Looking “Elsewhere”: 15 Countries Welcoming American Nomads, Expats and Ancestral Citizens

In a time of uncertainty at home, many Americans are exploring options overseas. Whether that be for adventure, opportunity, or a safety net. Below we highlight 15 countries that are particularly accessible to Americans through new digital nomad visas, population incentives, or citizenship-by-descent programs. These destinations offer a mix of easy entry, welcoming policies, and attractive lifestyles, making them top choices for U.S. citizens looking to live “elsewhere”.

1. Portugal – Sunny Haven for Remote Workers and Retirees

Why Portugal? This small Iberian nation has become a superstar among American expats for its mild climate, affordable living, and rich culture. Crucially, Portugal makes it easy to stay. In late 2022, Portugal launched a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa (the “D8”) for remote workers, alongside its popular D7 visa for those with passive income.

The income requirement is reasonable (about €2,800 per month for the D8), and successful applicants gain residency with a path to EU-wide travel, healthcare access, and even citizenship after five years. Americans have taken notice; the number of U.S. citizens living in Portugal jumped 239% since 2017, reaching nearly 14,000 by 2024. Many are drawn by the country’s safety and charm: Portugal ranks 7th on the Global Peace Index and was recently named the world’s #2 retirement destination. While Portugal doesn’t pay people to move there, it doesn’t need to, its Golden Visa program (now winding down) and friendly residency visas have already made it a top “plan B” country for Americans seeking a foothold in Europe. From the metropolitan buzz of Lisbon to the vineyards of the Douro Valley, Portugal offers Americans a warm welcome and a gentle landing abroad.

2. Spain – A New Digital Nomad Magnet with Rich Culture

Why Spain? America’s longtime ally has turned into a hotspot for digital nomads and remote entrepreneurs. In 2023, Spain rolled out a full-fledged Digital Nomad Visa under its new Startup Act , finally opening the door for non-EU citizens to live and work from Spain long-term. The visa allows an initial 1-year stay (renewable up to 3 or 5 years) and requires proof of around €2,300 in monthly income and a foreign employer. That’s a fair bargain to enjoy Spain’s famous quality of life. Think vibrant cities, Mediterranean beaches, and world-class cuisine. In fact, Spanish cities top many rankings for remote worker desirability, thanks to their blend of affordability and lifestyle. (In one 2023 index, sunny Málaga and Valencia were rated among the best-value cities for digital nomads, noted for low costs and high quality of life.)

For Americans, Spain is also appealing because of its relative familiarity. It’s modern, democratic, and hundreds of thousands of U.S. tourists visit each year. While Spain doesn’t have a general “pay to move here” scheme, some rural areas in Galicia and Asturias have experimented with subsidies to attract families (for example, Ponga in northern Spain offered ~€3,000 per new resident, including babies, as an incentive to repopulate the town). Moreover, if you happen to have Sephardic Jewish ancestry, Spain (and neighboring Portugal) ran special programs in recent years granting citizenship to descendants of Sephardic Jews expelled in 1492, thousands of Americans qualified. Those programs have since closed, but Spain still offers a fast-track to citizenship (after two years’ residency) for people from many Latin American countries and Sephardic applicants. Overall, with its new remote work visa and an array of lovely locales, from cosmopolitan Barcelona to the tranquil Costa del Sol, Spain is stepping into the spotlight as one of the world’s most inviting places for American remote workers

3. Italy – La Dolce Vita via Ancestry (or €1 Homes)

Why Italy? For countless Americans, Italy isn’t just a vacation spot, it’s the land of their ancestors. Roughly 16–17 million Americans have Italian heritage , and Italy’s citizenship-by-descent law (jus sanguinis) is one of the most generous in the world. If you have an Italian ancestor who never renounced citizenship, you may be eligible for Italian citizenship “by blood,” with no generational limit in many cases. This means a grandchild or even great-grandchild of an Italian immigrant can recognize their Italian citizenship; a life-changing opportunity for a second passport. Thousands of Italian Americans have successfully done so, gaining the right to live anywhere in the EU. The process can be lengthy (gathering birth/marriage/death records and navigating consulates), but it’s ultimately rewarding, citizenship is forever and can be passed to your kids. Even for those without Italian roots, Italy has been courting foreigners in creative ways. Dozens of picturesque Italian villages, facing depopulation, have rolled out incentive programs to attract new residents. These range from selling abandoned houses for €1 (on condition of renovating them), to outright cash stipends.

