10 Countries With The Highest Population of American Ex-pats
What attracts Americans to these countries?
1. Canada
Canada seems to have the highest number of American ex-pats.
According to mcacrossborder.com, there are over 1 million Americans currently living in Canada as ex-pats
Americans seem to love Canada because it’s right next door and has a peaceful, liberal, and more laid-back culture. Many Americans believe Canadian culture and politics are less polarizing than America’s.
Americans are allowed to stay in Canada for up to 6 months. But need to get a visa if they plan of staying for over the 6-month mark.
2. Mexico
Mexico seems to be a popular choice for American ex-pats lately.
In 2020 the Mexican Government recorded an estimated 762,290 Americans living in the country as ex-pats.
Americans tend to love Mexico for its delicious food, delightful weather, friendly locals, beautiful cities, and affordable cost of living.
American citizens can stay in Mexico for six months (or 180 days) at a time with a “visitor’s visa”.
All Americans above the age of 16 automatically qualify for this visa option.
3. The United Kingdom
According to Visa Guide, there are around 200,000 US ex-pats currently living in the UK.
Expats love the UK not only because of its proximity to Europe but also because of its Public Healthcare System, National Health Service (NHS)which provides free healthcare to all its residents.
Keep in mind- this is available for RESIDENTS ONLY!
Americans can visit and stay in the U.K. as a tourist for up to six months, with no visa required. Visitors who plan on staying longer need to apply for a visa.
4. Germany
According to this source, approximately 100,000 American ex-pats call Germany their home.
Expats love Germany because it is considered one of the safest countries in the world.
Germany also has one of the most robust economies in Europe and offers higher education for free for residents, which includes Americans living in Germany.
Americans are allowed to enter Germany visa-free and remain there for 90 days within 6 months.
You can find more information on requirements for various citizens here.
5. Australia
According to this source, there are an estimated 105,000 Americans currently living in Australia.
Expats love Australia because for a number of varying reasons, but the mouse common being its warm climate and beautiful beaches.
Americans cannot enter Australia without a visa. They can apply for an electronic travel authorization or ETA which allows them to stay in Australia for 3, 6, or 12 months depending on the approved duration.
You can find more information about entering and living in Australia here
6. Costa Rica
According to the US Department, there’re about 50,000 Americans living in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica is known for its gorgeous natural landscapes, tropical weather, and Pura Vida: a pure and simple life. These are among many reasons why Costa Rica is a popular destination choice for many Expats
US citizens cannot stay in Costa Rica for more than 90 days. Unless a residency permit has been acquired.
All nationalities can find more information on visas and residency here.
7. Panama
According to this source, an estimated 20,000 to 30,000 Americans live in Panama.
Panana is an especially popular choice for American retirees looking to live abroad because of its affordable healthcare and retirement visa costs, and also because of how close it is back home, to the US.
You can fly from Miami to Panama in less than 3 hours. This makes it convenient and relatively cheap to fly home when the need arises.
Panama boats of sweet beaches, lush rain forests, and a sunny tropical climate.
You can find more information on Panamanian Immigration and visas here
8. Ecuador
According to this NBC, there are approximately 10,000–15,000 Americans living in Ecuador.
American Expats including a retiring population choose Ecuador because of its affordable cost of living, charming towns, and good-quality affordable healthcare.
U.S. citizens who plan to stay for 90 days or less do not need a visa.
You can find more information about Visa requirements and immigration to Ecuador here
9. Portugal
According to this source, approximately 7,000 Americans were living in Portugal at the end of 2021.
Americans Expats seem to love Portugal because of its Mediterranian delights, affordable cost of living, and the quality of life it provides them.
U.S. citizens are permitted to enter Portugal for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa.
To learn more about Portugal’s visa and immigration requirements, check out this link.
10. Singapore
According to the US State Department, there are more than 30,000 U.S. citizens living in Singapore.
Expats love Singapore because they don’t have to deal with a language barrier. After all, English is widely spoken and taught in schools.
Singapore is also preferred for its high quality of life, warm climate, incredible transportation, safety, cleanliness, delicious food, and vibrant ex-pat scene.
To learn more about Singapore’s Immigration and Visas, visit here
If you’re thinking about becoming a digital nomad or ex-pat, you can Download my E-Book: A Digital Nomad & Expat’s Complete Research Guide To Moving and Living Abroad here =>
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