NOTE #1: The Philippines has a 30 day tourist visa (not 90). NOTE #2: It should be criteria (plural). It was a late night mistake. NOTE #3: The income requirements are for the visa qualification only. They're not fees to live in the country. NOTE #4: If the audio is in a foreign language, it's a new feature from RUclips and we're in the beta test group. It is probably defaulting based on where you're watching from. You can change the language by clicking the settings gear icon on the bottom right of the video player, then select Audio Track.
I’m a little confused about the retirement visa income visa. Some you said were $2,000 a month and there was no qualification. Others you did qualify saying that our income needed to be $2,000 a month. So the ones you didn’t qualify I took to mean that I had to pay $2,000 per month to maintain my visa. Can you clarify that? Also, I wish you would have addressed how SSA handles retirement payments while living outside the US. Do they cut you off or do you have to return to the US periodically? Thanks for this video. It’s quite timely as I suspect many Americans have lost faith in our country. If you don’t have the answers to my questions, can you provide resources where we can do our own research.?
@@Michele-z4k No. They were always citing the income-requirements. They unfortunately didn't expressly say that every single time, but that is precisely what they were citing.
Y'all are sleeping on the Netherlands! It is a beautiful, Schengen zone country. There is a treaty between the Netherlands and the U.S. called the DAFT treaty (Dutch-American Friendship Treaty). Yes, you apply for this visa (which gives you residency) while in the country. You must deposit $5,000 in a business bank account and submit a business plan. You can do almost any type of work, and don't need to show a profit, but you must keep at least $5,000 in your business account at all times. You also must register with your local municipality and purchase affordable health care, but that's pretty much it. Outside of the major cities, rents and utilities are quite affordable, and the infrastructure and culture are first rate. You can walk or bicycle in the city centers without owning a car, and 95% of adult Dutch speak English.
Thanks. I've been wondering about the Netherlands. Not just because my great grandmother (whom I remember) was from "there"... East Friesland (so not exactly).... but because I also know a person or two there... and it looks like a possibility. English, education, government, infrastructure. QUESTION: I'm retired. Passive income. Any thoughts?
And housing is out of control. And for those of you that don't like the recent results in the US, their govt is quickly headed the same way. So, Yemen is better for you.
Years ago I made plans to retire in Spain. Retirement has come, house is sold and visa application is nearly complete. Will be moving in January. I have to say the timing couldn’t be better. Good luck America. I think it may be a lesson that needs learned the hard way.
@@charlie3134 yeah, I was just looking at Barcelona, Spain, and the price of housing in the Expat community is extremely high. Sorry to say. The other thing about Spain is they were in the news w/ huge groups protesting Tourists. I guess they are mobbed during tourist season and who can blame them for being unhappy about it. But the demonstrations did not look good at all. That was this past summer.
I have always wanted to move to Spain. I went there for two weeks and fell in love. Plus I cannot think of a better time to leave the US! I’m so jealous.😂 Seriously I wish you nothing but the best of luck!🙏
We actually have a medical system in Australia which enables all to have the very best of medical care. My wife had breast cancer and the treatment lasted for many, many months. We live on an isolated island but our medical system (not insurance) means that all travel (including a ferry trip sometimes every week) was paid for, cancer treatment paid for, accommodation during treatment was paid for. The only cost incurred was for the meals we had to buy while we were away. We have a civilized and caring medical system that means no-one has to become bankrupt if ill. The American 18th century style system astounds us!
@@IanMacdonald-t5b What about old Americans who thought that they could count on social security and Medicare and don’t have a lot of money? Any countries out there that will help us with housing and healthcare? We have about $20,000.00 (twenty thousand) US dollars, but that won’t last long. I’m actually hoping that Biden and our Attorney General will wake up finally. They DO have the power to save democracy. 14 million missing votes!
Thinking about moving back to Oz with American husband. TBH though, with potential change in geopolitics China is more of a concerning factor in moving back long term
Australian medical care kicks in well if what ails you is urgent and life threatening. Not so good if you suffer from chronic conditions. Endless waiting lists while you are in misery, or go the incredibly expensive private system.
Yes, if I could be somewhere else, I would be. I am stuck here, have a grandchild that life isn't worth living if I can't see them. Italy is my favorite place in the world!❤
No kidding, there must be many thousands of us who are anxious to leave after the devastating election results. Clearly, we are a nation of brainless, vacuous, superficial materialistic, greed driven nut cases who would vote for a criminal to lead the country again when he could not do it in any way whatsoever During his last pathetic, sad & embarrassing attempt.
I moved to Da Nang, Vietnam over two weeks ago. It’s really affordable, beautiful and the people are really kind. Street food is incredibly cheap and healthy. I got about $1200 worth of vaccines here for less than $100. The Japanese encephalitis vaccine alone would’ve been $800 in America. Glad I waited! Don’t get me started on the coffee culture. Their drinks are sublime. Anyway.. just my two cents.
I've started learning Finnish. I want to move with my husband and young adult kids to Finland mainly because of the way they treat others. They pay more taxes so that everyone can have free healthcare and the poor can have cheap or free housing (zero homeless), and nobody minds because they feel it's their duty to take care of each other. They are very accepting and inclusive of LGBTQ people. They respect women. I hope to find a way that my husband can work from there (he already works remotely from home 100%) and I hope to make supplemental income from art, music, and writing. I plan to try to be the best candidate for immigration that I can be, short of being a rich person who will bring many jobs. I wish we were already ready, because I can hardly wait to leave the land of hate.
I'm 1/2 Finnish and travel to Finland often to visit family. Remember they used to be a prosperous neutral country. Now they're under the thumb of NATO trying to instigate WWIII. I'm saddened by how they threw the priceless privilege of neutrality in the toilet. My family agrees but their leaders are also lured by military-industrial profit into short term solutions that aren't viable long term. Otherwise naturally the country's great if you can cope w/very high prices and long, dark, cold winters.
@@vnevala My daughter sent me a video by an expat living in Finland who said the current leader is right-wing and trying to take away human rights. Where is a place I can go that is truly progressive? P.S. I can't handle hot climates.
@GwenythRobicheaux I'm eligible for Finnish citizenship because my grandparents were from Finland. I spent my summer after high school there studying language and culture, traveling and visiting relatives. After the election, I'm seriously considering more to the land of my ancestors. I've lived in a northern climate for most of my life, so for that and cultural reasons, I think I'd feel at home there.
Here in Berlin, far too many Americans are upsetting the locals, driving up rents, ruining local restaurants and pubs. Something for young Americans. Because of American puritanical drinking laws, young Americans cannot cope with alcohol. Drunkenness amongst young Americans has become a big problem. In my district many pubs are refusing to serve them. And my dear Americans don´t forget, you are way too loud. You may consider this normal but we consider it asocial and disrespectful of others.
Wednesday morning (Nov 6), my husband called the Mexican Embassy asking for a PR application. My disabled brother is (hopefully) coming with us and we have a good chance of bringing him with us as Mexico honours family ties....I'm glad that Amelia and JP made this video and not criticizing, but the irony of Americans seeking easiest countries to emigrate to along with the fact that so many Americans don't want immigrants in the US.....hmmm...
@@BrandyBaker-gj7vo But the Americans who feel so strongly disgusted by Trump's win are NOT the people who voted for him because they're anti-immigrant. We know we're a nation of immigrants & wouldn't be anything without everyone who came here & built this country's dream.
That's an interesting way to frame the situation. This video is clearly talking about legal emigration from the US, including instructions on how to obey the laws of foreign nations. Americans object to immigrants coming in illegally - the ones who flout our laws and have to be supported with taxpayer-funded transportation, hotel rooms, meals, and healthcare when they arrive. The ones who set up tent cities and take over public buildings. I've yet to meet anyone who objects to legal immigration. If anything, legal immigration to the US should be increased.
One other tip, maybe you can make a separate video for working adults you guys travel and are a little bit older so these videos are really coming from your perspective but the average person looking to move out is often younger and still working. I’m not a digital nomad, I work a normal job And I don’t have retirement income so a lot of these characteristics that you’re highlighting don’t even apply to me so I would say maybe try to include options for regular folks or maybe make a separate video geared towards working adults that have a regular job not a nomad influencer type thing?
Biden didn’t demand from Merrick Garland to step it up or step aside, we all seen the crimes, it was in our faces! If nothing was done in four years while we had power???? Umm yeah right, dictator on day one! Remember, no guardrails once he’s in office, project 2025. No guardrails, Alex Jones’s, Steve Miller, Bannon, Musk, the legion of darkness. Yeah, judicial system?? What judicial system?? You keep thinking they’re going to play by the rules???? He’s king now thank you Supreme Court, feckless Biden administration, DOJ, CIA, all feckless and pathetic. Where’s our super heroes????
Just reading an article in the Guardian where an American in Britain is saying..It's like watching from the other side of the street when your house is on fire with your family inside.
@@robgronotte1 The comment you are responding to was references Tories who fled the country to Canada, en masse, after the American Revolution. They did so again in 1812, and during the "Red Scare" in the 1950s. People migrate to Canada every year, but we saw a spike during Trump's first Presidency, and it looks to spike again.
If you are in Dallas, and your all too familiar "y'all" in the comment sections suggests you are, I truly feel for you. From a native Dallasite, I sincerely wish you the best.
Cambodia. if over 55, just pay $300 a year for the visa and you are in. no income requirement or any other strings attached. great food, super affordable, im very happy here ( Siem Reap ). I live well on $800 a month.
@@mjs2402 I’ve lived in Thailand, and would certainly give Cambodia a shot if it weren’t for the heat, which is only going to be exacerbated over time by climate change.
@@michaelhall2709 it can definitely get hot but this time of year is actually quite pleasant. today is 28-30c. for me thats perfect. and, there is AC everywhere. but different people have different tolerances for sure. come april or may, admittedly it can get brutal. thats when i head to albania or georgia for perfect springs. just my strategy. :-)
Thank You. Very good to know. I will be hitting 62 in a little under a month and can collect about $850 a month but was planning to wait until full retirement age to start collecting because there has not been any real reason for me to collect now until now. Here in the US we have never had someone running for President that promised to gather up all of his political enemies and charge them with treason. Was he joking? I don't know but it is a very scary time in the good ol' USA right now
I retired last year and moved to my beach house in Baja Mexico. Originally the move was for two years of nonstop fishing and to decide where I want to eventually live. And to get the heck out of the USA during the election cycle. So glad I moved. Now I'll probably be here at least another four to five years. Easy peasy!
@@maureenmannion6748 Look on the Mexican govt websites, don't take any advice from an internet post. There are requirements, you can't just show up and stay (easily, anyways). Northern Baja is considered the US in some ways, though. There are reportedly thousands of people living there who are US citizens but quietly staying under the radar.
Hey guys! If you are interested, look for information here on RUclips! There are a lot of videos about it. Just watch and compare, because some of them talk about very expensive neighborhoods!
Welcome to Costa Rica ! Tourist visa 180 days, leave for a couple of hours to Nicaragua and come back for another 180 days, repeat as often as you want. Residency is easy for Retirees ($1000 per month) or buy a home for a minimum of $150,000 as an investor. Costa Rica is quite save compared to other Latin American Countries. I have been living in this beautiful country for 33 years and counting.
@texasrefugee7888 I rather find it pleasant. Back in Germany I had to use pounds of skin cream due to dry air. We live at the south side of Lake Arenal where humidity is moderate.
I’m moving to France. Already bought my little pied a terre for my second home / vacation home. Planning to move over the next couple of years if things work out. I’m NOT spending a fortune, NOT living in expensive Paris or a major city, NOT shipping tons of my belongings- and I already have a strong grasp of the language. I know the culture from growing up in Europe as a kid, I studied in the French university system as a student, and I am a lover of art, culture, history, design, architecture and food, wine, fashion, and fun in Europe. Costs are lower than in the U.S.: Internet is under 50 EUROS per month including smart cell phone and cellular service. Homeowners insurance is 250 EUROS PER YR; electricity and gas runs about 30-50 EU /mo, and day to day expenses are minimal - more to budget for travel throughout Europe and elsewhere. Trains are great, but I can also afford a car if I want one. Retirement, here I come!!
