The Easiest Countries to Move to From the USA in 2024

The US is not what it used to be – ever-increasing taxes and regulations have made it a pretty frustrating place to live, especially if you’re a seven or eight-figure investor or entrepreneur.

That’s why more and more people are leaving the US to go where they’re treated best.

If you want to legally reduce your tax rate, protect your assets, improve your investment portfolio, obtain a second citizenship and improve your peace of mind, leaving the US can do wonders for you.

Whether you’re a digital nomad on the lookout for your next nomadic destination or you want a country where you can move long-term after leaving the US for good, this article will have useful insights for you.

Criteria to Choose the Easiest Countries to Move to From the US

We’ve used certain criteria to choose the countries mentioned in this article.

First, the countries have to be relatively easy to immigrate to from a legal standpoint. 

Next, we looked at places that had a relatively similar cultural connection or‌ cultural affinity to the US. This is because most US people look for something that feels somewhat like the United States – not a total cultural shock. 

Lastly, we chose countries that are relatively affordable to live.

4 Easiest Countries for Americans to Move to From the US

These are merely the easiest countries to move to from the US and may make the most sense to people looking to go offshore for the first time.

Note, however, that these aren’t the best countries for every US person to move to from the US. Where you move must always be decided after a thorough analysis of your personal and corporate life (for which you can contact us ).

1. Mexico

Compared to Canada, Mexico is easier to immigrate to, cheaper to live in, has better weather and has more tasty food. 

Aside from that, there are so many great things to love about Mexico, and yet many people look down on it.

From a global perspective, Mexico is a relatively wealthy country. We’ve also served many clients from Mexico looking to diversify and develop their Plan B.

Whether you want a fast-paced city life or a slow-going beach life, Mexico has it all.

If you prove that you have a pretty basic amount of income, you can get residence in Mexico and spend time there. If you’re willing to actually live there, then eventually, you can also get Mexican citizenship.

To make matters better, they have a unique form of taxation that’s relatively flexible for people just getting settled in the country for the first year or two. 

It’s also next door to the US – close to home and Americanized enough that you can find things like hot dogs and other US expats almost anywhere. 

You can read our ultimate guide to learn more about getting residency or even citizenship in Mexico.

2. Panama

Another country in Latin America that’s pretty easy for most Westerners to get into, including US citizens, is Panama.

To obtain residency in Panama, in addition to depositing funds into a Panama bank account, you can choose to purchase a home, invest in forestry‌ or establish any other type of economic connection.  

What makes this even better is that you don’t have to stay in Panama to keep the residence active. However, if you want to live there long-term the country is also very Americanized, and with its stunning beaches and delicious food, you’ll probably never miss the US. Panama even uses the US dollar, so you won’t have currency shock or wild fluctuations.

Moreover, it’s a top retirement destination for American retirees. Panama’s world-renowned Pensionado (retirement) Visa attracts flocks of retirees each year to its shores. Retirees are eligible for certain tax exemptions and several discounts and concessions in Panama.

While it’s not the most affordable place, there are a lot of the comforts that Americans like, particularly in Panama City. There are parts of Panama where English is somewhat widely spoken. And if you ever feel like going home for a visit, there are also nonstop flights back to the US. 

3. Belize

Even though there are some parts of Mexico and Panama where you can get by with only English, it’s advisable to learn at least enough Spanish to gelp you fit in. However, if you’re looking for an English-speaking country, particularly if you’re a retiree, look to Belize. 

In terms of other benefits, Belize has a lot to offer, such as close proximity to Mexico, nonstop flights to the US and postcard-worthy beaches on your doorstep. 

For retirees the residence process is relatively easy. You deposit an annual income of $24,000 in the banks there, demonstrate that you possess adequate funds to sustain yourself and as an added incentive you can bring all your personal belongings into the country without incurring any taxes.  

While it’s a much smaller country than Panama and Mexico, it offers a lot for someone looking for more laid-back lifestyle. It’s not a bad place to live if you’re just looking to escape and have a totally different life experience.

4. Portugal

Another place that we’ve seen a lot of US citizens looking at is Portugal. It has a golden visa program as well as other residence programs for those who are looking to build a presence in the EU – and ultimately work toward citizenship.

In addition, Portugal has one of the shortest naturalisation periods in the EU, requiring only five years of legal residency.

In terms of golden visa schemes, both the D7 and D2 programs can get you a temporary visa in Portugal.

Moreover, Portugal is becoming a very popular nomad and expat destination – not only for younger people and digital nomads but also for retirees.

Most European countries are considered high-tax. However, Portugal offers a solution for that. The country offers an excellent tax residence program, offering tax exemptions to those who qualify.

The country has always been a beautiful place, but now it’s becoming more international and offers more of the amenities that Americans are used to. English is more widely spoken – though Portuguese is not that difficult to learn, especially if you are going to spend time there. 

It’s definitely a place to look into because it is a part of the EU and offers one of the easiest ways to get an EU passport.

Easiest Countries to Move to From the US: FAQs

Go Where You’re Treated Best

The best country for you is the one that caters best to your needs and lifestyle.

Asia, Eastern Europe‌ and South America all have several options if you’re looking for a low-cost yet high-quality lifestyle. Malaysia, Colombia and Georgia are just a few examples among a list of many.

If you want premium options, Switzerland, Jersey and the Cayman Islands may suit your needs better.

If you’re looking to live a slow-paced beach life, check out our Nomad Beach Index or if you want to avoid income tax, then check our article on the best island countries with no income tax.

And if you have your heart set on living in a country where you can get by just speaking English, the easiest countries to move to for you may be on our list of these 15 expat-friendly English-speaking countries.

If you are wondering which country can help you legally reduce your taxes, generate more wealth, and increase peace of mind, set up a call with us today. 

We’ll curate a holistic strategy that addresses all your needs and wants.