10 Easiest Countries in Europe for Americans (who want to Leave the US)

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Lock In Your Discount NOW! Give yourself peace-of-mind with the Move Abroad EXPRESS eCourse and fast track your move to Europe (or anyplace else): ameliaandjp.com/mae

[@AugustoLugo1983]

You guys are amazing, Sad that many of us feel like escaping our own country.

[@michaelhall2709]

Sad indeed. At 66, making plans to spend my final years in exile was nothing I could have anticipated.

[@andiman45]

@@michaelhall2709 it will be a blessing...wish I had done this years ago

[@jamescalifornia2964]

😉 _✨️Retire in beautiful California. We speak English!🌴⛱️_ ( most of us )

[@BlueRidgeRider]

@@michaelhall2709I didn’t anticipate it but now I’m looking forward to it!

[@enjoystraveling]

@@jamescalifornia2964 yes in California has the highest taxes, state taxes in the United States plus of course you pay federal taxes. In addition, although California is beautiful.

[@CancerZodiacAstrologyHoros-k7z]

I didn't have ANY expectations when I went to FRANCE, and to my surprise, My daughter and I to be treated with SO MUCH respect and LOVE.

[@kepckatherinec805]

I’ve visited France and loved it. Only one person out of the hundreds I encountered was rude, and he was a non-native shop owner. The French people were calm, happy, accepting and welcoming.

[@dr.michaellittle5611]

American expats are treated much better around the world than Americans treat foreign expats (aka immigrants in Fox terminology).

[@deebee2603]

For those Italy lovers who do not love cigarette smoke, Milano just enacted some of the toughest smoking laws in the country.

[@keangwooichoo6138]

Bravo to Italy (I am a non-smoker)

[@messyhomestead7320]

Oooh that is great news. Now if only we could get them into the 21st century on queer people being people, I could really move there.

[@DonDenver-r7v]

@@messyhomestead7320move to San Francisco! Doesn’t get any better than that!

[@dannolawson263]

I am an asthmatic and I was there just over a month ago and I have to say that the smoking, especially around the restaurants & train stations, was just as horrible as any other city in the northern region. 🤔

[@deebee2603]

Thanks for another well written & produced video! One thing people might want to keep in mind is noise! Many warm weather countries in Europe, Asia and Latin America have little or no insulation in the walls. The streets are often narrow and people use scooters and motorcycles to get where they are going on those narrow streets. Some cultures don't even get socializing until late in the evening because of the heat of the day. Spain's garbage is collected in the middle of the night. Barking dogs, fireworks and loud music is common in warm weather nations. Some North Americans looking for a laid-back European lifestyle are unprepared for the noise levels. Cigarette smoking is also much more prevalent, and although Greece, Portugal and Spain have passed laws preventing smoking indoors at work or inside restaurants, people will still smoke near open windows and doorways. Smoking has actually ticked upward in a few of these countries since COVID. It can be a shock for those unprepared. Do your homework! Please rent in your preferred neighborhood for awhile before buying a property.

[@kennethkilpatrick3758]

Poland signed an agreement with the U.S. in the early 90's that allows U.S. citizens to stay as long as they want if they cross the border and return every three months. The catch is since the creation of the Schengen zone you have to go to a non-Schengen country. So you can cross into Ukraine and come back, which with the war is probably a no go, or you can fly to countries like Georgia or the U.K. Poland is very well connected to Europe by discount airlines. For me I could see spending the warmer months in Poland then flying to the southern hemisphere, likely Argentina, when their Spring starts. All year warmth!

[@daveed4475]

That sounds like a great plan!

[@tnickknight]

Poland is one of the best choices in Europe, by far

[@natinaharris8381]

Google: Reddit, Poland, Bilateral Agreement, 2025. I saw this the other day, and they are looking into getting rid of this agreement, sadly.

[@kennethkilpatrick3758]

Sad to hear. Oh well, could still do 90 days there or elsewhere, then 90+ days in Georgia or Albania, then head to the southern hemisphere.

[@natinaharris8381]

@kennethkilpatrick3758 👍🏽☺️

[@christinel1530]

My husband and I just left Albania a few days ago on an exploratory visit as a possible retirement country from US. Unfortunately it's just not for us...yes, people are very nice, very affordable. Jyst keep in mind if you are thinking of moving there, still quite underdeveloped. I was shocked at the amount of trash...especially Durres and Vlorë. Driving us INSANE! Heavy, heavy smoking culture. It has beach and mountains which is great. IMO, Albania probably needs a lot more time for better infrastructure...it's a poor country, people do not make high wages, which makes it very affordable for US. Language is very challenging... yes, younger people speak english, but I wouldn't totally rely on that.

