Which Countries Can a US Citizen Move to Without a Visa?

U.S. citizens can move to several countries without a visa, although the duration and conditions of their stay vary. Here's an overview:

Countries Where U.S. Citizens Can Move Visa-Free (Short-Term Stays)

U.S. citizens can stay in many countries for tourism, business, or short-term purposes without requiring a visa, typically for 90 to 180 days. Examples include:

• Europe (Schengen Area): Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and others allow U.S. citizens to stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• United Kingdom: Visa-free for up to 6 months.

• Japan and South Korea: Visa-free for up to 90 days.

• Mexico and Canada: Stays of up to 180 days and 6 months, respectively.

Countries Allowing Longer Stays or Residency

Some countries permit U.S. citizens to move or reside without a visa or under simplified processes:

1. Mexico: U.S. citizens can stay for up to 6 months visa-free and can apply for a temporary resident visa for long-term stays.

2. Costa Rica: Stay up to 90 days visa-free and apply for residency under the ""Pensionado"" or ""Rentista"" programs.

3. Panama: The ""Friendly Nations Visa"" allows U.S. citizens to obtain permanent residency relatively easily.

4. Portugal: Allows U.S. citizens to apply for the D7 visa for residency, especially for retirees and remote workers.

5. New Zealand: U.S. citizens can stay for up to 3 months visa-free and may qualify for long-term residency under work or skilled migration visas.

Special Considerations

• Visa-Free Agreements: Many countries allow short stays under bilateral agreements but require residency permits for long-term moves.

• Digital Nomad Visas: Countries like Estonia, Barbados, and Bermuda offer special programs for remote workers from the U.S.

• Permanent Residency or Citizenship Pathways: U.S. citizens often qualify for special residency permits based on investment, retirement, or ancestry.