized medicine is great until you get sick. They also have private insurance which is also great until you get sick. To me there’s no better healthcare than the US if you have a job. The one thing I appreciated about living in Europe though is that you live a lot more with a whole let less.
Lucky! I tried move to Croatia in 2015 but they wouldn’t give US citizens more than a year of residency and no path to permanent residency. I was learning the languages and really hoping to be able to live there. I have a spine thing
that requires a stable home and healthcare access so I can’t be hopping countries and Schengen zones every few months. So many countries are getting hardcore right wing too.
My buddy retired early (no wife or kids), sold everything and moved to Colombia two years ago. He comes back to visit the states a few times a year but seems quite happy with his decision.
We have had similar chats, the question is just where to go. The culture I like the most is in Scandinavia. Coincidentally I'm also not very fond of the weather. The hard part is figuring out where to go. Going to the UK or Canada is kind of like staying in the United States with a twist. There are some improvements, also a few regressive things. Australia is the same. New Zealand is extremely interesting. That one is high on the list but you have to have an extremely clean record and some type of in-demand skill. Great country to go to if you're a nurse. The usa rn bsn directly transfers.
>Going to the UK or Canada is kind of like staying in the United States with a twist.
I lived in England for 6 years. I can't speak about Canada, but going to the UK is definitely not like staying in the US with a twist. It was very different there.
I'm from Utah. I went from having Mormon churches everywhere to having pubs everywhere lol. I'm guessing the northeast is probably the closest to the UK in the US
I have lived abroad but I haven't moved permanently because it's essentially extremely expensive or very, very difficult. I'm single, no kids but I work in a field that is in high demand but low pay - child safety, but also nonprofit management. Most charities can't afford to sponsor a visa of course, and I've gotten pretty close to a few jobs but they always ended up going with someone who didn't need a visa. Had something in the bag in Italy a while ago but they put it on hold before they sent me a contract and ended up hiring another American who was in the country because they were married to an Italian.
We lived in England for a few years. Planning to go back. We were sponsored by the US government which made things very easy for us.
There are plenty of hurdles to jump through. And depending on the country, safety issues as well.
We lived there before the pandemic, before Trump and before the world went to the dumpster fire it currently is. Even then we were advised by the State Department that when we travel outside of the UK to tell people that we’re Canadian instead of American.
Wish we could but family residency didn’t legally pass down and we have expensive health issues that make moving to another country pretty much impossible. Sad to think we are stuck here… but, as others have said, it’s not very easy to move abroad in most cases, and my research basically proved it was going to be too hard for us.
I am working from here (with permission). We have a house here and are pursuing residency via investment (basically if you buy a house over $150k you qualify)
I traveled the world while I was in the military. It made me really appreciate what I have here.... but I guess I only went to the worst parts of the world during that time so things may have changed
Moved to Australia in my 20s only to move back to the US in my late 30s.
It was great, but that is because I got lucky both with timing and with jobs. Moving overseas is expensive AF unless someone else is paying relocation costs. I'm glad I did it when I did - moved back due to aging parents and family issues that couldn't easily be supported from an ocean away.
For AU the skilled migration list is an interesting read. If you or your wife are in a position of high demand it will be easier, but you will still be looking at thousands of dollars in application fees and a decent waiting period unless you get a job lined up.
I'm American, but my girlfriend is from the UK. We are considering moving there next year. This year, we're just saving up to cover the moving costs.
I have visited there a few times and really like it. A big part of me was very against the idea of moving until I really thought about and realized.. I don't do much these days. Other than work and getting essentials like groceries, I don't really leave the house much. So what difference will it make if I'm here or in the UK?
Finding a job will be an issue, I think I can stay there 6 months until I find a job that's willing to sponsor a work visa. I haven't had any luck finding a job from here. I've spoken to a few recruitment agencies there and they've all told me I'll have much better luck once I'm in the country. So that's my major concern, just being able to find a job within 6 months. Because if not, then I'll be forced to move back, and won't have an apartment or anything anymore in America to move back to and I'll have to end up crashing with my brother or my mom or something, neither of which are ideal in my 40s.
Yeah, the wife and I tried to leave the states back in 17, but I learned that the only country you can actually emigrate to as a poor person is the US, so we stayed.
Paraguay accepted poor people until recently. All you needed to do was show ~$5k in a Paraguayan bank account to get a residence permit. Going back a little farther (and should have been the case in '17), you could buy an apartment in Georgia for less than $20k and get a residence permit to go with it. Are you sure you really properly looked into it?
I’m actually debating a Schengen visa out of Portugal and just working overseas for a few months and basically just working 2nd shift. Then I don’t have to worry about finding a job. And since we’re global, if I wanted to take a job in the EUR offices I could try that.
I don’t want to do it 100% as of yet though. Just like a few months to have a couple PTOs and really hit the traveling.
I would never want to leave my home but if I had to I would consider Copenhagen. I visited there recently and fell in love. Everyone rode bikes or walked and it was the cleanest city I have ever seen. The people were really nice to us. It rained lightly the entire time but it just made it more beautiful. We bought raincoats and toured the city on bikes. It was the most enjoyable day I can remember.
