Home » VISA AND PASSPORT NEWS » Portugal Joins Italy, Spain, Malta, and Croatia in 2025 as Top Destinations for Americans Moving to Europe Amid Skyrocketing Tourism

Published on
October 24, 2025

For many Americans, the idea of moving to Europe is a dream come true. Whether it’s envisioning a quiet life sipping coffee at a café in Paris or restoring an old villa in Tuscany, Europe has long been an ideal destination for those seeking a change of scenery and a better quality of life. According to a recent survey by Remitly, half of the top countries where Americans are eager to relocate to are in Europe, including popular destinations such as the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Ireland, and Norway.

The motivations behind this desire to relocate often include the pursuit of adventure, personal growth, and a more fulfilling lifestyle. Many Americans are drawn to the culture, history, and opportunities for personal enrichment that Europe offers. However, despite the attractiveness of these prospects, relocating to Europe in 2025 has become more complex, with evolving visa regulations and shifting immigration policies making the process more challenging than ever.

The Challenge of Relocating: Navigating Complex Visa Regulations

While moving to Europe may sound like an exciting adventure, the process can be fraught with challenges. William Cooper, the marketing director at William Russell, noted that navigating visa regulations has become increasingly difficult. European countries are adjusting their immigration policies in response to both local and global workforce demands, which means prospective movers must carefully research their options to ensure they meet the necessary requirements.

For Americans considering relocating to Europe, one of the biggest obstacles is finding the right visa. Visas are essential for most long-term stays, and many European countries require individuals to meet specific criteria to live, work, or study there legally. Understanding the various visa types and their requirements is crucial for turning the dream of living in Europe into a reality.

Visa Options for Americans Moving to Europe

Fortunately, despite these challenges, there are a variety of pathways that Americans can pursue to move to Europe. Two of the most popular visa options are the golden visa and the digital nomad visa. These visa types provide opportunities for Americans to establish residency in various European countries, each with its own set of requirements and advantages.

Golden Visas: Citizenship Through Investment

The golden visa is one of the most well-known and sought-after options for Americans looking to move to Europe. Often referred to as citizenship by investment, this type of visa allows individuals to obtain a residency permit (and sometimes citizenship) in exchange for a significant investment in the country’s economy. Countries such as Portugal, Greece, Malta, and Italy offer golden visa schemes, but the requirements can vary. For example, in Greece, the minimum investment required is €250,000 (approximately $290,357).

Golden visas are appealing for those who are financially capable of making a large investment and are looking to obtain citizenship in a European country. These visas provide residency and the ability to live, work, and travel freely within the European Union. Many Americans seeking a second passport or a backup plan for the future are drawn to the golden visa option.

Digital Nomad Visas: An Affordable and Flexible Alternative

Not everyone has the financial means to pursue a golden visa, but for those with flexible jobs or the ability to work remotely, the digital nomad visa may be an ideal solution. This type of visa, offered by countries like Portugal, Italy, Spain, and Estonia, allows remote workers to live and work in these countries for a designated period, typically one to two years, with the option to renew.

To qualify for a digital nomad visa, applicants usually must meet specific requirements, such as having a minimum monthly income or a specified amount of savings in their bank account. Digital nomad visas offer a more affordable and accessible option for those who want to experience life in Europe without committing to a large investment. The benefits of this visa type include the flexibility to work from anywhere while enjoying the lifestyle and cultural offerings of a European city.

Choosing the Right Country: Best European Destinations for Americans

When considering a move to Europe, choosing the right country is a crucial step in the process. One of the best options for Americans is Portugal, which is increasingly becoming a popular destination for digital nomads and expats alike. According to William Cooper, Portugal offers a high quality of life, safety, affordable living, and free public healthcare for permanent residents. Additionally, Portugal’s cost of living is approximately 29.3% lower than in the U.S., making it an appealing choice for those looking to stretch their budget.

Beyond Portugal, other European countries also offer great opportunities for relocation. Malta, with its Mediterranean climate and English-speaking population, is an attractive option for Americans. Croatia, known for its stunning coastline and affordable living, is becoming increasingly popular with remote workers. Spain and Italy also remain top destinations for Americans seeking a slower pace of life, rich culture, and good food.

Countries Offering Digital Nomad Visas

In addition to the popular destinations of Portugal and Malta, several other countries are offering digital nomad visas. These include Croatia, Estonia, Romania, Italy, and Spain, all of which provide attractive opportunities for remote workers to live and work in Europe. Each country has its own specific visa requirements, but all offer the chance to live in an exciting European city while continuing to earn a living from anywhere.

What Makes Europe the Ideal Destination for Americans?

The attraction of Europe is multifaceted. For many Americans, the idea of living abroad is appealing not only because of the cultural and historical richness of European countries but also due to the higher quality of life and work-life balance that many European countries offer. From the affordable healthcare and excellent public transportation to the slow pace of life in rural areas, Europe provides a welcoming and enriching environment for those seeking a fresh start.

Additionally, the EU’s free movement policies allow individuals to travel freely between European countries, giving residents the opportunity to explore various cultures and cities. This mobility adds to the appeal of moving to Europe, as it offers a sense of freedom and adventure that is hard to match in other parts of the world.

Making the Move a Reality

For Americans dreaming of moving to Europe, visa research and preparation are key to success. Whether pursuing a golden visa or opting for a digital nomad visa, the process requires careful consideration of one’s personal finances, professional goals, and desired lifestyle. While navigating the visa application process can be time-consuming and sometimes challenging, the rewards of living in Europe can make it all worthwhile.