In 2019, the southern region of Molise made headlines by offering €700 per month for three years to newcomers who would settle in a small town and start a business. More recently, the town of Presicce in Puglia (the “heel” of Italy’s boot) offered up to €30,000 in grants to anyone willing to buy and restore a home there. (That program, launched in 2022, was so popular it has since closed to new applicants.) And just in 2024, Italy finally implemented a long-discussed Digital Nomad Visa, targeting highly skilled remote professionals. The visa requires about €30,000 annual income and provides a one-year stay, renewable for longer.

Whether you come to Italy to reconnect with family origins, to work remotely under the Tuscan sun, or to reinvigorate a charming village in exchange for a cash bonus, la dolce vita awaits. From the bustle of Rome and Milan to the tranquility of hilltop towns, Italy offers Americans an enriching escape with pasta, art, and aperitivos to boot. And if you become a dual citizen, you’re not just buying a home for €1, you’re gaining 60 million new compatriots and the freedom of Europe.

4. Ireland – Your Grandparents’ Passport to the EU

Why Ireland? Another country entwined with American lineage, Ireland actively embraces the diaspora. Over 31 million Americans claim Irish ancestry , and for many, that family tree can unlock an Irish (and EU) passport. Ireland’s citizenship-by-descent law allows anyone with at least one Irish-born grandparent to register as an Irish citizen, no residency required. Even one generation further back can qualify if you do a bit of paperwork (e.g. if your great-grandparent was Irish, your parent can register and then you can too). The process is well-trodden: you apply to Ireland’s Foreign Births Register with documents proving the lineage. The reward is tremendous: Irish citizens can live and work anywhere in the EU or UK, and of course enjoy Ireland’s famed high quality of life. In recent years, there’s been an explosion of interest in Irish citizenship from Americans.

In fact, 2024 saw a record 31,825 Americans apply for Irish citizenship, a 10% jump from the year before. Applications surged especially after the 2024 U.S. election, with many citing political turbulence at home as a motivation. Ireland’s appeal is multi-fold: it’s an English-speaking, stable democracy with a booming tech economy (big U.S. companies have headquarters in Dublin) and globally beloved culture. It regularly ranks among the top countries for quality of life, and for Americans of Irish descent there’s an emotional pull too, a sense of returning to roots. Beyond ancestry, Ireland is friendly to remote workers.

While it hasn’t needed a special nomad visa (Americans can stay up to 90 days visa-free, or longer via work permits or student visas), the country welcomes international talent in sectors like IT, finance, and education. During the pandemic, some Irish counties even launched campaigns inviting remote workers to relocate to quaint villages and enjoy “Irish life” (with perhaps a free co-working desk thrown in). And let’s not forget Ireland’s underpopulated rural islands: in 2023 the government offered grants up to €84,000 to people willing to move to certain Atlantic coast islands and refurbish old homes; a bid to keep those communities alive. For Americans who qualify, Irish citizenship is arguably the easiest ticket to an EU passport, and the demand shows no sign of slowing. For those who don’t have Irish blood, the good news is Ireland is still open: its people are famously warm and English-fluent, and the country’s doors are open to skilled immigrants and students. Whether you come for the Guinness or the Google job, Ireland might just feel like home.

5. Mexico – Bienvenidos: Easy Living South of the Border

Why Mexico? Sometimes the best options are the closest. Mexico, America’s neighbor, has become an expatriate paradise for a growing number of U.S. citizens seeking lower costs, warmer climates, or a fresh start abroad. Over 1.1 million Americans already live in Mexico, by far the largest U.S. expat community anywhere in the world. And it’s easy to see why: Mexico offers a combination of proximity (a short flight or drive from home), relative ease of entry, and diverse lifestyle options, from beachfront towns to highland colonial cities. Crucially, Mexico makes it straightforward for Americans to stay longterm. Tourists from the U.S. automatically get up to 180 days visa-free in Mexico, one of the most generous allowances in the world. Many digital nomads have taken advantage of this by doing “visa runs” (leaving and re-entering every six months), though Mexican authorities have started to scrutinize perpetual tourists more closely.

For a more permanent solution, Mexico has a Temporary Resident Visa that functions as its own kind of “nomad visa.” If you can show a steady income (around $2,600 per month) or savings (~$43,000 in the bank), you can qualify for a one-year temporary residency, renewable for up to 4 years. This visa has been a game-changer for remote workers and retirees, effectively allowing Americans to live in Mexico semiindefinitely without hassle. Unlike many countries’ digital nomad visas, Mexico’s residency doesn’t even require you to keep working, retirees and financially independent folks love it. There’s also no requirement to invest or buy property (though many Americans do buy homes in Mexico because of the favorable prices).