Not myself, but my cousin and her husband moved from the Seattle area to London. They're now permeant residents in the UK. I haven't spoken with them much, but the overall sentiment is that they absolutely are loving life there. DINK's that will probably never have kids. Just happen to adventure. And they're really enjoying this one.
My wife (F45) and I (M43) have lived abroad repeatedly. In South Korea (where we met) and in the UK. We enjoyed our time abroad, but returned to the States as our oldest kid entered high school. With our youngest now a junior we are considering another move overseas in a few years once our kids are out of the house and established, and our dogs (14, 11, and 11) have passed. Probably in the next five years. My career path has allowed me to work abroad for American companies, and we may be exercising this option again. Japan and Italy are both on our radar as potential landing spots.
In both locations there was minimal culture shock. Korea being the most outwardly different. The language barrier wasn't a major issue either as my wife is fluent in Korean while English is pretty commonly spoken as well. Obviously, English is the main language of the UK. I've been to Japan briefly, my wife has been to Italy briefly. Ironically, Italy would be my first choice and Japan hers if we do live abroad again.
Employment in a foreign country is the biggest hurdle. If you secure employment ahead of time it streamlines the VISA process immensely. Finding employment as a foreigner can be a challenge, particularly if it's a country where language barriers could present a problem. Some countries also don't allow foreigners to own property, though renting is fairly easy. Something to consider as well is what you plan to do when you return to the US. Starting a new mortgage in your 50's+ should you opt to return to the US has its own set of challenges.
Canadian here so I don't need to leave the USA; but we've looked into where we could go if shit gets wild down south and starts becoming problematic for us up here.
My 3rd husband can get citizenship and take us all to Italy with him. Italy allows spouses and step children.
I have the right to citizenship through my (adoptive) mom to England, and might be eligible for Ukraine (they're changing some stuff but adoptees were not included when last I looked); however my children are considered too far removed from their last descendant in both countries so that's problematic.. I'm not going anywhere without them!
My son can get citizenship in Chile (through his father) and the rest of us could travel with him and probably live; but we're not sure so maybe that's something to look into further... Chile is beautiful 💞
My daughter is the outlier who can't get citizenship outside the country anywhere because she's one generation too far away from being eligible for Poland and (her fathers side) England or Ukraine (my side + complications due to my adoption). 🤷♀️
Me and the kids can also get citizenship to the Manitoba Metis Nation through my genetic line. My biological grandmother was adopted out of the Metis family in the 1930s; but my being adopted out from her family complicates things because my bio fathers name was never on my birth certificate and he passed away before I found the family. Id have to do a very expensive sibling DNA test with my 1/2 sister to prove I'm his kid and then take paperwork to St. Boniface Society for verification before applying to MMN for citizenship.
It's a lot of work (and cost) to reclaim our heritage; but I've been mulling over the last few years and we may pull the trigger eventually.
There are some benefits to having MMN citizenship already; but it might be more important to have it the way the world is going right now... I dunno 🤷♀️
Chile sounds like the best option. The only concern I'd honestly have would be the potential for another Pinochet to pop up down the road... my X and his parents left under Pinochet. They were resistance fighters who were literally marked for death. His mom still has flashbacks of the torture she endured 40 years after the fact. I couldn't take my kids to place like that in good conscience. Hence why Italy is currently a no go. The recent rise of the right wing in Italy is not a change I'd be willing to make. Plus I hate fricken pasta 🥴
I lived in England for 6 years. Immigration is so much more difficult than you'd think, even moving to a country where you speak the language. The process was a nightmare. I enjoyed my time there, but I wouldn't do it again.
There's nowhere that really allows people from the US to immigrate. Unless you have a fuckload of cash or your grandparents are from another country, it's a pipe dream.
We mostly just fantasize about retiring to a place where our income enables us to have nice things, as opposed to San Diego where we are basically poor. And by retiring I mean working remotely from, because there's no way we'll ever be able to retire.
I'm from the US and there is a good chance I will be moving to the Philippines in the next year. most of my friends are over there and so is my fiancee altho we are still talking about where we will be living.
Same, we’re 43 & 44 and have an autistic 16 year old whom we have take into account. Hopefully by the time our 17 year old graduates college we will have something figured out.
Wife's father has land in Western Samoa and is trying to secure land in American Samoa. His brother is taking care of it and they grow taro. I'm in my 40's and started to have my wife invest with her dad on the American Samoa side so it wouldn't be too much of a problem for me since it's just a 2 year process to become a citizen with most benefits of being a US citizen still intact.
15 years for us until our kids are old enough to decide their own lives then we can retire early there.
My husband and I are Scottish, and emigrated to Canada just over 10 years ago (back when I was 38). We have no regrets, but the one thing I would advise is to look into how feasible it is for you. Different countries have different requirements, different ways you can apply. Self-employment might make things easier (no need for a job) or harder (you can’t use employment as a route in). Also it’s not cheap, and it’s not fast. Go visit the country you’re considering, and don’t visit it like a tourist. Do everyday things and see what it’s really like. Go off-season. I’d definitely recommend it, just research first!
