How to Move from America to Europe: Visas, Costs, and Countries That Make It Easier

I used to think about a move from America to Europe the way some people think about winning the lottery. From my first trip to the UK, I envisioned what it would be like to actually live here, but it always felt like an unreachable dream. Traveling across Europe only cemented how at home I felt in these places that were not my home.

Fast forward to today and I have been living in the UK for years. London is on my doorstep and mainland Europe is a short flight or train ride away. I moved here with my family, with our dog and cat in tow. So when I say it’s possible, I mean that from experience.

This guide covers the practical paths Americans are taking to move to Europe, the visa options that actually work, and the countries that make the transition a little easier.

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Why Americans Are Moving to Europe in 2025

I know I’m not alone in wanting ot make the move to Europe a reality. A lot of Americans aren’t just dreaming about Europe anymore. They’re packing up, sorting out visas, and actually making the move. If you’ve been feeling burned out, priced out, or just restless, you’re in good company.

The most common reasons people are choosing Europe right now include:

• Remote work freedom. Thanks to more flexible employers and better tech, it’s easier than ever to live in Europe while working for a U.S. company. Countries like Portugal and Spain now offer digital nomad visas that specifically allow this setup.
• Lower healthcare costs. Many Americans are shocked to learn that private insurance in places like Portugal can cost as little as €400 per year. And in countries with universal care systems, like the NHS in the UK, you might be eligible to enroll after getting visa residency.
• More balance, less stress. Europe generally offers more vacation time and shorter working hours. For example, German law provides a minimum of 20 paid vacation days per year, though many employees receive more (between 25-30). That’s in addition to paid public holidays. If you’re tired of the constant hustle, this shift can be a real relief.
• Safety and political stability. Several European countries consistently rank higher than the U.S. on safety, infrastructure, and public trust in government. In fact, Western and Central Europe ranked highest in the world by region on the 2025 Global Peace Index. Considering the level of instability faced around the world, this can be a big motivator.
• Cultural access and easy travel. Once you’re based in Europe, it’s easy and cheap to visit other countries. My family has taken advantage of rail discounts and cheap airfare to visit several countries that were previously only on our bucket list.

Visa Pathways for Relocating Americans

Let’s get one thing out of the way. You can’t just buy a one-way ticket and move to Europe. You need a visa that allows long-term residence, and your options will depend on your income, work situation, family ties, or future plans.

There are many niche visas that only serve the very rich or the very talented. For this article, I’m focusing on the common types of visas most Americans use to move to Europe.

Work Visas

One of the most straightforward ways to move to Europe is with a job offer from a European employer. Companies in need of highly skilled employees may be willing to sponsor you for a residence permit:

• EU Blue Card: Available in many EU countries, this option is designed for high-skilled workers and often comes with faster pathways to permanent residence. An important distinction with this visa is that you can change jobs and move to another EU country without losing time on your pathway to permanent residence.
• Skilled worker visas: Each country has its own version. For example, my husband holds a Skilled Worker visa in the UK, which let us relocate as a family. If your career involves skills that are in demand, then you can start your move abroad planning by applying to roles in your target countries.

Digital Nomad and Freelance Visas

These are designed for people who earn income remotely, usually from clients or employers outside the host country.

Several countries have introduced digital nomad visas in recent years, including:

• Portugal (D8 visa): Requires proof of remote income (at least €3,480 per month) and accommodation. One of the most popular and flexible options for digital nomads in Europe.
• Spain (Digital Nomad visa): Requires a criminal background check, proof of income (varies, but at least €2,368), and proof of health insurance.
• Sweden (Self-Employed residence permit): Requires a financial assessment of your business, evidence of established clients, and adequate finances to support yourself (SEK 200,000, roughly $21,475).

These visas typically allow you to live in the country for one to two years, with options to renew.

Helpful Tip: Most digital nomad and freelance visas have minimum income requirements. Expect to show proof of steady earnings. If you want to rely on your new online business for support, give it some time to establish your financial records first.

Passive Income or Retirement Visas

If you’re not planning to work but have savings or retirement income, some countries offer visas for “non-lucrative” residents:

• Portugal (D7 visa): Requires proof of income equal to at least the Portugal minimum wage (€870/month in 2025) and long-term rental housing.
• Greece (Financially Independent Person) visa: Three-year residence permit that requires evidence of sufficient monthly income (currently €3,500/month).

These are ideal for retirees or those with passive income sources, such as stock dividends.

Note that I’ve provided the highlights of what each visa requires, but immigration rules tend to change frequently. Always research your visa pathway carefully before you start an application.