[@garymacdonald7165]

🇧🇬 Bulgarias Black sea coast has one of the warmest winters in Europe!

[@cachecow]

I was wondering

[@keangwooichoo6138]

Temperature please

[@janemills6654]

@@keangwooichoo6138 it can still drop to 0c in the winter, but feels warmer. They can grow palm trees there, so that shows how warm it is

[@make760perday-]

This video has shown me how much growth happens when we take action and learn from every step, even when things don’t go as planned.

[@deebee2603]

Ireland's south east coast (Waterford, Wexford) is sunnier than the rest of the country. If you are relocating to Waterford from a place like Seattle, Washington - no big deal! It will seem fine. If you are coming from sunny Southern California - you might be in for a depressing winter. Galway and the west side in general gets a LOT of rain. Try living in Ireland for a winter to really know how you are going to feel!

[@LivinCindysLife]

Another really good video, full of great information! We are pretty much set on France for our retirement, and we're happy to see that it was high on your list. France just has so many positives that check every box for us (I speak French too, so that's always a plus). We're heading there in the fall to begin scoping out our favorite areas to plant our retirement roots. My brother and his fiancé are planning to retire in Spain making for easy visits via high-speed trains.

[@nala3038]

The biggest thing for me regarding France is the extremely inexpensive healthcare

[@LivinCindysLife]

@@nala3038 Yes, affordable healthcare is high on our list of must-haves, and France's system is very good.

[@nala3038]

@@LivinCindysLife it sure is

[@ExpatJourneyOnline]

We're living in Bulgaria and so far, it's been great. There are some areas of the country that get little to no snow, so you can sidestep cold Sofia if need be. The ont thing I can't underscore enough is how challenging it can be when you have to apply for a visa from outside the country--as is the case with Bulgaria. We are Americans who were living in Ecuador when we decided to move to Bulgaria. We had to go back to the US for nearly four months to jump through all the hoops to get our D-visas. Since we no longer have our permanent housing in the US, it meant we had to AirBnB it--as well as rent a car--for that entire time. So, it was REALLY EXPENSIVE to undertake this visa process. If you're already living in the US, this would be a much less costly undertaking. Once we arrived here, however, our costs of living went way down. We are in Plovdiv--where the people are friendly and many speak English. It's a fascinating country and we can't wait to explore more.

[@scottlevine7646]

Thanks For this great information. I’m in Cuenca and happy here, but always nice to see a fellow expat branch out from Ecuador.

[@hikingviking859]

Are there opportunities to teach English in Plovdiv?

[@charleswhite7612]

We spent a month in Europe in 2019 & we had the same experience in France! Your experience and expectations were nearly word for word what we say. Can’t wait to return!

[@TheQUBANQT]

I appreciate you guys filming this.

[@YogaBlissDance]

Guys this would have been EVEN BETTER with pointing out a few cities/towns in each country! Traveling with Kristin did one on France that was super helpful.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

It was too long and too many countries for that. We cut 10 minutes as it was.

[@ScooterOnHisWay2024]

Amelia is looking extra gorgeous in this video, even more than usual. Well done for you both. Stay happy.

[@nsanenthembrane]

I googled this question and your video popped up. Thank god for you both!

[@Peter-m5n7m]

Right about now, I expect a whole lot of folks are ready to bail!

[@nala3038]

Yeah I’m seriously considering it

[@scottclarke0317]

meeeeeeeeeeee!!

[@mickster1780]

bye 🙋‍♂

[@cland4140]

@@Peter-m5n7m I now have a renewed interest in staying in the USA!🇺🇸

[@suen5006]

Not all that easy for most people to just leave friends, family, jobs, mortgages.

[@videoeditoranimation1714]

Thanks for another great video Guys. Your videos have been very inspirational. We just returned from three weeks in Europe. We stayed in Germany and Luxembourg. But while we were there, we also visited France, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. The Christmas markets were awesome!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Sounds like you had a great trip!

[@stacie007]

FYI: US citizens are allowed to register a sole proprietorship in Poland then apply for residency based on business activity. I'm in that process now. I believe you get 3 years. With the business you have to pay a minumum into the the national healthcare system every month regardless of income, but then you have healthcare. There is also tax breaks for new businesses. AND we can apply from within Poland as long as we do it before our tourist (90 days) visa ends.

[@christinef8698]

I lived in Germany for 4 years and Italy for 2 years. I went to France all the time. If I ever moved back I would pick France. I agree with you about the people, French people get a bad reputation. I always found them nice. My phone app and high school French helped

[@25Soupy]

29:00 minutes of the video: As a born and raised Torontonian, I can confirm we pronounce Toronto just like Tirana, Albania. I did mention that on your Albania video a few months ago.