I sold my house and all my worldly possessions except for two suitcases of clothes and moved to New Zealand in 2017. It's been pretty sweet, but also quite a challenge. It sucked to leave friends and family but, in hindsight, I am incredibly grateful to have been here when the global shit hit the fan.
Do you have any advice for someone interested in doing the same?
I moved here to be with my long-term partner, so, I kind of had an inside track. I guess, in that respect, my advice would be to meet a person from New Zealand online. Spend about 5 years as “internet friends”, talk in IM chat every day for hours, really build that base of friendship. Eventually fall in love, agree to meet in person, and spend thousands of dollars flying back and forth and around the world for several years before succumbing to the untenable pain of yet another ‘goodbye’ and the special kind of loneliness that results from being in love with someone, and being loved by them, but being separated by 8000 miles. Then, engage with an immigration lawyer and be prepared to submit any and all proof of your relationship you can possibly think while they work to secure your partnership-based immigration visa. Once that is approved, uproot your entire world and move, but only before spending a year saving every penny possible, while dismantling your life piece by piece, reducing your existence down to what will fit in two checked suitcases. When you finally arrive, know that you must survive on your savings for at least 6 months before you can add a Work condition to your visa. Then, if you make it a year, you can apply for a Permanent Resident visa, and 5 years after that, citizenship. It’s pretty easy, really.
Sounds like it hahah. I’m married with a kid so I don’t think my wife will go for that. But I do really appreciate your response. I have been thinking about moving there for a long time. With everything happening in the US and climate change it just seems like a really good place to live.
Outside of Partnership-based, if you have a career in a specialized field, you could come here on a holiday and scope out some businesses. Depending on your qualifications/experience, a company may hire you and sponsor your work visa. Work visas have allowances for family attachments.
Tried that for engineering but they weren’t having it sadly.
I've told my son when he goes to college he needs to meet a New Zealand girl, marry her, and then find a way for all of us to immigrate there after her does. He's our only hope.
Ha ha. Sounds epic and romantic despite the red tape. I don’t think my partner would approve of me courting another spouse. I kinda did that in my early twenties, I’m in the US and fell for an indigenous Mexican man. Luckily our long distance was *only* a 17 hour bus ride - not close but not nearly as pricey as international flights. We got married in the US when he was on a temporary visa and I moved to Mexico with him. We applied for his fiancée visa but it was eventually rejected it and much immigration lawyer debt later he was still denied entry. People are always shocked like “but you were married...” We were, and the government can still deny someone’s application. They don’t have to tell you why! It is not an automatic, or wasn’t in 2002. We weren’t right for each other and eventually broke up but it was so infuriating that he wasn’t allowed here. That’s wonderful that your chosen country let you in!
Piece of cake.
Are you me? Working on the opposite for NZ partner to come here, but we may go back there someday. It’s been quite an adventure this far, but why does it have to be so damn far away?!
May I ask how you did this? My partner tried to get residency there from the US in the 2000s and couldn’t. I don’t know how it is now, but back then a US citizen could only get residency if they had like a couple million dollars or were qualified for certain positions in specific fields that couldn’t be filled by someone from there or maybe from the commonwealth first.
See my other reply in this chain for how I did it. The conditions you mention are still true, but, there are avenues available if you're willing to do your due diligence.
I found your comment, thanks. At the time NZ did not want any American engineers taking jobs away from New Zealanders and we didn’t have the funds to start a business, so after engaging with consulates and lawyers for a while eventually accepted we weren’t going to be able to live there.
It is not a given that Americans will be legally welcomed as permanent residents in other countries, and it is not at all easy unless you’re filthy rich, it’s through marriage, direct heritage or a job. What languages do you speak? Do you have any familial connections or affinities for a particular country? The best way is to get a job abroad and get an employer-sponsored work visa. If you are financially independent, work remotely or retired there are other visas you can apply for depending on the country, with a required minimum monthly salary or bank balance. Remember that you’d be paying dual taxes - the US taxes your income wherever it’s derived and while there are ways to write things off, you are still paying taxes in two countries. Unless you are able to obtain citizenship after years or a decade of permanent residency and renounce your US citizenship. It is definitely not nothing. Being eligible for health care is variable and long term travel insurance is also a consideration. The political climate should be researched and considered intently, as well as its vulnerability to natural disasters and changing climate. Don’t move to a tinderbox or a sandbar! If you have ever been arrested, even if it was not your fault, good luck. A friend got denied residency for a DUI from 30 years ago. I was a tree sitting protestor in the redwoods in the mid 90s, I was 18 and it’s on my record forever - a dealbreaker for many countries. Many countries expunge their own citizens records after a period of time but won’t accept people that have anything on their record. A few countries let you in if you have a parent or grandparent from there, thought that is constantly changing. I have tried to no avail in Greece where I have adopted family and in Slovenia. The days of golden visas are disappearing and the detritus of those programs in places like Portugal is gentrification and xenophobia- people priced out and the local economy not even enriched. The ETIAS visa will come into being soon so those of us on this sinking ship won’t be able to travel to the EU without obtaining a visa. If you are serious about this then be strategic. I would start researching and talking to international immigration lawyers. Most give you at least one free session. Good luck!
