Introduction
High-net-worth individuals are increasingly exploring options for leaving the United States as part of a wider strategy related to global mobility, tax exposure management, and long-term family planning.
The decision to leave the US is rarely driven by a single factor, rather, it reflects a combination of cross-border lifestyle needs, family/legacy planning objectives, and the desire to diversify personal and financial ties across jurisdictions. Leaving the US is a complex legal process that requires structured planning rather than short-term or reactive decisions.
This article examines what it means to leave the United States from a residency and citizenship planning perspective. As a law firm authorised across multiple jurisdictions, Harvey Law Group provides coordinated, jurisdiction-neutral advice to clients seeking to relocate, obtain alternative legal status, or fully emigrate from the United States with clarity and long-term certainty.
Why More Americans Are Choosing to Leave the United States
For high-net-worth individuals, the decision to leave the United States is usually based upon careful long-term planning, risk management, and the wish for greater international flexibility.
In practice, many HNWIs are not “leaving” the US in a traditional sense. Instead, they are creating additional options by securing second residencies or citizenships as part of a broader global strategy that supports mobility, family planning, and asset diversification.
The decision to leave the United States is often influenced by the following factors:
Global mobility and jurisdictional flexibility
A second residency or citizenship gives HNWIs the ability to move, invest, and operate internationally. This flexibility is particularly important for families with cross-border business interests or international lifestyles.
Tax exposure and wealth structuring considerations
While relocating alone does not remove US tax obligations, alternative residencies or citizenships can help with long-term tax planning, asset structuring, and future succession strategies.
Family security and lifestyle planning
Political stability, personal safety, healthcare access, and education options remain important, particularly for families. At the same time, many professionals are reassessing their work–life balance and career flexibility, leading to growing interest in location-independent models such as online work from home in germany. Europe and the Caribbean are often selected for their stable legal systems, predictable residency frameworks, and high-quality healthcare and education systems.
Legacy and succession planning
Citizenship and residency decisions increasingly form part of multi-generational planning. A second nationality can provide heirs with broader opportunities for residence, education, and global access in the future.
Lower cost of living
In countries such as Portugal, Panama or Costa Rica, many Americans find that housing, healthcare, and daily expenses are significantly lower than in major US cities, while still enjoying a comparable or improved standard of living.
For HNWIs, leaving the US typically forms part of a carefully prepared strategy that follows a structured process. Clarifying priorities, whether mobility, family protection, or legacy planning, allows the right residency or citizenship program to be selected.
What Options Are Available for Leaving the US: Residency by Investment or Citizenship by Investment?
For individuals and families planning to leave the United States, the two most common routes are Residency by Investment and Citizenship by Investment.
Both options allow applicants to establish a legal base outside the United States. However, they differ significantly in structure, requirements, and suitability depending on the individual’s objectives and long-term planning considerations.
Residency by Investment (Golden Visas)
Golden Residence Programs, also known as Residency-by-Investment or Golden Visas, allow foreign nationals to legally obtain residency in a country by making a qualifying investment.
Approved forms of investment usually include real estate, government bonds, investment funds, or direct economic contributions such as starting or investing in a business.
These programs are designed to benefit both the applicant and the host country by attracting foreign capital and talent while giving investors and their families the right to live, work, study, and travel more freely within the host country.
In recent years, European Golden Visas have seen a dramatic increase in popularity among global investors and HNWIs.
Read Also: Golden Visa Rush: US Citizens Seeking New Residency Abroad
Programs such as the Hungary Investment Visa and the Investor Visa for Italy, with their access to the Schengen Area and European economies, have made Europe one of the most desirable regions for residency-by-investment programs.
Residency by Investment programs from EU member states provide significant advantages that are hard to ignore. These include visa-free travel across the Schengen Area, access to high-quality healthcare and education, favourable business and tax environments supported by strong infrastructure, and, in some cases, a pathway to permanent residence and eventually citizenship.
Citizenship by Investment
Investment citizenship refers to a form of immigration program offered by certain countries which allows eligible applicants to acquire citizenship in a foreign country by making a significant financial contribution or qualifying investment.
Investment citizenship, often referred to as citizenship by investment or economic citizenship offers the possibility of obtaining a second nationality without the traditional requirements of long-term residence, ancestry, or naturalization.
Unlike residency by investment programs, which provide residence rights (and may later lead to citizenship after satisfying any eligibility requirements), investment citizenship provides full nationality status immediately or within a short processing timeframe.