While Mexico doesn’t dangle cash incentives to attract foreigners, its beautiful beaches and food are incentive enough, some local regions have welcome programs. For instance, Mexico City in 2022 launched an initiative to entice remote workers (offering a trendy neighborhood guide and meetups), and some smaller towns actively court foreign residents to boost the economy. One could argue that Mexico’s greatest “incentive” is the cost of living: everyday expenses can be a fraction of U.S. levels, making a moderate American income stretch very far. It’s common to meet American expats who say they could only afford to retire because they moved to Mexico.

Culturally and logistically, Mexico offers the comfort of familiarity (big-box stores, modern infrastructure in cities, lots of English spoken in tourist areas) combined with vibrant new experiences. From the artistic enclaves of Oaxaca to the tech hub of Guadalajara, from Baja’s wineries to Yucatán’s ruins, Mexico has something for everyone. And with the U.S. so near, many expats enjoy the “best of both worlds”, living abroad without feeling too far from family. For Americans seeking an easy transition to life overseas, Mexico is often the first, and best, choice.

6. Canada – Our Friendly Northern Neighbor (with Perks)

Why Canada? Sometimes the grass is greener on the other side, or at least colder, cleaner, and covered by universal healthcare. Canada, sharing a 5,500-mile border with the U.S., is an attractive destination for Americans in search of a change. In fact, more than 1 million U.S. citizens live in Canada , drawn by the country’s high standard of living, natural beauty, and generally progressive policies. Culturally, Canada feels 59 59 7 familiar enough (no language barrier, similar pop culture) to make integration easy, yet distinct enough to be a new adventure (think hockey fandom and poutine gravy fries).

For digital nomads and remote workers, Canada recently announced initiatives to welcome them. In 2023, Canada’s immigration minister unveiled a plan to allow digital nomads to stay up to 6 months visa-free (as they already can), and crucially, to let them apply for work permits if they receive job offers during their stay. This effectively means you could move to a city like Toronto or Vancouver, work remotely for your U.S. job for half a year, and if you decide you want to stick around, transition into the Canadian workforce more easily. Canada has also long offered the Working Holiday Visa for Americans (if aged 18–35) through a program called IEC, a one-year open work permit, no job offer needed, which is a fantastic way for young Americans to experience Canadian life.

Moreover, Canada’s overall immigration system is points-based and quite accommodating to educated, English-speaking applicants. If you have a specialized skill or in-demand profession, it’s possible to get permanent residency (and eventually citizenship) in Canada. The country actively recruits foreign nurses, tech workers, academics, and more. There’s even the Start-Up Visa program for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas. In short, Canada wants immigrants; it has an ambitious target to bring in 1.5 million newcomers by 2025 to boost its population and economy.

While Canada doesn’t bribe people to move (no need, people are coming), certain rural areas and provinces do have incentive programs. For example, some Atlantic provinces and the prairies offer fasttrack immigration streams if you settle there, and occasionally small towns will offer quirky perks (like a token gift or help finding housing) to attract newcomers. But perhaps the best incentive is peace of mind: Canada consistently ranks high in livability, safety, and happiness. Its cities are clean and multicultural, its politics more low-key (and less polarized) than America’s, and yes, residents do receive health care as a right. For those uneasy with U.S. turmoil, Canada often tops the list of alternatives. Just remember to pack a winter coat (and an open mind) as you head to the Great White North.

7. Costa Rica – Pura Vida for Remote Workers

Why Costa Rica? This Central American gem has long been a favorite for American retirees and surfers, but now it’s wooing a new generation of remote workers. In 2021, Costa Rica passed a law creating a Digital Nomad Visa, adding to its already attractive residency options. The visa (formally enacted in 2022) allows eligible foreigners to live in Costa Rica for up to 1 year (extendable to 2) tax-free on their remote income. The requirements are refreshingly attainable: about $3,000 in monthly income (or $4,000 if bringing a family) and proof of health insurance. In return, you get to enjoy Costa Rica’s pura vida lifestyle, think tropical beaches, rainforests, and friendly, democratic society, without paying local income tax on your earnings. It’s essentially a remote worker’s dream: earn in dollars, spend in colónes, and spend your free time exploring volcanoes or learning to surf.

Even before the nomad visa, Costa Rica offered a popular Rentista program, where depositing $60,000 in a Costa Rican bank could grant you a two-year residency (often used by early retirees or remote workers). Now, with the new visa in place, the process is even simpler for those who meet the income threshold. Anecdotally, the country has seen an uptick in young expats setting up shop in coastal towns like Tamarindo and Santa Teresa, creating “work from paradise” communities.