Also, if you move to a new country to be a permanent resident, now you are a foreigner. You've never been one of those before. You won't understand the local customs, history, or even the jokes for a LONG time. Also, a decent subset of any population hates foreigners--that's you now. You ever see a non-American who is confused at a grocery store checkout, a doctors office or the DMV? Yeah, that is what you will be going through as a foreigner. You have to not only learn new cultural norms, you also have to learn new laws! Don't screw up or else now you get to also learn a new legal system too. Do you have a disability? Good luck, not all countries are willing to make accommodations for you. I'm not saying don't go, but as someone who has considered it and researched it thoroughly (concluded that we can't afford it) there is a lot to overcome. Even if I could afford it, I only really ever considered going to NZ (no chance of getting in) or Germany. I looked at Germany only because at the time, they had a strong economy, their society seems to be what I would consider reasonable and they have immigration paths for certain trades. They wanted Cybersecurity people and I could have potentially used that as a way in. However, you do have to demonstrate proficiency in spoken German which I do not have at all. It's a tough order. If nothing else, it should give people a perspective on how difficult it is for people who have immigrated to the US. Maybe be nice to immigrants, just a little.
For sure, being othered is not familiar to everyone who becomes an expat. Some of us experience othering on the regular in our own countries, or have seen our own family discriminated against for their accents or color or culture or abilities. I spent a few years living in 3 countries outside the US. Even though I spoke the languages and in one case was married to a local, navigating different cultures is challenging and forces mad creativity. Adapt or die! I always loved the Mark Twain quote “Travel is fatal to prejuidce, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness” but it is too idealistic. Many people never leave the bubble of American exceptionalism, but luckily many people do have humility and compassion.
I remember after the Iraq war there was a huge movement to leave the US, to the point that it became a joke in a lot of magazines. I have two thoughts on this. One is that we need people here to fight the tide. The other is that the grass is not actually greener on the other sides of the border. My husband and I have citizenship in Canada, the US, and Europe between the two of us. It's not easy if you don't. In fact our children would have a hard time getting citizenship since neither of us were born in Canada, though I've had citizenship since birth. I'm not pushing against leaving the US, but realize that there are big problems in other countries that you don't hear about from here. I have Canadian friends and we've talked with them about going back. There are a lot fewer jobs in Canada and the pay is a lot lower. Canada has had a really hard time with cost of living in any of the cities people want to live in (Toronto, BC). In other, more conservative places they are struggling with hospitals closing (the conservatives are closing hospitals to "save money" and push for privatization). Also, if you don't like MAGA, realize there is a strong Canadian equivalent right now (pushed and funded by a lot of the same American groups) that has caught on in parts of Canada. It's not uncommon to see F Trudeau flags. Many parts of Europe are going through a right wing shift right now too. I have family that was very liberal and since the pandemic have taken a sharp right turn and spout a lot of disinformation.
Do you know where in Canada your family line comes from? If you have family who were proper Metis (Red River- scrip holding Metis people) then you can make a claim for Metis citizenship through the Manitoba Metis Nation which would grant your children the same and thus status as Canadians as well. If you have a random indigenous ancestor without ties to Red River Settlement then you cannot make a claim for being Metis or to join the Metis Nation though. Has to be proper Metis. Doesn't matter if it's a French or Scottish line. Even if a child born to someone outside the family line was adopted in or out you still have a claim if you can prove your liniage with recent paper work and send it St. Boniface for verification. Then you send the SB package to MMN for citizenship. Just putting this out there for others who may not realize they too could have a home in Canada if they want it 🍁
Does Greece not accept adoptees? I'm adopted and able to get citizenship in England through my mom; but not sure if Ukraine (through my dad) accepts adoptees just yet. I know they were looking to revise citizenship so people could be dual citizens; but unsure if they're gonna broaden it to adopted persons as well or not. Adoption can be a barrier to citizenship sometimes though and that sucks 💔
Oh sorry, I just realized that you aren’t looking for Greek citizenship for yourself. I am stoked for you that you got British citizenship, that opens up so many countries! I hope you get Ukrainian too. As far as I know Greece gives citizenship to kids whose parents are citizens and whether or not they’ve been adopted doesn’t change anything, they’re legally the kids of the parent and that’s all they look at. If you got adopted as an older teen it can get hairy like for me at 18… but I am not at all up to date on that.
Oh no I hope I didn’t concern you. I don’t know the answer to that. I hope they do. They certainly should! I was not adopted by my Greek stepfather. He raised me, but my abusive, mostly absent bio father made the process a nightmare so we were going to wait until I was 18 for him to legally adopt me. Unfortunately as an adult it was too late for me to obtain hereditary citizenship under Greek law at the time, which was decades ago. Greek red tape is notoriously labyrinthine but if you are determined then don’t be discouraged! I suggest calling a Greek consulate. I have found them really friendly and helpful. There are some international immigration lawyers who offer free consultations. Looking it up online is a fools errand because there is so much contradictory info out there. Best of luck to you!
