When Donald Trump achieved his first electoral victory in 2016, some people said, “I’m leaving the country.” And in 2024, just like then, the “Trump effect” has reappeared: American citizens are once again searching for places to emigrate.
The reasons are varied, and as we’ll see below, they are not always motivated by Trump’s political stance. Let’s focus on the European countries that could potentially welcome the largest number of Americans.
The “Liberals”: Better Opportunities for Their Families
Various news outlets highlight the appeal of the Golden Visa programs in countries like Malta, Cyprus, Portugal, and Greece for Trump opponents who wish to emigrate with their families.
Greece’s investment thresholds are described as “affordable,” and its advantages include tax benefits, “robust public and private healthcare, legal protections for LGBTQ+ rights, and a rich cultural heritage.”
Malta is praised for its low crime rate, infrastructure, healthcare services, political stability, and high standard of living. Another key advantage is that foreigners can naturalize as citizens within 12 months. Of course, the fact that English is one of the two official languages is a significant benefit for Americans.
Cyprus, on the other hand, is described as “one of the easiest countries to emigrate from the United States,” according to Delaware Online, which emphasizes the tax benefits this island nation offers foreign investors.
However, the Golden Visa is not the only option: so-called “retirement visas” are also appealing to Americans. Despite the name, as Yahoo Life clarifies, “you don’t need to be retired or a senior citizen to qualify.”
One example is Portugal’s D7 visa, which requires proof of monthly income of €820 for one person, plus 50% of that amount—about €410—for a second adult.
A similar option exists in Spain, where the Non-Lucrative Visa requires monthly income of €2,400, sourced from outside the country. In both cases, these visas are intended not for those seeking to work, but for those who can live off foreign-generated income.
Tech Entrepreneurs and Financial Professionals Are Also Looking to Leave
Another group exploring opportunities through European Golden Visa programs are high-income young professionals and entrepreneurs in the tech sector.
In their case, the motivation is not the “Trump effect” but the general climate of political instability. As Newsweek notes, even if Kamala Harris had won, they would still be looking for options.
“While historically, high-net-worth individuals would threaten to leave during politically turbulent periods, immigration experts note that this time is different: clients are actively initiating the complex process of obtaining foreign residency rights,” the outlet adds.
European countries like Portugal, Malta, Greece, Spain, and Italy are their top choices. Malta stands out as offering the most convenient route for these U.S. investors.
It’s worth noting that many of these countries are preparing for this particular American exodus. Some measures include: thorough background checks and requirements to trace the origins of funds.
You Can Also Start Fresh in Europe with AIM Global
Although there are notable differences between the U.S. and other countries, the desire to diversify investments, have a backup plan, or secure a future for your family remains the same.
As experts in international mobility with offices in Europe, AIM Global has a team ready to find the opportunities best suited to your investor profile and guide you through the entire process.
Schedule a meeting with us today and start shaping your future projects.