@@sarasmile184 I found out that there are a lot of Brits who retire all over Nouvelle Aquitaine, Normandy, and Brittany (and many other places). Many of them live in small towns and in rural villages with train stations, cafes, restaurants, etc. and the French outside of Paris are super nice, and very forgiving if you struggle with their language. You can look for property online at Leggett International website (a British / French Resl Estate company with listings all over France). There are others too. Then when you find a few possibilities, you could head over for a property scouting trip or two. I made a wuick decision on a third trip over two years coz I was pretty sure my first place would not be my last. I don’t need a long stay visa yet either coz I’m still working in the USA but I will retire in a few years. In Europe, there are many English speakers and you can get by without a lot of French. You can find British, American, Australian and other English speakers all over the place sometimes in the least likely spots!
3 things to remember before you move; 1. Lower your voices! The rest of the world thinks you are way to loud! No one else but you is interested in what your aunt or your boss said about anything, no need to shout it out.. 2. Very important - respect other countries culture! Please! 3. And the last one, remember America is actually a small part of the world, what you can buy in the US, the money you use, the way your life is organized is not the way everyone else do things. So back to number 2, respect other countries culture!
When I was a married teen I lived in Europe as my husband was in the miliatary. I was only gone 14 months. I lived on the national economy of another country. I learned a lot and when I got off the plane in America, I wanted to get down on my knees to kiss the ground, I was so grateful to be home!!! I was back where I spoke the same language, understood the culture and did not feel so rejected by another people group. Americans are not universally loved. Think very carefully before you leave. East or west, home is best
@@sewgatormomm Rock and roll, jazz, blue jeans, apple pie, cheesburgers, car culture, the wild west, Hollywood, Broadway, freedom of speech and religion, free enterprise, can-do attitude, baseball, basketball, patriotism, Coca-Cola, guns, barbecue, beer...
Thank you for this. I desperately want to leave but have no money. I have been unemployed since 2020. Those of you that have the money to leave I don't blame you one bit and wish you luck!👍
same, i've been unemployed for nearly a year, can't imagine how it's been for four. my dream is to move to asia, i specifically can't wait to go to japan :,)
Wishing you the best, kimberlyaustin! Tis the season for retail work, and unless you think it's beneath you, it's a great way to make some quick money for a couple of months.
@@kimberlyaustin6677 same here norway sweden and new zealand are my choices but being below the poverty level its hard to even move out of state at this point.
"Parts of the country are dangerous and some infrastructure is lacking." The United States is the same way. Our healthcare system is completely broken and our education system sucks.
Absolutely. At 57 I have given serious thought to other counties and talked to family. Health care alone is one of the biggest scams out there. The way coverage, co-pays and premiums has changed since my first job is outrageous. We feed the rich.
Our healthcare system IS broken. And so is our education system as you said. Both of my parents were educators from the late 1960’s into the 90’s. The Federal Department of Education truly messed up our education in this country. States should have more autonomy on their education system.
@@lisadiane40 You work in healthcare. From your perspective as an employee it doesn't seem to be broken. What happens if you lose your job? The scam is that HC is tied to your employment. You can pay for your HC your entire life but the moment you get laid off or lose your job or somehow due to an accident or something become unable to work, you've got SERIOUS problems. The US is the ONLY first world country that doesn't offer universal HC. And we're the ONLY country that has THOUSANDS of citizens declaring bankruptcy due to exorbitant medical costs. If you're unlucky to get cancer or some other disease that puts you in the "pre-existing condition" category, then once the new administration gets rid of the ACA, it'll be almost impossible for those people to get coverage. And don't even get me started on pharmaceutical costs.
Great video. We have lived in portugal for 6 years. It is wonderful when one finds a country that is the right fit. Living abroad is a wonderful challenging adventure. Perfect for us in this retirement chapter of our lives.😊
I’m Portuguese and have always wanted to visit Portugal. Unless I can even afford to visit there, I certainly won’t be able to afford to live there. My family emigrated from the Azores in 1851 to Hawaii.
I moved back to the US (been gone for almost 20 years) so that my daughter could finish high school. Once she finishes, in two and a half years, I'm leaving again.
I'm moving to Argentina next month, and I already have my permanent resident "green card" thanks to a family connection. I have friends who moved last year to Spain, Mexico, Panama, and Italy. An American can definitely figure out a way to move abroad, and I strongly encourage getting out of the US. The joy and relief I feel is immense.
I've heard from the locals that the nationalism and extremism there is off the charts lately, and much worse than the US, but I sincerely wish you the best and hope what I've heard from the locals has been grossly exaggerated.
I am moving abroad soon. From my experiences here are a couple more things that you might consider. Don't move to a place where you stick out like a sore thumb. Move to a place where you can blend in or live in an expat community. You don't want to be constantly hounded as a foreigner. If you plan on putting down roots and learning the local language it is much easier if that country uses a similar alphabet to ours. It is extremely difficult if you are attempting to decipher a bunch of random lines and circles or backwards letters.
My husband is from Panama and we are going in December for Christmas. I told him we need to put aside some time to look for a house. We work remote, so we can take our jobs with us.
Drank till about 2, just woke up. Tomorrow I am waking up in the morning and putting on my big girl panties and figuring out where I'm moving. This country and I don't see eye to eye anymore and it's only going to get worse. Time to do something about it. Solidarity to you.
Just trying to figure out how I can still visit my granddaughter every month. This limits me to Mexico but that’s not a bad thing. It’s super affordable! I just prefer Europe.
Your timing is perfect. Thank you! I spent a week in Latvia last year and would definitely go back. Very affordable and the people were so welcoming. They are very proud of their culture and are so excited to be free from the Soviet Union.
Riga is less than 250 km from the Russian border - I.e. Russian tanks. Those tanks are kind of busy at the moment, but that doesn’t really seem like a safe distance to me. Uruguay sounds a lot safer.
Lived in Nicaragua from 2017 to 2022 and it was marvelous. People were warm, friendly & lovely, food was delicious and I felt very safe even as a 60year old woman. Gorgeous beaches and incredible nature
I’m going to stay and fight. Tend my garden. Take care of my parents as they age. Show up for my family and friends. Nationalism and autocracy is rising in many other countries too.
@@CarrieLovesLife. thank you. I too am staying because of family and fight for democracy. Besides I have to work full time on top of the social security to afford to live. Earning $..70 per $1 as a female vs a male wage/salary on average, didn’t not help one’s SS benefits equally. There’s a lot of work ahead for us and I’m glad you too will resist this madness.
I’m staying too, working in high tech in CA, paying a lot of taxes. I need to stay continuing to pay into the Fed, so they can subsidize all those fly-over Red states. Need to take care of our neighbors in the plain states!
17:00 Having lived in Cyprus these are my thoughts, which might be helpful to those considering moving there. - It's really far away. It's a long long couple of flights. - It is very hot in the summer - It is indeed cold in the winter. - Even worse, most homes have no air conditioning or heating. Let me say that again. Most homes do not have air conditioning or heating. In the summer if you live in a place that has a pool, that helps. In the winter.....the coldest I have ever been in my life is in Cyprus in the winter. I just couldn't get warm. It was 45f inside the house. That kind of cold seeps into you and stays there, and no amount of blankets warms you up. If you decide to move there make sure you budget a significant amount of money to heat your house in some way. - Yes, it's mostly safe, but the Russians have moved in. My sister owned a charity shop there. Given that she didn't make much money they left her alone, but the chap a couple of doors down refused to pay the "protection" money and was firebombed. - It is an *extremely* patriarchal society. If a bank account is in the name of both husband and wife, the husband is in control. If he dies assets DO NOT automatically go to the wife. All assets should be in the wife's name only for her protection. Many a widow has lost absolutely everything due to this. How I know: My Dad died there. - There is a large expat community. Most of the signs are also in English. Most people speak a little English. - It's mostly safe. Avoid Aya Napa. Avoid most of the tourist spots. - "Good health care". ehhhhhhh. It has sort of adequate health care. If you get cancer there....well, good luck with that. - The country is divided between the Turkish half (North) and the southern half (Greece), with a small neutral zone in between. It can get kind of surreal driving down an English road with towers to the right and left containing guards with guns, one side Turkish, the other side Cypriot. - It sounds like a little thing, but ants. My gosh the ants. EVERYTHING needs to be in lock-tight containers, and even then they will find their way in. One thing I love about the ants where I live now is that they are dumb and sweet. The ants in Cyprus are not. They are smart and aggressive. Their bites HURT. And they get in everywhere. You cannot leave food out anywhere at all for any time, and you need to keep the house meticulously clean. - It's absolutely freaking beautiful. I wish I could live there now. There's a smell of baked earth in the summer that makes me so happy. The best Ice cream I've ever had in my life is from a little shop in Frenaros. I'm so happy Cyprus made this list: it really is lovely.
@@avalondreaming1433 Pretty sure you can - but electricity is very expensive. It's possible to stay warm/cool, but it will need to be factored into the budget and will cost a hefty amount.
I can't believe you added Vietnam but left off Cambodia. I loved Vietnam but Visa runs are a pain in the butt. Cambodia has a retirement visa (multi-entry) for under $300 a year. Siem Reap is a beautiful small city and the food is great! Lots of English spoken here.
Honestly I can't believe people will take the advice of doing visa runs to stay somewhere longterm. All countries here in SE Asia (I am residing in Malaysia myself, as a permanent resident) clamp down on visa runs and it will become more and more difficult to return to the country you'd put your feet down. Visa runs is not an option for retirement, unless you move to a new country you haven't visited, every single time your visa runs out again.
Oh man, we would if we could. My daughter and her wife moved to Germany in 2023 and are really glad they did. My husband is a retired teacher with a lot of medical issues.
I can’t believe that I’m done with the U.S. my kids are here and I feel bad for leaving them. But I’m so considering it now. Hate, ignorance and bigotry with this rapist felon is not! For me
I am so thankful that my kids and I no longer live in the US... It was the best thing I ever did....I worry about my friends and family still in the US... Good luck everyone.
My husband and I plan to move to Shetland in a few years (not soon enough!!) We both love the cold vs. heat and humidity. Im a dual citizen, so there will be minimal hassle. I can't wait to get out of the US south.
Great video! I've been living in the Philippines for over 2 years. Many people do just keep extending their tourist visa as you said. It's much easier to extend the tourist visa here compared to neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam.
Those days are over soon, my friend. ASEAN nations have decided to clamp down on visa runs for longterm stays within ASEAN countries. And as you know, Philippines is part of ASEAN.
Very nice analysis. The one comment I might make would be that I would pay more attention to the historic stability of countries one might consider moving to.
Latvia is lovely. It’s so close to Estonia & offers historical beauty. I also lived Albania. Spent a month, met great people & looking forward to going back. It’s close enough to Italy & Corfu via ferry, too. Thanks-if you’re like me, it’s time to get out of the US
Excellent timing for this video. Some rational Americans need this solution but many will stay behind to fight for 🇺🇸 America and for some the only country they have ever known. The education system, greed, selfishness, racism and sexism is what brought us in to this predicament.
Not sure I'd be recommending any of the Baltic countries. Putin has his eye on them after he gets Ukraine. Not a good part of the world to move to in the current climate.
@@e.williams13 depends on where you live, but it's advisable if you plan to live in France long term. Or learn at least enough to get by and the doctor, shopping, etc
@@7x779 maybe not. I bet way more will try to leave when they realize how some of trump’s plans actually impact their social security income, their Medicare, their healthcare insurance…. It’s all going down under Trumpster.
Made the move to Mexico 10 years ago, a safe choice, but wanted to be able to drive home to family visits. The income requirements today would have excluded me, so I am glad to be already settled and happy. We still vote and visit and feel connected, but truthfully the stress reduction and slower pace is a big gift. I would recommend the sooner the better, in terms of the adapting involved in any move abroad. And remember: No matter where you go, there you are…so try to keep expectations flexible, and practice smiles, gratitude and empathy as you navigate your adventure!
@@Meandmymirror central. San Miguel de Allende. Overpriced for Mexico but all the infrastructure and arts and campo are perfect for us! Good hearted folks.
Yes, I was pricing real estate in Mexico (multiple cities) for years, and it just became too unaffordable for me in 2023. Then, when the financial requirements changed in Jan. 2024, I knew I had to look elsewhere. I began looking in Japan and Thailand, which makes me sad because I grew up on Mexican food and love many things about Mexican culture. It is what it is.
@@AmeliaAndJPI also shared this video with my mom and wife. My mom has been talking about moving to Belize for a while, so I thought it was interesting that you talked about it first. We have young children though, so we would need opportunities for education as well as healthcare. Will be looking into Belize more. Thanks!
