The phrase “moving to Europe” is no longer just a fantasy for many Americans. According to Bloomberg, Newsweek, and a growing list of international outlets, U.S. citizens are applying for visas to European countries at record levels. As expats and digital nomads ourselves, currently living in Mexico and helping others relocate abroad, we’re witnessing this shift not only on our YouTube channel but also through a surge in consultation requests.
The Trend: Americans Moving to Europe and Beyond
What used to be empty threats like “If that guy gets elected, I’m leaving the country” have transformed into concrete action. Americans are moving to Europe, Mexico, and other destinations in droves. It’s not just retirees or travel bloggers anymore. Our business, which helps people obtain residency, manage taxes, and navigate the legal logistics of relocating abroad, is busier than ever.
Why Moving to Europe Is About More Than Just Politics
This isn’t just a reaction to Donald Trump, Joe Biden, or any one administration. Americans from both sides of the political spectrum are leaving. Why? Because many feel their values no longer align with what’s happening at home. Some are concerned about authoritarian overreach. Others are disillusioned with constant foreign wars, economic instability, and a sense that their tax dollars are being squandered.
When moving to Europe, Americans are choosing countries where they perceive better alignment with their values, better governance, or at least less political chaos. Neutral nations like Hungary, for instance, have seen interest rise dramatically.
Cost of Living and Quality of Life: Major Drivers of the Shift
Let’s face it: the cost of living in the United States is out of control. Despite high taxes, many Americans feel they’re getting little in return—crumbling infrastructure, skyrocketing healthcare costs, and little social safety net. Moving to Europe offers an alternative where, yes, taxes may be high, but services like healthcare and education often work more effectively. In fact, many expats report a significantly better quality of life abroad.
We’ve spoken with people who were drowning in $6,000 emergency room bills in the U.S., only to discover they could get comparable care for under $400 in places like Mexico or Spain.
Visa Applications for Europe Are Spiking
News outlets recently reported that visa applications for Europe are climbing fast. Bloomberg and Newsweek confirm it: people are no longer just dreaming of moving to Europe—they’re making it happen. Whether it’s for better healthcare, food quality, education, or a more balanced lifestyle, the motivations are clear.
This surge isn’t isolated. We’ve seen similar trends in our own analytics and client requests. Americans and Canadians alike are requesting help with legal paperwork, investment strategies, and even tax planning for their new lives abroad.
A Values Mismatch Is Fueling the Move
A consistent theme we hear: values. People feel like the U.S. no longer reflects their ideals. Liberals are worried about authoritarian policies. Conservatives are frustrated by fiscal irresponsibility. Everyone seems to be fed up with endless spending on foreign wars while domestic needs go unmet.
Moving to Europe, or even countries like Mexico or Portugal, offers an escape from what many describe as a dysfunctional system. It’s about reclaiming personal freedom and living in places where optimism, not despair, is in the air.
Who Is Best Positioned to Leave?
The majority of people we help move abroad are entrepreneurs, remote workers, or investors. If you own a business or work online, moving to Europe is dramatically easier. Work visas are notoriously complex, but if you have location independence, you have more options. Residency-by-investment or digital nomad visas open doors that were previously closed to traditional employees.
Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just Talk Anymore
This isn’t a political fad. Moving to Europe has become a serious strategy for thousands of Americans looking for freedom, stability, and a higher quality of life. What used to be idle threats are now backed by visa applications, plane tickets, and international bank transfers.
If you’re considering the leap, now is the time to act. Visa requirements are tightening, and global conditions are changing fast.
Need Help Moving to Europe or Abroad?
We’re here to help. At Entrepreneur Expat, we specialize in guiding Americans and Canadians through the entire relocation process—from legal paperwork to accounting and tax optimization.
Book a private consultation at entrepreneurexpat.com/consult and get expert guidance on your move.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to move abroad. Make your Plan B your Plan A.