Immigration attorneys report a surge in relocation inquiries following Donald Trump’s presidential victory as Americans explore international living options. The trend has prompted renewed attention to global housing markets and expatriate communities worldwide.
“We received a rush of applications in the middle of the year, a sort of slowdown period from July to mid-October as many were traveling in the summer and others wanted to wait to see how things turned out with the election,” Steve Corbin, senior associate at Harvey Law Group, told Realtor.com. “Since the results, we’ve seen a flurry of inquiries.”
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Panama leads the list of preferred destinations for those looking to leave the U.S., according to an InterNations survey of 12,543 expats representing 175 nationalities cited by Realtor. The Central American nation garnered an 82% satisfaction rate among expatriates, above the global average of 68%.
“Panama is an appealing choice for expats due to its proximity to the U.S. and generally safe environment,” Corbin said. “However, the location should be chosen carefully. Panama City, for example, is quite safe, though the health care system isn’t as robust as in European countries.”
Mexico ranks high for affordability and ease of cultural adjustment, with 89% of expats reporting satisfaction with their relocation. The country’s appeal centers on its work-life balance, with 43% of respondents completely satisfied compared to 25% globally.
Spain was Europe’s standout option, particularly for real estate investors. “I can get you a visa for Spain in a few weeks,” said Jean-Francois Harvey, founder of Harvey Law Group. According to the report, Spain is a country where real estate is more affordable than in the U.S.
Southeast Asian nations like Thailand also offer notable financial benefits. “Thailand’s health care system is tremendously superior to the U.S. Also, no property tax. Quality of life is exceptional,” Aaron Henry, owner of Bangkok marketing firm Foundeast.com, told Realtor.
Current market conditions present some unique opportunities for investment-minded expatriates. “The euro remaining relatively weak against the U.S. dollar has helped fuel interest” in European properties, said Lief Simon, founding partner at Live and Invest Overseas.
The Philippines attracts attention for its accessible entry requirements. Depending on age, residency requires real estate investments between $10,000 and $50,000. The country maintains a large American expatriate community, primarily former military personnel.
The United Arab Emirates rounds out top destinations, particularly for tax advantages. While housing costs remain high, the nation offers tax-free salaries in Dubai and ranks well for health care and transportation infrastructure.
Here is the entire list, according to Realtor.com:
1. Panama
82% expat satisfaction rate
Low income requirements ($1,000/month)
Strong English-speaking community
High marks for personal finance and safety
Excellent visa accessibility
2. Mexico
89% expat satisfaction rate
Strong work-life balance ratings
Affordable housing market
Warm climate and extensive beaches
Notable for retirement opportunities
3. Indonesia
84% expat satisfaction rate
Short work week (38.8 hours average)
Low cost of living (ranked 4th globally)
Affordable housing options
Strong marks for local friendliness
4. Spain
Top-ranked for ease of settling in
Excellent health care (ranked 3rd)
Strong transportation infrastructure
Affordable real estate options
Quick visa processing
5. Colombia
Second-lowest cost of living globally
High marks for local friendliness
Affordable housing market
Strong expatriate communities
Accessible visa requirements
6. Thailand
Ranked 8th for personal finance
Superior health care system
No property tax
Strong leisure options
Welcoming local population
7. Brazil
Affordable housing market
Strong business opportunities
Easy settlement process
Extensive beach properties
Large expatriate communities
8. Vietnam
Ranked 1st for personal finance
High disposable income ratings
Affordable living costs
Growing expatriate communities
Rich cultural experiences
9. Philippines
Ranked 3rd for ease of settling in
Low income requirements
Affordable real estate market
Large American expatriate population
Investment-based residency from $10,000
10. United Arab Emirates
Tax-free salaries (Dubai)
Strong health care system
Excellent transportation
Progressive business environment
High safety ratings
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