This means successful applicants obtain a second passport, granting them the same legal rights as citizens, including the ability to live, work, and invest freely in the issuing country.
Investment options vary depending on the country offering the program but typically include:
- Government donations or contributions to national development or economic diversification funds
- Real estate investments in approved projects such as luxury resorts or residential developments
- Business or enterprise investments that create local employment
- Government bond purchases or other qualifying financial instruments
Obtaining citizenship through investment offers many unique advantages for investors or high net worth individuals (HNWIs).
Successful applicants enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to hundreds of destinations, often including the UK and Schengen Area. For investors, this offers access to new markets and business opportunities.
Additionally, dependents such as the applicant’s spouse and children (typically under the age of 21) can be included in the application. The ability to include such dependents means that families can access improved education and healthcare options, while investors have more options for tax optimization, citizenship strategies, legacy planning and asset protection.
What are the Best Residency by Investment Programs for US Citizens?
For high-net-worth individuals planning to leave the US, there is one question that comes “where can i leave the us for”, residency by investment programs, often referred to as Golden Visas, are among the most practical and flexible solutions. These programs allow US citizens to leave the United States without the need for immediate relocation or full emigration from the US.
Golden Visa programs are particularly attractive to those seeking European access, enhanced global mobility, family security, and a potential pathway to permanent residence or citizenship over time.
Portugal Golden Visa – Most Popular with Americans and British Citizens
The Portugal Golden Visa remains one of the most flexible EU residence programs, even after the 2023 changes to the program that removed standard real estate from the qualifying options.
To qualify for the Portugal Golden Visa, applicants must make a qualifying investment. Current investment options include a minimum of EUR 500,000 in an approved investment fund with a focus on capital preservation, or cultural and scientific contributions starting from EUR 250,000 in approved low-density regions.
After receiving approval, applicants will receive an initial residency permit that is usually valid for two years and then renewed. Successful applicants must spend a minimum of 7 days in the first year, then average 7 days annually afterward to maintain their residency status.
Citizenship becomes available after five years of residency, provided the investment is maintained and the applicant passes the basic A2 Portuguese language exam. Portugal allows dual citizenship.
Greece Golden Visa – Best Value EU Access
Greece’s Golden Visa remains one of Europe’s most popular residency-by-investment programs. Its popularity can largely be attributed to the ability to qualify through real estate investment, rather than a non-refundable contribution.
Through this program, non-EU nationals can obtain a five-year, renewable EU residence permit by making a qualifying investment in Greek real estate.
Since 2024, Greece has introduced a tiered investment system for Real Estate investment. The previous €250,000 minimum now applies only in specific cases, such as converting commercial buildings into residential units or restoring listed historic properties. For most locations, the standard threshold is €400,000, while premium areas including Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini require €800,000.
These amounts apply per property rather than per applicant, and the investment must be made in a single asset.
There is also a path to citizenship, but it comes with strict eligibility requirements. Applicants must live in Greece for at least 183 days per year over seven consecutive years and successfully complete Greek language and cultural knowledge examinations.
Malta Permanent Residency Program
The Malta Permanent Residence Program (MPRP), or Malta’s Golden Visa, offers non-EU nationals the opportunity to obtain permanent residency through a qualifying investment.
To be eligible for the MPRP, applicants must either purchase real estate in Malta with a minimum value of €375,000 or lease property for at least €14,000 per year. Both direct purchases or rental investments must be maintained for five years.
In addition to the real estate investment, applicants must:
- Make a government contribution of €37,000,
- donate €2,000 to a registered Maltese NGO, and;
- pay a non-refundable administration fee of €60,000 (covering the main applicant, spouse and minor children).
Although the Malta MPRP grants permanent residency, naturalization can still be obtained if certain conditions are met. Applicants must reside in Malta continuously for 12 months immediately before applying and must also have accumulated at least four years of residence during the previous six years.
Italy Golden Visa
Italy offers several residency options for foreign investors or HNWIs, through the Investor Visa and the Elective Residency Visa.
Investor Visa (Italy’s Investment Residency Program)
The Italy Investor Visa is available to non-EU/EEA nationals who are at least 18 years old, have a clean criminal record, can show legal ownership of sufficient funds, and hold private health insurance.
Applicants must choose one of four investment options:
- €250,000 in an Italian innovative startup,
- €500,000 in a qualifying Italian company,
- €1 million in a philanthropic donation supporting public interest projects, or;
- €2 million in government bonds.
