Americans Moving to Europe: The Complete Guide for Entrepreneurs

Ahh that Porto Wine! A delicious elixir for us wine connoisseur… 

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

The big American dream is dead, murdered by exorbitant taxes, pricey healthcare, and cost of living. 

R.I.P.

And that’s okay, it’s part of life. Just like the French tale “Le Petit Poucet” (“Little Tom Thumb” in English), Americans followed the footsteps of their ancestors, this time in reverse, in a quest for a new El Dorado.

It takes courage, but Americans are known for their Entrepreneurial zest.

From better career opportunities to a better quality of life, we migrate for different reasons. In this guide, we’ll explore:

• Why Americans are moving to Europe
• Planning the move to Europe
• Settling in Europe
• Moving Permanently and becoming a resident
• Retiring in Europe

We will have a particular focus on Portugal obviously because it’s trendy, but also because it is one of Americans’ favorite destinations (especially to invest in real estate).

We will go deep in the essential topics to provide you an A-to-Z guide, from the US to Portugal. Some of the main topics:

• Finding a job
• Enrolling children in school
• Navigating healthcare
• Understanding legal requirements

Whether it’s a pit-stop for you to discover the world as a digital nomad or you’re aiming to become a permanent resident, this guide will give you all the knowledge and insights you need to help you make a smooth and successful transition.

With so many changes happening lately like the emergence or rather the mass marketing of AI (yes, yes AI has been here since 1950 but you know, a certain ChatGPT turned up), on top of covid, led to layoffs and mass panic.

Let’s dive in.

Now the question is: why Americans are moving to Europe and where is their favorite destination? Well, that’s where this complete guide comes into play. You will discover:

Why Americans Are Moving to Europe

The Appeal of Europe for Americans

Heard of the saying “going back to our roots”?

While many cultures migrated to America, Europe has a big part in America’s roots.

So maybe the appeal is a sentimental one? A call from the ancestors?

Ah well, while it might be true, it’s certainly not the only reason.

We humans tend to believe that “the grass is always greener on the other side”. So when a wave of doubt comes crippling us, It’s only normal that our survival instincts quick in.

And with Covid and AI in the loop, we’ve had a rough few years (to say the least). Covid has confined us for so long, it has awakened our desire for more freedom at work (yes the rise of freelance work is not lady luck’s charms), and more travel (Europe is ideal). AI has spread panic among knowledge workers thinking AI is coming to get their jobs, I’m an optimist and believe that this too shall pass. After all, the tractor didn’t replace farmers, true it ended some jobs but it created new types of jobs. And so it is with AI.

The appeal is also the promise of discovering a rich history, vibrant culture, and a great quality of life. From the charming streets of Montmartre in Paris to the colosseum in Rome, Europe has this “je ne sais quoi” that can’t leave you unhedged. From the magnificent Haussmanian French homes, to the Amalfi Cost in Italy, it’s just pure bliss.

If you’re an ambitious entrepreneur with a family considering your future, you will be positively surprised with the healthcare and education particularly. The healthcare system is world class (and even free in some countries!). As for education, some of the best schools and colleges in the world are European. But also, if you’re in technology or finance London might be the right place for you.

As a digital nomad, the proximity and ease of travel within Europe, is a major plus for exploration and an opportunity to experience different cultures, languages, and even cuisines. Pizza anyone?

In short, the appeal of Europe for Americans is:

• Going back home
• More travel (new horizons)
• Digital Lifestyle (fresh opportunities)
• Cosmopolitan lifestyle
• Stunning landscapes and sceneries
• Lower cost of living
• Safety

 

Spotlight on Portugal: Why It’s Becoming a Top Choice

Have you ever been to Cintra? A charming city with magnificent views and sceneries? Maybe you wine tasted in Porto under the warm sun? Oh that sweet wine!

Portugal nestled in the Iberian Peninsula is attracting a growing number of Americans. Here are the main reasons Portugal is gaining popularity:

• It’s affordable cost of living (compared to other European countries), makes it a viable option for entrepreneurs with families looking for a comfortable lifestyle.
• Portugal’s welcoming and friendly culture, and it’s high level of safety is music to American’s ears.
• The start-up ecosystem and favorable business climate makes it an interesting hub for entrepreneurs and digital nomads in sectors such as technology, tourism, and renewable energy.
• Being central to other European countries and easy to access, Portugal is strategic for business. And after covid many people prefer a flexible work schedule allowing people to work from home and as a result many have decided to leave the big cities and go back to urban areas.
• The Golden Visa program is great gateway for foreign investors to obtain a second citizenship and for Americans a European passport via real estate investment or job creation.