Costa Rica also distinguishes itself by what it doesn’t have: namely, an army. It’s one of the world’s few countries with no military, having redirected those funds into education and healthcare decades ago. The result is a stable democracy known as the “Switzerland of Central America.” Safety and infrastructure are better than in many neighboring countries. And environmentally, Costa Rica is a superstar, roughly a quarter of its territory is protected conservation land, and it runs on about 99% renewable energy. Many Americans are drawn to this eco-friendly ethos and the chance to live closer to nature.

No, Costa Rica won’t pay you to move there. But it arguably doesn’t need to: it’s already plenty enticing. If you crave a slower pace of life, warm weather year-round, and a ready-made international community (there are sizable expat enclaves and bilingual schools), Costa Rica beckons. From its highland coffee farms to its Pacific surf breaks, you can find your ideal work-life balance here, laptop in the morning, toucanspotting hike in the afternoon.

8. Colombia – Up-and-Coming Hotspot with a New Nomad Visa

Why Colombia? Over the past decade, Colombia has transformed from a no-go zone in the American imagination to a must-visit destination, and now, a place some are choosing to live. This South American country offers vibrant culture (salsa, anyone?), pleasant climates (eternal spring in Medellín), and a low cost of living. In late 2022, Colombia debuted its Digital Nomad Visa, aiming to become the region’s remote work capital. The visa is remarkably accessible: it’s valid for up to 2 years and requires an income of only about $900 per month, a low bar by global standards. There’s also a welcome mat for entrepreneurs: if you want to start a business or tech project in Colombia, that can qualify too. Authorities explicitly said they want “digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and remote workers” to come enjoy Colombia’s cities and contribute to the economy. Successful applicants even get a local ID card, making life on the ground (like renting apartments or getting a SIM card) much easier.

Colombia’s pitch to Americans is clear: why struggle to afford a big city in the U.S. when you could live comfortably in a modern Colombian city on a modest income? Take Medellín, once infamous, now a shiny exemplar of urban revival, where you can rent a chic apartment with mountain views for a fraction of the cost of an equivalent place in Miami or LA. The weather is mild year-round, the wifi is fast, and there’s a growing international community working from cafes and co-working spaces. Bogotá, the capital, offers a more business-like environment and a thriving dining and arts scene, while smaller cities like Cali, Barranquilla, or the Caribbean paradise of Cartagena each have unique draws. English is not as widely spoken as in Europe or Mexico, so you might actually (¡por fin!) become fluent in Spanish while here.

One could consider Colombia’s low visa income requirement a sort of incentive in itself, essentially opening the door to younger remote workers who might not meet the higher thresholds of Europe’s visas. And once you’re a resident, Colombia even lets you count time on a nomad visa towards a permanent residency (after 5 years) should you fall in love with the country and wish to stay indefinitely. It’s a nice perk not all countries offer.

Safety concerns do linger in some minds, but those who know Colombia will tell you that the major cities and tourist areas are quite safe if you use common sense (much like parts of the U.S., there are neighborhoods to avoid at night). The Colombian people are often cited as among the friendliest, most welcoming hosts. From coffee farms to Caribbean beaches, from the Andes to the Amazon, Colombia is a country of stunning diversity. For Americans craving somewhere a bit more offbeat yet surprisingly convenient (just a 3-hour flight from Florida), Colombia is the new frontier of digital nomadism in the Americas.

9. Greece – History, Islands, and an “Easy” Nomad Visa

Why Greece? Have you ever dreamed of living on a Greek island, sipping coffee by the Aegean Sea as you log in to work? That dream is now more attainable than ever. In 2021, Greece introduced one of Europe’s friendliest Digital Nomad Visa programs, and it quickly gained a reputation as “the easiest in the EU.” The visa lets non-EU remote workers live in Greece for 1 year, with the possibility of renewing for up to 3 years total. The criteria are straightforward: you need to show a monthly income of about €3,500 (lower if you have dependents) and have a clean criminal record and health insurance. That income bar is higher than some places, but still manageable for many U.S. professionals. As a sweetener, Greece offers a 50% tax break for nomad visa holders for up to 7 years; meaning if you do end up liable for Greek taxes, you’ll pay only half the usual rate. Essentially, Greece is signaling: we want you here.

Beyond the visa, Greece is actively courting foreign knowledge workers as part of its post financial crisis recovery. The country has invested in better broadband (even on islands) and co-working hubs in Athens and Thessaloniki. English is widely spoken, especially among younger Greeks, making daily life easier for Americans. And the intangibles are unbeatable: Greece offers a Mediterranean lifestyle with relatively low living costs (outside of a few tourist hotspots). You could rent a house on Crete or in a Peloponnesian village for a fraction of what a U.S. coastal town would cost, eat fresh healthy food, and be surrounded by World Heritage sites at every turn.