The visa is initially valid for two years and can be extended for three more years at a time.
Although there is no minimum physical stay requirement, the investment must be maintained throughout the permit’s validity. Permanent residency can be applied for after five years, and citizenship after ten.
Elective Residency Visa (“Italy Retirement Visa”)
Italy’s Elective Residency visa is designed for financially independent individuals who want to live in Italy without engaging in any employment or commercial activity.
Applicants are required to provide proof of passive income from sources like pensions, rental income, or investments.
The official minimum amount of passive income is around €31,000 per year for a single applicant, but most consulates expect a figure closer to €100,000.
Applicants must also demonstrate long-term accommodation, hold health insurance, and provide clean background checks.
The visa is typically issued for one or two years and is renewable. Permanent residency is possible after five years of continuous residence, with the option to apply for citizenship after ten years.
Hungary Golden Visa
Hungary offers a residency-by-investment scheme under the Guest Investor Program (GIP). The GIP offers a 10-year residence permit to non-EU/EEA nationals in exchange for a qualifying investment.
There are two primary options for applicants:
Fund Investment
Invest €250,000 in a government-approved real estate fund, with at least 40% of the fund’s assets allocated to Hungarian residential property. The investment must be held for at least five years.
Donation
Make a €1 million non-refundable contribution to a Hungarian public trust that supports higher education. This option has no holding period.
Successful applicants receive a 10-year renewable residence permit, granting the right to live, work, and study in Hungary. The permit also allows visa-free travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
After five years of legal residence under the Guest Investor Program, applicants may apply for permanent residency. Citizenship may be available after eight years of continuous legal residence, subject to passing a Hungarian language and cultural knowledge exam.
Cyprus Permanent Residency
Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment offers non-EU/EEA nationals a direct route to indefinite residency in Cyprus in exchange for a qualifying investment.
To be eligible for the program, applicants must make a minimum investment of €300,000 in qualifying assets, which can include real estate (residential or commercial), shares in a Cyprus-registered company, units in collective investment funds, or similar approved investment channels. Applicants must also demonstrate a secured annual income of at least €50,000 from outside Cyprus and meet standard background checks.
Successful applicants and their families are granted permanent residency status, which does not expire and can be maintained with minimal visits to Cyprus, typically one visit every two years to maintain status.
Permanent residents may become eligible to apply for Cypriot citizenship through naturalisation after five years of continuous residence within an eight-year period, subject to the standard legal requirements.
| Country | Min. Investment (approx.) | Stay Requirement (for residency) | Path to Citizenship | Key Appeal |
| Portugal | EUR 250k–500k in funds or cultural projects | 7 days per year on average | 5 years residency + A2 language test | Flexible EU route to citizenship, moderate stay |
| Greece | EUR 400k–800k real estate (from 250k in special projects) | No minimum stay for residency | 7 years with 183+ days per year + exams | Low entry at residency stage, strong EU base |
| Malta | Property purchase 375k or 14k/year rent + c. 99k in fees/contrib | No minimum stay for permanent residency | Naturalisation under standard rules | Permanent EU residency, English speaking |
| Hungary | EUR 250k fund investment or 1m donation | No minimum stay | Eligible from c. 8 years residence | 10-year permit, flexible residence profile |
| Cyprus | EUR 300k qualifying investment | Visit at least once every 2 years | 5 years of residence within 8 years | EU base with favourable tax regime |
What are the Best Citizenship by Investment Programs for the US Citizens?
Caribbean citizenship by investment programs are considered as the leading options for CBI and offer applicants many advantages and benefits that can help investors.
Depending on the desired country and their program, successful applicants are eligible for:
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to more than 140 countries
- No income tax on foreign-sourced income
- The right to live, work, and do business in the country
- Lifetime citizenship that can be passed to down to their family members
Antigua & Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program has become a top choice for investors who have families seeking second citizenship in the Caribbean due to its family-friendly structure and straightforward application process.
Antigua and Barbuda allows applicants to include a wide range of dependents under one application, including spouses, children, parents, grandparents, and unmarried siblings.
Applicants can choose from the following investment options:
National Development Fund (NDF) Contribution
The NDF is a non-refundable contribution of USD 230,000 to a government fund that supports public-private partnerships and national development initiatives in Antigua and Barbuda.
Real Estate Investment Option
Under this option, applicants must invest in government-approved real estate with a minimum value of USD 300,000. Properties must be held for at least five years, or replaced with another approved property if sold earlier.