Popular Countries for Americans Moving to Europe

Not every country in Europe makes it easy to move, especially if you don’t already have citizenship or a job lined up. I love living in the UK, but it can be a real pain to find a feasible immigration pathway here.

Thankfully, a few other countries stand out for offering more accessible visas that let you plan your move . These are some of the most popular picks for Americans right now.

Portugal

Portugal has become something of a superstar in the move abroad world. It’s one of the few places where remote workers, retirees, and families can all find viable visa options. The D7 and D8 visas are especially friendly to Americans with stable income or remote work setups.

The cost of livingin Portugal is lower than in many Western European countries, English is widely spoken in urban areas, and private healthcare is both high-quality and affordable.

Helpful Tip: Portugal’s popularity has been somewhat dampened by a tightening housing market. Be sure to investigate housing rentals in advance so that you budget for your move appropriately.

Spain

Spain offers a rich culture, gorgeous sunny climate, and multiple visa options for non-EU citizens. Their non-lucrative visa works well for retirees or anyone with steady passive income, while their digital nomad visa opens doors for those able to work abroad.

Keep in mind that Spain’s bureaucracy can be slow, and you may want to hire a local advisor (called a “gestor”) to help move things along. This is particularly true if you are not fluent in Spanish.

Germany

Germany is an appealing option for Americans with professional experience or a strong resume. One unique path is the Job Seeker Visa, which allows you to enter the country and look for work legally for up to six months. If you secure a position that meets the requirements, you can then apply for a work visa without leaving the country.

The job market is strong in fields like engineering, healthcare, and IT. English-speaking roles are more common in larger cities like Berlin, but learning German will open many more opportunities.

Helpful Tip: Even with the Job Seeker Visa, you’ll need to show proof of funds to support yourself while you search for work.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands has become increasingly popular with American expats, partly due to the Dutch-American Friendship Treaty (DAFT). This agreement allows self-employed U.S. citizens to start a business or freelance in the Netherlands with fewer requirements than other nationalities.

It’s also a highly English-friendly country with a strong infrastructure, excellent healthcare, and a direct, no-nonsense communication style that many Americans appreciate.

Helpful Tip: Obtaining a DAFT visa doesn’t require a huge investment, but you will need a Dutch business bank account and a simple business plan.

The United Kingdom

The UK is often a popular country for Americans, and I can’t disagree since I live here myself. Unfortunately, waves of anti-immigrant politics in recent years have made it very difficult to move here.

There are still companies willing to sponsor skilled workers, and universities are happy to have international students. However, some practical routes are simply not possible here. For example, the UK does not offer a visa for retirees or passive income holders, nor does it have a visa for digital nomads.

Helpful Tip: For a deep dive into available visa types in the UK, don’t miss my full guide on moving to the UK from America.

Practical Relocation Considerations

Once you know where you want to go and which visa might work for you, the logistics start to pile up quickly. I was over the moon when we secured the job offer that brought our family to the UK, but there was still a ton of work to do before we made the move.

Visa Applications and Paperwork

Most visa processes involve more documentation than you think. Each country and visa can differ, but these are commonly requested.

• Proof of income or sufficient savings to support yourself
• Clean background checks
• Certificate of sponsorship (for work visas)
• Health insurance (in countries requiring private insurance)
• Proof of language skill level (some countries accept English even when it is not the primary language)
• Apostilled documents (a form of document verification required by some countries)

Processing times can vary wildly, so always check the current guidance from the country’s immigration office or consulate.

Helpful Tip: Make digital and physical copies of every document you submit, and organize everything in a folder you can take to appointments. You’ll thank yourself later.

Housing

Finding a place to live in a country where you’ve never lived before that also happens to be partway around the world is no easy feat.

Both times that I moved to the UK I lived in temporary housing on arrival and then found a long-term rental from there. It can be tempting to secure housing before your move, but I recommend against it unless it is a requirement for your visa. It is much easier to find a place you’re happy to live long-term when you can visit in person and get used to the differences in housing before signing a lease.

Some people find it helpful to hire local relocation specialists. If you aren’t confident in your language skills or have to balance family needs like school and work commutes, this can be a good way to have expert advice while you hunt for your perfect home abroad.

Helpful Tip: Be sure to budget for rental deposits and research whether other fees are common in the host country.

Banking and Money Transfers

Opening a bank account in Europe isn’t always simple. Some countries require proof of residence, while others require a local tax ID before you can open a traditional account. I found it helpful to open an online account with Wise so that we could manage our finances before we were fully set up with a local bank.