Portugal shines with its many advantages for a top place to live and work, and Americans are certainly attracted by this fulfilling and prosperous life in Europe.

Pros and Cons of Relocating to Europe

Changing countries can be challenging, let alone continents, especially with a family. Challenging yes but it can also be rewarding. Let’s explore the pros and cons of relocating to Europe so that you can make the right decisions based on your goals:

Pros:

• Cultural Diversity: As a hub of cultures, languages, and traditions, Europe is a great place for personal and professional growth and unique experience.
• Career Opportunities: Strong economies and thriving industries? Provides excellent job prospects. Great for entrepreneurs and job seekers looking for growth and challenges.
• High Quality of Life: With some of the best healthcare systems, well maintained infrastructures, and welfare programs, Europe ranks high for quality of life. On top of that, the historical and natural sceneries and sites makes it even sweeter.
• Travel and Exploration: For Americans used to travel long distances between cities, it’s party time! Europe’s close proximity is a blessing for travel enthusiasts. Weekend escapades to explore different cities and dance with different cultures and cuisines are a marvel.
• Education: Exceptional education. Entrepreneurs with children can benefit from robust education.
• Chiller life: No need to be busy all the time, instead enjoy life and take your time. French are well known for their “pause café / pause clop” every 60min (true story!) while at work.

Cons:

• Language Barriers: If you chose to live outside of Lisbon or Porto, it might be an issue if you don’t speak Portuguese. You can always learn the local language.
• Cultural Adjustments: Adapting to your new city and its traditions can take time but it can also be rewarding.
• Bureaucratic Processes: Who likes them anyway, but unfortunately it’s a process we must go through. Europeans are known for their long bureaucratic processes but well, it’s their traditions.
• Cost of Living: It certainly varies. Eastern Europe is less costly than central Europe for example. Some cities such as London and Paris can be expensive. This is particularly relevant when it comes to real estate. For example the cost of housing per square meter in the US is $4675 euros while in Portugal the price is at 2945 euros.
• Family and Social Support: Moving from America to Europe can be challenging. With the time difference and the physical distance, it can be lonely at times. It’s important to build a support system and build new relationships in your community.
• Taxes: As an American you will be doubly taxed.

Europe like life is full of opportunities (and challenges), but nothing’s perfect. Does your lifestyle fit Europe? Do you enjoy history, culture, traditions, food, and wine? Europe is riche in opportunities for entrepreneurs with families.

Time for you to open your excel sheet and write your pros and cons to make your decision. By considering all the factors you can better assess if Europe is made for you. Europe is a great place to build a future, experience new opportunities, navigate challenges and embark on a magnificent journey (if you choose Europe that is).

Let’s move into part II and explore how you can plan well your move to Europe.

Planning Your Move to Europe

Understanding Legal Requirements and Entry Process

Europe is known for its long and heavy legal requirements. It would be a good idea to familiarize yourself with the legalities of your destination before embarking on your new adventure. Not to state the obvious but each country has its own rules and regulations, so here are some tips:

Start by asking yourself, why are you moving? Is it for work? Study? Retirement? And if you’re moving alone or with family members. This will help in choosing the right type of visa you need. Make sure you are eligible for the visa you are applying. While some countries have different names, the visas normally fall under three types:

• Work Visa
• Student Visa
• Investor Visa
• Retirement Visa
• Passive Income Visa

Your next step is to gather all the documents required for your visa application. The typical requested documents are:

• Valid Passport
• Financial Proof such as a bank certificate or the last 6 months
• Health insurance
• Clean criminal record

You may also be asked for evidence of your purpose such as your company certificate, acceptance letter, job offer, or proof of investment

Now it’s time to submit your application on the legal website and make sure you follow the guidelines to a ‘t’. You will be asked a visa or processed fee which will vary depending on your visa type and country. Take into consideration that some visas take longer time to be processed.

