Where to move in Europe as an american: top European countries that issue golden visas
After Donald Trump won the election, there was a nearly 1,514% increase in searches for migration and relocation among American users. Most people choose English-speaking countries and states in Europe. Find out about the most popular destinations for Americans to move to in 2024 and available migration options
The news about the election of Donald Trump as the 47th president of the United States caused different emotions among Americans, some are celebrating the victory, while others are packing their bags and choosing a country to move to. Last week, Google saw a sharp increase in the number of searches for information related to "immigration". Read more about the best countries for Americans to move to later in this article.
What countries are Americans considering for moving after Trump's victory?
According to Google Analytics, Americans are most often interested in moving to the following countries:
- English-speaking countries - Canada, New Zealand, Great Britain, Australia.
- European countries – Ireland, Switzerland, Spain, Portugal, Germany, the Netherlands.
- The nearest countries are Mexico and Costa Rica.
The reasons why these countries have become the most popular destinations are different:
- Canada due to its geographical and cultural proximity;
- New Zealand is among the leaders thanks to the high quality of life;
- The United Kingdom and Australia are also the most popular destinations, because they are English-speaking countries.
- Portugal is perceived as friendly to Americans, has an affordable cost of living and a warm climate.
- Germany is the best choice for Americans looking for more opportunities for education and employment, as well as a high quality of life.
To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.
European countries that issue the "Golden Visa"
Due to the fact that Americans show an increased interest in moving to Europe, we decided to remind you which European countries offer the "golden visa" program, because these are the easiest countries to move from the USA and an affordable way to obtain a European residence permit in exchange on investment.
Portugal
Interest in Portugal's golden visa has increased sharply among US citizens since the presidential election, despite the fact that the option to buy real estate is no longer available.
To obtain a Portuguese residence permit under the Golden Visa program, foreigners can choose several investment methods:
- Investments in the fund.
- Investments in donations in the field of art or cultural heritage.
- Contribution to scientific research.
- Creation of ten jobs.
The amount of expenses starts from 250,000 euros.
The most famous variant of the "Golden Visa" program of Portugal was the method of investing in real estate. However, this route was discontinued as part of the country's efforts to address the housing crisis.
In addition to the "golden visa", the Portuguese "D7 visa" is gaining popularity among wealthy foreign citizens. Representatives of countries outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland can obtain a permit. The visa grants the right to reside in Portugal, subject to passive income.
Portugal also offers a digital nomad visa for Americans who have a remote job with an income of €3,280 per month.
Greece
Greece provides one of the most attractive and affordable Golden Visa programs in Europe. The minimum investment amount is 400,000 euros in real estate, shares or bonds.
The residence permit is valid for 5 years and can be extended indefinitely. After 7 years, a foreigner will be able to apply for Greek citizenship.
However, from January 1, 2025, the country's leadership intends to stop granting "Golden visas" through the purchase of real estate. This decision is related to an attempt to solve the problem of rising housing prices and the lack of affordable housing for local residents.
Cyprus
Cyprus offers one of the most profitable and practical golden visa programs in the world. The investor must invest at least 2 million euros in business or funds or 300,000 euros in real estate.
The residence permit does not need to be extended; it works throughout life. After 7 years, you can apply for citizenship through naturalization.
An investor can travel to 173 countries of the world without a visa.
Italy
One of the most creative and competitive golden visa programs in Europe is provided by Italy. The program provides four different investment methods:
- 2 million euros investment in Italian government bonds;
- EUR 500,000 investment in an Italian limited liability company;
- EUR 250,000 investment in an Italian innovative startup;
- 1 million euros of donations to a charity initiative in Italy.
Spain
Several investment options are available in Spain's Golden Visa program. You can invest €500,000 in real estate, €2 million in Spanish government bonds or €1 million in shares of Spanish companies. The residence visa is valid for two years, but if the investment is maintained and the investor stays in Spain for at least 183 days a year, he can renew his permit every five years.
It is worth noting that the Spanish government plans to cancel the option to purchase real estate from January 2024.
Malta
Malta has become very popular as a residential option for many investors, families and businessmen. Due to its geographical location, high quality of life and stable political climate, it is an ideal center for foreign investment.
There are two approved ways of obtaining the right of residence through investment in Malta: renting a house and buying real estate.
Minimum investment amount:
- €300,000 for the purchase of a property in the south of Malta/Gozo or €350,000 in the rest of Malta.
- €10,000 for a rental property in the south of Malta/Gozo or €12,000 in the rest of Malta.
Hungary
From July 1, 2024, the "Golden Visa" program resumed operation in Hungary.
Participation in the program requires significant financial investments and involves three main investment options:
1. Purchase of a share of a real estate fund for at least 250,000 euros;
2. Purchase of residential real estate for 500,000 euros;
3. A donation of at least EUR 1,000,000 to a Hungarian higher education institution.
To participate, a person must be over 18 years of age, have no criminal record, and provide proof of income.
Golden visa programs provide investors with a lot of additional benefits and privileges, the main thing is to choose the country and method of investment.
We will remind you! Uruguay is a country in South America, which is known for its high quality of life, good social sphere and favorable employment prospects. Also, in recent years, the local tax system has become a real magnet for digital nomads. We have already talked about the advantages and disadvantages of moving to Uruguay.
Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld
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