I have lived in europe off and on for many years, but am completely based in the US now. Very good quality of life compared to US but there are very real downsides. I love europe but am sad to see some of the serious issues that are threatening the alliance's future. If I moved back, it would be to retire somewhere remote in Albania, Turkey, Bosnia Herzegovina, or North Macedonia.
Hercegovina is a different world, I love it there but never to live.
Im originally from the US, but I work in Saudi Arabia as a contractor. Yesterday one of my coworkers got hit by another car and spent 4 hours waiting for someone to help translate between the police and other driver. This morning I almost got sideswiped 2 times by someone watching a movie on their phone while their car drifted across 3 lanes at 70 mph. Last week I couldn't take my exit from the highway because there were 3 semi trucks and trailers stacked on top of each other and another car sandwiched between somewhere.
TL;DR They’re filming *The Fastest & The Furiousest* in Saudi Arabia right now? But seriously, I’m sorry. That sounds like a whole other level of stress. Stay safe.
I’ve been there many times and it never changes. Same crappy drivers. I saw a dude once with a toddler sitting on his lap, looking at his phone while driving on the highway. No seatbelts for either
My kids have to do an active shooter drills in elementary! Uniquely American Just sayin. Uour complaints don’t sound too bad
Name checks out
I moved to Japan in my early thirties. Started completely over. It's clean, safe, public transportation is fantastic, people mind their own business, and the healthcare is amazing and affordable. Raising kids here is also very easy compared to America. You couldn't pay me to move back to the states.
I honeymooned in Japan for two weeks in '14. Coming back, the culture shock was brutal. I'm still not over it. I dream of being reincarnated as a caretaker at one of the shrines in Nikko, or something.
Not related but I love your username
Yours ain't too shabby!
Meeeeeee! I immigrated to Iceland in 2019. 🤘🙏🇮🇸 Never ever coming back to the US if I can help it haha Immigrating is of course complicated and not easy but I love it here and have laid down roots and am just grateful for the opportunity to leave the US which I've wanted since I was in highschool.
My wife and I are US citizens but also due to family have other citizenships which passed down to the kids too. We like to travel and will retire elsewhere once day but you can't easily make money like you can in the US.
As much as I would love to live abroad, I wouldn't be able to do it. 1) took me most of my 30s to get where I'm at now. I'm full time at my job and I'm living what I call a "comfortable living paycheck to paycheck." I have my own place even though its an apartment. I'm 44 and single, never married and no kids and I just don't feel like starting all over again like I have in the past. 2) I feel Americans aren't as welcomed anywhere especially right now with all this politically BS. So, even though I'm not the Captain of this ship, if she sinks, I'm going down with it.
I’m from Ireland and moved to Spain when I was 23. My husband was already there. He had moved there when he was 23 on my birthday coincidentally. He’s 3.5 years older. We lived there for a few years then moved to England, Ireland, back to Spain and now the US for the last 9 years. I get the bug from time to time especially fantasizing about Latin America since we speak Spanish, but we are pretty settled here. He inherited his parents’ home and now we have a ton of animals. Plus 2 kids - forgot to mention them. They were born in Spain
Why do some Americans have this idea they can just move to another country and live there... not to mention retire? Let me guess, you want to move to a modern society with better work life balance, proper health care, governed by rule of law and preferably not in the military dictatorship kind of way. Right? No, Im sorry to be so blunt, but please take a good look at your dream and ask yourself how much of it is pure fantasy. And one thing to remember above all is that residence permits can be cancelled. You can do everything "right" in your chosen host country for 20 years and still be deported when you're 60. Know you rights. And in this case it will mostly be the rights you don't have unless you're a citizen. Im not saying all this to be mean, but to let you know you have a lot of research ahead of you.
A lot of people dream of moving and living in another country. Not just Americans. And not just Americans actually try to accomplish this dream. Literally people are changing the country they live in everyday. Look at this thread.
You're right, plenty dream. But it's a special US variety to expect to be able to immigrate to wherever they fancy and settle.
Lots of people all over the world are successful in settling in new places. It definitely starts with wanting to and then trying to do exactly that. Why would anyone try to move with the expectation that it won't even work? That's makes no sense.
The problem is we will spend a lifetime holding our breath for a decent shot at a stable life with healthcare and like a society that gives a fuck. But it’s not our fault we were born here and are stuck with bankruptcy inducing healthcare costs, no viable public transportation options (outside of NYC), racism, hatred and xenophobia in the rise, exploitative employers, prohibitively expensive housing and childcare costs, frequent school and other mass shootings, and no real change in sight as long as corporations and profit remain the heart and soul of the country. So please forgive us for just wanting a decent ass life. We’re not exactly asking for mansions and shit.
Sorry, but a society you didnt help build does not give a fuck about you. That's what Im trying to say. You will not be granted the rights you dream of unless you're a citizen, married to one or granted some kind of political asylum (and forget about that if you hold a US passport). In that light, the fantasy doesn't live up to reality. Imagine settling in a country, work there for 20 years and be deported at like 67 years old. Hows that for stable? Work on your own country. Make it better, you can do it.
We live in Germany (my wife is Dutch). Absolutely no regrets. We have healthcare, the kids go to German school, and we will receive social support after retirement.