Each country has different entry requirements, but in general you should at least have the following in hand:

Proof of accommodation or housing (where you’re going to be staying)

Bank statement for the last 3 to 6 months

Immigration laws constantly change to adapt to the current geopolitical situation of the moment (think covid for example). It’s important to keep this in mind when you are in the process of applying. The official government websites usually update the most recent news and requirements, however if you have any doubt, do seek assistance from immigration lawyers (we can help).

The legal requirements are normally straight forward (daunting yes, and sometimes you might be faced with an agent who is a stickler for the rules, but they’re just doing their job so well), it’s the only downside I experienced in Europe.

Exploring Visa Options: Work Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, Golden Visa

Did you choose why you’re moving in the previous section? We will be following up by going into more details with regards to the three most common visa options:

Work Visa: Congratulations! You have received your job offer and you are excited to embark on your new journey. Work visa is the right choice for you as it will allow you to legally work and live in your country of employment. Here are some of the general requirements for this type of visa:

• The job offer from the country you are applying to live in
• Proof of relevant qualifications and experience (such your CV, diplomas, certificates, and job experience)
• Sponsorship from the employer (not always the case)

Note that those types of requirements are on top of the general visa requirements. And that the duration and renewal of your visa will vary depending on the country you choose.

Digital Nomad Visa: Covid has opened the eyes of many who now want to reclaim their freedom and choose to work remotely. This rush of remote work enticed some European countries to create new types of visas to attract freelancers and digital nomads. Digital Nomad Visas are for individuals who work remotely for companies (or for themselves) outside the company’s country. This type of visa provides great opportunities to live and work in Europe for a long period of time (from a couple of months to a year). Some of the requirements:

• Proof of employment
• Health insurance
• Bank statement for the last six months (to make sure you can support yourself during your stay)

Unfortunately, not all European countries offer this type of visa (yet), so it would be important to research well.

Golden Visa: Are you willing to invest to reside in a country (and possibly get a second citizenship)? This is the type of visa you should apply for, it is designed for individuals who want to invest in the local economy. Naturally, there are different forms of investments:

• Real estate investment (such as purchasing a house)
• Capital investment (investing in a business)
• Job creation (creating a business)
• Scientific research or cultural heritage

As an investor, you and your family can obtain residency permits which can lead to a second citizenship.

Each country has different investment and eligibility criterias and requirements, and different timelines for potential citizenship.

While some of the visa options are straightforward, it is important to seek professional advice to understand the specific regulations and processes for each visa and country. Working with immigration lawyers or relocation agencies specializing in visa application can go a long way to smoothen the process.

How to Move Abroad in Ninety Days: Timelines and Tips

If you’re in a hurry (aren’t we all), here is a checklist to help you navigate the planning and organizing required to move abroad in ninety 90 days:

• Research the visa requirements (check section 2.1)
• Gather all your documents to start your application (check section 2.1)
• Secure your housing accommodation: research the local market online as a preliminary method and then contact real estate agents when you are ready.
• Arrange transportation: If you plan on moving in Europe for good, you might want to do a list of inventory or things you want to sell, give away, and ship to your new location. Once you know what you want to take with you, you can research shipping companies or hire a moving company to help you.
• Admin tasks: if you’re moving with your business, starting a new job, or simply retiring, remember to take care of the admin tasks. You might want to alert your bank and insurance providers, terminate your utility contracts, cancel subscriptions, and update your address.
• Healthcare: Do all the necessary check-ups and vaccinations before your more, and research the healthcare system in the country you will be living in. If you’re applying for a digital nomad visa, you may want to consider an international health insurance.
• Finance and insurance: In some instances, maybe closing your bank and opening a new bank account in your new country. Transfer funds and make sure you have access to funds during the transition period. Remember to get moving insurance to protect your stuff during the move.
• Create an excel sheet: write down your checklist of all the tasks and review your progress along the way.
• Feeling overwhelmed? Seek help or guidance from relocation agencies, immigration lawyers or expat communities. We’d be happy to help.

Finetune your processes and create an efficient activity management log to make sure you are on top of the move with this short timeframe.

Now that we’ve explored how you can plan your move to Europe, let’s have a look at taxes and real estate.