[@lindadorman2869]

We always thought my dad's side of the family was from Germany but when I researched our family tree, it turns out we're from Lithuania! I even found a book with the history of how my great-grandparents immigrated to America in 1875. When I visited Lithuania and asked about the village they came from, people looked at me funny and said "Why in the world do you want to go there? There's absolutely nothing there."

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Very cool!

[@chrisaesculus5520]

😂 I have visited a few rural places where my ancestors lived. To each his own, but I can see why they left. Life is certainly more convenient in an urban area, there are more opportunities for employment, and the culture offerings are more numerous. I’m usually left with the thought, “ a nice place to visit, but I wouldn’t want to live here.”

[@andiea5743]

Thank you for this great video! I would love to hear where you are headed next and maybe for the next six months!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We plan our next trip sometimes just a few days before we leave. We like the flexibility and it allows us to choose the best last minute deals for flights.

[@zeitgeist888]

Very good compilation. A couple notes to add. In France if you choose a long term lease like 2-5 years contract you can end it at any time by giving 30-90 days notice without penalty so you are not locked in for the whole term if your situation changes or you decide to buy a property or move elsewhere. Germany also requires health insurance which is extremely expensive. We are in out 50s in good health and it is $700 per person or more and goes up each year. France also has the best tax treaty with the US and taxes all US sourced income only in the US. Pensions, social security, Roth 401K/403B, and investments not taxed in France if taxed in the US. Many countries don't recognize Roths so you get taxed on the withdrawals which is double taxation and a big hit.

[@dmitriyf1]

For the retirees France may be beneficial - you do not have to pay taxes in France on retirement income meaning Social Security at least, I think 401k is also included but I could not find definite answer for that one. There is an Article 18 US/France tax treaty but also “saving clause” (article 26) which I have not digested yet

[@travelvideos]

Great video. But I am a bit sad that Latvia didn't make to the top spot. I think the costs are pretty reasonable, fresh food in farmers market or in supermarket, fly to anywhere in Europe for a song. Get deals to US East cost for 400-500 USD roundtrip with connections in Europe. If you don't like snow and cold move to Liepaja on the West coast, where it seldom snows and temperatures are mild. Sandy beach, cleanest air etc. Definitely Latvia deserves top marks.

[@Positive_Atrributes]

Residency permits are via investing money into property for both commerce, offices, and domestic, and Riga is the best thing for this in Latvia!🏥

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks for sharing 👍

[@carmenwilcox7478]

Thanks as always. 2025 is my year to prepare for rolling later this year or early 2026. Have Albanian friends who I worked with while in Kosovo so I think it will be my first step.

[@MorganMADDISON]

thank you so much for your in-depth information

[@treviescott]

AT 16:00 You list #4 as Bulgaria, yet Romania is clearly circled on the map. You may want to edit this. In fact, the name Romania is circled and Bulgaria is not labeled at all. Thanks for the video. Just trying to help!!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We can’t edit a video that has already been published on KZbin. It was a mistake.

[@suen5006]

Love all the information! Thank you!

[@mkoschara]

Thanks for this update.

[@dvancamp6710]

Oops, when you discussed Bulgaria your graphic had Romania circled! But I do appreciate your videos!

[@Globetrotter5198]

Great video❤

[@RoughRider757]

Thank you for sharing your expat experiences and this amazing list of possible places to call home. France sounds like the best option for Americans looking for am affordable and stable LONG term place to live. And it has one of the best healthcare systems in the world. And France has a low cost of living for a first world country. And $250k still buys a comfortable house.

[@MattStone-dh1oc]

If you make it to Sitges, Spain we'd love to show you around! We've been watching you guys for years and you inspired our journey including a long trip to Ecuador.

[@hawaiianguy9828]

Excellent video guys, the info summarizes the requirements so clearly and concisely. It makes general decision making a lot easier, thanks. Now.... Spain, France or Albania? My initial hopeful destination was Spain or France, but Albania just seems ridiculously easy for Americans to reside, with an impressively low cost of living.

[@kims1912]

Albania seems to be the perfect home base for Shengen shuffle. I'm interested in Montenegro too but can't stay one year like Albania. Don't want the temporary residency there because of restrictions on only leaving one month per year or you lose your residency and health benefits.

[@jeremyleonbarlow]

Don't overlook Cyprus. They are not Schengen yet despite being EU and the fact that you can get the Pink Slip while in the country is very beneficial. The tax treatment there is also highly favorable and it is a big expat haven for most of Europe, ie English is a lingua franca there.

[@deebee2603]

For the UK, if you have a parent or grandparent born there, you can usually get residency!