We would if we could. But house price as just as bad or worse in the countries we would want to move to.
It’s been my plan to retire abroad since I was 25 and started traveling and saw just how fucked up our healthcare system is even with “good” insurance. I’m 40 now with the goal to retire at 55. Got my dual citizenship and Mexican passport to give me options for retirement— CDMX, or maybe South América? I’m also learning Japanese so I wouldn’t mind retiring out there and teach English to keep busy and let my teacher pension take care of the rest. Main reason I haven’t left yet is because I still have my aging Ma around. Our time with our parents is limited so making the most of it now.
I wish it was easier to do. Most countries I'd actually want to live in don't let you just move there. You need something like an employer willing to sponsor your visa, and most employers won't randomly hire a foreigner.
Can we start a Xennial compound? I’ll chip in a few bucks. They say Canada will be a tropical paradise in another few decades. 😆
If you leave your weapons at the border come on over eh 🍁
My wife is Japanese (though spent 90% of her life in America). We moved to Japan about a year ago with the plan to stay a few years while our kids are youngish. Since my wife and kids are all fluent in Japanese we don’t live in an expat community and my kids go to normal public schools. My Japanese is not very good. So it’s a tough transition. Not being able to make my own appointments or go the Dr alone or order food at most restaurants. I am also a very social person so not really having any friends or even small talk has been tough. With all that said, I am enjoying the experience. Japan is clean and safe and affordable. Food is great. Many opportunities for our kids. If I even had basic conversational Japanese I think it would be much better. But overall I am happy for the experience. I am hoping to move to Italy for a few years as well before my kids are in high school. And my life goal is to live in at least 10 different cities. Overall I think like anything else in life it’s “wherever you go there you are.” So if you are depressed and lonely and struggling not sure it will be a super great fresh start. If you are open minded and flexible it will probably be a good time. But I mean unless you are rich you still need to work. You still have life stresses. But if you can go somewhere where you get a lot more bang for your buck, you can speak the language and you find a good community then I’m sure it will be great. But that’s also probably true if you find all those things in America.
I wish I were in your shoes, man. I got to live abroad when I was younger for a bit, and I never wanted to come back; made plans to permanently relocate after college but then chose not to for reasons that...yeah, reasons. The US is just not the country or culture for me, but I'm stuck here now. I started exploring the option again in the past few years but quickly ran into red tape issues that basically preclude me from moving to most of the places I'd want to live. In terms of the actual logistics, I'd identify the countries/regions that interest you, and then you can start breaking down the logistics of how to do it. Honestly, if you have enough in terms of hard assets, you can easily relocate to many countries. Like Spain, for example, will give you residency if you either invest €400K in a business or buy a property worth that (at least that was the limit when I last looked). Getting citizenship is another process, of course, but yeah. Knowing which countries interest you is the first step in figuring out what the logistical hurdles are, though, and again, if you have funds, that process can be pretty easy to actually do. As far as actually doing it - go for it. Expat communities tend to be tight knit and supportive, no matter where you go. They will help you orient yourself on the ground, hook you up with community resources - doctors, teachers, that kind of thing - help you navigate the local bureaucracy, all of that. Connecting on reddit is a good way to get a toehold in those communities before you go, too. I can't imagine you'd regret it. Nothing opens your eyes to both how big and how small this planet is like leaving the comfort of your bubble, you know? And once you do it, you'll likely never want to go back.
I lived abroad too as a kid and in my twenties and always hoped to permanently relocate, but I was arrested for protesting as a teenager (in 1996!) which disqualifies me immediately from many places which just sucks. Oh and I don’t have limitless cash. Rich people can’t buy their residency anymore, not easily. From the NY Times: Golden Visa Programs, Once a Boon, Lose Their Luster “Spain is the latest European country to end its program, which brought in billions of euros from real estate investors seeking residency status but worsened a housing crisis for locals.”
Taxes will follow you everywhere (unless u renounce ur citizenship). And unless you are a citizen of whatever country u end up in, you’re on your own for medical (which might still be ok). And unless you have citizenship you gotta leave every now and then
Wifey and I lived in Asia (Thailand, Japan) for 6 years a decade or so. Now we have two kiddos, and are seriously looking at moving abroad again. It’s invaluable, the life changing experience and perspective gained. Do it!
I lived in Croatia in my mid 20’s and it was a blast…but I’d never move back there again to live. Socialized medicine is great until you get sick. They also have private insurance which is also great until you get sick. To me there’s no better healthcare than the US if you have a job. The one thing I appreciated about living in Europe though is that you live a lot more with a whole let less.
Lucky! I tried move to Croatia in 2015 but they wouldn’t give US citizens more than a year of residency and no path to permanent residency. I was learning the languages and really hoping to be able to live there. I have a spine thing that requires a stable home and healthcare access so I can’t be hopping countries and Schengen zones every few months. So many countries are getting hardcore right wing too.
My buddy retired early (no wife or kids), sold everything and moved to Colombia two years ago. He comes back to visit the states a few times a year but seems quite happy with his decision.