Read Also: Antigua and Barbuda Real Estate Investment Guide 2026
University of the West Indies (UWI) Fund Option
Designed for families of six or more, this option allows applicants to make a non-refundable contribution of USD 260,000 to the UWI Fund. It includes one year of tuition-free study for one family member at the University of the West Indies.
Business Investment Option
This route allows applicants to invest in an approved business within Antigua and Barbuda. The required investment is either:
- USD 1.5 million as a sole investor
- USD 400,000 per applicant in a joint investment totaling at least USD 5 million
The Citizenship by Investment Unit (CIU) reviews and approves qualifying business proposals in sectors such as tourism, agriculture, and IT.
St. Kitts & Nevis – Oldest Program (1984)
Launched in 1984, St. Kitts and Nevis offers the world’s first Citizenship by Investment program and remains one of the most reliable and well-regarded options in the Caribbean.
To qualify for the program, applicants must make a qualifying investment. Qualifying investment options include:
Sustainable Island State Contribution (SISC)
Under this option, applicants make a non-refundable contribution of USD 250,000 (for a family of up to four) directly to the government.
Public Benefit Option (PBO)
The Public Benefit Option allows investors to contribute USD 250,000 to a government-approved public project that promotes economic growth for St. Kitts and Nevis.
Approved Private Real Estate Investment
Real Estate Investment in St Kitts option allows applicants to invest in designated, government approved residential properties.
Applicants can choose to invest in two categories:
- A condominium unit or share in an approved real estate development with a minimum investment of USD 325,000
- A single-family private home designated as Approved Private Real Estate with a minimum investment of USD 600,000
To maintain eligibility under the Citizenship by Investment program, the property must be held for a minimum of 7 years. If the real estate investment is sold before the end of this 7 year holding period, the initial investment will not qualify for a future CBI application.
Dominica – Most Affordable
Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment programme has developed a strong reputation among investors seeking a second citizenship and consistently low application refusal rates of around 1%.
Dominica offers two investment options for individuals, a contribution to the Economic Diversification Fund (EDF) or the purchase of approved real estate.
Economic Diversification Fund (EDF)
The Economic Diversification Fund requires applicants to make a non-refundable contribution of:
- USD 200,000 for a single applicant
- USD 250,000 for a family of up to four
For larger families, additional contributions apply:
- USD 25,000 for each additional dependent under 18
- USD 40,000 for each additional dependent aged 18 or older
Real Estate Investment Option
The real estate route requires a minimum investment of USD 200,000 in a government-approved development project.
Investors must maintain ownership for a minimum of three years, or five years if the property is later resold to another CBI applicant.
Read Also: Dominica Real Estate Investment: CBI Property Guide 2026
Grenada – US E-2 Visa Treaty Access
Grenada’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program is the only Caribbean CBI country with a bilateral treaty that allows its citizens to apply for the U.S. E-2 Investor Visa.
Applicants can obtain citizenship through one of two approved investment routes:
National Transformation Fund (NTF)
The National Transformation Fund is a non-refundable donation that requires a minimum investment of USD 235,000 for a single applicant or a family of up to four.
Real Estate Investment Option
The Grenada real estate option allows investors to purchase units in government-approved tourism and residential developments. The minimum investment required is USD 270,000 and must be held for at least five years. Otherwise, it can be sold at any time after purchase.
United States E2 Visa Access
The United States E-2 Investor Visa allows foreign nationals to live and work in the U.S. by investing in a qualifying American business. Unlike immigrant visa programs such as the EB-5, the E-2 is a non-immigrant visa, but does offer flexibility, fast processing, and can be renewed as long as the business remains operational.
Holders of the E-2 Visa are eligible for the following benefits:
- Live and work in the U.S. while actively managing your investment
- Fast processing, often within 3 months
- Renewable long-term status (granted for up to 5 years depending on treaty terms)
- Spousal work authorization and access to U.S. education for children
- No set minimum investment, offering flexibility based on the business model
St. Lucia
St. Lucia’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program has become a popular choice due to its straightforward application process, competitive investment options, and no residency requirement.
The St. Lucia CBI program has the following investment options available to investors:
National Economic Fund (NEF) Contribution
To apply under this option, a non-refundable contribution of US $240,000 must be made to the National Economic Fund (NEF).
National Action Bond Option (NAB)
Unique among Caribbean CBI schemes, St. Lucia offers a government bond program requiring a minimum $300,000 investment to be made, as well as a non-refundable administration fee of US $50,000.