Moving abroad is not like the articles in 'International Living' - they are selling an overpriced dream. This channel mostly tells it like it is - it is not overly sugarcoated. I'm sure their course will be extremely important to newbies! Successfully moving abroad from a standing start is probably near impossible - if you have not even got a passport yet I would seriously visit at least 5 countries for an extended period - no 5 day trips! You also need to speak to people on why others are leaving their country of choice - their observations can be very telling. We moved to Portugal - after many short trips. After three years we are ready to move on to Malaysia. Do not underestimate bureaucracy issues, local cusine, language, local culture, and general life in a different country. It was a great stepping stone for us.
@@cherylmartin9456 Bureaucracy is a big one - currently impossible to renew our residency cards, therefore not possible to travel within Schengen. Never ending strikes. Services extremely under pressure (the presence of us and others is causing issues in society). We are starting to feel we are no longer welcome - 3 years the country and mood in society has changed. A friend was subject to a crime but police refused to report the incident or investigate. The local friends we've made have been great, but it does not feel like it is our home. There is more to life than nice weather and inexpensive wine.
Ya, we need our own list for that. Perhaps Thailand would be on that list, since they recently passed their same sex marriage. Some on this list are okay, some are getting better with time. Some countries are more socially acceptable whereas others are more accepting legally on paper, but the populations are slow to change. It's complicated! I feel like I have to do triple the research attempting to truly get a feel of what it might actually be like on the ground and in day-to-day life. For example, once I came across a comment by a TEFL teacher working in Harbin, China who said that 3/4 of the teachers and staff at their school were LGBTQ. Almost all of the parents of the students going there were very accepting and all of the teachers openly lived their lives in Harbin. Who knew? Perhaps someone else's story there is completely different, but I am learning not to make quick assumptions.
@@thetravelingkittens1393 I started searching online for properties mostly in Europe (France, Italy, Spain, Portugal) back during Trump’s first term - during Covid. I just sort of planned my move over the last couple of years. Narrowed it down to one country and started looking at housing every day online. I made a couple (3-4) trips in total to visit different areas and get a feel for life there. I wound up making two offers - the first one fell thru so I pivoted and found a better place (for my needs) and made the offer two days later. I only had a week at a time and wanted a little vacation place not a huge home. I closed on it in September, and knew I’d be using it as an escape plan as much as an escape vacation place… it’s off the beaten track but in a populated place with a train station to get me to Paris or anywhere else.
Just a couple of points for folks a tad outside the U.S. mainstream to consider when thinking of becoming expats... First (speaking as someone who grew up in a U.S. diplomatic family), take a good look at the religious community/environment; depending on how/who/what you worship, some places will be a great deal less comfortable than others. Also, as I reminded some friends who were recently talking about moving to a somewhat low-lying island nation... sea level rise *is* a thing, as are strengthening hurricanes/typhoons.. Just keep that in mind when looking at places to live. Also -- Good point about the volcanoes! (I've lived in an earthquake zone in South America, and it can be "interesting" every once in a while.)
I lived in Saudi Arabia for 2 years because of the military. The everyday people I met were welcoming, and extremely kind. Visited many countries in the region and the same treatment. If you respect other people's culture, behave appropriately, and with common sense you'll be fine. For example, I didn't go out by myself (even though I had access to a driver). I always dressed appropriately, and I never, ever, had an issue.
I'm moving to Siem Reap, Cambodia at the end of January. I notice Cambodia gets left out sometimes but then I like it runs under the radar. It's hard to beat Cambodias long term visa and cost of living. Of course, each of our lives are different and require individual choices. Thanks for what you share.
@MrSean03839 I am not a tax expert, every person has there own income sources and I haven't even moved there yet but from what I have read my retirement income is not taxed. Off the web 👇 One key rule for expats is that they are only taxed on income earned in Cambodia. This means that foreign income earned outside of Cambodia is not subject to Cambodian income tax.
I had a coworker who was from Costa Rica, her partner owned a home there, and he lost his house because of squatters. My kids had spent six weeks there & I thought about a 2nd home in Costa Rica, but, on the government website it tells you that squatters have 17 years to live in your house. It’s not like the US. If you’re not there to guard your house, it could be gone in a heartbeat. People can buy into gated communities. I imagine where there are guards to make sure that nobody moves into your property while you’re gone.
Thanks for this info. Been watching you guys a while but I have been saying that if the election goes this way I will go and so have already started planning. I will at least go for a few months and then reassess...thanks for sharing a few I have not even considered such as Belize, Latvia and Cypress. Albania, Peru and Hungary have been on. my list.
Awesome video we live in Albania Tirana currently! Got to say it’s been great moving from the United States here as the cost of living is much more affordable and you get a lot more value. We have a Appartment we’re paying €700 per month, we have a nice view of the nearby surrounding mountains and it’s modern. The people here are generally quite welcoming. On the downside of the infrastructure is not like that of Western Europe in terms of quality. But there are lots of cafés and restaurants and places to walk.
I left after the 2016 election. Became a permanent resident in Mexico. A few months ago I started my citizenship for Croatia because my mother’s parents are from there and I qualify based on descent. As soon as I get my citizenship, I’m moving there. Haven’t been there yet but it looks wonderful. At least 60% of the population speaks fluent English (better than Mexico!) It is a member of the EU and NATO. Most of the country borders on the Adriatic Sea.. 10 Unesco Heritage sites. They now use the euro. Very safe. Healthcare is ok, some expat communities and cost of living is low for Europe. I hear wages are low but I’m not going to be working since I’m retired.
I’m a dual-citizen US and Ecuador. I just left Ecuador. The power was out 14 hour a day. China delivered hydroelectric dams that were falling apart after 2 years vs the 50 years promised. Even with rain and funds, which they don’t have, rebuilding infrastructure will take at least 10 years.
I suggest you get better informed before spreading lies to people who may other wise want to visit Ecuador. For your information, the last 3 monkeys who played president in the country have done everything to destroy the nation all out of hatred and stupidity just like the one you are spreading. Neither one of the last 3 monkeys before mentioned has done their job, in other words they haven't been capable of MAINTAINING all the energy infrastructure left by CORREA, so, if you don't maintain a machine, be it big or small, after time it will simply stop working. All the dams built in Ecuador and particularly COCA CODO SINCLAIR is the one that is providing most of the energy that is being consumed these days. So my dear double citizen, be honest to yourself and the rest of the people at least out of respect of yourself. Lying is such a nasty practice and habit. Get cured! Greetings from New York from another dual citizen who loves the truth and being honest.
What you 2 aren't mentioning is what you're doing and i like. Traveling and staying 1 or 2 months at different countries. Eventually you could find 4 countries to rotate to and not need a long term visa.
It's naive to say at least. South East Asia will no longer grant these visa runs within ASEAN, the 10 members have decided to end this and will no longer allow entrance.
I’m a type 1 diabetic. I know I’m going to lose affordable access to it here in the US so I’m hoping to find online communities of expats who know about healthcare n different countries. Thanks for your list - it’s helpful to learn the options.
My son is Type 1 diabetic and is considering Canada. Near by, English speaking obviously, and incredible prices on insulin and other diabetes supplies from glucose monitors to minipods and pump supplies.
This couple weren't high on Costa Rica but it's supposed to be a good place to live and has very good affordable health care. I'm considering CR and Panama. Stable governments and affordable housing and healthcare.
@@ClueSignWarning. Trudeau may be pushed out soon and a Trumplike guy is in the wings ready to take over. Prices are very high in Canada, comparable to CA in Ontario at least. Sorry for negative news but their govt may become authoritarian soon.
In the last three months I have met three families who have migrated from the US to just the northside of Brisbane, Queensland. I expect I'll come across more in the near future.
Why not come to Switzerland. It is for real, the greatest nation on earth, where us citizens enjoy a true and direct democracy. Also, there are no authoritarian tendencies whatsoever. Everyone has healthcare coverage and social security is not exposed to hostile takeover by privatization. Mega bonus: public transportation is as precise as Swiss clock work. Be at any place at any time. Access is typically minutes from your doorstep....
The Number One Objective before moving to another Country is establishing an offshore bank account. There are many reasons to do so, including Currency Diversification. Or higher Interest Rates, and Sounder Banking Systems and Banks.
I tried to live in Belize in 2019. It has become insanely dangerous, and I don't mean just in Belize City. Unless you have enough for a fabulous security system, a giant fence, and perhaps a private security guard, forget it.
@@mrsd2143 Not to split hairs, but that's like saying Nicaragua is in North America. Belize is in *Central* America. Different region, different problems.
@@exploringdimensions4all853 I went there for a week to go scuba diving, and liked it. But then i saw you were there in2019. I was there at least 20 years ago, so obviously things have changed and sadly not for the better.
This is great info! My family and I lived in Guate for 4 years and did the visa run to either the States or Mexico every 6 months. Every 90 days we did the extension.
Greetings from Thailand. A visa agent can get you what you want. I'm here 10 years.. Retired... I was in Mexico.. Which now is more dangerous and far more expensive. Thailand is cheap and very safe. The food! The weather! Everything ❤
I love the idea of Thailand. I am haunted by the 2004 tsunami though, a friend only just missed being killed by it. Tsunami warnings are much more together nowadays, but nothing is certain in life. I hear the Thai people are lovely souls. (I would love to visit the amazing tea plantations there..). 🩵🌱
Sawatdee krap 🙏 I'll be there in January to explore before coming in the fall (just in time for the wet season 😅) to stay. So exciting to travel as a healthy not too old man. I want to find a "home" but also get out to other fun places and I think I'll add Belize, Albania and Spain to the list of slow travel places.
We just got back from a trip to Brazil, and it was fantastic (we didn’t go to Rio de Janeiro). We went to the Northeast, where the most beautiful beaches are, so my husband could get to know the region. One month of vacation staying in beachfront Airbnbs and hotels, eating at restaurants every day, and including airfare, we spent $7,000 for two people. Brazil is a huge country, and if you like year-round summer, I recommend the Northeast, where the weather is hot or super hot. For those who enjoy the four seasons with cold winter 🥶 , I recommend the south of the country. There you can find small towns with a low cost of living and very peaceful. The Capital Brasília is beautiful and modern, but it has a dry climate in the winter and rain in the summer and is far from the beach. Crime and dangerous places exist in all countries… the perfect place doesn’t exist, there are safe places to live in Brazil. While safety can vary widely depending on the region and city, many areas offer a high quality of life with a relatively low crime rate. Some of the safest cities tend to be smaller or mid-sized cities, often found in the southern and southeastern regions of Brazil, like in the states of Santa Catarina, Paraná, and parts of Minas Gerais. Cities such as Florianópolis, Curitiba, and Joinville are often mentioned as safe and offer good infrastructure, healthcare, and quality of life. However, even in larger cities like São Paulo and Brasília, there are neighborhoods known for their security and good living conditions. With 3,000 dollars, a couple can live a comfortable life in Brazil.
Did you know Rio de Janeiro is a state and not just the city? Have you ever gone to Paraty, Buzios, or the rest of the Emerald Coast? If you haven't, I suggest you do so before looking down on Rio de Janeiro both the state and the city.
@@1kleberito I understand! It’s true that Rio de Janeiro is often the first image that comes to mind when people think of Brazil, but the country has an incredible diversity of landscapes and cultures. I have been in Rio, I have explored several regions beyond the more famous destinations. That’s great, as there are many lesser-known places that are just as amazing and offer unique experiences.
Hola yall! I am originally from the state of Georgia, USA. Made my home in Nicaragua. I live on the retirement visa. Many of these countries that have retirement visas have special clauses that eliminates the age requirement if the person has a disability. I am one of those individuals. I have minor disability that does not keep me from living independently and decided to make my home abroad. I will correct the information about Nicaragua. People can do the visa run thing: usually travel to Costa Rica for a day to a week and return every ninety days. I did that for long time. Just like Vietnam or Philippines, it's good to take trip either to the USA or another region of Latin America or other places (maybe Europe or Asia for example) every year or two because it looks better. I always stayed in Costa Rica for around 3 - 5 days and returned every 90 days. Then visited family every year or two when I used to teach EFL. Now I have family. I qualified for the retirement visa with my social security I receive for my disability. The requirement in Nicaragua for pensionado is $1000 and rentista $1,250. The age requirement for pensionado and rentista visa is age 45; but when a person has a disability, the pensionado just has to be 18 or older (for example I am under 45) ..... a legal adult. I hope this information helps!