[@keangwooichoo6138]

Ancestry visa

[@messyhomestead7320]

But there is massive housing shortage and their health service is collapsing every day into the abyss of the US pharma system since it got its hooks into there. It's a total nonstarter. Free watch SkyNews for a week and I'd be surprised if anyone still felt it was a prudent option.

[@morgyndanaewellness]

I’ve been told if we apply for the Spanish DNV while in Spain, we’re eligible for 3 years of residency but only 1 year when applied for outside of Spain.

[@DebbieMorelli]

Interesting you guys. Thank you.

[@peterz53]

Thanks. As a US retiree investigating European options (dual US German citizenship in the works) and becoming familiar with cost of living in several countries on my list, one gaping hole to round out the true cost of living are taxes. Would be great if a software developer would create software to allow us to compare our country list and income streams, etc, and spit out an estimate of taxes for each country beyond what we owe the US. Would be a great service for a tax consultant too. As of now I am building a list of tax consultants for each of the countries and will have them individually estimate my taxes. Rumor has it that France has a good tax treaty with US so hoping that pans out.

[@nala3038]

And France has world class healthcare which is extremely inexpensive

[@Positive_Atrributes]

CIVIL LEGAL system service process has forced heirship inheritance requirements and this is the reason why the SEYCHELLES charity foundation is keeping good enough for the necessary asset protection tactics!🏥

[@deebee2603]

If you are willing to go to Central America, Costa Rica and Panama do not tax foreign earned income or retirement.

[@nala3038]

@@deebee2603 I knew about Panama I didn’t know about Costa Rica

[@kevinsmith9899]

If you're considering France, be sure to look at their inheritance taxes, and make sure they will work for whatever comes your way. Yikes.

[@roelf8044]

I live in Hooglanderveen, which is about 20 minutes cycling from Nijkerk. Love your videos!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Very cool!

[@yankeedrifter81]

I wonder where Croatia and Montenegro would place in your ratings. One attractive thing about Croatia, among many, is that there is no property tax on a property you own if you live in it. Property taxes tend to be lower in Europe, regardless.

[@TheDeadbone1961]

Excellent video! Might I add: there are free iPhone/Google translation apps, and

[@olezhastanislavich8818]

You forgot the happiest country in Europe - Finland! There is a possibility for self-employment visa which includes digital nomads with proof of annual income of around 15K€! And people easily speak English with no prob!

[@just42tube]

The income requirement in the residence permit process is based on minimum income required for supporting living in Finland. It can be adjusted yearly. It's not a comfortable income level for living in Finland though not impossible either. And if you have irregular additional income in addition to that then it's much better. At lower income levels even a small additional amount can be significant. Some studies have shown that at around 3000 € monthly income level people start to feel comfortable with their financial situation. Getting more is of course better, but its importance starts to diminish.

[@photopro100]

Very good list Amelia & JP. I did not know how European JP is. I was in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and The Hague and now in other parts of the Euro continent. There are lots of news that Europe will require registration and biometrics (Entry/Exit System and ETIAS) for Non-EU and Non-Resident travelers coming from countries currently Visa Free (tourist visa) starting this year that had been delayed from November 2024 since Germany, France and The Netherlands were not ready for it. The U.K. was stating plans to start their Electronic Travel Authorization System yesterday on Jan 8th, 2025. Apparently travel to Europe may require extra steps soon.

[@jPuma817]

Wow awesome ya living the life, I'm so envious, I'm trying to save, pay off debt , get a remote job, to be able to do this in my 40s

[@judywidener3039]

There are towns where you cannot understand a word though- the brogue is soo thick. I adore the country and people ,but too could and too wet in winter unfortunately

[@jeremyleonbarlow]

The fact that the Stamp 0 can never lead to permanent residence or citizenship is also a bummer. My Irish ancestry is too far removed to be useful in obtaining citizenship in Ireland. My Great-Great Grandfather left for Canada during the famine, so before there was even an Irish Republic.

[@perrybruce4914]

I'm interested in retirement visas and possible route to citizenship in a stable European country. I'm 66 yrs old, in fairly good health, willing to learn a specific language, and passive income of $45K per yr (with additional savings/IRA). For my circumstances, which of 3 would you recommend considering? Oh and even though I live in Florida now, I really don't like the heat (like Greece) & I would enjoy some winter/snow. Thanks

[@Positive_Atrributes]

BULGARIA INLAND from Varna Airport region areas are keeping good enough, near to the Danube, and easy access to Bucharest OTP Airport region!🏥

[@deebee2603]

Do you want a small town lifestyle in the country, or do you prefer city life? Sounds like you could love Slovenia, Sweden, Northern Italy, Northern France.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Way too much to cover in a KZbin comment. And too many follow up questions. Sorry.

