Portugal Tops the List for Americans Seeking a New Life and Investment Abroad

Portugal has officially been named the number one destination for Americans looking to move overseas, according to a new survey by Expatsi, a relocation-focused travel platform that analysed responses from over 116,000 U.S. citizens.

This news reinforces a growing trend: Portugal is not just a popular European holiday destination—it has become a top relocation choice for Americans seeking a better lifestyle, greater security, and long-term residency options.

The survey ranked countries based on user preferences, including climate, budget, and language. Portugal came out on top, ahead of other desirable locations such as Spain, the UK, Italy, and New Zealand.

The main motivations cited by U.S. respondents included a desire for personal growth and adventure, but also political division and rising domestic uncertainty.

Portugal's appeal to Americans is not new—but its surge in popularity is being accelerated by accessible residency pathways, high quality of life, and a favourable tax environment for newcomers.

A key driver of long-term American migration to Portugal is Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme.

While the residency-by-investment has evolved in recent years, shifting from a focus on real estate investments (disqualified in 2023) to alternative investment funds, it continues to be a strategic option for those looking to secure European Union residency through qualifying investments.

Portugal Golden Visa applicants can obtain residency—and dual EU citizenship plus an EU passport after five years—while maintaining a flexible physical presence in Portugal. This is particularly appealing to Americans who want the benefits of a second residency without the need to relocate full-time immediately.

Portugal allows for dual residency, enabling Americans to legally reside in both countries. This offers flexibility for those who want to spend part of the year in Europe while keeping ties to the U.S.—whether for business, family, or lifestyle reasons.

The Golden Visa, combined with Portugal’s highly rated healthcare system, safe cities, world-class food and wine, and growing international communities in Lisbon, the Algarve and Porto, the benefits are clear.

Paul Stannard, chairman and founder of Portugal Pathways and the Portugal Investment Owners Club, commented:

"Portugal is uniquely positioned as an ideal investment destination with its vibrant culture and growing international reputation for investment and relocation.

“For HNWIs, affluent families, and institutional investors, the combination of economic stability, tax incentives, and market growth projections in key sectors of its economy makes Portugal a compelling proposition."

As more Americans weigh their international options, Portugal stands out not just as a travel hotspot—but as a stable, welcoming country where a better life can begin.

Interested in exploring your options?

Get in touch with the Portugal Pathways team to learn how you can make the move.

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About Portugal Pathways

Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on luxury property, wealth management, and tax optimisation, including post-NHR tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, IFICI tax incentive applications, money transfers and bespoke relocation solutions to enhance life and investments in Portugal.

About Portugal Investment Owners Club

The Portugal Investment Owners Club, or P Club for short, is a unique investor membership community designed for discerning individuals, families, and organisations committed to exploring and capitalising on life in Portugal and enjoying money-can't-buy experiences and exclusive events.

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Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club for short) websites and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice. Golden Visa investments need to be held for 6 to 7 years to allow for permanent citizenship/passport in the EU.

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