Me too. Having lived and travelled overseas, my dream is to settle in Switzerland. I may have to just dream on, but I'm seriously looking into it. Am a woman at retirement age, photographer & artist. The place is heavenly but expensive, and I do worry about floods and landslides...🏞️🏔️🐐🐂🌱
Could you say more about the fresh food? I had not seen that info. despite looking a lot for it on Albania. I need a place that is not a food desert, which means I need a place that is relatively food-independent and unsprayed. Thank you.
I spent time in all three Baltics this summer and Latvia was my favorite. Would love to spend an extended amount of time there. Estonia and Lithuania are welcoming and full of history as well.
@@smartmarketing173 yes, I'm surprised it's not on the list. They have a digital nomad visa. It's a tech haven and everything is doable online. Wages are really low, but if you're earning money from elsewhere, it's ideal.
I leave for Chile in a week. I'm 65 and especially disappointed now with the US ... but more so following curiosity and newness. It's been 3 years looking and find I love warm cultures most. Another critera is abundant nature. In the European region, I loved Turkey, but politically, a no go. Catalunya was also lovely. Nature is something important to me, and wow, coastal Turkey is gorgeous off-season. The history, food, nature people just wonderful. I always felt safe....but it's located in the thick of things and volatile gov. For that very reason, I dont see the usa coming into any place I want to be in my lifetime.... and I'm in athletic shape with long-lived ancestry. I enjoy hikes, thru-hiking, and headed to Patagonia.
Wish I could connect. I was only a week in Valparaiso hostel owned by young Serbian couple. I loved the people. Walked everywhere, rode bus. (Bus driver supervisor wife&children live in Westchester NY..)
Thank you so much for posting this and at this time. I have been considering leaving the country due to political outcomes, just got an application to renew my passport but its been so long since I have traveled and didn't know where to begin...so this is hugely helpful thank you. I'll be getting your move abroad toolkit. ❤
Brazilian Portuguese is a beautiful language and not too hard to learn if you're Spanish is strong. I started with pronunciation videos and after a couple months I started doing online conversational classes for one hour a week; about seven months later I would say I am nearly fluent for everyday conversation. I am planning to spend a month in Brazil next year traveling through the country so I should have some good tips after that.
@Kalani86 Lived in Sao Paolo, Brazil for 3 1/2 years ions ago. Didn't like living in that huge city, but loved the country and its adorable people. Cried like a baby when it was time to finally leave. Still consider it my second home, and I want to go back again and again to visit for extended periods of time. In fact, my oldest child is Brazilian, and we finally had the opportunity to go back to meet her adorable biological family. Highly recommend living in or at least visiting Brazil for extended periods of time. Learning some Portuguese before going is highly recommended be/c not everyone speaks English there. Plus, it's such a beautiful language. 😍
I escaped the USSA (United Security States of Anxiety) over 13 years ago. Best decision ever. Ain't been back since and now after the dreadful results of the election will likely never go back even to visit. Not everyone can leave of course but if you can, I advise you to give it a try. Good luck.
@@Sunset-87 I've lived in a few different countries over that time period. I live now in Montenegro. The residence requirements are far less restrictive than anywhere in the EU. And next-door Albania gives Americans (only) a no-cost one year hassle free visa, best deal remaining in Europe. Both countries coastal areas are pretty good in winter. Hot and many tourists for three months in summer. Friendly people and very low crime in each. Not as much spoken English in Albania.
@@jackflanagle6079 My understanding is Montenegro is not available to live in fulltime - is that right? Curious if you have been moving fulltime 13 years.
@@messyhomestead7320 That's incorrect. As a tourist you get 90 days just like the EU. But there are various ways to apply for full time residency that are far less restrictive than the EU. You do five one-year terms of residency and then, if no problems they will grant you permanent residency. But forget about becoming a citizen. Albania, just over the border grants Americans (only) a hassle-free one year visa. Best deal remaining in Europe. Good luck.
Thanks a million for this VERRRY timely video, big thumbs up!! I've been looking into other countries, very discouraged by some of the requirements. Your list means a lot to me. I already speak some Spanish!
![8 Reasons Why Americans LEAVE Costa Rica [Why I Left]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cbGMngGx2xk/mqdefault.jpg)
NOTE #1: The Philippines has a 30 day tourist visa (not 90).
NOTE #2: It should be criteria (plural). It was a late night mistake.
NOTE #3: The income requirements are for the visa qualification only. They're not fees to live in the country.
NOTE #4: If the audio is in a foreign language, it's a new feature from RUclips and we're in the beta test group. It is probably defaulting based on where you're watching from. You can change the language by clicking the settings gear icon on the bottom right of the video player, then select Audio Track.
I’m a little confused about the retirement visa income visa. Some you said were $2,000 a month and there was no qualification. Others you did qualify saying that our income needed to be $2,000 a month. So the ones you didn’t qualify I took to mean that I had to pay $2,000 per month to maintain my visa. Can you clarify that? Also, I wish you would have addressed how SSA handles retirement payments while living outside the US. Do they cut you off or do you have to return to the US periodically? Thanks for this video. It’s quite timely as I suspect many Americans have lost faith in our country. If you don’t have the answers to my questions, can you provide resources where we can do our own research.?
@@Michele-z4k Yes. Lost faith completely.
@@FilmFlam me too. I can't do another 4 years. I'm leaving.
I am watching from the USA and it is in Portuguese. What sh***th I that?
@@Michele-z4k
No. They were always citing the income-requirements. They unfortunately didn't expressly say that every single time, but that is precisely what they were citing.
Y'all are sleeping on the Netherlands! It is a beautiful, Schengen zone country. There is a treaty between the Netherlands and the U.S. called the DAFT treaty (Dutch-American Friendship Treaty). Yes, you apply for this visa (which gives you residency) while in the country. You must deposit $5,000 in a business bank account and submit a business plan. You can do almost any type of work, and don't need to show a profit, but you must keep at least $5,000 in your business account at all times. You also must register with your local municipality and purchase affordable health care, but that's pretty much it. Outside of the major cities, rents and utilities are quite affordable, and the infrastructure and culture are first rate. You can walk or bicycle in the city centers without owning a car, and 95% of adult Dutch speak English.
Thanks for sharing these details! My ancestors on my mom’s side (JP) were Dutch. They left for the new world in 1650! Maybe it’s time to go home 😁
Thanks. I've been wondering about the Netherlands. Not just because my great grandmother (whom I remember) was from "there"... East Friesland (so not exactly).... but because I also know a person or two there... and it looks like a possibility.
English, education, government, infrastructure.
QUESTION: I'm retired. Passive income. Any thoughts?
Amsterdam is my top choice, but it’s too far from my grandbaby, who lives in FL. I typically fly down there every month.😕
And housing is out of control. And for those of you that don't like the recent results in the US, their govt is quickly headed the same way. So, Yemen is better for you.
I wonder if there's such a treaty with UK? I did laugh at the name of the treaty though! lol DAFT..
Years ago I made plans to retire in Spain. Retirement has come, house is sold and visa application is nearly complete. Will be moving in January. I have to say the timing couldn’t be better. Good luck America. I think it may be a lesson that needs learned the hard way.
Enjoy! Perhaps all these "celebs" will follow.
But unfortunately millions and millions of us will suffer because of the evil ones. Nobody should want that for us, especially other Americans!
@@charlie3134 yeah, I was just looking at Barcelona, Spain, and the price of housing in the Expat community is extremely high. Sorry to say. The other thing about Spain is they were in the news w/ huge groups protesting Tourists. I guess they are mobbed during tourist season and who can blame them for being unhappy about it. But the demonstrations did not look good at all. That was this past summer.
I have always wanted to move to Spain. I went there for two weeks and fell in love. Plus I cannot think of a better time to leave the US! I’m so jealous.😂 Seriously I wish you nothing but the best of luck!🙏
@@LaLadybug2011I agree. We need to support one another.
We actually have a medical system in Australia which enables all to have the very best of medical care. My wife had breast cancer and the treatment lasted for many, many months. We live on an isolated island but our medical system (not insurance) means that all travel (including a ferry trip sometimes every week) was paid for, cancer treatment paid for, accommodation during treatment was paid for. The only cost incurred was for the meals we had to buy while we were away. We have a civilized and caring medical system that means no-one has to become bankrupt if ill. The American 18th century style system astounds us!
You're lucky Rupert Murdoch hasn't succeeded in destroying your country they way he's destroyed ours with the Fox News right wing propaganda channel.
@@IanMacdonald-t5b What about old Americans who thought that they could count on social security and Medicare and don’t have a lot of money? Any countries out there that will help us with housing and healthcare? We have about $20,000.00 (twenty thousand) US dollars, but that won’t last long. I’m actually hoping that Biden and our Attorney General will wake up finally. They DO have the power to save democracy. 14 million missing votes!
Thinking about moving back to Oz with American husband. TBH though, with potential change in geopolitics China is more of a concerning factor in moving back long term
Australian medical care kicks in well if what ails you is urgent and life threatening. Not so good if you suffer from chronic conditions. Endless waiting lists while you are in misery, or go the incredibly expensive private system.
@@IanMacdonald-t5b 'all medical care was paid for.....' nothing is 'free'.
Hello from Italy. As of now, I am declaring that I am no longer an EXPAT. From now on I will refer to myself as a (very lucky) EXILE.
Lucky
Yes, if I could be somewhere else, I would be. I am stuck here, have a grandchild that life isn't worth living if I can't see them. Italy is my favorite place in the world!❤
I’m thinking about coming to Italy. I’m done with the US. I’m not going down with this ship.
No kidding, there must be many thousands of us who are anxious to leave after the devastating election results. Clearly, we are a nation of brainless, vacuous, superficial materialistic, greed driven nut cases who would vote for a criminal to lead the country again when he could not do it in any way whatsoever During his last pathetic, sad & embarrassing attempt.
@@Roxie_also Byee
I moved to Da Nang, Vietnam over two weeks ago. It’s really affordable, beautiful and the people are really kind. Street food is incredibly cheap and healthy. I got about $1200 worth of vaccines here for less than $100. The Japanese encephalitis vaccine alone would’ve been $800 in America. Glad I waited! Don’t get me started on the coffee culture. Their drinks are sublime. Anyway.. just my two cents.
Great! Congrats!
If you eat vegan, you won't need vaccines.
I LOVE Vietnamese food ! So clean and healthy and they manage to do it without all the 🌶️🔥 seasoninga ..❤
What about the language? I don't speak the language.
Oh, that's Nice, thanks for Sharing!!!!!
I've started learning Finnish. I want to move with my husband and young adult kids to Finland mainly because of the way they treat others. They pay more taxes so that everyone can have free healthcare and the poor can have cheap or free housing (zero homeless), and nobody minds because they feel it's their duty to take care of each other. They are very accepting and inclusive of LGBTQ people. They respect women. I hope to find a way that my husband can work from there (he already works remotely from home 100%) and I hope to make supplemental income from art, music, and writing. I plan to try to be the best candidate for immigration that I can be, short of being a rich person who will bring many jobs. I wish we were already ready, because I can hardly wait to leave the land of hate.
I'm 1/2 Finnish and travel to Finland often to visit family. Remember they used to be a prosperous neutral country. Now they're under the thumb of NATO trying to instigate WWIII. I'm saddened by how they threw the priceless privilege of neutrality in the toilet. My family agrees but their leaders are also lured by military-industrial profit into short term solutions that aren't viable long term. Otherwise naturally the country's great if you can cope w/very high prices and long, dark, cold winters.
@@vnevala My daughter sent me a video by an expat living in Finland who said the current leader is right-wing and trying to take away human rights. Where is a place I can go that is truly progressive? P.S. I can't handle hot climates.
@@GwenythRobicheaux California
@GwenythRobicheaux I'm eligible for Finnish citizenship because my grandparents were from Finland. I spent my summer after high school there studying language and culture, traveling and visiting relatives. After the election, I'm seriously considering more to the land of my ancestors. I've lived in a northern climate for most of my life, so for that and cultural reasons, I think I'd feel at home there.
Wellcome to Finland!
Here in Berlin, far too many Americans are upsetting the locals, driving up rents, ruining local restaurants and pubs. Something for young Americans. Because of American puritanical drinking laws, young Americans cannot cope with alcohol. Drunkenness amongst young Americans has become a big problem. In my district many pubs are refusing to serve them. And my dear Americans don´t forget, you are way too loud. You may consider this normal but we consider it asocial and disrespectful of others.
That is important information you shared.
Well said yes Americans do think the world revolves around them; no respect.
