After The Election, Americans Are Exploring Life Abroad – But What Are The Financial Costs?

After Donald Trump won the U.S. presidential election, many Americans considered moving abroad. On Nov. 6, Google Trends showed a spike in searches from the United States for phrases like "moving abroad" and "foreign citizenship." Websites for expats – people who live outside their native country – have seen large jumps in traffic since the election. 

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A survey from Casino.org, taken before the election, found about 20% of Americans would consider moving abroad if the election results were unfavorable. However, among those surveyed, 60% said they would be "very unlikely" to move and only 2.6% said they would be "very likely" to pack up and go. 

For Americans contemplating the leap, moving abroad can be more than a romanticized escape – it's a substantial financial commitment. Costs vary greatly depending on the country, but potential expats need to factor in key expenses and legal requirements.

Casino.org's survey reveals the countries Americans most desire to move to postelection are Canada, the United Kingdom and Japan. Here's a closer look at what it would take to move to each destination. 

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Moving to Canada

With its proximity to the U.S. and cultural similarities, Canada seems like a natural choice. There are a few primary visa options for Americans looking to move north. One is the Express Entry program, a points-based system targeting skilled workers. Applicants must qualify based on age, education, language proficiency (French) and work experience to be eligible. Application fees are around CAD 2,300 (USD 1,700) for a single applicant and CAD 4,500 (USD 3,200) for a couple. 

Immigrants to Canada through Express Entry must also show they are financially stable and have sufficient funds in their bank accounts. For a single person, this amount is CAD 14,690 (USD 10,500). 

Another visa option in Canada is the startup Visa Program, which requires a minimum investment and sponsorship by an approved organization. Without a visa, most Americans can stay in Canada for up to 180 days before they must leave. 

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Leaving for the UK

The United Kingdom, another popular destination, has complex visa fees and regulations. U.S. citizens can stay in the UK for up to six months without a visa. Beyond that, Americans looking to move permanently must apply for a work visa if they have a job offer from a UK-based employer or try for a student visa if they are pursuing education. 

The visa application fee for skilled workers starts at around £719 (USD 910), with additional costs for health care coverage under the Immigration Health Surcharge, which runs around £1,035 (USD 1,310) per year. Those without job offers may find the Global Talent Visa appealing, especially if they are leaders in science or the arts. The UK has no straightforward retirement visa for retirees, making it difficult for those no longer working.

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Migrating to Japan

Japan presents unique options and challenges for Americans considering an international move. Americans can stay in Japan for up to 90 days without a visa. Japan offers a digital nomad visa that allows visitors to work remotely and stay for six months (with no extensions), though it has an annual income requirement of JPY 10 million (around USD 64,000). 

For those wanting a longer-term stay, a work visa is generally required and they must have a job offer from a Japanese employer to obtain one. 

Financial planning for an international move is necessary regardless of destination. Beyond visa application fees, Americans should consider moving costs, whether shipping personal belongings or buying everything anew in their new location. Living costs vary by country – countries like the UK and Japan have higher living costs than many places in the U.S. and may require a larger financial cushion to get started. 

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