The American Diaspora: A New Age of Emigration

A fascinating new research brief from GlobalPassport™ reveals a striking trend: over one-third of Americans now want to settle abroad, marking a significant shift in how U.S. citizens view their place in the global community.

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The Numbers Tell a Story

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While only 1.5% of Americans currently live overseas, the gulf between interest and reality is stark - 34% of Americans report being interested in living abroad according to a 2024 Monmouth University poll. This dramatic disparity suggests there are significant untapped opportunities and unmet desires for global mobility among U.S. citizens.

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Where Are Americans Going?

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The research shows some surprising destination patterns. While neighboring countries Mexico (3.15M) and Canada (1.3M) lead in total American expatriates, other notable destinations include:

- United Kingdom (865K)

- Germany (599K)

- Australia (437K)

- Japan (254K)

- South Korea (218K)

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The Rise of Digital Nomads and Remote Work

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One of the most compelling trends identified is how remote work is reshaping emigration patterns. Countries like Portugal have emerged as hotspots for digital nomads, offering specialized visas and attractive cost-of-living advantages. This shift represents a fundamental change in how people think about the relationship between location and work.

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The Hidden Opportunity: Citizenship by Descent

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Perhaps the most eye-opening finding is the massive untapped potential in ancestry-based citizenship. The report reveals that while approximately 17 million Americans are eligible for EU citizenship through descent, fewer than 1,000 applications are approved annually. This represents an enormous opportunity for Americans seeking to expand their global mobility options.

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Looking Ahead

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The research suggests several key trends that will shape American emigration in the coming years:

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- Climate resilience becoming a major factor in destination choices

- Growth of virtual mobility and digital pathways

- Increased interest in heritage-based citizenship

- Continued expansion of remote work opportunities

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The Bottom Line

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This research makes clear that we're witnessing a fundamental shift in how Americans think about global mobility. While the U.S. has traditionally been seen as a destination for immigrants, a growing number of Americans are looking outward for opportunities, lifestyle changes, and new beginnings.

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For those interested in exploring these opportunities, the key is to start researching early and understand the various pathways available - whether through work visas, digital nomad programs, or ancestry-based citizenship claims. The gap between interest and action suggests that while the desire is there, many Americans need more guidance and support in making their global mobility dreams a reality.

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The global mobility landscape is evolving rapidly, and this research brief offers valuable insights for anyone considering their options abroad. Whether driven by economic opportunities, lifestyle preferences, or a desire for adventure, the pathways to international living are more numerous and accessible than ever before.

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What are your thoughts on this growing trend? Are you among the third of Americans interested in living abroad? Share your experiences and perspectives in the comments below.