I am humble respectful American
I am German and yes Americans are loud. The table conversations are all over the restaurants. Was a culture shock to me. I’m used to it now.
Panama sounds good to me. I’ve been there and have friends there. But I’m scared at my age
Wednesday morning (Nov 6), my husband called the Mexican Embassy asking for a PR application. My disabled brother is (hopefully) coming with us and we have a good chance of bringing him with us as Mexico honours family ties....I'm glad that Amelia and JP made this video and not criticizing, but the irony of Americans seeking easiest countries to emigrate to along with the fact that so many Americans don't want immigrants in the US.....hmmm...
@@BrandyBaker-gj7vo But the Americans who feel so strongly disgusted by Trump's win are NOT the people who voted for him because they're anti-immigrant. We know we're a nation of immigrants & wouldn't be anything without everyone who came here & built this country's dream.
We who are trying to leave are not who voted in a tyrant.
@@BrandyBaker-gj7vo I heard that the new President of Mexico may "lock it down".
@@rM-xk9ob Oh some of them said that they would leave if he did not win...
That's an interesting way to frame the situation. This video is clearly talking about legal emigration from the US, including instructions on how to obey the laws of foreign nations. Americans object to immigrants coming in illegally - the ones who flout our laws and have to be supported with taxpayer-funded transportation, hotel rooms, meals, and healthcare when they arrive. The ones who set up tent cities and take over public buildings. I've yet to meet anyone who objects to legal immigration. If anything, legal immigration to the US should be increased.
*If you guys ever update these countries in the future, please be sure to include any health insurance costs for the countries. Thanks in advance!*
@@neal6805 and also their policies on reproductive rights and LGBTQ 🏳️⚧️ protections. And climate change worries
One other tip, maybe you can make a separate video for working adults you guys travel and are a little bit older so these videos are really coming from your perspective but the average person looking to move out is often younger and still working. I’m not a digital nomad, I work a normal job And I don’t have retirement income so a lot of these characteristics that you’re highlighting don’t even apply to me so I would say maybe try to include options for regular folks or maybe make a separate video geared towards working adults that have a regular job not a nomad influencer type thing?
As a native Californian ! I’m in it for the fight. Saving our freedom, democracy, and constitutional rights is what it’s all about.
@@taritabonita22 - good luck and thank you!
God Bless Newsome!
Thank you. ❤
Don't fight unless you have a path to winning. Being aligned with democracy and rule of law is not enough.
Biden didn’t demand from Merrick Garland to step it up or step aside, we all seen the crimes, it was in our faces! If nothing was done in four years while we had power???? Umm yeah right, dictator on day one! Remember, no guardrails once he’s in office, project 2025. No guardrails, Alex Jones’s, Steve Miller, Bannon, Musk, the legion of darkness. Yeah, judicial system?? What judicial system?? You keep thinking they’re going to play by the rules???? He’s king now thank you Supreme Court, feckless Biden administration, DOJ, CIA, all feckless and pathetic. Where’s our super heroes????
Just reading an article in the Guardian where an American in Britain is saying..It's like watching from the other side of the street when your house is on fire with your family inside.
@@tolrem 😔
@@aweebunny ?
@@aweebunny Love The Guardian!
@@aweebunnyso?
That makes me feel so loved, thank you for saying it!❤ America is unrecognizable here 😢
Canada🍁 has welcomed political refugees from USA for 2.5 centuries.
Couldn't ask for a better upstairs neighbor.💙
See you soon
Hello Canada!
And how do they determine if you are a political refugee? I don't know who in the US could possibly be considered that.
@@robgronotte1 The comment you are responding to was references Tories who fled the country to Canada, en masse, after the American Revolution. They did so again in 1812, and during the "Red Scare" in the 1950s. People migrate to Canada every year, but we saw a spike during Trump's first Presidency, and it looks to spike again.
y'all just don't know how much I needed to see this today. Thank you.
@@dallasmove537 Frump, ha?
@@dallasmove537 Many of us needed to see this today! 🥲
You're not alone. Even if American society breaks down, there are plenty of safe, interesting and cheap nations to get away from the craziness.
If you are in Dallas, and your all too familiar "y'all" in the comment sections suggests you are, I truly feel for you. From a native Dallasite, I sincerely wish you the best.
I know what you mean. I have already been thinking about leaving. If not, I'm just tuning out of political media.
Cambodia. if over 55, just pay $300 a year for the visa and you are in. no income requirement or any other strings attached. great food, super affordable, im very happy here ( Siem Reap ). I live well on $800 a month.
Thanks for the info! We had a difficult time finding official details.
@@mjs2402 I’ve lived in Thailand, and would certainly give Cambodia a shot if it weren’t for the heat, which is only going to be exacerbated over time by climate change.
No kidding! Just how do you get acclimated to the heat soup???
@@michaelhall2709 it can definitely get hot but this time of year is actually quite pleasant. today is 28-30c. for me thats perfect. and, there is AC everywhere. but different people have different tolerances for sure. come april or may, admittedly it can get brutal. thats when i head to albania or georgia for perfect springs. just my strategy. :-)
Thank You. Very good to know. I will be hitting 62 in a little under a month and can collect about $850 a month but was planning to wait until full retirement age to start collecting because there has not been any real reason for me to collect now until now. Here in the US we have never had someone running for President that promised to gather up all of his political enemies and charge them with treason. Was he joking? I don't know but it is a very scary time in the good ol' USA right now
I retired last year and moved to my beach house in Baja Mexico. Originally the move was for two years of nonstop fishing and to decide where I want to eventually live. And to get the heck out of the USA during the election cycle. So glad I moved. Now I'll probably be here at least another four to five years. Easy peasy!
Can you tell me more? What town are you in?
What were the requirements to move to Mexico? I am only 150 miles from it haha
Would like more information as well.
@@maureenmannion6748 Look on the Mexican govt websites, don't take any advice from an internet post. There are requirements, you can't just show up and stay (easily, anyways). Northern Baja is considered the US in some ways, though. There are reportedly thousands of people living there who are US citizens but quietly staying under the radar.
Hey guys! If you are interested, look for information here on RUclips! There are a lot of videos about it. Just watch and compare, because some of them talk about very expensive neighborhoods!
Welcome to Costa Rica ! Tourist visa 180 days, leave for a couple of hours to Nicaragua and come back for another 180 days, repeat as often as you want. Residency is easy for Retirees ($1000 per month) or buy a home for a minimum of $150,000 as an investor. Costa Rica is quite save compared to other Latin American Countries. I have been living in this beautiful country for 33 years and counting.
I'm afraid the humidity would just crunk me. I've tried to live in it before I can't do it
@texasrefugee7888 I rather find it pleasant. Back in Germany I had to use pounds of skin cream due to dry air. We live at the south side of Lake Arenal where humidity is moderate.
150k for a house?
@nativechique7589 yes you can buy real estate for 150+k and apply for residency as an investor
@elisabethlindermuller4362 thays a good price. The average home, cheapest in my state is 350k
Great timing! I just turned 50 and I'm considering having a midlife crisis. I could definitely head out right now.
Canada is waiting!❤
@@Moluccan56 Le Canada est SATURÉ 🙄
Sounds familiar to me…me too.
@@jshepard152 oh Lord, I hear you! But resist, if you can❣️
💙🇺🇸💙
Palawan, Philippines is AMAZING and CHEAP to live by the BEACH! I did that on and off for 4 years with my cat. Meow.
I'm sorry, but Georgia is too closely controlled by Putin. I'd never risk that
@@donnaklein4929 seems this country is now too controlled by Putin as well.
Id much more prefer that to bring controlled by US warmongers. 😮
@@Give_Peace_a_Chance123 yeah because putin is so much for peace he’s spreading his doctrine of peace to Ukraine it’s wonderful
@@donnaklein4929 You’re smart not to risk it!
@@donnaklein4929 Thus no big change either.
I’m moving to France. Already bought my little pied a terre for my second home / vacation home. Planning to move over the next couple of years if things work out. I’m NOT spending a fortune, NOT living in expensive Paris or a major city, NOT shipping tons of my belongings- and I already have a strong grasp of the language. I know the culture from growing up in Europe as a kid, I studied in the French university system as a student, and I am a lover of art, culture, history, design, architecture and food, wine, fashion, and fun in Europe. Costs are lower than in the U.S.: Internet is under 50 EUROS per month including smart cell phone and cellular service. Homeowners insurance is 250 EUROS PER YR; electricity and gas runs about 30-50 EU /mo, and day to day expenses are minimal - more to budget for travel throughout Europe and elsewhere. Trains are great, but I can also afford a car if I want one. Retirement, here I come!!
Lucky!
Which city for someone that doesn't speak French?
@@sarasmile184 I found out that there are a lot of Brits who retire all over Nouvelle Aquitaine, Normandy, and Brittany (and many other places). Many of them live in small towns and in rural villages with train stations, cafes, restaurants, etc. and the French outside of Paris are super nice, and very forgiving if you struggle with their language. You can look for property online at Leggett International website (a British / French Resl Estate company with listings all over France). There are others too. Then when you find a few possibilities, you could head over for a property scouting trip or two. I made a wuick decision on a third trip over two years coz I was pretty sure my first place would not be my last. I don’t need a long stay visa yet either coz I’m still working in the USA but I will retire in a few years. In Europe, there are many English speakers and you can get by without a lot of French. You can find British, American, Australian and other English speakers all over the place sometimes in the least likely spots!
C'est là vie!
@@EGO0808 Why do all your comments sound so bitter?
3 things to remember before you move;
1. Lower your voices! The rest of the world thinks you are way to loud! No one else but you is interested in what your aunt or your boss said about anything, no need to shout it out..
2. Very important - respect other countries culture! Please!
3. And the last one, remember America is actually a small part of the world, what you can buy in the US, the money you use, the way your life is organized is not the way everyone else do things. So back to number 2, respect other countries culture!
@marilynmysak5889 be quiet, you are super rude.
@@marilynmysak5889 We don’t have a “culture”. We are a melting pot of all cultures.
When I was a married teen I lived in Europe as my husband was in the miliatary. I was only gone 14 months. I lived on the national economy of another country. I learned a lot and when I got off the plane in America, I wanted to get down on my knees to kiss the ground, I was so grateful to be home!!! I was back where I spoke the same language, understood the culture and did not feel so rejected by another people group. Americans are not universally loved. Think very carefully before you leave. East or west, home is best
@@sewgatormomm Rock and roll, jazz, blue jeans, apple pie, cheesburgers, car culture, the wild west, Hollywood, Broadway, freedom of speech and religion, free enterprise, can-do attitude, baseball, basketball, patriotism, Coca-Cola, guns, barbecue, beer...
@@marilynmysak5889 this video is about americans moving to other countries. So yes, show some respect.
Thank you for this. I desperately want to leave but have no money. I have been unemployed since 2020. Those of you that have the money to leave I don't blame you one bit and wish you luck!👍
same, i've been unemployed for nearly a year, can't imagine how it's been for four. my dream is to move to asia, i specifically can't wait to go to japan :,)
@@kimberlyaustin6677 🥸🇺🇸🌐 MANY PEOPLE INCLUDING MYSELF FEEL YOUR PAIN ...
I would like so much to move out of the US but we have four cats, one elderly and I dont know how I would possibly be able to move them or leave them.
Wishing you the best, kimberlyaustin! Tis the season for retail work, and unless you think it's beneath you, it's a great way to make some quick money for a couple of months.
@@kimberlyaustin6677 same here norway sweden and new zealand are my choices but being below the poverty level its hard to even move out of state at this point.
Soooo helpful! I think many Americans who have even a rudimentary knowledge of history will be interested in this video.
But mostly the ones who only have a rudimentary knowledge of history.
Got out of the dumpster fire a few years ago. Best decision ever.
@@bajamcguide where to?
Congratulations on leaving Dumfukistan.
"Parts of the country are dangerous and some infrastructure is lacking."
The United States is the same way. Our healthcare system is completely broken and our education system sucks.
@ so why are you living here? Move if you don’t like it. I work in healthcare and it is not broken.
@@lisadiane40 Don't be obtuse. There are numerous reasons a person might not be able to just pick up and move.
Absolutely. At 57 I have given serious thought to other counties and talked to family. Health care alone is one of the biggest scams out there. The way coverage, co-pays and premiums has changed since my first job is outrageous. We feed the rich.
Our healthcare system IS broken. And so is our education system as you said. Both of my parents were educators from the late 1960’s into the 90’s. The Federal Department of Education truly messed up our education in this country. States should have more autonomy on their education system.