Interestingly, Greece also has some population incentive quirks: a few years back, the tiny island of Antikythera (population ~50) made news by offering families €500 per month, plus a house and land, to relocate there. The Greek Orthodox Church sponsored that initiative to revive the island. It successfully attracted a few young families (including one from the U.S. who saw the ad). While that’s a very niche case, it shows how even Greece’s far-flung corners are eager for newcomers. Generally, Greece’s immigration incentives focus on investors, its Golden Visa (residency by buying €250,000 in property) was one of Europe’s cheapest, drawing many foreigners until the threshold was raised recently. But for the average American, the digital nomad path is the most practical, unless you happen to have Greek parents or grandparents (in which case you can claim citizenship by descent as well).

All told, Greece offers Americans the chance to trade the suburban rat race for the cradle of Western civilization. Your Zoom calls from an island café might occasionally be interrupted by a stray goat or the vista of an ancient temple, but that’s a small price to pay for living in a postcard. And when you close the laptop, you’ll have endless history, islands, and ouzo to explore.

10. Croatia – Adriatic Lifestyle and Bureaucratic Breakthrough

Why Croatia? Among the rising stars of Europe’s remote-work movement, Croatia stands out for its proactive embrace of digital nomads. Sparked by a social media campaign from expats in 2020, Croatia created a Digital Nomad Residence Permit in 2021, becoming one of the first EU countries to specifically legislate for remote workers. The permit isn’t a traditional visa (you apply after arrival or at an embassy), but it grants up to 1 year of residence with no local income tax on your earnings. To qualify, you need proof of roughly €2,300 in monthly income (or savings), health insurance, and a clean background. Hundreds of nomads, including many Americans, have already taken up the offer to live in Croatia’s stunning coastal and city locales. Notably, Croatia even allows your spouse and kids to join under the permit, making it family-friendly.

What’s the appeal? Croatia offers a blend of Mediterranean charm, affordable costs, and safe, family oriented communities. The Dalmatian Coast, with cities like Split and Zadar, gives you that beach life with modern amenities. The capital, Zagreb, is a vibrant hub of cafes, parks, and Austro-Hungarian architecture; think a more relaxed Vienna at half the price. And then there are the 1,000+ islands, some buzzing with yacht parties (Hvar), others tranquil and untamed. English fluency is high among Croatians, especially the younger generation and in tourist areas, which is great for integration. Plus, as of 2023 Croatia is in the Schengen Zone and uses the Euro, making travel and finances easier for newcomers.

For those with Croatian heritage, the country offers even more: Croatia amended its citizenship laws in 2019 to allow the vast diaspora (many Croatian Americans among them) to apply for citizenship without having to relinquish other citizenships. They even waived the Croatian language requirement for applicants born abroad to a Croatian parent, a significant opening. This led to a surge of applications from descendants of Croats globally (including some 2nd or 3rd generation in the U.S.). If you have a Croatian grandparent or great-grandparent who left long ago, it may be worth looking into whether you qualify under these relaxed rules.

In terms of incentives, certain inland towns in Croatia have tried symbolic gestures like selling houses for 1 kuna (about $0.15) (often to Croat diaspora) to prevent villages from dying out. And one northern town, Legrad, offered to subsidize 20% of a home purchase for new residents in 2021 after too many people moved away. These aren’t large-scale schemes, but they indicate Croatia’s willingness to get creative in attracting people. Ultimately, Croatia sells itself: with turquoise Adriatic waters, medieval walled cities (yes, Game of Thrones fans, Dubrovnik is real), and a warm culture of hospitality, it’s an easy place to fall in love with. The digital nomad permit simply removes the paperwork worry, letting you focus on living your best life on the Adriatic.

11. United Arab Emirates (Dubai) – Tax-Free Cosmopolitan Oasis

Why UAE (Dubai)? If your idea of opportunity involves sleek skyscrapers, a global business environment, and zero income taxes, the United Arab Emirates might beckon. Specifically, Dubai, the UAE’s most famous city, has positioned itself as a top destination for digital nomads and entrepreneurs. In 2020, in the wake of the pandemic, Dubai launched a Virtual Working Programme (remote work visa) that allows foreigners to live in the emirate for 1 year provided they have a remote job or business and earn at least $5,000/month. The process is relatively quick, and the benefits are significant: residency in one of the world’s most modern cities, access to excellent infrastructure, and no local tax on your salary. It’s no wonder that in a 2025 global index, the UAE was ranked the #2 country for digital nomads, just behind Spain.