[@enjoystraveling]

Perhaps Estonia, Latvia or Bulgaria, but that’s just my opinion

[@BrydiHeebner]

Italy amazes me, and people are aging there, so housing will open up more. I am looking for citizenship in another country, and their 10 year waiting is a bit too long for me despite the cheaper housing. Are any of these countries have emerging economies? Like you have said before in Albania? Is Serbia an emerging economy? I am looking for citizenship by descent or naturalization. Might be able to get this in England or Slovakia due to descent by 2nd generation. All of this information is very helpful, THANK YOU, again for your help and video.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Most Balkan countries are developing.

[@coty4100]

Janice in France 🇫🇷 loves living outside Paris Thanks for clarifying about Greek culture Makes sense now why we were yelled at in Greek restaurants in Boston and Western Europe 😅

[@jeremyleonbarlow]

I know you guys like Albania, but I suspect if you spend time in Cyprus that it will be a place you would like as well. It has some big advantages in terms of its tax treaties that make it very favorable for Americans, especially if KZbin royalty income is a big part of your income. They have a zero withholding rate on royalties with the US and a lot of other countries too. They also have their Non-Dom tax regime which lasts for 17 years.

[@messyhomestead7320]

It's quite expensive to live, though, and not a very safe place for single women, and not at all food-independent, so costs will never be low.

[@jeremyleonbarlow]

@messyhomestead7320 24% less expensive than the US on average and 41% less expensive on rent. If you are earning a US income and you have the over $200k of foreign earned income exclusion and standard deduction a married American couple gets with the benefit of Cyprus' Non-Dom regime with proper structuring ie the use of US LLCs and owner's draws the prices being that much lower with a zero tax rate excluding US social security taxes and the under 3% social contribution in Cyprus on dividends it becomes fairly inexpensive for US citizens earning even an average US income. That is not to say you are earning $200k, just that if you have no US tax liability until you exceed $200k, it looks fairly good for taxes.

[@blue-vu1ek]

I spend 90 days in Cyprus for my winter schengen out. Healthcare is not good in Cyprus. You must plan on going to other EU countries for healthcare. April to September is hot, sticky, and awful. Almost all food is imported, so expect instability. The boat people have made areas of Cyprus really dangerous. Before they arrived, Cyprus was fairly safe. But now, petty crime has really increased and the Cypriots do not like or want the africans.

[@infocyde2024]

I believe Montenegro started a digital nomad visa similar to Croatia's starting in 2025 but I could be wrong.

[@Positive_Atrributes]

Montenegro best temporary residency permit capacity status is via their corporate bodies company investing money formation, and this has the optimum presence anywhere!🏥

[@chrisgross2043]

If you had a parent or grandparent born in Ireland you can become a citizen

[@thepigwillfly5869]

Good info, thanks. One small mistake I noticed, @16:00 - you say Bulgaria but circled Romania.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Yup

[@judykinsman3258]

Wow guys! Your channel just gets better every year. Your slow traveling is so informative & enjoyable! Thanks for sharing your traveling lifestyle with us.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Thanks for the kind words 😊

[@lindadorman2869]

I'm intrigued by the idea of dividing my time between two countries. The Schengen shuffle might work but I'd rather get residency in two European countries so I can go back and forth whenever I want. What combination do you think would be ideal?

[@deebee2603]

That could get complicated. You should do a deep dive into residency requirements. Some have relaxed ones (as to the number of days required in-country), and some are strict. If you have a parent or grandparent born in a European country, you can probably get residency in that country based on descent. If that country is a Schengen country, you then would have your pick of a second country! No need to even get a second residency.

[@dr.michaellittle5611]

This would also eliminate country income taxes because most require only residents with 183 days of in-country residence to pay income taxes.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

It’s based on which visas you qualify for and what matters to you. Some countries have physical presence requirements that will prevent you from getting residency in another country with physical residency requirements. Also, residency does not grant unrestricted travel to other Schengen countries. Only citizenship does that.

[@angiebee598]

I'm a huge fan of Derry Girls!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

So are we! It’s hilarious!

[@deebee2603]

Y'all forgot Sweden! It is the easiest Nordic country in which to get a retirement visa.

[@ElizabethBidinger]

Love me some Amelia and JP. I had pretty much decided on Spain, but due to the differences in healthcare (both great but France ranks superior for those of us Seniors). I hope I can swing it! It’s a tough choice but healthcare is my #1 consideration at this stage. I’m going to start some basic French lessons soon. Would you feel comfortable moving there with limited French you tried on the language app you use? Merci.

[@Fiola_M]

This was very informative..how warm are these places in winter? Coming from the Great white north i am wondering how warm the european mediterranean nations are? Any plans to travel in north africa this year?

