An IMGW News Report
Portugal has emerged as the top foreign destination for Americans seeking a fresh start abroad, according to a recent survey by relocation company Expatsi. Drawing responses from over 116,000 U.S. citizens exploring life outside America during 2024, the data highlights a growing desire for change – one spurred not just by wanderlust, but by political fatigue, financial considerations, and lifestyle aspirations.
“… 30% plan to retire overseas, 18% seek digital nomad visas, and 17% intend to use skilled worker visas”
Survey participants completed a 20-question assessment tailored to match them with countries aligning with their lifestyle preferences, visa options, and personal goals. When asked which countries they were most interested in moving to, Americans ranked their top ten choices as follows:
- Portugal
- Spain
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Italy
- Ireland
- France
- Mexico
- New Zealand
- Costa Rica
Portugal also topped the list of countries most frequently recommended by Expatsi’s matching algorithm, followed by France, Spain, Greece and Switzerland.
The motivations for leaving the United States are revealing. Some 56% of respondents said the country is “too conservative”, while 53% cited deep societal divisions. Around half expressed a desire for greater personal freedoms and safety from gun violence, and 41% were motivated by the possibility of reducing their living costs. A full two-thirds of those polled hope to move abroad by 2026, with 12% aiming to relocate within six months.
In terms of migration routes, 30% plan to retire overseas, 18% seek digital nomad visas, and 17% intend to use skilled worker visas.
The surge in emigration interest is strongly linked to political developments. A spike in web traffic followed the 2024 U.S. presidential election and the re-election of Donald Trump, with Expatsi’s monthly visitor numbers jumping from 8,000 in October to nearly 51,000 in November.
Founded in 2022 by Jen Barnett and Brett Andrews, Expatsi has seen meteoric growth – reporting a 19,632% increase in revenue year-on-year. It now offers relocation tours, visa consultations, and events like its flagship conference in San Antonio. Of the 200 individuals who took relocation tours last year, about 5% have already moved, with 25% in the visa application process.
As Americans continue to look outward, countries like Portugal may find themselves welcoming a new wave of transatlantic settlers, bringing with them both opportunity and complexity.