These bonds are fully refundable after five years, making it a semi-liquid investment option that still grants citizenship for the applicant. Furthermore, unlike the National Economic Fund option, investing in Government Bonds does not require additional contributions per dependent.
Choosing Between Residency by Investment (Golden Visa) or Citizenship by Investment
When choosing between residency and citizenship by investment options, one of the most important distinctions is the balance between immediacy and long-term positioning. Understanding this difference is an important consideration when selecting the appropriate program that best suits your needs.
Citizenship by investment programmes typically offer a direct route to nationality within a defined and relatively short time frame. These options are often attractive to individuals seeking immediate global mobility, additional travel privileges, or a second citizenship as part of risk diversification and contingency planning.
Residency by investment programmes, by contrast, focus on offering residency in the host country rather than immediate citizenship. While these routes generally involve longer timelines and ongoing compliance, they provide access to developed economies, strong public infrastructure, and expanded regional mobility.
In most jurisdictions, long-term residence may also create a pathway to naturalisation, subject to local eligibility requirements.
The best choice depends on an individual’s objectives, timeframe, and broader planning considerations. Some applicants prioritise speed and flexibility, while others value long-term residence rights.
Harvey Law Group works closely with clients across multiple jurisdictions and investment migration programmes, offering clear, coordinated advice that reflects each client’s long-term mobility plans, family considerations, and broader structuring objectives. Our team can help high-net-worth individuals identify the most suitable programme for their needs and guide them through each stage of the process with clarity and confidence.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Citizenship by Investment or Residency by Investment Programs
Choosing the most suitable investment citizenship program requires careful consideration of multiple factors and not just cost and speed. Each country’s program offers its own unique set of benefits, including visa-free travel privileges, tax incentives, family inclusion options, and program reliability.
Having a clear understanding of the eligibility requirements and associated benefits help investors align their citizenship strategy with long-term goals such as wealth preservation, business expansion, and legacy planning.
Harvey Law Group’s 30+ years of experience in investment migration allow our experts to identify and help our clients choose the program that best suits the needs and requirements of every applicant.
Investment Amount and Affordability
The financial requirements for the chosen program are often the first consideration for prospective applicants. The mandatory financial investment for each Citizenship by investment programs varies depending between each program.
Beyond the primary investment amount, applicants should also be aware that some programs may require them to cover several additional costs. Examples of additional costs that may be imposed include government processing fees, due diligence and background-check fees, and legal or professional advisory charges.
Applicants who wish to include eligible family members such as a spouse, dependent children, or parents in their application may also be subject to additional per-dependent government fees.
While these expenses vary by program, they can significantly affect the total cost of the application.
Processing Time and Efficiency
Another key consideration for prospective applicants is the timeframe from submission to passport issuance. Many investors and high-net-worth individuals require programs that offer quick processing times, immediate relocation options, or fast-track applications.
Most citizenship application processes take between two and twelve months, depending on due diligence requirements and governmental efficiency. Caribbean programs are often considered to offer the fastest citizenship by investment approvals.
For business owners and global citizens, a predictable and efficient process can be just as valuable as the end result.
Visa-Free Travel and Global Mobility
One of the most attractive benefits of citizenship by investment programs is the improved options for global mobility. A second passport can offer the holder visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 140 destinations, including the Schengen Area, the United Kingdom, and major business hubs.
Some programs also provide eligibility for the U.S. E-2 Treaty Investor Visa, which allows investors to establish and manage businesses in the United States.
Family Inclusion Options
For many applicants, the ability to include family members in a single application is an important consideration. Caribbean citizenship programs allow spouses, dependent children, and in some cases, parents or siblings to be added to the same application.
The ability to apply for investment citizenship as a family is becoming increasingly important for investors and HNWIs. A second passport for dependents allows them to receive the same mobility, education, and healthcare benefits as the applicant.
Taxation and Financial Benefits
While acquiring a new or second nationality does not automatically change the applicant’s tax status, it can provide access to favourable tax environments. Some countries offering alternative citizenship operate under territorial tax systems, where only local income is taxed, while others impose no personal income or capital gains tax at all.
For investors, tax optimization citizenship is an important consideration when choosing their preferred program. However, professional guidance is essential to ensure compliance with international tax laws and reporting obligations.
How Harvey Law Group Can Help US Citizens relocating abroad?
Harvey Law Group brings over 32 years of immigration expertise with offices in 20 countries globally, including major hubs like Hong Kong, Paris, Miami, and Montreal. Our specialized knowledge of European golden visas is available to clients.