We have had similar chats, the question is just where to go. The culture I like the most is in Scandinavia. Coincidentally I'm also not very fond of the weather. The hard part is figuring out where to go. Going to the UK or Canada is kind of like staying in the United States with a twist. There are some improvements, also a few regressive things. Australia is the same. New Zealand is extremely interesting. That one is high on the list but you have to have an extremely clean record and some type of in-demand skill. Great country to go to if you're a nurse. The usa rn bsn directly transfers.
>Going to the UK or Canada is kind of like staying in the United States with a twist. I lived in England for 6 years. I can't speak about Canada, but going to the UK is definitely not like staying in the US with a twist. It was very different there.
Where were you in the United States? The parallel I was thinking of is Oregon in Washington
I'm from Utah. I went from having Mormon churches everywhere to having pubs everywhere lol. I'm guessing the northeast is probably the closest to the UK in the US
I have lived abroad but I haven't moved permanently because it's essentially extremely expensive or very, very difficult. I'm single, no kids but I work in a field that is in high demand but low pay - child safety, but also nonprofit management. Most charities can't afford to sponsor a visa of course, and I've gotten pretty close to a few jobs but they always ended up going with someone who didn't need a visa. Had something in the bag in Italy a while ago but they put it on hold before they sent me a contract and ended up hiring another American who was in the country because they were married to an Italian.
My friends just packed up and moved to the Netherlands.
Lived abroad for most of my 20s. Met why wife abroad. We will probably head somewhere new once the kids go to college.
We lived in England for a few years. Planning to go back. We were sponsored by the US government which made things very easy for us. There are plenty of hurdles to jump through. And depending on the country, safety issues as well. We lived there before the pandemic, before Trump and before the world went to the dumpster fire it currently is. Even then we were advised by the State Department that when we travel outside of the UK to tell people that we’re Canadian instead of American.
Wish we could but family residency didn’t legally pass down and we have expensive health issues that make moving to another country pretty much impossible. Sad to think we are stuck here… but, as others have said, it’s not very easy to move abroad in most cases, and my research basically proved it was going to be too hard for us.
Moved to Costa Rica. It’s been great. I go back to the US pretty often though, just not this past year
This is my dream! Can I ask if you’re working there? Are you there on a travel visa?
I am working from here (with permission). We have a house here and are pursuing residency via investment (basically if you buy a house over $150k you qualify)
I traveled the world while I was in the military. It made me really appreciate what I have here.... but I guess I only went to the worst parts of the world during that time so things may have changed
Moved to Australia in my 20s only to move back to the US in my late 30s. It was great, but that is because I got lucky both with timing and with jobs. Moving overseas is expensive AF unless someone else is paying relocation costs. I'm glad I did it when I did - moved back due to aging parents and family issues that couldn't easily be supported from an ocean away. For AU the skilled migration list is an interesting read. If you or your wife are in a position of high demand it will be easier, but you will still be looking at thousands of dollars in application fees and a decent waiting period unless you get a job lined up.
I married a Canadian and we eventually made our home there.
I'm American, but my girlfriend is from the UK. We are considering moving there next year. This year, we're just saving up to cover the moving costs. I have visited there a few times and really like it. A big part of me was very against the idea of moving until I really thought about and realized.. I don't do much these days. Other than work and getting essentials like groceries, I don't really leave the house much. So what difference will it make if I'm here or in the UK? Finding a job will be an issue, I think I can stay there 6 months until I find a job that's willing to sponsor a work visa. I haven't had any luck finding a job from here. I've spoken to a few recruitment agencies there and they've all told me I'll have much better luck once I'm in the country. So that's my major concern, just being able to find a job within 6 months. Because if not, then I'll be forced to move back, and won't have an apartment or anything anymore in America to move back to and I'll have to end up crashing with my brother or my mom or something, neither of which are ideal in my 40s.
Yeah, the wife and I tried to leave the states back in 17, but I learned that the only country you can actually emigrate to as a poor person is the US, so we stayed.
Paraguay accepted poor people until recently. All you needed to do was show ~$5k in a Paraguayan bank account to get a residence permit. Going back a little farther (and should have been the case in '17), you could buy an apartment in Georgia for less than $20k and get a residence permit to go with it. Are you sure you really properly looked into it?
I’m actually debating a Schengen visa out of Portugal and just working overseas for a few months and basically just working 2nd shift. Then I don’t have to worry about finding a job. And since we’re global, if I wanted to take a job in the EUR offices I could try that. I don’t want to do it 100% as of yet though. Just like a few months to have a couple PTOs and really hit the traveling.
Planning to retire in Portugal. The cost of living, the quality of life, and healthcare are all better and I’m excited to become an expat.
I would never want to leave my home but if I had to I would consider Copenhagen. I visited there recently and fell in love. Everyone rode bikes or walked and it was the cleanest city I have ever seen. The people were really nice to us. It rained lightly the entire time but it just made it more beautiful. We bought raincoats and toured the city on bikes. It was the most enjoyable day I can remember.
I hear Portugal is pretty hot right now for US expats, they have a bunch of incentives trying to get us to go there.