@@lisadiane40 You work in healthcare. From your perspective as an employee it doesn't seem to be broken. What happens if you lose your job? The scam is that HC is tied to your employment. You can pay for your HC your entire life but the moment you get laid off or lose your job or somehow due to an accident or something become unable to work, you've got SERIOUS problems. The US is the ONLY first world country that doesn't offer universal HC. And we're the ONLY country that has THOUSANDS of citizens declaring bankruptcy due to exorbitant medical costs. If you're unlucky to get cancer or some other disease that puts you in the "pre-existing condition" category, then once the new administration gets rid of the ACA, it'll be almost impossible for those people to get coverage. And don't even get me started on pharmaceutical costs.
Great video. We have lived in portugal for 6 years. It is wonderful when one finds a country that is the right fit. Living abroad is a wonderful challenging adventure. Perfect for us in this retirement chapter of our lives.😊
Six years ago, Portugal real estate was affordable. I'm guess you haven't priced any today.
@le_th_ haven't had to. Bought a house here 6 years ago.
@@anthonybutler3157 I wanted to go to Portugal as well.I didn't realize it has gone up so much 😅
I’m Portuguese and have always wanted to visit Portugal. Unless I can even afford to visit there, I certainly won’t be able to afford to live there. My family emigrated from the Azores in 1851 to Hawaii.
Am so glad you have found your peace, not easy to do. I remember Portugal from when I was a child, 2 holidays. I loved it, happy memories. 🩵
I moved back to the US (been gone for almost 20 years) so that my daughter could finish high school. Once she finishes, in two and a half years, I'm leaving again.
@@rogermichaelwillis6425 where did you live?
@@69mohjo Cambodia, Finland, Mexico, Turkey, and Austria.
See you. Uk worse
That’s cool
@@mgarcia2445 It's between Cambodia and Turkey.
I'm moving to Argentina next month, and I already have my permanent resident "green card" thanks to a family connection. I have friends who moved last year to Spain, Mexico, Panama, and Italy. An American can definitely figure out a way to move abroad, and I strongly encourage getting out of the US. The joy and relief I feel is immense.
Best of luck! Congrats!
I've heard from the locals that the nationalism and extremism there is off the charts lately, and much worse than the US, but I sincerely wish you the best and hope what I've heard from the locals has been grossly exaggerated.
Argentina is mess right now but good luck to you
@@joee7978 Argentina has a great president who is fixing things.
I've lived in Ecuador since 2016. I'm moving to Argentina next year.
I am moving abroad soon. From my experiences here are a couple more things that you might consider. Don't move to a place where you stick out like a sore thumb. Move to a place where you can blend in or live in an expat community. You don't want to be constantly hounded as a foreigner. If you plan on putting down roots and learning the local language it is much easier if that country uses a similar alphabet to ours. It is extremely difficult if you are attempting to decipher a bunch of random lines and circles or backwards letters.
Thanks for this comment. A a fairly tall, pale woman who also likes a sense of privacy, i have often wondered about "sticking out"!
My husband is from Panama and we are going in December for Christmas. I told him we need to put aside some time to look for a house. We work remote, so we can take our jobs with us.
Had an early whiskey and coke this morning to calm my nerves. Your video is well-timed :)
Drank till about 2, just woke up. Tomorrow I am waking up in the morning and putting on my big girl panties and figuring out where I'm moving. This country and I don't see eye to eye anymore and it's only going to get worse. Time to do something about it. Solidarity to you.
I wanna quit/cut back but I might have to put that on hold.
@@anony-ic3pz Me too, but today is not that day.
@@DenaInWyo My daughter and I are looking to leave as well.
Just trying to figure out how I can still visit my granddaughter every month. This limits me to Mexico but that’s not a bad thing. It’s super affordable! I just prefer Europe.
Your timing is perfect. Thank you! I spent a week in Latvia last year and would definitely go back. Very affordable and the people were so welcoming. They are very proud of their culture and are so excited to be free from the Soviet Union.
are they still "excited" about it? 33 years later? It sounds like they've been watching Bollywood movies this whole time
Riga is less than 250 km from the Russian border - I.e. Russian tanks. Those tanks are kind of busy at the moment, but that doesn’t really seem like a safe distance to me. Uruguay sounds a lot safer.
Hope you can return soon......as in tomorrow!!!!! Go while you can!
Depending on what occurs when the new administration gets in power I could see the Baltic states being thrown to the Russian wolves.
Lived in Nicaragua from 2017 to 2022 and it was marvelous. People were warm, friendly & lovely, food was delicious and I felt very safe even as a 60year old woman. Gorgeous beaches and incredible nature
Thanks for sharing! 😊
@@babawawa1953 Thanks for sharing. In which city did you live?
I’m going to stay and fight.
Tend my garden.
Take care of my parents as they age.
Show up for my family and friends.
Nationalism and autocracy is rising in many other countries too.
@@CarrieLovesLife. thank you. I too am staying because of family and fight for democracy. Besides I have to work full time on top of the social security to afford to live. Earning $..70 per $1 as a female vs a male wage/salary on average, didn’t not help one’s SS benefits equally. There’s a lot of work ahead for us and I’m glad you too will resist this madness.
America needs heroes now more than ever. Thank you for not giving up on her!
@@yellowstonekatYou already tried to resist the "madness" and you failed
I’m staying too, working in high tech in CA, paying a lot of taxes. I need to stay continuing to pay into the Fed, so they can subsidize all those fly-over Red states. Need to take care of our neighbors in the plain states!
@@CarrieLovesLife. what is wrong with nationalism. I am proud to be an american! America first!
17:00 Having lived in Cyprus these are my thoughts, which might be helpful to those considering moving there.
- It's really far away. It's a long long couple of flights.
- It is very hot in the summer
- It is indeed cold in the winter.
- Even worse, most homes have no air conditioning or heating. Let me say that again. Most homes do not have air conditioning or heating. In the summer if you live in a place that has a pool, that helps. In the winter.....the coldest I have ever been in my life is in Cyprus in the winter. I just couldn't get warm. It was 45f inside the house. That kind of cold seeps into you and stays there, and no amount of blankets warms you up. If you decide to move there make sure you budget a significant amount of money to heat your house in some way.
- Yes, it's mostly safe, but the Russians have moved in. My sister owned a charity shop there. Given that she didn't make much money they left her alone, but the chap a couple of doors down refused to pay the "protection" money and was firebombed.
- It is an *extremely* patriarchal society. If a bank account is in the name of both husband and wife, the husband is in control. If he dies assets DO NOT automatically go to the wife. All assets should be in the wife's name only for her protection. Many a widow has lost absolutely everything due to this. How I know: My Dad died there.
- There is a large expat community. Most of the signs are also in English. Most people speak a little English.
- It's mostly safe. Avoid Aya Napa. Avoid most of the tourist spots.
- "Good health care". ehhhhhhh. It has sort of adequate health care. If you get cancer there....well, good luck with that.
- The country is divided between the Turkish half (North) and the southern half (Greece), with a small neutral zone in between. It can get kind of surreal driving down an English road with towers to the right and left containing guards with guns, one side Turkish, the other side Cypriot.
- It sounds like a little thing, but ants. My gosh the ants. EVERYTHING needs to be in lock-tight containers, and even then they will find their way in. One thing I love about the ants where I live now is that they are dumb and sweet. The ants in Cyprus are not. They are smart and aggressive. Their bites HURT. And they get in everywhere. You cannot leave food out anywhere at all for any time, and you need to keep the house meticulously clean.
- It's absolutely freaking beautiful. I wish I could live there now. There's a smell of baked earth in the summer that makes me so happy. The best Ice cream I've ever had in my life is from a little shop in Frenaros. I'm so happy Cyprus made this list: it really is lovely.
Great comment Ty interesting about the Russians
Thanks for sharing!
Love that you listed some interesting pros and cons!
Can't you purchase window units ac? Electric heaters?
@@avalondreaming1433 Pretty sure you can - but electricity is very expensive. It's possible to stay warm/cool, but it will need to be factored into the budget and will cost a hefty amount.
I can't believe you added Vietnam but left off Cambodia. I loved Vietnam but Visa runs are a pain in the butt. Cambodia has a retirement visa (multi-entry) for under $300 a year. Siem Reap is a beautiful small city and the food is great! Lots of English spoken here.
Thank you for sharing
Thanks for the tip!
Good to know, thank you.
The incessant heat is a deal breaker for me but the Cambodians are the nicest people on the planet. So kind and helpful.
Honestly I can't believe people will take the advice of doing visa runs to stay somewhere longterm. All countries here in SE Asia (I am residing in Malaysia myself, as a permanent resident) clamp down on visa runs and it will become more and more difficult to return to the country you'd put your feet down. Visa runs is not an option for retirement, unless you move to a new country you haven't visited, every single time your visa runs out again.
I'm Staying in the U.S., but this is a Fantastic idea. I honestly think everyone should be where they want to be whatever your reason is.
Oh man, we would if we could. My daughter and her wife moved to Germany in 2023 and are really glad they did. My husband is a retired teacher with a lot of medical issues.
Other countries have good health services.
Pretty sure Germany is one of those countries with good health care.
@ That’s true but it’s incredibly difficult to immigrate to Germany. My daughter is fluent in German and has a job, two things I am/do not.
@@elaineparker1458 all I said was pretty sure Germany is one of those countries with good health care
Can they get you in?
I can’t believe that I’m done with the U.S. my kids are here and I feel bad for leaving them. But I’m so considering it now. Hate, ignorance and bigotry with this rapist felon is not! For me
@@lf1666 things should be improving in the US for Americans, finally, but go and be well.
I am so thankful that my kids and I no longer live in the US... It was the best thing I ever did....I worry about my friends and family still in the US... Good luck everyone.
@@arcar66 andare do you live now?
My husband and I plan to move to Shetland in a few years (not soon enough!!) We both love the cold vs. heat and humidity. Im a dual citizen, so there will be minimal hassle.
I can't wait to get out of the US south.
Great video! I've been living in the Philippines for over 2 years. Many people do just keep extending their tourist visa as you said. It's much easier to extend the tourist visa here compared to neighboring countries like Thailand and Vietnam.
Those days are over soon, my friend. ASEAN nations have decided to clamp down on visa runs for longterm stays within ASEAN countries. And as you know, Philippines is part of ASEAN.
But retirement visas in Thailand are easy.
@@kevinreily2529was Thailand on their list?
@@maureenmannion6748YES
@@kevinreily2529 Not so much, because lot of people are leaving apparently (new rules).
Very nice analysis. The one comment I might make would be that I would pay more attention to the historic stability of countries one might consider moving to.
Latvia is lovely. It’s so close to Estonia & offers historical beauty. I also lived Albania. Spent a month, met great people & looking forward to going back. It’s close enough to Italy & Corfu via ferry, too.
Thanks-if you’re like me, it’s time to get out of the US
It's also dangerously close to Moscow
Excellent timing for this video. Some rational Americans need this solution but many will stay behind to fight for 🇺🇸 America and for some the only country they have ever known. The education system, greed, selfishness, racism and sexism is what brought us in to this predicament.
Racism? Sexism? Please elaborate
@@SoloTrap-g3p Does he really have to elaborate !?
@@anjou6497those who know know
@@anjou6497 Nah. They know perfectly well. They just keep trying to pretend that's not what it is. Ignore the trolls.
Yesterday was my 249th birthday. Today we honor veterans for fighting fascism. I am on the fence. The Marine in me says stay and fight. Semper Fi
Not sure I'd be recommending any of the Baltic countries. Putin has his eye on them after he gets Ukraine. Not a good part of the world to move to in the current climate.
Only if you believe Putin is worse than Biden/Harris
He won't live forever...
@@A.Leftie You seem to think that matters...
I'd say he has his eyes on Europe.
Exactly what I was thinking.
You missed France - easy retirement visa w/awesome healthcare and no income taxes on US retirement income. Amazing transportation, culture, food, etc
You can’t apply for the visa in France. You have to apply from the US.
@@AmeliaAndJPmy daughter and I are definitely going to apply
💲💲💲💲💲
Do you have to speak French?
@@e.williams13 depends on where you live, but it's advisable if you plan to live in France long term. Or learn at least enough to get by and the doctor, shopping, etc
I’m glad I’m not the only one trying to get out of here
Definitely not!
For sure not. Right there with ya.