Our services cover the entire process, from planning and facilitator selection to document preparation, submission, and renewals. Whether your goal is Schengen access, second citizenship, or portfolio diversification, HLG provides a smooth and compliant process.
Contact our experts for personalized citizenship or golden visa comparison and more information about which programs you are eligible for and how to get started.
How Can Harvey Law Group Help You Decide Which Program Is Best for You?
HLG’s approach begins with strategy rather than product selection. This allows our experts to assess and identify the best course of action tailored to your needs. This involves the following:
- Comprehensive needs assessment covering goals, business interests, tax planning objectives, and family priorities
- Comparison of CBI, golden visa, and ancestry routes against the client’s home-country restrictions on dual citizenship
- A thorough explanation of the requirements and processes involved in the application for any programs of interest. Our experts will also confirm that the applicant is eligible for the chosen program.
Once a program has been successfully chosen, HLG’s team will assist with the following:
- Document collection, legalisation, and translation
- Detailed source-of-funds documentation and due diligence preparation
- Preparation and filing of complete applications with governments
- Family structuring to include spouses, children, and in some cases parents or siblings
Frequently Asked Questions About Leaving the US
What are the easiest countries for US citizens to relocate to legally?
For US citizens, the “easiest” destination usually depends on whether the goal is residency or citizenship. For HNWIs, investment-based programs provide the most structured and predictable pathways. European residency options such as Portugal’s Portugal Golden Visa or Greece’s Golden Visa allow long-term residence with limited physical presence. For faster outcomes, Caribbean citizenship by investment programs offer direct citizenship within months, without relocation requirements.
Where can US citizens move permanently without employment sponsorship?
Permanent relocation without employment is typically achieved through investment or financial independence routes. Popular options include European investor residencies, retirement-friendly programs in select jurisdictions, and Caribbean citizenship by investment. These pathways are particularly attractive to business owners, investors, and retirees who prefer flexibility and long-term stability rather than employer-tied visas.
What is the safest country for Americans seeking residency or citizenship abroad?
Safety is highly subjective and depends on political stability, legal transparency, healthcare access, and personal lifestyle preferences. Countries in Western Europe, as well as established Caribbean countries such as St. Kitts and Nevis and Dominica, are frequently chosen by US citizens for their stable legal systems and long-standing migration frameworks. For HNWIs, safety also includes asset protection and regulatory clarity.
Why are more high-net-worth Americans leaving the US?
Among HNWIs, the decision to leave the US is rarely driven by a single factor. Common motivations include global mobility planning, tax exposure management, family security, and long-term legacy structuring. Increasingly, US citizens are choosing a second residency or citizenship as a diversification strategy, allowing them to reduce reliance on one jurisdiction while maintaining international flexibility.
What is the legal process for leaving the United States?
Leaving the US legally involves more than securing a foreign visa or passport. US citizens must also consider ongoing tax obligations, reporting requirements, and long-term planning. The process typically includes selecting the appropriate residency or citizenship program, completing due diligence, and coordinating immigration strategy with US tax planning.
Do US citizens still pay US taxes after moving abroad?
The United States taxes its citizens on worldwide income regardless of residence. Even after relocating, US citizens remain subject to annual filing obligations. Certain relief mechanisms, such as foreign tax credits or treaty planning, may apply, but they do not remove filing responsibilities.
Which countries are most popular with Americans relocating overseas?
US citizens commonly relocate to Europe, the Caribbean, and parts of Asia, depending on lifestyle and strategic objectives. European destinations are often favored for quality of life and long-term residency rights, while Caribbean jurisdictions appeal to those seeking fast citizenship, enhanced travel access, and jurisdictional diversification without relocation pressure.
Can I obtain a second passport without giving up my US citizenship?
In many cases, yes. Most countries that offer Citizenship by Investment or Residency by Investment programs allow dual citizenship, meaning US citizens can acquire a second passport while retaining their US nationality. Caribbean citizenship by investment programs are particularly popular for this reason, as they do not require residency, language tests, or renunciation. However, dual citizenship rules vary by country and should be reviewed carefully as part of the planning process.
Not a simple decision
Leaving the US requires following a structured process that combines immigration law, tax strategy, and long-term planning.
Harvey Law Group advises HNWIs across multiple jurisdictions, allowing clients to clearly compare residency and citizenship options and select solutions matching their needs and priorities.