[@deebee2603]

Very few European countries have truly great winter weather. Costa del Sol in Spain, the Algarve in Portugal and the French riviera are decent, but daytime temps can dip into the 50's. The Canary Islands have perfect San Diego style weather, with water temps at around 80 degrees F in December. Canary islands are Spanish, so the same residency rules generally apply.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Southern Europe is chilly in the winter but nothing like Canada.

[@kloatlanta]

Parts of Greece have mild winters.

[@cachecow]

Bulgaria just joined Schengen Jan 1st

[@peruvian05152]

And per the map in the video is now part of Romania!?!?!?

[@TrondersTrondby]

I believe ETIAS goes into effect in 2025, which effects Americans and some other countries for travel to the EU.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

It’s supposed to go into effect after May but it has already been delayed several times. It’s small fee and it’s valid for 3 years and multiple entries.

[@jom.6075]

Ups, you showed Romania but mentioned Bulgaria! 😉

[@Risingstar0324]

So, if I want to come to Europe and travel for a year to various countries including eastern Europe, do I have to get a tourist visa for each country?

[@MsRedjay]

Are you American? If so, you can spend 90 out of every 180 days in the Schengen zone without needing a visa. So, either 90 days at a time, then go outside the Schengen zone for 90 days (e.g. Albania, UK, Morocco), or else split it up differently. From next year you might need to apply for an ETIAS pass, which is a visa waiver for travellers who don't need a Schengen visa, basically a new electronic system to keep track of everyone's entry and exit movements.

[@michaelgurtler522]

Hey guys, great info! Question: Seems like for most countries on the list you have to have a long term lease before you get the visa. Couldn't that be problematic if your visa is denied and you're stuck with the lease agreement? Is there a way around that? Thanks 😀

[@Positive_Atrributes]

Learn how to make rent to rent agreement working with the owner of the property, but this may require escrow guarantee funding via an attorney advocate preparing the proper agreement!🏥

[@deebee2603]

Many countries will accept an Air B&B reservation for at least several months. Once you do get a longer term lease, you can register with your local municipality. Check with the consulate in your home country first to be sure.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

That could be a problem. Best to work with an immigration attorney to be sure you qualify.

[@just42tube]

Seems a bit too obvious to suggest having a conditional lease agreement where getting a immigration permit, a long term visa or residence permit, is the condition. Is there some problem with that, which I don't see now?

[@ddscurtis]

Does Pension Visas also include Social Security benefits?

[@YogaBlissDance]

DAFT is easy to get from my research BUT I've heard teh Dutch are a bit rude....Or frank I could say.

[@beekeeper63]

I've been there three times and found the people incredibly friendly.

[@Positive_Atrributes]

NETHERLANDS SOLE ONLY citizenship regime, is making it mandatory to surrender the existing passport to the authority 🏥

[@deebee2603]

They aren't rude, just direct. That could be refreshing! One huge plus is 95% of adult Dutch people speak English., so a transition is easier. But as with all countries, making an attempt to speak a few words of Dutch will go a long way.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We met a Dutch man in Bangkok and he was very nice. And our time in Amsterdam was good. Only met one rude person.

[@just42tube]

​@@AmeliaAndJP I met a friendly American in CA once in the 80s. So they must be friendly 😂

[@visitingprof]

Couple quick comments: Tax treaties - If you intend to work or earn income, always look if there is also a "Totalisation Agreement" for social security. If not, you may be liable for both FICA and whatever is charged locally. An example is Estonia-- 15.3% FICA self-employed US and 37.4% EE. That's BEFORE income taxes. Certain countries: Estonia entrepreneur visa -- Just for software programmers, and you must provide your code to the committee before getting the visa. Limited guarantees on IP protection! 👎 Something you only learn by trying.☹ Switzerland - Retirement visa request goes FIRST through cantonal authorities and then the Embassy in the U.S. Not subject to quotas but need B-1 in national language (eventually) and "connection to Switzerland." Entrepreneurs - subject to third-country quotas, so you are up against the financial and pharmaceutical sectors for hiring. CHF 2 million investment will buy you in, however. 💰 If you want a Swiss experience, live in France nearby (Alsace or Savoy) and visit.

[@nikstorm594]

My family and I have spent a lot of time in Ireland over the last 18 years, including months at a time, and it is almost a perfect country; however, their healthcare system is very lacking.

[@nala3038]

I’ve heard the opposite about healthcare there

[@nikstorm594]

Not that we have experienced first hand.

[@deebee2603]

The secret is to purchase private insurance if you can.

[@marcvancleven]

And what about Belgium?

[@pinkiepinkster8395]

Now please show us a list of latin American countries that we can move to.