I'll bet that .00000001% who say they're going to leave the us will actually do it
@@7x779 maybe not. I bet way more will try to leave when they realize how some of trump’s plans actually impact their social security income, their Medicare, their healthcare insurance…. It’s all going down under Trumpster.
@@7x779 guess I'm a part of that. Already have 3 resumes sent and I'm an RN. Won't be hard.
Made the move to Mexico 10 years ago, a safe choice, but wanted to be able to drive home to family visits. The income requirements today would have excluded me, so I am glad to be already settled and happy. We still vote and visit and feel connected, but truthfully the stress reduction and slower pace is a big gift. I would recommend the sooner the better, in terms of the adapting involved in any move abroad. And remember: No matter where you go, there you are…so try to keep expectations flexible, and practice smiles, gratitude and empathy as you navigate your adventure!
Which part?
Congrats! The stress reduction is measurable!
@@Meandmymirror central. San Miguel de Allende. Overpriced for Mexico but all the infrastructure and arts and campo are perfect for us! Good hearted folks.
Yes, I was pricing real estate in Mexico (multiple cities) for years, and it just became too unaffordable for me in 2023. Then, when the financial requirements changed in Jan. 2024, I knew I had to look elsewhere. I began looking in Japan and Thailand, which makes me sad because I grew up on Mexican food and love many things about Mexican culture. It is what it is.
Great advice!
I just told my friends about your channel last night. Thank you. 🙏🏻
Awesome, thank you!
@@AmeliaAndJPI also shared this video with my mom and wife. My mom has been talking about moving to Belize for a while, so I thought it was interesting that you talked about it first. We have young children though, so we would need opportunities for education as well as healthcare. Will be looking into Belize more. Thanks!
Best video yet. LOVE the breakdowns regarding visa costs and insightful tips about each country!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Moving abroad is not like the articles in 'International Living' - they are selling an overpriced dream. This channel mostly tells it like it is - it is not overly sugarcoated. I'm sure their course will be extremely important to newbies! Successfully moving abroad from a standing start is probably near impossible - if you have not even got a passport yet I would seriously visit at least 5 countries for an extended period - no 5 day trips! You also need to speak to people on why others are leaving their country of choice - their observations can be very telling. We moved to Portugal - after many short trips. After three years we are ready to move on to Malaysia. Do not underestimate bureaucracy issues, local cusine, language, local culture, and general life in a different country. It was a great stepping stone for us.
Thanks for the compliment!
And you are leaving Portugal because...?
@@cherylmartin9456 Bureaucracy is a big one - currently impossible to renew our residency cards, therefore not possible to travel within Schengen. Never ending strikes. Services extremely under pressure (the presence of us and others is causing issues in society). We are starting to feel we are no longer welcome - 3 years the country and mood in society has changed. A friend was subject to a crime but police refused to report the incident or investigate. The local friends we've made have been great, but it does not feel like it is our home. There is more to life than nice weather and inexpensive wine.
@@cherylmartin9456 same ? Because it would be my first choice...
Visiting as a tourist is not the same as actually having to live there, warts and all.
Keep in mind that if you are queer many of these counties are VERY unsafe.
Ya, we need our own list for that. Perhaps Thailand would be on that list, since they recently passed their same sex marriage. Some on this list are okay, some are getting better with time. Some countries are more socially acceptable whereas others are more accepting legally on paper, but the populations are slow to change. It's complicated! I feel like I have to do triple the research attempting to truly get a feel of what it might actually be like on the ground and in day-to-day life. For example, once I came across a comment by a TEFL teacher working in Harbin, China who said that 3/4 of the teachers and staff at their school were LGBTQ. Almost all of the parents of the students going there were very accepting and all of the teachers openly lived their lives in Harbin. Who knew? Perhaps someone else's story there is completely different, but I am learning not to make quick assumptions.
Absolutely.
What country would you recommend for a queer couple? Thanks 🏳️🌈
@@pompom11 I don't know. I might say the Nordic countries.
Some people might also need to consider what countries are safe for Jews.
Thanks for this you two. You are doing a huge service. Half of us are heartbroken. My social security starts in June!
I don't understand, what are half of you heartbroken about?
@@7x779 social security will be ending. research project 2025 👍
@@thetravelingkittens1393 I started searching online for properties mostly in Europe (France, Italy, Spain, Portugal) back during Trump’s first term - during Covid. I just sort of planned my move over the last couple of years. Narrowed it down to one country and started looking at housing every day online. I made a couple (3-4) trips in total to visit different areas and get a feel for life there. I wound up making two offers - the first one fell thru so I pivoted and found a better place (for my needs) and made the offer two days later. I only had a week at a time and wanted a little vacation place not a huge home. I closed on it in September, and knew I’d be using it as an escape plan as much as an escape vacation place… it’s off the beaten track but in a populated place with a train station to get me to Paris or anywhere else.
Get lost
@@7x779people like you-enjoy your choices
Just a couple of points for folks a tad outside the U.S. mainstream to consider when thinking of becoming expats... First (speaking as someone who grew up in a U.S. diplomatic family), take a good look at the religious community/environment; depending on how/who/what you worship, some places will be a great deal less comfortable than others. Also, as I reminded some friends who were recently talking about moving to a somewhat low-lying island nation... sea level rise *is* a thing, as are strengthening hurricanes/typhoons.. Just keep that in mind when looking at places to live. Also -- Good point about the volcanoes! (I've lived in an earthquake zone in South America, and it can be "interesting" every once in a while.)
Applicable even to those who use government as their religion or are not religious at all. Might be a rude or even deadly awakening.
@@Handsoffthekids- true, many people give up on religion (I get it) but hand over their faith to gov't instead.
Climate change is something that I'm keeping in mind.
I lived in Saudi Arabia for 2 years because of the military. The everyday people I met were welcoming, and extremely kind. Visited many countries in the region and the same treatment. If you respect other people's culture, behave appropriately, and with common sense you'll be fine. For example, I didn't go out by myself (even though I had access to a driver). I always dressed appropriately, and I never, ever, had an issue.
@@shayscott7498 Sure, if that's how you'd like to live
We left last year to the Netherlands using the DAFT agreement
That’s great! Congrats!
Awfull
@@Melanated4ever what is awfull?
Can you tell me what city you moved to and how it worked out?
Thank you for providing assistance to the many folks who are promising to leave the US.
Thank you! Perfect timing!
I'm moving to Siem Reap, Cambodia at the end of January. I notice Cambodia gets left out sometimes but then I like it runs under the radar. It's hard to beat Cambodias long term visa and cost of living. Of course, each of our lives are different and require individual choices. Thanks for what you share.
What about taxes on foreign retirement income?
Yep, Siem Reap, Cambodia would be my choice as well. At a population of 135k, it's not too big nor too small.
@MrSean03839 I am not a tax expert, every person has there own income sources and I haven't even moved there yet but from what I have read my retirement income is not taxed. Off the web 👇
One key rule for expats is that they are only taxed on income earned in Cambodia. This means that foreign income earned outside of Cambodia is not subject to Cambodian income tax.
What about the brutal summers in Cambodia?
@@achiengdeji I noticed that Siem Reap's hottest months are slightly cooler than the hottest months in Texas, which is still very hot.
I had a coworker who was from Costa Rica, her partner owned a home there, and he lost his house because of squatters. My kids had spent six weeks there & I thought about a 2nd home in Costa Rica, but, on the government website it tells you that squatters have 17 years to live in your house. It’s not like the US. If you’re not there to guard your house, it could be gone in a heartbeat. People can buy into gated communities. I imagine where there are guards to make sure that nobody moves into your property while you’re gone.
I appreciate the honest review and also giving the negatives/cons instead of just only the positives/pros.
Great resource and excellent timing. I’m hoping that many will go ahead and take the leap, no empty words this time.
@binkysteaver9880
Please let it be 🙏
People had hope of change the last times.
Thanks for this info. Been watching you guys a while but I have been saying that if the election goes this way I will go and so have already started planning. I will at least go for a few months and then reassess...thanks for sharing a few I have not even considered such as Belize, Latvia and Cypress. Albania, Peru and Hungary have been on. my list.
Awesome video we live in Albania Tirana currently! Got to say it’s been great moving from the United States here as the cost of living is much more affordable and you get a lot more value. We have a Appartment we’re paying €700 per month, we have a nice view of the nearby surrounding mountains and it’s modern.
The people here are generally quite welcoming. On the downside of the infrastructure is not like that of Western Europe in terms of quality. But there are lots of cafés and restaurants and places to walk.
I'm watching AFTER the election... and I'm DEFINITELY ready to move now! Great video!
I left after the 2016 election. Became a permanent resident in Mexico. A few months ago I started my citizenship for Croatia because my mother’s parents are from there and I qualify based on descent. As soon as I get my citizenship, I’m moving there. Haven’t been there yet but it looks wonderful. At least 60% of the population speaks fluent English (better than Mexico!) It is a member of the EU and NATO. Most of the country borders on the Adriatic Sea.. 10 Unesco Heritage sites. They now use the euro. Very safe. Healthcare is ok, some expat communities and cost of living is low for Europe. I hear wages are low but I’m not going to be working since I’m retired.
@@mwoods1052 You’ll love Croatia! I visited there and Bosnia Herzegovina last year.
Sounds amazing!
@@mwoods1052 oh I’m dying to visit Croatia too! I’ve heard the beaches are to die for as well as the beer!
@@mwoods1052 How did you decide where to live in Mexico?
Lucky! None of mine great grandparents have that kind of connection. (Canada and Switzerland)
I’m a dual-citizen US and Ecuador. I just left Ecuador. The power was out 14 hour a day. China delivered hydroelectric dams that were falling apart after 2 years vs the 50 years promised. Even with rain and funds, which they don’t have, rebuilding infrastructure will take at least 10 years.
Interesting! Ty I heard china was in South America
It’s a major problem. China has made and failed to keep those promises all over the developing world.
I suggest you get better informed before spreading lies to people who may other wise want to visit Ecuador. For your information, the last 3 monkeys who played president in the country have done everything to destroy the nation all out of hatred and stupidity just like the one you are spreading. Neither one of the last 3 monkeys before mentioned has done their job, in other words they haven't been capable of MAINTAINING all the energy infrastructure left by CORREA, so, if you don't maintain a machine, be it big or small, after time it will simply stop working. All the dams built in Ecuador and particularly COCA CODO SINCLAIR is the one that is providing most of the energy that is being consumed these days. So my dear double citizen, be honest to yourself and the rest of the people at least out of respect of yourself. Lying is such a nasty practice and habit. Get cured! Greetings from New York from another dual citizen who loves the truth and being honest.
@@AmeliaAndJP Sadly, China does this to any country who is too poor to fight back.
Thank you. So interesting to hear the truth of these situations.
What you 2 aren't mentioning is what you're doing and i like. Traveling and staying 1 or 2 months at different countries. Eventually you could find 4 countries to rotate to and not need a long term visa.
That’s our plan! And we’ve heard from several people that they started down the residency path but pivoted to slow travel.
@@Mikesadventures-m2q Great idea! Thats my plan😊
It's naive to say at least. South East Asia will no longer grant these visa runs within ASEAN, the 10 members have decided to end this and will no longer allow entrance.
As you get older, you may tire of this plan of constantly travelling.
@@EGO0808They never have allowed it. Like most ASEAN countries, you can do anything with a big enough bribe.
I LOVED your Albania stay/videos! In fact, I'll be retiring there in the Spring❤❤ Thanks!😊
Awesome! 🇦🇱
I’m a type 1 diabetic. I know I’m going to lose affordable access to it here in the US so I’m hoping to find online communities of expats who know about healthcare n different countries. Thanks for your list - it’s helpful to learn the options.
Check out Panama. Very good healthcare and you can buy a policy with a hospital directly.
My son is Type 1 diabetic and is considering Canada. Near by, English speaking obviously, and incredible prices on insulin and other diabetes supplies from glucose monitors to minipods and pump supplies.
This couple weren't high on Costa Rica but it's supposed to be a good place to live and has very good affordable health care.
I'm considering CR and Panama. Stable governments and affordable housing and healthcare.
@@lesliew595Are you there? I'm interested in knowing more about living in Panama. Thanks.
@@ClueSignWarning. Trudeau may be pushed out soon and a Trumplike guy is in the wings ready to take over. Prices are very high in Canada, comparable to CA in Ontario at least.
Sorry for negative news but their govt may become authoritarian soon.
In the last three months I have met three families who have migrated from the US to just the northside of Brisbane, Queensland. I expect I'll come across more in the near future.