Dubai in particular is like an adult playground, a hub of luxury, innovation, and diverse expat communities (over 85% of residents are foreign-born). For Americans, it can be an attractive base: English is widely spoken, crime is extremely low, and consumer comforts abound (from mega-malls to Uber to every cuisine you can imagine). On weekends you might be skydiving over the Palm Jumeirah, dune-bashing in the desert, or networking at a fintech conference. The lifestyle can be pricey, but salaries (and tax savings) often compensate. And the experience of living in an Islamic yet ultra-modern society broadens one’s horizons in unexpected ways.

Beyond the nomad visa, the UAE has rolled out a variety of visas to lure talent, freelancer permits, longer “golden visas” for investors and scientists, even a remote-work visa for the smaller emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. It’s all part of a plan to pivot from oil to knowledge economy. One could say the UAE’s “incentive” is its bold promise: come here and succeed. The government doesn’t hand out cash to newcomers, but it provides an environment with few bureaucratic hurdles and many opportunities to make money or advance your career. (Not to mention, during the northern hemisphere winter, the weather in Dubai is a perfect 75°F and sunny every day.)

Of course, there are cultural adjustments. The UAE has conservative laws around certain behaviors, and its governance is more top-down than what Americans are used to. However, Dubai is quite liberal by regional standards, women drive and work at all levels, expats practice various religions freely, and tourists wear typical Western attire (within reason). Many Americans find it a fascinating mix of East and West.

In summary, if you’re an American professional drawn to an international hub where business thrives, Dubai, and the UAE at large, offers a unique, exciting option. You won’t get a cash stipend for moving, but you might enjoy tax-free earnings, a five-star lifestyle, and a front-row seat to one of the 21st century’s great urban success stories.

12. Thailand – Southeast Asia’s Nomad Mecca (Visa or Not)

Why Thailand? For decades, Thailand has been the backpacker’s dream, but it’s also become the digital nomad’s headquarters. Even without a formal digital nomad visa (more on that shortly), Thailand attracts thousands of remote working Americans drawn by its low cost of living, gorgeous scenery, and bustling expat scenes. Cities like Chiang Mai in the north gained fame as “digital nomad capitals” for their abundance of cafes, co-working spaces, and monthly living costs under $1000. Bangkok offers a big-city vibe with skyscrapers and street food, while islands like Phuket and Koh Phangan let you work steps from the beach. Culturally, Thailand is welcoming, it’s nicknamed “The Land of Smiles”, and enough locals speak English in urban areas that you can get by.

In 2022, Thailand did introduce something aimed at remote professionals: the Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa for “Work from Thailand Professionals.” It offers up to 10 years residency, but it targets high earners (around $80,000 annual income required) or those with advanced degrees and corporate backgrounds. In truth, that visa is more for well-paid expats at multinational companies than your average freelancer. Many typical nomads instead use tourist visas (which can be extended to about 2-3 months) or education visas (enrolling in Thai language or Muay Thai boxing classes to stay longer!). Thailand also has an “Elite Visa”: essentially a pricey membership club that gives 5-20 years residency for a fee (starting at ~$18,000). A handful of nomads invest in that for the convenience.

Despite the lack of an easy dedicated nomad visa, Thailand’s allure keeps growing. The government, seeing the economic benefit, has been simplifying processes, for example, you can now get a 6-month multiple-entry tourist visa more easily, and they flirt with launching a true nomad visa at some point. Moreover, post-Covid, Thailand has aggressively promoted itself as open for remote workers, even creating special “Smart Visa” categories for entrepreneurs and tech specialists to stay without a traditional work permit.

It’s worth noting that, unlike the other countries on this list, Thailand is not a place you move to for citizenship or long-term security (it’s quite hard to get Thai citizenship unless you marry a Thai or live there many years and speak fluent Thai). Rather, it’s a fantastic medium-term adventure or base for working and exploring Asia. Some Americans spend 1-2 years in Thailand, then rotate to another country when their visa options max out, but many end up returning, drawn by the ease of life. Delicious $2 street meals, vibrant markets, island-hopping weekends, friendly communities, there’s a reason Thailand consistently ranks among the most desired countries for expats. If you’re looking for an exotic yet comfortable place to park your laptop, Thailand might be your personal paradise, and you wouldn’t be the first to come for a few months and accidentally stay for years.

13. Brazil – Vibrant Culture and a Welcoming New Visa

Why Brazil? South America’s largest nation has always held an allure: samba, beaches, rainforest, and a joyful culture. Now Brazil is opening its doors wider to internationals who want to work remotely under the Southern Cross. In early 2022, Brazil became the first country in South America to launch a digital nomad visa program. It allows a stay of up to one year (renewable for a second) and carries fairly accessible requirements: proof of a $1,500 monthly income (or $18,000 in savings), health insurance, and a clean police record. With this visa, Americans (and other non-residents) can live in Brazil and not pay local taxes on foreign income, all while enjoying the carnaval of life that Brazil provides.