Navigating Taxation and Real Estate Considerations

Two of the main reasons Americans move to Europe are taxes and real estate. So let’s make sure we nail it for you by helping you make the right choice:

Internal Taxes: Start by looking at the tax system in the country you opted to live in. Research the basic but we highly recommend you ask counsel with a local tax agent or representative. Different countries have different tax rules, knowing them will help you avoid surprises down the line.

External Taxes: Consider US taxes as well in order to avoid certain additional taxes.

Real Estate: are you applying for an investor visa or are you renting a property? It’s important to understand the costs and requirements and your local real estate agent or lawyer. You might be familiar with some of the taxes such as:

• Property taxes
• Maintenance fees
• Homeowner association fees

Investing in Real Estate considerations: On top of being aware of your available financial options as a non-resident, conducting due diligence never hurts:

• Property inspection
• Title searches
• Understand foreign ownership restrictions

Research the market (consider your long-term investment: is the location prime? Can you generate a good amount with rental?) Some investor visas can offer you additional benefits.

Settling In: Essential Steps

Finding Employment in Europe: Job Search Strategies

Are you a student about to graduate and looking to stay in Europe and gain employment? Maybe you are no longer satisfied in your company? Or perhaps you are a digital nomad seeking jobs?

We’ve got you covered, here are some of the best job search strategies:

• Research the local job market: look at the industries that perform best in the country (and align with your expertise), and the types of jobs most in-demand.
• Networking: If you haven’t moved in yet, you can reach out to your network (professional and personal) and ask to be introduced – look at your LinkedIn connections. Join networking platforms such as Upnotch or MeetUp, relevant industry groups, or even join local communities. Remember to attend local networking events, career fairs, and conferences.
• Customize your CV: Update your CV and cover letter to match the requirements of the local European country you want to move in. You may want to consider translating them into the local language (it’s not a must, but it might be a positive).
• Online job portals: LinkedIn, LinkedIn, LinkedIn. Basta. If you really want a stretch try Indeed. The rest is just fluff (unless you are applying to a very targeted industry or job type such as ENTRE). That is the general advice. In your case it might be interesting to go deeper and look into European or local job portals such as Irish Jobs. Remember to create job alerts as well.
• Recruitment agencies: Similarly, reach out to recruitment agencies which are specialized in your industry and in European markets. They already have a system in place, well established connections with companies, and can help you move faster.
• Learn the local Language: Most businesses speak and communicate in English but speaking the local language can help you connect with the locals. You can learn the language through courses or even Duolingo can be a good start.
• Maybe volunteer? It will help you mingle with the locals and forge strong bonds. It’s also a great way for you to network, show your skills, and gain local experience. Try to volunteer strategically in alignment with your job or goal.

These strategies can give you a map to start from, but remember to adapt to the local customs and networking style. You can do it.

Enrolling Children in Schools: Education System Overview

If you’re moving to Europe with your family, it’s normal that you would want to look at their education. And Europe has one of the best educational systems in the world, which of course varies from country to country.

Both public and private schools are good but differ with their admission requirements, financial tuitions, and more. Let’s explore on children’s education:

• Get familiar with your host country’s education system. The educational system’s age range and grade level is quite different from that in the US. Are your children in pre-primary? early childhood? Primary? Secondary? Maybe even tertiary?
• Are you going to send your children to public or private school? Public schools are funded by the governments so the education is free for locals and has a minimal fee for non-locals. Private schools have higher tuition fees but offer more specialization and take a more personal approach with your kids. Explore the facilities, talk to the teachers, have a look at the curriculum and choose what’s best for your children.
• Now it’s time for you to look at the admission requirements and dates to make sure your children qualify. Some countries have strict enrollment deadlines. Some of the traditional requirements you can be asked:
  • Birth certificates
  • Passports
  • Academic transcripts
  • Proof of residency
  • Language requirements (depending on the grade level of your children)
• You may want to look at extra-curricular activities and integration programs offered by the school.
• You can also ask for guidance from expat communities.

You can provide your children with the best education possible, preparing them for a bright future.