[@BecomeABetterGuitarPlayer1]

Good day! Love your channel! Are the monthly income requirements in this video per person or per couple? Thanks!

[@tnickknight]

American here. I have lived all over Europe. Ireland is easy to live in, but very expensive and they are not big on Americans, The Netherlands is having a housing disaster, no rentals for many. Poland is a Great place, affordable and pro American. The best place overall. The Baltics are also great, affordable, and friendly to Americans. Think affordable Scandinavia

[@robbien.1798]

@tnickknight Not big on Americans? Wow I'm surprised. Have heard differently...at least online. Could you elaborate?

[@tnickknight]

@robbien.1798 they have a lot of Americans and American businesses there. They are not big on Americans, (especially those that call themselves Irish), or America. That's fine, but it will affect you if you live there. Lots of better choices that are cheaper and more friendly towards Americans. ( Note, I'm definitely not pro American, but it makes no difference)

[@robbien.1798]

@@tnickknight Interesting. I'd heard about their dislike for Americans of Irish descent calling themselves Irish, which I can understand. But compared to their history with England, I thought they'd feel some affinity with Americans given how many of their forefathers immigrated there and how "we" are so proud of our Irish roots. Not to mention that the Irish are touted to be among the friendliest people in the world.

[@NicoleT-d7k]

I really wish you could live anywhere on the planet you wanted without all the strings and hoops to jump through. Love this video. Really helps me make a list of places to see this year. Looking to find the place to retire when it’s time. Sounds like Albania is a must see.

[@enjoystraveling]

That sounds like a good idea in imagination, but if it would come to reality, I think it would be chaos because many people would want to live in certain countries in capital cities more than small towns or certain countries and some of them might be overwhelmed when planning schools for children, for example enough teachers, and enough nurses and doctors for Hospitals and medical care. Also have enough food for all those people. Of course, in the imagination, I would like that idea also

[@darrylk808]

I'm with Amelia, if it's cold I'm not living there. Even southern Europe gets cold. Love to visit in the fall shoulder season. Spring allergies. 🤧 So, for me, Europe is out.🥶😂 I love SE Asia. It's shorts weather all year, and no gloomy winter.

[@leahhart8484]

Great information! Thank you! Did I miss Portugal?

[@jeremyleonbarlow]

You did not miss it. They didn't discuss it, probably because there is a ton of information about it in KZbin, but also there is a 400,000 residency permit backlog there per Roman at the NFKRS channel on KZbin. He has been in Portugal nine months or so and still has no residence permit.

[@jerrym3261]

Ditto, for me it would be the one that appeals to me because of my Portuguese ancestry. I bet I'm more descended from other countries but, I attribute my sailing and woodworking abilities to Portugal.

[@leahhart8484]

@@jeremyleonbarlow thank you for the reply!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We forgot to mention it, but getting a visa there is a nightmare right now. We met a guy who bought property back in 2021 when they still had the golden visa and he still hasn’t received his visa. And with the end of the NHR tax benefits, more people are leaving than moving there now.

[@johnkeith1964]

We were successful obtaining a Stamp 0 - a renewable person of independent means visa - from Ireland but we decided against it because of language in the approval saying we had to remain in Ireland except for short trips. We had in mind using it as a home base. Same thing with Spain. A couple we know were very concerned about leaving the country and perhaps prevent renewal. Also Spain taxes social security but not pensions. Agree it is smart to check with a tax account if you stay more than 183 days a year.

[@michaeljessen8275]

No Denmark,Sweden or Belgium just wondering?

[@BPe-ie9je]

Where are you,,, now???

[@deebee2603]

One thing about Ireland, establishing residency there does not give you the right to travel unhindered in Europe. Ireland is not a Schengen zone country, so you can only stay in the rest of Europe a short time on a tourist visa.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

A residency visa does not grant unrestricted travel in the Schengen Zone even if it’s a Schengen country. Only citizenship does that.

[@Vladimir-jc9xx]

For us the best is Bulgarian Riviera having very pleasant year-round Mediterranean climate (no snow), and the very best quality-of-life to cost-of-living ratio in Europe, also very safe and beautiful country. But real estate is not the cheapest - sea-front apartments in prime areas getting around $200 per sqft (or $2,000 per m2)

[@jasonmorgan27]

I dont think JP and his wife realize how FUBR the USA is now. My kids have zero future of the American Dream that I had access to and every generation before, the total and inept corruption of state and federal governments, hyperinflation with food insurance health care gouging, horrible food conditions weakening the average American, along with a catastrophic 37 TRILLION dollar debt with 2 TRILLION of that in interest payments alone every year now. Every turn you make is some this or that grifting and stealing every dime you have ever worked for. This country in finished, you cannot walk back the financial and moral decay that has been done. I will be looking to never return at this point

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We fully understand it, which is a driving force behind our KZbin channel. We’ve helped thousands of people escape already.

