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Leaving America Behind: Why More Americans Are Choosing Portugal

The growing number of U.S. expatriates living in Portugal, currently estimated at over 14,000, is expected to increase further. This influx of Americans is part of a broader movement of individuals seeking refuge from the political and social challenges in the U.S., along with the attractive benefits Portugal offers.

12 Jan 2025 3 min reading

In recent years, the number of visas issued to U.S. citizens has steadily increased, although preliminary data for 2024 suggests a slight decline. The election of former President Donald Trump may be influencing American interest in emigration, as many individuals look to relocate to Portugal for various reasons.
Over the past few months, a significant surge in inquiries about residence visas has been observed, particularly from U.S. citizens. In the past, the company assisting with migration services received an average of 25 inquiries monthly. Now, this number has almost quadrupled, reaching close to 100 requests. Many of the Americans seeking guidance have expressed their intention to move abroad if Trump were re-elected, a prediction that was eventually confirmed.
The primary reasons behind this shift toward Portugal include the country’s security, access to healthcare, and its reputation for racial inclusivity. Many Americans see Portugal as a safer and more welcoming destination for relocation. Additionally, the country offers more affordable and accessible healthcare compared to the United States, making it an attractive option for retirees and others seeking a better quality of life.
While many inquiries come from retired individuals, including university professors, researchers, and those involved in the arts such as cinema, music, and literature, others work remotely or operate their own businesses. Between 2019 and 2024, Portugal issued over 15,000 residence visas to U.S. citizens. The number of visas granted has risen significantly in recent years, with over 4,000 issued in 2023. However, preliminary figures for 2024 show a decrease of approximately 33% in visa issuance, though this figure does not account for all of December’s data.
A growing trend also emerges from violent events in the U.S., such as school shootings, which prompt a surge in inquiries about living abroad. Although it's still early to determine how many of these inquiries will translate into actual visa applications, the trend is clear. The majority of U.S. citizens seeking to move to Portugal are retirees or individuals with some financial means, indicating that Portugal is seen as an appealing destination for those seeking a more peaceful and stable life.
The growing number of U.S. expatriates living in Portugal, currently estimated at over 14,000, is expected to increase further. This influx of Americans is part of a broader movement of individuals seeking refuge from the political and social challenges in the U.S., along with the attractive benefits Portugal offers.
In the face of ongoing delays in the processing of residence visas, experts foresee a busy first half of 2025 for migration services in Portugal, particularly as the number of Americans seeking to relocate increases. With U.S. citizens making up a significant portion of inquiries, this trend highlights Portugal's continued appeal as a destination for international migration.

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