Healthcare in Portugal: Accessing Medical Services

Healthcare in Europe is amongst the best but it’s also important to look into your host country. Let’s look at Portugal, one of the most popular country for Americans to move to Europe. Portugal offers one of the highest of standards for healthcare, both private and public. Let’s take a look:

Portugal’s healthcare system (SNS), gives a wide coverage for Portuguese and residents. But first, you need to register with local health center (Centro de Saude) in your area, this will allow you to have a family doctor as a primary healthcare provider. The family doctor will be your main point of contact and will be the one referring you to other specialists and other health needs. Here are the covered medical services:

• Consultations
• Examinations
• Hospital care
• Emergency services

The private sector offers additional healthcare services with less waiting time. In that case, the health insurance can cover the costs.

Pharmacies are found all over Portugal with many over-counter medications not needing a doctor’s prescription.

That’s why as an expat, it’s important that you chose the right health insurance (making sure to have both the emergency and normal medical coverages). You can find international health insurance plans which covers both.

Note: it’s important to have some Portuguese knowledge as most healthcare professionals communicate in Portuguese, especially in urban areas.

Language and Culture: Essential Portuguese Expressions and Common Slang

Speaking the local language is a fast track to connect with the locals. Portuguese would want to help you even more.

Of course what helps even more than communicating in Portuguese, is expressing yourself in Portuguese well-known expressions, maybe even some forbidden words.

Here are some basic Portuguese words to get you started:

• “Ola” (hi)
• “Por favor” (please)
• “Obrigado / Obrigada” (thank you for man/woman)
• “Sim” (yes)
• “Nao” (no)
• “Compreendo” (I understand)
• “Nao compreendo” (I don’t understand)
• “Desculpe” (excuse me)
• “ Adeus” (goodbye)

Adjusting to Life in Europe: Tips for Cultural Integration

Europe is known for its sophistical due to age old tradition, customs, and culture. Understanding the little nuances can go a long way to enrich your experience with the locals. Let’s look at some of the best tips to help you navigate cultural integration:

• Embrace cultural difference. It goes without saying, but when you are by your friends in their house, you abide by their rules (if it’s a no smoke space, well …). Similarly, as an expat, you are a guest in Europe (until you become a citizen), so play nice. Explore and learn, try it their way. Mingle with the locals in the different activities, festivals, taste the food, become one of them.
• Learn the language. As mentioned previously, it is a big help to connect.
• Connect with your neighbors (both locals and expats). Join groups, clubs, associations. Attend meeting, events, participate in the community. It will only help you bond more and cherish different experiences.
• Adapt to the pace of your city. Paris and London are fast pace cities (probably less fast than New York, but still). On the other hand, Lisbon and Madrid are more chill.
• Public transports: trams and metros in France, Tubes in England.. Europe has one of the best public transportation systems. Yiikes if you’re a clostrophobe! But take a chance.
• Local cuisines: Who doesn’t love food? French croissants, Viennese pastries, Holland eggs, Italian pasta, Spanish patata brava… Ah Europe such a delight.
• History: The Louvre, Van Gogh Museum, Buckinham Palace, Pise Tower… so much history to discover.

Remember that it’s a journey after all. No one expects you to blend in when you set foot, but the journey can be so rewarding and fulfilling.

Moving Permanently: Obtaining Portuguese Citizenship

Drum rolls, please!

In this section of the guide, you will get a sneak peek into how to obtain a Portuguese citizenship. Let’s start with:

The Portuguese Golden Visa Program: Detailed Information

The Portuguese Golden Visa program is one of the most well-known residencies by investment program that offers a pathway to obtain residence and citizenship in Portugal. It happens to be Americans favorite European passport to Europe. Two key points to note here:

• Launched in 2012 to attract foreign investors in exchange for a residency to boost the Portuguese economy, the Portuguese Golden Visa has been a smashing success
• The only eligibility requirement of the program is to make an investment which is specified by the Portuguese government. Check out section 2.2 for the different types of investments.

Let’s discover what the fuss is all about and some key features:

• The program flexibility which offers various investment options and allows investors to tailor their investment strategy based on their objectives (check section 2.2)
• The fast-track residency which allows you and your family to live and work in Portugal. The first time you get a residence permit valid one year, renewable for two to five years. After five years you and your family are able to apply for a permanent residency or citizenship.
• Another advantage is your ability to travel all across Europe and the Schengen Area.