[@EGO0808]

You’ll be in for the same in Europe, think twice.

[@latebloomerabroad]

Bulgaria would be a great place to get a long-term visa and then you can travel as much as you want in the Schengen countries!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

That’s not correct. A residency visa does not affect the Schengen time limits for other countries. Only citizenship removes the time limits.

[@christinelafontant3138]

Where did you visit and like in France?

[@deebee2603]

They loved Dijon!

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Here are our France videos: Live or Retire in France kzbin.info/aero/PLuE28kB_I-ccFp3MkwB0RM6iwdMclcH2Z

[@How-to-be-a-foreigner]

I live in Bulgaria. It's a socially conservative country by many measures. If you're leaving the US because it's not progressive enough for you, you might prefer Spain or a similar place. Of course there are progressives, and you could live in an expat-hipster bubble in Sofia or Plovdiv. But even there, you won't see pride flags, for example. The personal is personal, not political. Please don't come expecting a "cheap" version of western Europe. Also, you don't have to apply from your country of citizenship. You apply from your country of residence. I was living in Spain when I applied for BG, even though I wasn't a Spanish citizen. I had a residency card.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Good info. Thanks 👍

[@jamescalifornia2964]

😌✨️ _Retire in the Phillipine Islands for love and leisure🌴⛱️_

[@keangwooichoo6138]

Europe is a great place but have to be selective (for the pocket, visa, language)

[@ViceCoin]

Got LNG?😅

[@bronwenewens1198]

I think there's a reason or several why Albania and Latvia are easy....

[@dikjones-tb2xy]

I will just go for a visit and never leave

[@MarkCMoran]

Thanks for the great video! :-) Out of curiosity, if you had to pick one country from this list to move to for at least 5-10 years, and the Visa or Money (or the language?) wasn't an issue, which would you choose? I'm guessing Italy, Austria, Albania or France, based on your comments, but maybe I'm way off. Oooh! Video idea: "Best country to move to if you don't have to worry about money/visas/language". Usually those are the main factors in people's decisions, but I'm curious what country would come out on top if those things were not a consideration.

[@berniekeene868]

What about Portugal? With it having been so popular for so many years can you address why you did not mention it?

[@deebee2603]

I think I know why. Portugal removed all its tax benefits for foreign residents and reduced their Golden Visa (residency by investment) zones to inland, unpopulated areas, taking Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve off the table. Also the property by investment amounts were raised considerably.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

We’ve heard they have a backlog of 400,000 visa applications and it’s taking more than a year to get one approved. We met a guy who bought property back in 2021 before they discontinued the golden visa and he still doesn’t have his visa. Plus the elimination of the NHR tax benefits make it a no go for most Americans.

[@cyoungso]

detroit, des moines, montreal, toronto. We all say it the "wrong" way

[@SueIsRetiringToFrance]

France, May 2025! 141 days!

[@garypage9515]

Could you please have a video where you explain "Proof of Accomodation"? I don't understand how I am supposed to commit to a lease agreement, when I don't yet have a visa, and vice versa. I have enjoyed being a subscriber to your videos for a number of years now, so thank you for continuing to make them!

[@deebee2603]

You can show proof of your Air B&B accommodations if you have a three month stay or so planned. In most EU countries, you can then register with your municipality when you get an actual long term lease.

[@messyhomestead7320]

There are a lot of videos and groups that talk about this so you will be able to find something easily about it, but it depends too much on the country to make one video about that topic - you'd need to look it up per country.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

It’s best to work with an immigration attorney to help you through that process once you choose a country.

[@deebee2603]

The DAFT treaty in the Netherlands is only for Americans. You need to have a business plan, put that EU 4,500 in a business account (and never let the total drop below that amount), and have a Dutch accountant certify your account. As far as I know, you do not need to show a profit. This would make a Dutch Residency much less expensive than almost any other European country. Residency in the Netherlands allows unrestricted travel in the EU.

[@AmeliaAndJP]

A residency visa does not allow unrestricted travel in the Schengen Zone. Only citizenship does that.

[@stephenbouchelle7706]

Other than wild lands and national parks, the US has nothing to compare with so much of Europe’s beauty.

[@futaogwj]

What about Portugal?

[@Positive_Atrributes]

Anna at savvycatrealty You Tube features everything!🏥

[@AmeliaAndJP]

Already answered in several other comments.

[@hippychick4ever]

I would love if you included the visa requirements to move families abroad. That is where it gets confusing and a lot of us have families. Love your videos!