10 Reasons why Portugal will have the most immigration from the US in 2025

4. Tax Incentives for Non-Habitual Residents – The Non-Habitual Resident (NHR 2.0) tax regime provides tax benefits for foreigners wishing to establish residence in Portugal. This includes the possibility of tax reductions on income earned inPortugal for 10 years. This benefit is particularly appealing to highly skilled workers or entrepreneurs looking to significantly reduce their tax burden.
5. Ease of English Use and Growing American Community – English is widely spoken in Portugal, especially in urban and tourist areas, making adaptation easier for those who do not speak Portuguese. Additionally, the growing American community in the country facilitates the creation of support networks and social integration, making Portugal a welcoming destination for new immigrants.
6. Accessible Public and Private Healthcare System – Portugal’s healthcare system offers quality services at a significantly lower cost than the U.S. healthcare system. Foreign residents can use the public healthcare system, and the cost of private health insurance is also affordable. For many American families, especially those concerned with the high costs of healthcare in the U.S., this is an important advantage.

7. High-Quality Education Options – Portugal has international schools that follow U.S., U.K., and even IB (International Baccalaureate) curricula, catering to the needs of expatriates. Portuguese universities, such as the University of Lisbon and the University of Porto, also offer high-quality education, with some programs in English. These educational options make the country attractive to families with children and young adults.
8. Strong Incentive for Tourism and Vibrant Culture – Portugal is a country rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, with tourist attractions ranging from the Algarve’s beaches to the Douro Valley wineries and medieval castles. Lisbon and Porto are vibrant cities, with expanding cultural and artistic scenes. The opportunity to explore the country and its traditions, while living in a beautiful and welcoming place, is an attraction for both Americans who want a prolonged vacation and those looking to settle permanently.
9. Easy Access to the Schengen Area and Europe – Portugal is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Area, meaning residents in Portugal have easy access to travel throughout Europe. For Americans who want to explore the continent without visa hassles, living in Portugal offers the perfect base for travel and work, with direct flights to major cities worldwide, including the U.S. Additionally, obtaining Portuguese citizenship after five years of residence is a possibility, offering the freedom to move within Europe with a European passport.
10. Portuguese Golden Visa: The Most Attractive Residency-by-Investment Program in Europe – Portugal offers the Golden Visa program, allowing foreign investors to obtain residency through investments in Portugal starting at EUR 250,000. The Portuguese Golden Visa is considered the most attractive in Europe due to the possibility of gaining European citizenship after five years, a factor that sets it apart from the Greek Golden Visa, which does not offer the same level of security in terms of nationality access, as Greek nationality is not guaranteed. With the imminent termination of the Spanish Golden Visa—scheduled for early 2025—Portugal stands out as the preferred option for Americans seeking not only residency but also a secure path to an European passport, enhancing their mobility and access to the European Union.

Given these factors, it’s clear that Portugal offers an appealing combination of climate, security, ease of immigration, and quality of life, making it a prime destination for Americans in search of a more balanced and fulfilling life. In 2025, it’s likely that the flow of Americans to Portugal will continue to rise, strengthening the relationship between the two countries and making Portugal a true home for many looking for a new perspective on life.