Helpful Tip: If you’re moving large sums of money from the U.S., use a service that lets you lock in currency rates and avoid hidden fees. Don’t rely on your U.S. bank’s wire transfer service without checking the costs. I have found Wise to offer excellent rates and fast transfers.

Healthcare

Many long-stay visas require private health insurance that’s valid in the country where you’re applying. Some countries let you join the public system after gaining residency, while others expect you to keep private coverage.

If you’re used to the American system, prepare for very different rules, but also much lower costs. In the UK, we registered with the NHS, but also have private insurance through our employers.

Language and Culture

While English is widely spoken in some countries, learning the basics of the local language will make your life much easier. This is especially true for dealing with government offices, doctors, and landlords.

Even within Europe, cultures vary dramatically. Things like meal times, noise expectations, and what “on time” means may be different from what you’re used to.

Long-Term Residency and Citizenship

Moving abroad can be an incredible adventure, whether you’re aiming to stay a few years or settle down permanently. If a permanent move is on your mind, then it’s worth understanding what long-term life could look like, and how to plan for it.

Residency and Permanent Status

Many European visas can be renewed until you have lived in the country long enough to gain permanent residency. This is usually called permanent residence or long-term residence, depending on the country. In the UK, permanent residence is called Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

How long you need to wait before applying for permanent residence varies by country, and even may differ between visa types. In many cases, the timeline to become eligible for permanent residence is between 3 and 10 years.

Residency gives you more rights and removes the need to renew your visa each year. It’s often a necessary step before you can apply for citizenship.

Helpful Tip: Keep careful track of your residence dates, absences from the country, and any visa renewals. Some countries have strict rules about continuous residency when applying for permanent status.

Citizenship and Passports

Citizenship is the long game. If you become a citizen of a European country, you can often pass that citizenship to your children. If you gain citizenship within the European Union, you are granted rights that apply across the member countries. Sadly, these rights are no longer granted to UK citizens since Brexit.

Applying for citizenship usually requires passing a language test and a civics exam. Some countries require you to renounce your U.S. citizenship, but many allow dual citizenship.

Moving to Europe with Children or Pets

The logistics of moving when you have a family or fur babies are more complicated, but not impossible. If you’re moving with a partner or kids, check whether they can be added to your visa. In many cases, spouses and minor children can join you as dependents. That’s how we moved back to the UK as a family.

Education systems vary widely. State-run schools in much of Europe are free and high quality, but you may also find international schools if you want a US-style curriculum or a smoother transition for your kids. This can be particularly helpful if your child faces a language barrier or you’re considering a return to the US in a few years.

Pets are family too. We’ve moved with cats and with a large dog, so I know the stress firsthand of making sure their arrival goes smoothly. Moving with pets is possible, but it’s not always simple. To start planning, make sure your pet has a microchip and up-to-date rabies certificate. Then research import requirements for your top countries.

Making the Leap Without Losing Your Mind

Moving from America to Europe is not easy. It takes paperwork, planning, and a willingness to sit with uncertainty. But if you’re looking for a different pace of life, more affordable healthcare, or simply a new adventure, it can absolutely be worth it.

We’ve done it as students, as workers, and as a family with pets in tow. It’s never been flawless, but it’s always been rewarding. The key is finding a visa that fits your life now, while keeping your long-term goals in view.

FAQs About Moving from America to Europe

How do I move from America to Europe?

You’ll need to apply for a long-stay visa based on your income, job, or family situation. Start by researching visa options in the country where you want to live, then apply through that country’s consulate.

How hard is it to move from America to Europe?

It depends on your visa type and destination. Immigration laws tend change every few years, so it’s important to keep an eye on shifting requirements. Some countries offer straightforward digital nomad or retirement visas, while others require more documentation and longer timelines to make your move.

How expensive is it to move from America to Europe?

Costs vary by country and visa, but expect to budget for visa fees, travel, housing deposits, health insurance, and shipping or storage. If you move as a single person without shipping home goods, then you may be able to make it work for under $5,000. Families can easily require over $15,000.

More Support for Your Move

Planning a move abroad doesn’t stop once your visa is approved. These resources will help you tackle the next phase with more confidence:

• Pros and Cons of Life in the UK: A reality check on what life abroad actually feels like after the move.
• International Moving Guide: What to bring, what to leave, and how to survive moving day without losing your mind.
• Move Your Money Between the US and UK: How to avoid outrageous fees and get your finances set up smoothly.
• Cost of Moving Pets to the UK: If you’re bringing your dog or cat, this guide breaks down the actual costs and requirements.