How does that work? My research indicated that AUS was quite pricey and not really open to easy immigration. Thanks for that addl. info.
Why not come to Switzerland. It is for real, the greatest nation on earth, where us citizens enjoy a true and direct democracy. Also, there are no authoritarian tendencies whatsoever. Everyone has healthcare coverage and social security is not exposed to hostile takeover by privatization. Mega bonus: public transportation is as precise as Swiss clock work. Be at any place at any time. Access is typically minutes from your doorstep....
Cuz it’s pricey ):
I would love to.
How much is rent, heat, electricity and month? Switzerland would be a dream.
The biggest hurdle I've heard re: Switzerland is that it's super expensive 💸
The Number One Objective before moving to another Country is establishing an offshore bank account. There are many reasons to do so, including Currency Diversification. Or higher Interest Rates, and Sounder Banking Systems and Banks.
It's still a BANK. We use Bitcoin instead now. Try to keep up, we are moving pretty fast here.
I tried to live in Belize in 2019. It has become insanely dangerous, and I don't mean just in Belize City. Unless you have enough for a fabulous security system, a giant fence, and perhaps a private security guard, forget it.
South America sadly in general dangerous, unless you can afford living in gated community
why is it so dangerous?
@@mrsd2143 Ah so its dangerous..but letting them all enter freely is not dangerous?
Thats some mental gymnastics here
bravo!
@@mrsd2143 Not to split hairs, but that's like saying Nicaragua is in North America. Belize is in *Central* America. Different region, different problems.
@@exploringdimensions4all853 I went there for a week to go scuba diving, and liked it. But then i saw you were there in2019. I was there at least 20 years ago, so obviously things have changed and sadly not for the better.
This is great info! My family and I lived in Guate for 4 years and did the visa run to either the States or Mexico every 6 months. Every 90 days we did the extension.
Greetings from Thailand. A visa agent can get you what you want. I'm here 10 years.. Retired... I was in Mexico.. Which now is more dangerous and far more expensive. Thailand is cheap and very safe. The food! The weather! Everything ❤
Thanks for sharing 👍
I love the idea of Thailand. I am haunted by the 2004 tsunami though, a friend only just missed being killed by it. Tsunami warnings are much more together nowadays, but nothing is certain in life.
I hear the Thai people are lovely souls.
(I would love to visit the amazing tea plantations there..). 🩵🌱
Sawatdee krap 🙏 I'll be there in January to explore before coming in the fall (just in time for the wet season 😅) to stay. So exciting to travel as a healthy not too old man. I want to find a "home" but also get out to other fun places and I think I'll add Belize, Albania and Spain to the list of slow travel places.
Yes, you’re correct regarding the Philippines. A family member is there for at least a year on the tourist visa.
We just got back from a trip to Brazil, and it was fantastic (we didn’t go to Rio de Janeiro). We went to the Northeast, where the most beautiful beaches are, so my husband could get to know the region. One month of vacation staying in beachfront Airbnbs and hotels, eating at restaurants every day, and including airfare, we spent $7,000 for two people.
Brazil is a huge country, and if you like year-round summer, I recommend the Northeast, where the weather is hot or super hot. For those who enjoy the four seasons with cold winter 🥶 , I recommend the south of the country. There you can find small towns with a low cost of living and very peaceful. The Capital Brasília is beautiful and modern, but it has a dry climate in the winter and rain in the summer and is far from the beach. Crime and dangerous places exist in all countries… the perfect place doesn’t exist, there are safe places to live in Brazil. While safety can vary widely depending on the region and city, many areas offer a high quality of life with a relatively low crime rate. Some of the safest cities tend to be smaller or mid-sized cities, often found in the southern and southeastern regions of Brazil, like in the states of Santa Catarina, Paraná, and parts of Minas Gerais. Cities such as Florianópolis, Curitiba, and Joinville are often mentioned as safe and offer good infrastructure, healthcare, and quality of life.
However, even in larger cities like São Paulo and Brasília, there are neighborhoods known for their security and good living conditions.
With 3,000 dollars, a couple can live a comfortable life in Brazil.
Did you know Rio de Janeiro is a state and not just the city? Have you ever gone to Paraty, Buzios, or the rest of the Emerald Coast? If you haven't, I suggest you do so before looking down on Rio de Janeiro both the state and the city.
@@1kleberito I understand! It’s true that Rio de Janeiro is often the first image that comes to mind when people think of Brazil, but the country has an incredible diversity of landscapes and cultures. I have been in Rio, I have explored several regions beyond the more famous destinations. That’s great, as there are many lesser-known places that are just as amazing and offer unique experiences.
$7000 for one month. That is extremely expensive. Don’t you think so too?
Your timing is impeccable.
Thank you for your service, Amelia & JP. I've spoken with a lot of people who are now looking abroad, myself included.
@@momohmart I live in Cuenca, Ecuador. JP & Amelia have many RUclips videos to watch. It’s wonderful here.
@@niyamapandya928 I've been to Cuenca, and I really thought the city center's aesthetics was like the Prague of South America. I've considered it.
Hola yall! I am originally from the state of Georgia, USA. Made my home in Nicaragua. I live on the retirement visa. Many of these countries that have retirement visas have special clauses that eliminates the age requirement if the person has a disability. I am one of those individuals. I have minor disability that does not keep me from living independently and decided to make my home abroad. I will correct the information about Nicaragua. People can do the visa run thing: usually travel to Costa Rica for a day to a week and return every ninety days. I did that for long time. Just like Vietnam or Philippines, it's good to take trip either to the USA or another region of Latin America or other places (maybe Europe or Asia for example) every year or two because it looks better. I always stayed in Costa Rica for around 3 - 5 days and returned every 90 days. Then visited family every year or two when I used to teach EFL. Now I have family. I qualified for the retirement visa with my social security I receive for my disability. The requirement in Nicaragua for pensionado is $1000 and rentista $1,250. The age requirement for pensionado and rentista visa is age 45; but when a person has a disability, the pensionado just has to be 18 or older (for example I am under 45) ..... a legal adult. I hope this information helps!
Thanks for sharing!
After the election this is all I’m thinking about right now 😅
Me too!
@@nsanenthembrane you’re not alone.
Please leave all of you.
@@Jeff-hq2cy happily 😘wherever I go I’ll still be voting though 😙
Me too. Having lived and travelled overseas, my dream is to settle in Switzerland.
I may have to just dream on, but I'm seriously looking into it. Am a woman at retirement age, photographer & artist. The place is heavenly but expensive, and I do worry about floods and landslides...🏞️🏔️🐐🐂🌱
I retired in Mexico 1 year ago and I realize now what a good idea it was; I still vote in the US though.
nice
Good luck with the cartels and waiting hours to cross the US border
@rocambole93 How did you decide where to settle? I'm considering it.
why arent u in ukraine fighting for democracy?
I'm shocked it is not on the list here. Mexico is probably top of my list. It sure sounds appealing now, as I sit here in grey Berlin...
Good Lord this is oh so timely thx ! 🙏🏽
Albania is the best. Easy life. Coffee that lasts 2 hours. Fresh food. Everyone helps you. Never feel afraid. Sunshine. And nice restaurants.
Where is this place? Albania??
Could you say more about the fresh food? I had not seen that info. despite looking a lot for it on Albania. I need a place that is not a food desert, which means I need a place that is relatively food-independent and unsprayed. Thank you.
@@evelynburley6106 East of Greece on the Adriatic Sea
I spent time in all three Baltics this summer and Latvia was my favorite. Would love to spend an extended amount of time there. Estonia and Lithuania are welcoming and full of history as well.
Baltics countries are awesome!
I keep hearing great things about Estonia
@@smartmarketing173 yes, I'm surprised it's not on the list. They have a digital nomad visa. It's a tech haven and everything is doable online. Wages are really low, but if you're earning money from elsewhere, it's ideal.
IMHO, former republics of the USSR would not be a great location to move to right now.
The Baltics would be wonderful May through September.
Love you guys!! Thanks so much for this information. We are definitely looking to other countries to go to.
I leave for Chile in a week. I'm 65 and especially disappointed now with the US ... but more so following curiosity and newness. It's been 3 years looking and find I love warm cultures most. Another critera is abundant nature.
In the European region, I loved Turkey, but politically, a no go. Catalunya was also lovely. Nature is something important to me, and wow, coastal Turkey is gorgeous off-season. The history, food, nature people just wonderful. I always felt safe....but it's located in the thick of things and volatile gov.
For that very reason, I dont see the usa coming into any place I want to be in my lifetime.... and I'm in athletic shape with long-lived ancestry. I enjoy hikes, thru-hiking, and headed to Patagonia.
Wish I could connect. I was only a week in Valparaiso hostel owned by young Serbian couple. I loved the people. Walked everywhere, rode bus. (Bus driver supervisor wife&children live in Westchester NY..)
Thank you so much for posting this and at this time. I have been considering leaving the country due to political outcomes, just got an application to renew my passport but its been so long since I have traveled and didn't know where to begin...so this is hugely helpful thank you. I'll be getting your move abroad toolkit. ❤
Brazilian Portuguese is a beautiful language and not too hard to learn if you're Spanish is strong. I started with pronunciation videos and after a couple months I started doing online conversational classes for one hour a week; about seven months later I would say I am nearly fluent for everyday conversation. I am planning to spend a month in Brazil next year traveling through the country so I should have some good tips after that.
Can you recommend any channels?
@@Kalani86 Nice people and great food there too. The food and hotels will seem inexpensive.
@@YouGotOptions2hands down...start with "Decoding words with Andrew"!!!!
@Kalani86 Lived in Sao Paolo, Brazil for 3 1/2 years ions ago. Didn't like living in that huge city, but loved the country and its adorable people. Cried like a baby when it was time to finally leave. Still consider it my second home, and I want to go back again and again to visit for extended periods of time. In fact, my oldest child is Brazilian, and we finally had the opportunity to go back to meet her adorable biological family. Highly recommend living in or at least visiting Brazil for extended periods of time. Learning some Portuguese before going is highly recommended be/c not everyone speaks English there. Plus, it's such a beautiful language. 😍
You guys have great videos. You are about to get A LOT more views!
Let’s hope! 🤞🥳
There is also a Business Visa in Albania. You can open a business in your home or Apartment and get that visa.
Please, not Canada, we’re building a wall tout de suite. 😂
We already have a wall, that obstructs the obsolete, unused CP rail bridge at the whirlpool in Niagara Falls. Short walls work.
I don't blame you, not that I can afford to move back up there anyway with not having anywhere temperate to live at a price I can afford, but...
I moved to Guatemala in 2015. It's beautiful and cheap, but can be challenging to be an expat. Try it out short term and see if it's for you!
If the US lets you back. Might consider you deserters.
I would Recommend checking weather patterns for any country to which you expat yourself. Volcanoes are definitely a consideration.
I escaped the USSA (United Security States of Anxiety) over 13 years ago. Best decision ever. Ain't been back since and now after the dreadful results of the election will likely never go back even to visit. Not everyone can leave of course but if you can, I advise you to give it a try. Good luck.
May I ask where you ended up?
@@Sunset-87 I've lived in a few different countries over that time period. I live now in Montenegro. The residence requirements are far less restrictive than anywhere in the EU. And next-door Albania gives Americans (only) a no-cost one year hassle free visa, best deal remaining in Europe. Both countries coastal areas are pretty good in winter. Hot and many tourists for three months in summer. Friendly people and very low crime in each. Not as much spoken English in Albania.
@@jackflanagle6079 My understanding is Montenegro is not available to live in fulltime - is that right? Curious if you have been moving fulltime 13 years.
@@messyhomestead7320 That's incorrect. As a tourist you get 90 days just like the EU. But there are various ways to apply for full time residency that are far less restrictive than the EU. You do five one-year terms of residency and then, if no problems they will grant you permanent residency. But forget about becoming a citizen. Albania, just over the border grants Americans (only) a hassle-free one year visa. Best deal remaining in Europe. Good luck.
Thanks a million for this VERRRY timely video, big thumbs up!! I've been looking into other countries, very discouraged by some of the requirements. Your list means a lot to me. I already speak some Spanish!
Thanks for the video. I posted it to my Facebook. I live in Germany for the last 10 years, and I worry for my friends still in the U.S. now.
Thanks for sharing!
Yes, thank you! I was thinking of you guys!
You going to have more than a million subscribers really soon!!!
😂😂 good comment
We can dream! 😊
And all these places will be really crowded soon...