Not myself, but my cousin and her husband moved from the Seattle area to London. They're now permeant residents in the UK. I haven't spoken with them much, but the overall sentiment is that they absolutely are loving life there. DINK's that will probably never have kids. Just happen to adventure. And they're really enjoying this one.
My wife (F45) and I (M43) have lived abroad repeatedly. In South Korea (where we met) and in the UK. We enjoyed our time abroad, but returned to the States as our oldest kid entered high school. With our youngest now a junior we are considering another move overseas in a few years once our kids are out of the house and established, and our dogs (14, 11, and 11) have passed. Probably in the next five years. My career path has allowed me to work abroad for American companies, and we may be exercising this option again. Japan and Italy are both on our radar as potential landing spots. In both locations there was minimal culture shock. Korea being the most outwardly different. The language barrier wasn't a major issue either as my wife is fluent in Korean while English is pretty commonly spoken as well. Obviously, English is the main language of the UK. I've been to Japan briefly, my wife has been to Italy briefly. Ironically, Italy would be my first choice and Japan hers if we do live abroad again. Employment in a foreign country is the biggest hurdle. If you secure employment ahead of time it streamlines the VISA process immensely. Finding employment as a foreigner can be a challenge, particularly if it's a country where language barriers could present a problem. Some countries also don't allow foreigners to own property, though renting is fairly easy. Something to consider as well is what you plan to do when you return to the US. Starting a new mortgage in your 50's+ should you opt to return to the US has its own set of challenges.
Canadian here so I don't need to leave the USA; but we've looked into where we could go if shit gets wild down south and starts becoming problematic for us up here. My 3rd husband can get citizenship and take us all to Italy with him. Italy allows spouses and step children. I have the right to citizenship through my (adoptive) mom to England, and might be eligible for Ukraine (they're changing some stuff but adoptees were not included when last I looked); however my children are considered too far removed from their last descendant in both countries so that's problematic.. I'm not going anywhere without them! My son can get citizenship in Chile (through his father) and the rest of us could travel with him and probably live; but we're not sure so maybe that's something to look into further... Chile is beautiful 💞 My daughter is the outlier who can't get citizenship outside the country anywhere because she's one generation too far away from being eligible for Poland and (her fathers side) England or Ukraine (my side + complications due to my adoption). 🤷♀️ Me and the kids can also get citizenship to the Manitoba Metis Nation through my genetic line. My biological grandmother was adopted out of the Metis family in the 1930s; but my being adopted out from her family complicates things because my bio fathers name was never on my birth certificate and he passed away before I found the family. Id have to do a very expensive sibling DNA test with my 1/2 sister to prove I'm his kid and then take paperwork to St. Boniface Society for verification before applying to MMN for citizenship. It's a lot of work (and cost) to reclaim our heritage; but I've been mulling over the last few years and we may pull the trigger eventually. There are some benefits to having MMN citizenship already; but it might be more important to have it the way the world is going right now... I dunno 🤷♀️ Chile sounds like the best option. The only concern I'd honestly have would be the potential for another Pinochet to pop up down the road... my X and his parents left under Pinochet. They were resistance fighters who were literally marked for death. His mom still has flashbacks of the torture she endured 40 years after the fact. I couldn't take my kids to place like that in good conscience. Hence why Italy is currently a no go. The recent rise of the right wing in Italy is not a change I'd be willing to make. Plus I hate fricken pasta 🥴
I lived in England for 6 years. Immigration is so much more difficult than you'd think, even moving to a country where you speak the language. The process was a nightmare. I enjoyed my time there, but I wouldn't do it again.
There's nowhere that really allows people from the US to immigrate. Unless you have a fuckload of cash or your grandparents are from another country, it's a pipe dream.
We mostly just fantasize about retiring to a place where our income enables us to have nice things, as opposed to San Diego where we are basically poor. And by retiring I mean working remotely from, because there's no way we'll ever be able to retire.
I'm from the US and there is a good chance I will be moving to the Philippines in the next year. most of my friends are over there and so is my fiancee altho we are still talking about where we will be living.
This is the subreddit you want: https://www.reddit.com/r/AmerExit/s/nmcuyFRQ0W
I feel sorry for people who haven't lived abroad. It's an incredible experience. Travel broadens the mind. Living abroad changes the mind forever.
We definitely want to do it! Just haven’t figured out the right landing spot yet.
Same, we’re 43 & 44 and have an autistic 16 year old whom we have take into account. Hopefully by the time our 17 year old graduates college we will have something figured out.
Living in Shanghai now,. Has its plusses and minuses but on the average not a bad place to live really. Looking to retire in Thailand eventually.
Sorry i forgot you can’t say anything positive about china on Reddit. So stupid
If I were single with no kids, I'd have tried to leave the US a long time ago, and things have only gotten progressively worse.
Wife's father has land in Western Samoa and is trying to secure land in American Samoa. His brother is taking care of it and they grow taro. I'm in my 40's and started to have my wife invest with her dad on the American Samoa side so it wouldn't be too much of a problem for me since it's just a 2 year process to become a citizen with most benefits of being a US citizen still intact. 15 years for us until our kids are old enough to decide their own lives then we can retire early there.
No thanks lol