So what’s life like for an American remote worker in Brazil? In a word: energizing. Picture logging off work and stepping out to Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, or sipping coffee amid São Paulo’s buzzing art scene. Brazil offers both cosmopolitan cities and breathtaking nature. You could base in Florianópolis, a southern city known for its high quality of life and beaches, which has quietly become a tech and nomad hub in its own right. Or perhaps Salvador in the northeast, with its Afro-Brazilian heritage and warm climate, appeals to you. English is not as common as in Europe, so you’ll likely pick up some Portuguese (Brazilians are patient and delighted when foreigners try to learn their language). The cultural experience (music, dance, festivals, food) is incredibly rich and rewarding.

One might wonder about safety and bureaucracy, Brazil can be more challenging on those fronts. Cities have areas of crime and inequality, and the bureaucracy is notoriously complex (having a local contact or using immigration lawyers can help with settling in). However, expats who take sensible precautions and embrace the local way of doing things often find a very high quality of life. Brazilians are generally friendly, outgoing, and family-oriented, which can make it easier for a newcomer to make friends and feel at home.

Interestingly, Brazil also offers pathways to residency or citizenship that are uncommon: for instance, having a child born in Brazil grants the parents the right to permanent residency (and the child is a Brazilian citizen). Some foreigners have taken advantage of this “birth tourism” route, though it’s not a primary reason to move. Brazil also has an investor visa (buy real estate worth over ~$150,000) and even a retirement visa (if you have a sufficient pension income).

For Americans, Brazil presents a chance to experience life on a different wavelength, one of spontaneity, diversity, and natural beauty, while still working your U.S. job remotely. With the new visa making it straightforward to stay a year or two, Brazil has signaled it wants international talent and travelers. If you’re looking for a place that’s equal parts challenge and inspiration, Brazil might just be o seu destino, your destination.

14. Georgia (the Country) – Eurasia’s Easy Visa and Hospitality

Why Georgia? Not the U.S. state, we’re talking about the country of Georgia, at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Asia. For the adventurous American, Georgia offers an almost unbeatable deal: U.S. citizens can enter and stay in Georgia visa-free for up to one full year. That’s right, from day one, you have permission to live and even work (remotely) in Georgia for 365 days without any special visa at all. This generous policy, combined with Georgia’s low cost of living and growing expat scene, has put it on the map as a digital nomad darling in recent years. In fact, during 2020’s pandemic, Georgia launched a “Remotely from Georgia” program explicitly inviting remote workers, though it turned out not even to be needed, since the standard entry rules were so permissive.

What’s life like in Georgia? In a word, charming. The capital, Tbilisi, is an attractive city of cobblestone streets, trendy cafés (with excellent Wi-Fi), street art, and sulfur bathhouses. It’s a blend of old Soviet history and modern hipster revival. The food is legendary! Georgian cuisine (Khachapuri cheese bread! Khinkali dumplings!) wins over everyone, and the country is the birthplace of wine, so you’ll have no shortage of tastings. Step outside the cities, and you have the Caucasus Mountains offering world-class hiking and skiing, plus ancient hilltop churches and vineyards dotting the countryside.

Importantly, Georgia is highly welcoming to foreigners. Hospitality is a core Georgian value; guests are considered blessings. Many Georgians speak some English, especially younger folks and those in tourism, and Russian is also common (a plus if you know a bit). The country has also modernized its bureaucratic services, it boasts some of the world’s fastest business registration processes (you can start a company in a day), and banking is foreigner-friendly (you can open an account easily, and Georgia has some of the lowest tax rates if one chooses to become a tax resident). In fact, some digital nomads take advantage of Georgia’s “virtual zone” status to incorporate their online business there for tax benefits.

While Georgia doesn’t pay people to move there, it arguably provides the path of least resistance: no visas, minimal red tape, and very low living costs (an apartment in Tbilisi might be $300/month, a feast of a dinner $10). Safety is generally good, crime rates in Tbilisi are low for a capital city. One should note the regional issues (proximity to Russia and past conflicts in two breakaway regions), but Georgia itself is stable and eager to join the EU in the future.

Americans who relocate often rave about the sense of community they find. There’s a burgeoning expat/ nomad scene in Tbilisi and the mountain town of Mestia, and locals are keen to show off their culture. Whether you’re enjoying a supra (feast) with Georgian friends or collaborating with fellow remote workers at a co-working spot, you’ll feel a bit like you discovered a secret. Georgia, with its mix of European charm, Asian hospitality, and post-Soviet quirkiness, is one of those under-the-radar gems that more and more Americans are happy to call their temporary (or even permanent) home.

