The Trump effect? The countries that could receive more US citizens.
When Donald Trump achieved his first electoral victory in 2016, some people said, “I’m leaving the country.” And in 2024, just as then, the “Trump effect” has also occurred: American citizens have already begun looking for places to emigrate.
The reasons are varied, and as we will see below, they are not always motivated by the controversial leader's political stance. Let's focus on the European countries that could receive the largest number of Americans.
The “liberals”: better opportunities for their families
For Trump opponents who wish to emigrate with their families, various media They point to the attractions of the Golden Visa in countries such as Malta, Cyprus, Portugal and Greece.
In the case of the Hellenic nation, they qualify their investment amounts as “affordable”, and also highlight their tax benefits, “their strong public and private health care, legal protections for LGBTQ+ rights and a great cultural heritage”.
Malta is highlighted for its low crime rate, infrastructure, medical services, political stability, and high standard of living. Another point of interest is that foreigners can become naturalized citizens within 12 months. Of course, the fact that English is one of the two official languages is very helpful for Americans.
Cyprus, meanwhile, would be "one of the easiest countries to emigrate to from the United States," according to the site. Delaware Online, which highlights the tax benefits this island nation offers to foreign investors.
But the Golden Visa isn't the only option: so-called "retirement" visas are also attractive to Americans. And although their name might suggest retirement, as the website clarifies, Yahoo life"You don't need to be retired or a senior citizen to get one."
The case of the Portuguese D7 visa is indicated, which requires proof of monthly income of €820 per month for one person, plus 50% of that amount – approximately €410 – for a second adult.
A similar case is that of Spain, which requires a monthly income of €2.400, generated outside of Spain, for its Passive Income visa. In both cases, these are not visas for those who want to work abroad, but rather for those who live off income generated overseas.
Tech entrepreneurs and financial professionals also want to leave
Another group that is also looking for new horizons in European Golden Visa programs are young, high-income professionals and entrepreneurs linked to the technology sector.
In their case, the reason isn't the "Trump effect," but rather the general climate of political instability. Even if Kamala Harris had won, they would still be exploring options, he points out. Newsweek.
“While historically high-net-worth individuals threatened to leave during politically turbulent times, immigration experts note that this time is different: clients are actively initiating the complex process of obtaining residency rights abroad,” the outlet adds.
European countries such as Portugal, Malta, Greece, Spain, and Italy are their main options, with Malta standing out as the country with the most convenient route for these US investors.
It is worth noting that many of these countries are preparing for this particular exodus of North Americans, in some cases with exhaustive background checks, in addition to requirements for traceability of the origin of resources.
You too can have a new beginning in Europe with AIM Global
Although there are obviously notable differences between our country and the U.S., the interest in diversifying your investments, having a plan B, or securing a future for your family are the same.
As experts in international mobility with offices in Europe, AIM Global has a team ready to find the opportunities that best suit your investor profile and accompany you throughout the entire process.
Schedule today a meeting Join us and start shaping your projects now.