Different Paths to Portuguese Citizenship

A second citizenship, especially a European one, is appealing to many Americans. There are four paths to become a Portuguese national, let’s explore them and see which one best matches your needs and which you are eligible to:

• Naturalization: it’s one of the most common ways for Americans. Once you meet the requirements like being a resident for a specific time and showing that you are proficient enough in the Portuguese language..
• Descent: If you have Portuguese roots (parents, grand parents, or great grand parents), you can apply for a citizenship. You will need to prove that by showing some documents such as birth certificates or passports. Additional documents might be requested by the Portuguese government.
• Marriage: After three years of marriage to a Portuguese you can apply for a citizenship. You might be asked for genuine proof that you are married and have well integrated society.
• Investment: the Golden Visa.

Each path has different requirements. We’ve discussed all four of them, we still recommend that you consult immigration experts to help you chose your path based on your specific needs and requirements.

Portugal citizenship is a real gem at this moment and will open doors for you all across Europe giving you the warmth and relaxed lifestyle of the Mediterranean life.

Becoming Portuguese: Naturalization Process

In this guide we are focusing on the naturalization process to become Portuguese. If you have Portuguese ancestors or a Portuguese partner, the process might be shorter and less demanding. 

You must meet certain requirements set by the Portuguese government such as being a legal resident in Portugal for a minimum amount of time, have a minimum knowledge of the Portuguese language, and a clean criminal record. The timed required depends on your circumstances, and varies between two to five years (completing a higher education in Portugal can fasten the process).

Let’s see how you can become a Portuguese citizen:

• Apply and make sure that all your documents meet the requirements of the Portuguese authorities. (check section 2.3)
• Your application is now reviewed by the Portuguese Immigration and Borders Service (SEF) and other relevant authorities. Note that the processing time may vary depending on your circumstances (contact us for help).
• Once approved, you will be invited to attend a naturalization ceremony. You will be asked to take an oath of allegiance to the Portuguese Republic. After the ceremony, you will receive your Portuguese citizenship certificate. Congrats, you’re now Portuguese!

Portuguese Inspiration

Portuguese Quotes

• “He who sees the face does not see the heart.”
• “Here it is done, here it is paid.”
• “Each monkey to its own branch.”
• “To a good listener, half a word is enough”
• “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.”
• “One bird in the hand is more worthy than two flying birds.”
• “As you make your bed, so you must lie on it.”

Famous Portuguese

• Cristiano Ronaldo (footballer)
• Shawn Mendes (Singer)
• Daniela Ruah (Acting)
• Antonio Guterres (Politics)
• Nelly Furtado (Singer)
• Henry the Navigator (Explorer)
• Vasco da Gama (Explorer)
• Ferdinand Magellan (Explorer)
• Jose Mourinho
• Eusebio
• Luis Figo

Take your Move to Europe to the next leve

Let us help you. 

With offices both in the US and in Portugal, we know everything you need to know about moving to Europe, and we can help smoothen your transition.

While it’s great to do everything by yourself, hiring an immigration expert will help you avoid the hassle and lengthy procedures awaiting you.

You can start by connecting with one of our representatives who will be answering your questions.

It’s time for you to come back home to your roots, and Portugal is your El Dorado.

Conclusion

In this complete guide, you discovered why Americans are moving to Europe, planning the move to Europe, settling in Europe, moving Permanently and becoming a resident, retiring in Europe.

In part I you found out about the appeal of Europe for Americans, spotlight on Portugal: why it’s becoming a top choice, and the pros and cons of relocating to Europe.

In part II you discovered how to understand the legal requirements and entry process, explored visa options: Work Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, Golden Visa, how to move abroad in ninety days: timelines and tips, and navigating taxation and real estate considerations.

In part III we discovered finding employment in Europe: Job Search Strategies, enrolling children in schools: education system overview, healthcare in Portugal: Accessing Medical Services, Language and Culture: Essential Portuguese Expressions and Common Slang, and Adjusting to Life in Europe: Tips for Cultural Integration.

In part IV you uncovered about the Portugal Golden Visa Program, the different paths to Portuguese citizenship, and becoming Portuguese: naturalization process.

Send us a message on LinkedIn, and we’ll send you tools, processes, and strategies on how to best cope with moving to Europe.