15. Estonia – E-Residency Pioneer and Nomad Trailblazer

Why Estonia? Tiny Estonia, on the Baltic Sea, might not have been on many Americans’ minds, until it single-handedly pioneered the idea of a “digital nation.” In 2014, Estonia became the first country to offer eResidency, a program allowing foreigners to establish an EU-based company and use Estonian digital services remotely. Then in 2020, Estonia made history again as the world’s first country with an official Digital Nomad Visa. Clearly, this tech-savvy nation gets remote work like few others. The visa allows stays of up to 1 year for those meeting an income threshold (around €3,500 per month) and working independently or for foreign employers. It doesn’t by itself lead to permanent residency or citizenship, but it’s a perfect solution for a year in Europe.

Estonia markets itself as “the most advanced digital society,” and it’s not an empty boast. As an American, you’ll find it remarkable that in Estonia virtually all government services are online, you can file taxes in minutes, sign contracts digitally, even vote online. Free public Wi-Fi is ubiquitous. This ease extends to daily life: want to start a business? Takes a few clicks. Need to see a doctor? Their e-health system means your medical records are digital and appointments are often booked online. For a remote worker, this efficiency is gold, less time on bureaucracy, more on productivity (or fun).

What’s it like on the ground? Estonia is tranquil, orderly, and steeped in medieval charm. The capital, Tallinn, has a famous Old Town with cobbled streets and spire-topped churches, alongside a buzzing modern district full of startups (Skype was born here). The tech and creative scenes are thriving: co-working spaces, innovation hubs, and hip cafes are plentiful. Outside Tallinn, much of Estonia is forests, lakes, and quiet university towns like Tartu. The population is small (only 1.3 million nationwide), so don’t expect crowds. Some Americans actually love the calm and the almost Scandinavian sense of privacy and cleanliness. English proficiency is very high, especially among the young (most Estonians are trilingual, often speaking Estonian, English, and Russian or Finnish).

While Estonia doesn’t offer cash incentives to move, it has certainly incentivized entrepreneurship: e-Residents (over 95,000 of them worldwide now) enjoy access to Estonia’s business environment without needing to live there, and many digital nomads appreciate having an EU company and banking while roaming. If you do move there on the nomad visa, note that winters are cold and daylight sparse (similar to Minneapolis, say), but Estonians make the most of it with cozy indoor culture, saunas, and winter sports. Summers, on the flip side, are gorgeous and almost endlessly light (white nights!).

In many ways, Estonia presents a perfect mix of old and new. You can stroll city walls from the 1400s in the morning and attend a tech meetup in the evening. And as a foreigner, you’re part of a relatively new experiment: Estonia regained independence in 1991 and has since been enthusiastically building a modern, globally integrated country. They genuinely welcome talent and visitors who put them on the map. For an American digital nomad or innovator, Estonia isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a place to be inspired by what a forward-thinking small nation can achieve. And you’ll find that some of that innovative spirit rubs off on you.

Final Thoughts:

Whether it’s claiming citizenship through your ancestors in Ireland or Italy, chasing adventure with a laptop in Thailand or Colombia, or finding a fresh start in Canada or Costa Rica, the world is more open to American expatriates and nomads than ever before. About one in four U.S. remote workers have contemplated moving abroad since 2020, and indeed record numbers are doing so, taking advantage of the very programs we’ve outlined. Each of the 15 countries above offers something unique: be it legal perks, financial incentives, cultural affinity, or just an easier adjustment for Americans.

Importantly, these opportunities aren’t just about escaping problems at home (though that’s a valid motive for some); they’re also about embracing something new. New cultures, languages, business prospects, and lifestyles that can enrich your life and perhaps even your career. The rise of digital nomad visas and special immigrant programs reflects a broader trend: nations competing for globally mobile talent. As an American in 2025, you have a remarkable “buyer’s market” of countries vying to attract you, whether as a temporary guest or a new citizen.

Of course, moving abroad requires homework: checking visa requirements, cost of living, healthcare, and so forth, and often flexibility and patience to adapt. But the resources available today (from online expat communities to government guides in English) make it easier than ever to plan a life overseas. If the idea excites you, it might be time to take that exploratory trip or file that paperwork. You could soon find yourself writing your own blog from a Lisbon café, a Mexican beach, or a Tallinn co-working hub, telling the story of how you found your “elsewhere.”

After all, the notion of the American Dream is evolving, for some, it may now be fulfilled on distant shores. And as these 15 countries show, the rest of the world is rolling out the welcome mat, ready to say “Welcome, friend” in many languages. Safe travels, or as they say in Georgia, ghame mjera! (Bon voyage!)