Easiest European Countries to Move to from the USA
Thinking of relocating to Europe from the USA? Whether for retirement, remote work, or a fresh start, some countries make the process simpler than others. Here are the easiest European countries to move to from the US, including visa options, residency requirements, and practical insights.
1. Portugal
Why it’s easy: Portugal remains one of the most accessible EU countries for Americans.
Visa options:
- D7 Visa (Passive Income Visa): Ideal for retirees and those with passive income (pensions, rental income, investments). Requires proof of income of at least €820/month (minimum wage) plus 50% for a spouse and 30% per dependent child. Must rent or own property in Portugal before applying.
- Digital Nomad Visa: Requires remote work with non-Portuguese employers and income over €3,040/month.
Other requirements:
- Health insurance valid in Portugal.
- Criminal background check (FBI report apostilled).
- NIF (Portuguese tax number) and a Portuguese bank account.
Why move here? Mild climate, low cost of living, tax incentives via the NHR program (Non-Habitual Residency), and welcoming expat communities.
2. Spain
Why it’s easy: Spain’s non-lucrative visa is popular with US retirees and remote workers.
Visa options:
- Non-Lucrative Visa: Requires proof of income (~€2,400/month for individuals, +€600 per dependent) and prohibits local employment. You must have Spanish private health insurance and a rental contract or a property purchase agreement.\
- Digital Nomad Visa (2023): Allows non-EU remote workers to live and work in Spain. Requires proof of employment or contracts, with a minimum monthly income of ~€2,520.
Other requirements:
- Clean criminal record.
- Medical certificate confirming no serious illnesses.
Why move here? Vibrant culture, Mediterranean lifestyle, top healthcare system, and relatively affordable living outside major cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
3. Germany
Why it’s easy: Germany offers structured visa routes for professionals and freelancers.
Visa options:
- EU Blue Card: For highly skilled workers with a university degree and a German job offer paying at least €45,300/year (or €41,041 for shortage occupations).
- Freelance Visa (Freiberufler): For self-employed professionals (writers, artists, IT consultants, etc.) with German clients and proof of income sustainability.
Other requirements:
- Proof of address registration (Anmeldung) upon arrival.
- German health insurance coverage (private or public).
Why move here? Strong economy, efficient public transport, central European location, and pathways to permanent residency after 33 months on a Blue Card (or 21 months with B1 German).
4. Ireland
Why it’s easy: As an English-speaking EU country with cultural ties to the US, Ireland is a straightforward choice.
Visa options:
- Stamp 0 (for retirees): For financially independent individuals with an income of at least €50,000/year per person plus savings for unexpected expenses. Requires private Irish health insurance.
- General Employment Permit: For job offers in eligible occupations paying at least €30,000/year.
- Start-Up Entrepreneur Program: For entrepreneurs investing at least €50,000 with an innovative business plan.
Other requirements:
- Proof of accommodation and income.
- Application from outside Ireland.
- Why move here? Friendly locals, no language barrier, proximity to Europe, and growing tech and finance sectors.
5. Italy
Why it’s easy: Italy’s elective residency visa is tailored for retirees and passive income earners.
Visa options:
- Elective Residency Visa: For those with passive income of at least €31,000/year (single) or ~€38,000/year (couple). Cannot work locally, must show Italian rental agreement or property ownership and private health insurance.
Other requirements:
- FBI background check with apostille.
- Consulate application from the US.
Why move here? Rich culture, gastronomy, affordable southern regions, and pathways to long-term residency after five years.
6. Greece
Why it’s easy: Greece offers multiple visa routes for Americans.
Visa options:
- Financially Independent Person Visa: Requires proof of income of at least €2,000/month plus 20% for a spouse and 15% per child. Cannot work locally.
- Golden Visa: For property investments starting at €250,000, offering five-year renewable residency.
Other requirements:
- Greek health insurance.
- Background check from the US.
Why move here? Warm climate, islands and mainland choices, low property prices, and access to the Schengen Zone.
7. Malta
Why it’s easy: Malta offers clear visa options for retirees and remote workers.
Visa options:
- Nomad Residence Permit: For non-EU remote workers earning at least €2,700/month. Valid for one year with renewals.
- Permanent Residence Program: Requires a property purchase (€275,000+) or rental (€9,600/year in North Malta), plus government contributions.
Other requirements:
- Comprehensive health insurance.
- Clean criminal record.
Why move here? English as an official language, Mediterranean climate, EU access, and favorable tax regimes for some foreigners.
8. Czech Republic
Why it’s easy: Attractive for freelancers and digital nomads.
Visa options:
- Zivno (Trade Licence Visa): For freelancers with contracts from Czech or international clients. Requires proof of accommodation, a trade license (Zivnostensky list), and monthly income of ~€1,100.
Other requirements:
- Health insurance valid in Czechia.
- Local address registration upon arrival.
Why move here? Affordable living, vibrant expat scene in Prague, and Schengen access for travel.
Moving to Europe from the USA doesn’t have to be a bureaucratic nightmare. Portugal, Spain, and Germany are among the easiest countries to live in, offering clear visa options and supportive expat communities. Ireland and Italy are attractive for retirees, while Malta and Greece offer sunny destinations with straightforward residency programs. The Czech Republic remains a freelancer favorite.
Tip: Before applying, check the updated income requirements with the consulates, gather documents early (especially FBI apostilles), and ensure you meet the health insurance standards for each country.
The educational materials on this site are provided for informational purposes only and do not reflect the opinions of Central Bank of Kansas City, Member FDIC. Educational materials may contain links to content on third-party websites which are provided for your convenience; please note that linked sites may have a privacy and security policy different from our own, and we cannot attest to the accuracy of information. The Central Bank of Kansas City does not guarantee nor expressly endorse any particular business, product, service, or third-party content.
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