23 Easiest Countries for Americans to Move to in 2025

Choose Your Next Destination Carefully

If you're one of the growing number of Americans dreaming of moving abroad in 2025, you're not alone. With nearly nine million U.S. citizens already living overseas, the idea of trading in the hustle of American life for a slower pace, more affordable living, or a better work-life balance is becoming increasingly appealing. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a retiree, or simply ready for a fresh start, some countries make it significantly easier than others to relocate. Below, we explore 23 of the easiest countries for Americans to move to in 2025, based on visa accessibility, affordability, lifestyle perks, and healthcare quality.

One of the most welcoming countries in Western Europe is Portugal. With several visa pathways, including the popular D7 passive income visa and a newly introduced digital nomad visa, Portugal is a favorite among remote workers and retirees alike. The cost of living is among the lowest in the region; couples can live well outside Lisbon on about $2,500 to $3,000 a month. Portugal also ranks highly for safety and healthcare, with a mix of public and private options that are both affordable and high-quality.

Mexico remains a top destination for Americans due to its proximity, affordability, and accessible residency options. While you can stay for up to 180 days as a tourist, many opt for temporary or permanent residency, which can be obtained with proof of modest income or savings. The cost of living varies widely, but even in popular expat destinations like San Miguel de Allende or Puerto Vallarta, couples often live comfortably on $2,000–$2,500 per month. Healthcare is accessible, with many doctors trained in the U.S., and private insurance costing a fraction of what it does stateside.

In Central America, Costa Rica is renowned for its eco-conscious culture, strong healthcare system, and expat-friendly environment. U.S. citizens can enter visa-free for up to 180 days. Residency options include the Pensionado visa for retirees and the Rentista visa for those with passive income. More recently, Costa Rica introduced a digital nomad visa allowing remote workers to stay for up to a year with proof of $3,000/month income. Healthcare is provided through a national system (Caja), which many expats combine with private care. A single person can live well here on $1,500–$2,000 per month.

Panama offers some of the most flexible visa options in Latin America. Americans can stay for 180 days without a visa, or apply for long-term residency through the Pensionado visa or the Friendly Nations visa. These programs are relatively easy to qualify for, and Panama City in particular offers a high standard of living, modern infrastructure, and top-rated private healthcare. Retirees enjoy steep discounts on everything from utility bills to entertainment. The cost of living ranges from $1,700 to $4,000 per month, depending on location and lifestyle.

Further afield, Thailand has become increasingly attractive for remote workers thanks to its recently launched Destination Thailand Visa. This visa allows stays up to 180 days (extendable to 360), with income and savings requirements that are more accessible than most Western countries. Cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok offer vibrant expat communities, with total monthly costs ranging from $1,200 to $2,000. Private healthcare is excellent and very affordable—many facilities cater specifically to international patients.

In South America, Colombia provides Americans with up to 180 days of visa-free entry annually. Residency options are abundant, including pension and investment visas with relatively low thresholds. Medellín and Bogotá are popular among expats for their affordability and modern amenities. A couple can live comfortably for under $2,000 per month, and private healthcare is both high-quality and inexpensive.

Croatia, now part of the Schengen Area, has embraced the digital nomad trend with a one-year visa for remote workers. U.S. citizens can enter visa-free for up to 90 days, and those who qualify for the digital nomad visa are exempt from local income taxes. Cities like Split and Zagreb offer a Mediterranean lifestyle at a lower cost than Western Europe, with rent and daily expenses well below those in neighboring Italy or Austria.

Italy remains a dream destination for many Americans, and while it's not the easiest bureaucratically, it offers a clear path through its elective residence visa, ideal for retirees or self-funded individuals. Applicants need to show proof of sufficient income (around €31,000/year) and secure long-term accommodation. Italy's world-renowned public healthcare system is accessible to legal residents, and cities like Florence or Bologna offer a high quality of life at a lower cost than Rome or Milan.

Greece has made it easier than ever for Americans to relocate with options like the financially independent visa and a digital nomad visa introduced in 2022. With monthly income requirements ranging from €2,000 to €3,500, these visas are among the most accessible in the EU. Greece offers a relaxed lifestyle, low property costs, and reliable healthcare. Outside of Athens, many expats live well for under $2,000 a month.

France offers several long-term visa options for Americans, including a "visitor" visa suited to retirees and remote workers. While France has no official digital nomad visa yet, its talent passport program and regional initiatives are increasingly supportive. France's public healthcare system is among the best in the world, and once you’re registered as a resident, you can access care at a fraction of U.S. prices. Smaller cities like Montpellier or Annecy offer beautiful living without Parisian prices.

Germany stands out for professionals and freelancers thanks to its freelance visa and EU Blue Card program. These visas require proof of income and a viable business plan (for freelancers) or a job offer (for skilled workers). Germany's public healthcare is mandatory for residents, and while costs vary, cities like Leipzig or Nuremberg offer significantly lower living costs than Munich or Frankfurt.

Canada is an obvious favorite for Americans looking for an easy cultural transition. Americans can stay for up to six months as visitors and apply for various work, study, or investment-based permits. Canada's Express Entry and Provincial Nominee programs are among the most efficient in the world. Healthcare access varies by province but is generally strong, and urban centers like Montreal or Halifax offer more affordable options than Toronto or Vancouver.

Australia provides multiple entry routes for Americans, including working holiday visas for those under 35, and skilled migration pathways for professionals. The lifestyle is relaxed, the job market is strong, and the climate is ideal for outdoor lovers. While Australia is more expensive than some countries on this list, cities like Brisbane or Adelaide offer lower rents and vibrant expat communities.

Barbados offers the Welcome Stamp—a one-year digital nomad visa requiring proof of $50,000 annual income. As a Caribbean island, it’s pricier than Latin American options, but the quality of life is high, and the transition is easy thanks to English being the official language. Healthcare is good, especially private clinics catering to expats.

Malta has positioned itself as a European remote work haven with its Nomad Residence Permit. Applicants must show an income of at least €2,700/month and have health insurance. Malta is English-speaking, part of the EU, and offers a mild climate and rich history. Healthcare is high-quality and affordable, especially in comparison to the U.S.

Vietnam continues to attract expats with its low cost of living, vibrant culture, and increasingly international cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. While Vietnam doesn’t currently offer a digital nomad visa, long-stay business or work permits are possible. A single person can live comfortably on under $1,500/month. Healthcare in major cities is surprisingly good and improving year over year.

Georgia allows Americans to stay visa-free for up to one year—no paperwork needed. The country also has a remote worker program and is widely praised for its hospitality and low costs. Tbilisi is fast becoming a remote work hub thanks to low rents, strong internet, and great food. Healthcare is basic but adequate, with private clinics available.

Whether you’re chasing a lower cost of living, better healthcare, or the adventure of a new culture, these 23 countries offer pathways that are accessible, realistic, and increasingly common for Americans. With the right planning and paperwork, your dream of living abroad could become a reality in 2025.

Want help choosing the right country for your goals, income, and lifestyle? Download our free guide: "Pick Your Ideal Country."